After a year’s sabbatical, Mitsubishi returns with a new drivers line-up and a completely redesigned Lancer WRC. The car features a redesigned body and engine, and promises to be a strong competitor once the bugs are worked out. New number one driver Gilles Panizzi said the car has felt very good during the tests, and he expects it to be up to speed by the end of the season.

Panizzi was a big catch for the Japanese outfit, and the French tarmac specialist was happy to join the team to get the opportunity to contest a full season (something his previous team, Peugeot, had never given him). While Panizzi is not a real contender for the overall title, he can upset the balance with a few solid rallies. He should have best chances on the new gravel rallies (Mexico, Japan, and Italy) if the car is reliable. A points finish (like his fifth place in Turkey last year in a customer-spec Peugeot) could upset someone else’s title hopes. Whether Panizzi will be able to retain his crown as the tarmac remains to be seen, and ultimately relies on the performance of the Lancer.

Joining Panizzi are a group of junior drivers who will get their shots to compete in a WRC. Kristian Sohlberg, Gianluigi Galli, and Daniel Sola will take turns in the number two car. Galli is committed to run in Monte Carlo, and Sohlberg in Sweden, but otherwise, the drive will go to driver with best shot at competing.

This is a learning year for Mitsubishi, but by the end of the season, with Panizzi’s help, the Lancer should be well-equipped to compete next season.

Posted on 14 January 2004