Martin plays waiting game for 2006 drive.

By Rob Wilkins

Peugeot's Markko Martin has admitted that it could be tough to get a WRC works drive in 2006, following the decision by Peugeot - and at the moment, Citroen too - to quit the sport.

Speaking exclusively to Crash.net Radio, the Estonian refused to give much away on who he is in talks with, however with only four manufacturers confirmed for next year, Ford and Subaru will no doubt be at the top of his list, followed by Mitsubishi. Martin did revealed though that in his view Sebastien Loeb holds the key to the market.

"I hope so but it is not going to be easy," he replied, when asked if he is aiming to stay in the WRC next season.

"There are not so many drives available next year. Everything depends on what Sebastien Loeb and Citroen do. I mean if they stay together then there is a better chance for everybody else if not... it all depends on what is going to happen to him."

Pressed on his own plans and if he has spoken to the likes of Ford or Subaru, he added that he 'hasn't spoken to anybody'.

"I think I have a manager to do that!" he continued, playing his cards very close to his chest.

As for going with a privateer or semi-privateer effort, should he be left standing in the current game of musical chairs, Martin felt that such an option would not be particularly realistic.

"I think it is quite tough to do the privateer route, because it is going to cost so much money and there are not so many companies that are around or are willing to pay that money. So it is quite difficult," he concluded.

"We will see what happens..."