Skoda looks likely to be represented by at least one privateer team in the WRC next year as rumours about the Czech manufacturers plans continue to circulate. Former works driver Armin Schwarz and privateer outfit RED Motorsport have been linked to separate bids to run Fabias at rallying's top level.

Although the works Skoda team's future remains unclear, pending budget decisions from it's parent company's executive board, both Schwarz and RED Motorsport have been connected to deals to run cars in recent weeks.

Schwarz is understood to be courting backing from soft drinks firm Red Bull, with former Citroen driver Francois Duval being mooted as a possible driver, according to Autosport magazine. Privateer outfit RED Motorsport, which has a successful history in both the BRC and WRC, has also been mooted as a possible outfit to run privateer Fabia WRCs in 2006.

Former world champion Colin McRae, who has impressed in two one off drives for Skoda this year, has been linked to both outfits. WRC commercial rights holder Dave Richards has said that he's keen to keep both the Scot and Skoda involved in the championship, citing the publicity raised by McRae on his Wales Rally GB and Telstra Rally Australia outings.

Source WRC.com

WRC commercial rights holder Dave Richards has said that he's keen to keep both the Scot and Skoda involved in the championship,

Is that the same Dave Richards who is MD of Prodrive and heavily involved with the Scooby WRC team? :confused:

Chris

I dont think Dave Richards is MD of Prodrive anymore. He hang up that hat a while ago when he became involved with BAR*

*this may be inaccurate information, apply a large pinch of salt

Dave Richards still owns 51% of Prodrive as far as I am aware.