Though the adventure ended prematurely, the results achieved by François Duval - Patrick Pivato and the Skoda Fabia WRC « First » shows everybody that Willy Collignon and his Skoda Import and Kizz-Me partners have brilliantly taken up the challenge.

Duval-Pivato had ranked 6th on Friday at the end of the Rallye de Monte-Carlo’s first leg - opening round of the 2006 World Rally Championship -, Saturday they had moved up a position in the overall standings after the first two stages, moving to 5th overall

« We were heading for the podium », explained Duval, who had tried to win back the minutes lost on Friday morning after a wrong tyre choice. « But, of course, to achieve such good times, we had to attack. In stage 9, we got to a skid braking, I used the handbrake to put the car in the right direction… but it ended slightly below the road, resting on its crankcase protection. And while we were vainly trying to get the car out of there, the reverse broke. »

« The Monte-Carlo Rally is a real specific event and is not representative of the rallyes to come. We could have ended the race and started again in the super rallye. However, in agreement with all parties, we decided to concentrate our efforts on preparing for the next Rally – with more tests », said Willy Collignon, showing much confidence for the next WRC events : « Our team and car proved their competitiveness. The future will surely be full of good surprises ! ».