Mitsubishi Withdraws from Dakar and all Cross-Country Rallies

Another one bites the dust; the latest victim of the widespread financial crisis is Mitsubishi's off-road sport division as the Japanese firm has decided to withdraw from the Dakar Rally, the Dakar Series and all cross-country rallies. Mitsubishi had taken part in the Dakar rally twenty-six times, winning a total of twelve times, including seven consecutive victories.

"The sudden deterioration of the global economy made it necessary for the company to focus its resources more tightly, and for this reason the decision was taken to withdraw its Mitsubishi Motorsports (MMSP) works team from all cross-country competitions," said the company in a statement.