Wilson sad to ditch Gardemeister and Kresta.

by Rob Wilkins

The decision to axe Toni Gardemeister and Roman Kresta was by no means an easy one, according Ford team director, Malcolm Wilson.

Speaking exclusively to Crash.net Radio, Wilson added though that while they both did a good job in 2005, the M-Sport run squad had no choice, as they have to do all that is necessary to ensure Ford have the best possible chance of taking wins and ultimately the championship.

"In fairness Toni and Roman both did a very good job [in 2005]. We have had a good year," said Wilson, when asked why both drivers' were given the boot.

"Toni finished fourth in the drivers' championship and we finished third in the manufacturers', which was above what we set our target at [prior to the start of this year].

"But having said that, this was the first year we haven't won rallies in the history of the Ford Focus. It was a very difficult decision because they both did well and did exactly what we expected.

"But we have got a long term commitment from Ford and it is very clear we have to deliver. Sad as it is we decided to go this route. I was really genuinely hoping one of those two drivers could have come up to the mark and be in contention for a seat [in 2006]."

As such Ford will have a completely new driver line-up for Monte Carlo, led by double world champion, Marcus Gronholm, while Mikko Hirvonen returns to the team follow a year in the 'WRC wilderness', after being dropped by Subaru.

"I think [with Marcus and Mikko] we have invested in the short term and the long term. Marcus is a proven winner and one of fastest drivers in the world. I am totally confident we will win rallies next year with him.

"In Mikko we have got a driver we feel will deliver in the future and in some rallies, shall we say, we will be taking the brakes off and on other events we will say: 'we need you to get the experience and finish this rally'. Being realistic it is too much to expect us to go for the championship next year - with the car being so new and developed in record time, it is going to be difficult. But still I am very confident we can win events."