By Rob Wilkins.

Britain's Guy Wilks has conceded that the exit of Peugeot and Citroen is a 'big blow' for the sport, especially for those drivers' in the Junior WRC, as it makes the task of graduating to the top level even mor✤e tougher.

Speaking to mahbx.com Radio, the Suzuki ace added that the number of events꧅ on the schedule wasn't exactly helping the situation either, as more events require more money, something that is of great concern to several of the manufacturers'.

"It's slightly demoralising [that they are going]. I mean, I think it is a big blow if t༺hey both go," he commented.

"There are rumours Cit🔯roen might stay in a privateer form, whichever way 🌄that might be, and then come back 2007. I think there are probably another few manufacturers teetering on the brink as well.

"But... with 16 rounds, with the escalating costs of competing on these rallies, it takes it toll after a while if you're not getting the results. M༺anufacturers obviously have to justify their budget. Good publicity is best and, if you are not gett♔ing the results, manufacturers either cut their losses or go, and do something else.

"I think it's going to be harder [to move up] with losing Peugeot, but I think there are a few older drivers - should we say tongue in cheek - knocking around, so there could be a few 🎃free spaces coming up in the next year or two..."