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Duval moves into frame for Citroen drive

Francois Duval has emerged as a surprise outside candidate to fill one of Citroen's WRC vacancies next year, as the team looks to return to winning ways.

Duval has been without a full-time drive in rallying's top tier since 2005, although he did seven events as part of the Stobart-backed M-Sport team in 2007. His last WRC start was Rallye Deutschland in 2010.

Although Duval's wayward tendencies have frustrated most of his employers over the years - he was even suspended by Citroen halfway through the 2005 season - his talent is such that M-Sport team principal Malcolm Wilson once described him as one of the naturally gifted drivers ever to sit in a rally car, with potential to become a multiple champion.

That was a few years ago, and now aged 33, Duval is ready to approach fellow Belgian Yves Matton about returning to the WRC on a full-time basis next year.

"There's a bit of a lack of good drivers in the WRC and I'm still young," said Duval. "The idea is to drive with Citroen. I don't see myself coming back to driving with one of the cars that are lower down the scale. I'm not interested in doing one-shots any more, when you come in with no experience and don't know the car or the rally."

Despite everything, Matton is a fan of Duval - but he wants to see real proof of Duval's motivation before considering him for a second stint with the Citroen factory team.

MAXRALLY