“We discussed with Malcolm [Wilson] at the end of the year about me maybe coming back to do some rallies,” he explained, “but not for the moment. It won't happen I think, but if I feel that I
really want to drive then perhaps it will be possible. It's all on the table – maybe I will stay with Ford as some kind of ambassador instead. Nothing is decided yet.”
As to Ford's chances of defending its hard-fought manufacturers' crown in 2008, Grönholm was unequivocal, though he added he was not sure whether Wales Rally GB winner Hirvonen – another fast Finn following in the master's wheeltracks and a man who finished a strong third in the 2007 drivers' standings, just 13 points behind his team-mate – was quite ready to challenge for world championship glory as soon as 2008.
“I think they can do well,” he asserted. “The car is very good – it's strong, reliable and quick, and Mikko has had a good season with three wins this year. I'm sure he can win many rallies, but it will be difficult to beat Sébastien. Can Mikko fight with Loeb until the end of the championship next year? I don't think so.”
