"Andrew Tinkler must be congratulated because Stobart have played a massive part in Jari-Matti's development to the point where he has now moved up to the BP-Ford team. They must be commended for supporting young drivers in the WRC and for playing a major role in the advancement of Jari-Matti career."

"I don't think anyone would have expected us to be able to challenge Subaru in the manufacturers' race but it just shows what a good job the crews have done this year," Tinkler chipped in.

"It has been fantastic for Stobart to be involved with our drivers and actually see how they have developed throughout the season. This is especially true for Jari-Matti, he has improved so much this year with both performance and consistency on gravel and tarmac.

"It is very encouraging going into next year as we know we are up there now with the other main teams and we just need to continue at that level for 2008."