Ford Focus RS WRCs make up almost 10 percent of the entry list. Latest specification cars for Henning Solberg / Cato Menkerud and Antony Warmbold / Michael Orr join the official BP-Ford duo.
Eddie Stobart Motorsport has entered 2003-specification cars for Mark Higgins / Bryan Thomas and Matthew Wilson / Scott Martin. Finns Jari-Matti Latvala / Miikka Anttila will also drive a 2003 version while British amateurs Julian Reynolds / Ieuan Thomas will be in a 2001 car.
Tyre selection for the race
BP-Ford has nominated Michelin`s Z pattern gravel tyres for the event, which have been highly successful since the launch of the latest BTO version in New Zealand in April. Designed for a clear and hard surface, the Z tyre has a relatively compact tread pattern to ensure the maximum amount of rubber is in contact with the road for the best possible grip and traction. In the unlikely situation of heavy rain, the team can cut the Z tyre to a ZA pattern. It is a more open tread, designed to penetrate the loose surface in search of firmer ground deeper down.
Special guest at Ford
Wales and British Lions rugby union player Gavin Henson will join the BP-Ford team on the Monday after the rally to enjoy a passenger ride in a Focus RS WRC alongside Gardemeister.
New step for the Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta ST Group N will make its world championship competition debut. Ford and British magazine Autocar have combined to build a car for journalist Chris Harris to drive. He will be co-driven by Richard Tuthill.

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