Francois Duval is Gigi Galli’s replacement for Repco Rally New Zealand 2008

Posted by RallyScott 19 August, 2008

Stobart have just released a press statement saying that Francois Duval will stand in for Galli in New Zealand. Duval finished fourth on the 2005 Rally NZ in a Xsara.

Stobart VK Ford Team statement:

Duval has been chosen to replace the injured Gigi Galli for Repco Rally New Zealand as the second Stobart VK M-Sport Ford rally team entrant. He will join Matthew Wilson as the second nominated point scoring driver. Usually a team may only change one element of the entry but the Stobart team management are currently requesting permission from the FIA to change both the driver and co-driver elements due to the obvious safety issue brought about by a language barrier. If this is confirmed then Patrick Pivato would join Duval for the event.

This decision comes after Duval scored an amazing podium finish in Germany last week and, as the Belgian is also contesting events in Spain and Corsica later this year, it was the most logical decision to allow him more time behind the wheel of the Stobart Ford Focus RS WRC07. Duval has already demonstrated his ability to perform on fast gravel in the southern hemisphere after he won Rally Australia in 2005.

Stobart VK M-Sport Ford Team Principal Malcolm Wilson said:

“We will be very happy to have François back in the Stobart team for New Zealand. He did a great job in Germany last weekend and as he is already confirmed to compete in Spain and Corsica, it will be a good opportunity for him to gain more valuable experience and time in the car.”

Could Duval be drafted into the BP squad for Catalonia and Corsica in place of Latvala?

Duval was 3rd in Germany and is now New Zealand bound

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8x1hYH9kEI

He'll be glad Anthony Warmbold isn't on the entry

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XWu9FMczAM

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