Motorsport: 'Too early' to write off Rally NZ

A leading figure in world rallying believes this may not be the last Rally New Zealand.

A clash with the Rugby World Cup means there will be no rally next year, while funding issues could see it lose WRC status for 2012 and beyond.

However, Ken Rees, the manager of Petter Solberg's privateer team, is urging patience from fans and organisers and believes this year's event may not be the last held here.

Rees says in 18 months the financial situation could have changed for Rally New Zealand, and indeed other events.

Rees says all teams rate Rally New Zealand as one of the best events on the calendar and it is too early to write off New Zealand hopes of hosting a rally in 2012, as weaker ones may fall off the calendar.

Rees says they are still feeling the effects of the travel chaos caused by the Iceland volcano. Solberg is due to arrive today and they had hoped to have a test run tomorrow, but the car now is not due in until Sunday.

Solberg is causing waves in the WRC, with his private team currently running second in the championship.

- NEWSTALK ZB