Ford signs test deal with Kresta.
Czech driver Roman Kresta will remain with the Ford team in 2006, after signing an 'exclusive test contract', which will see him become the team's official test driver.
Kresta, who finished eighth in the FIA WRC in 2005, will now play an 'important part' in the development of the all-new Focus RS World Rally Car which the Ford team will campaign in 2006.
The team plans a huge test programme and Kresta will share the driving with Marcus Gronholm and Mikko Hirvonen, the team's official drivers.
Czech driver Roman Kresta will remain with the Ford team in 2006, after signing an 'exclusive test contract', which will see him become the team's official test driver.
Kresta, who finished eighth in the FIA WRC in 2005, will now play an 'important part' in the development of the all-new Focus RS World Rally Car which the Ford team will campaign in 2006.
The team plans a huge test programme and Kresta will share the driving with Marcus Gronholm and Mikko Hirvonen, the team's official drivers.
The new Focus RS WRC, which is based on the Ford Focus ST road car, enjoyed a successful debut last month on the Rally Australia when Kresta scored the first world championship points for the car.
"Roman proved his abilities as an excellent test driver throughout 2005," said Ford team director Malcolm Wilson.
"His technical knowledge is good and I was impressed with his feedback on the new car during Rally Australia. We have a big test schedule next year and Roman will play an important role in the continued development of the new Focus RS WRC, while also easing the workload on Marcus and Mikko."