Flash.(Briefs)

Mitsu out of WRC

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's on-again off-again World Rally Championship program is... off again. The company announced it will suspend participation in the WRC for at least two years. MMC hopes to return in 2008.

The Japanese automaker says it needs to focus on its business revitalization plan following dismal financial performances over the last few years. The decision to pull out from WRC was somewhat unexpected after a satisfactory performance in 2005 that ended with Harri Rovanpera's second place on Rally Australia. With Peugeot, Skoda and Citroen also out of the WRC, 2006 will be a difficult year for the series: Subaru and Ford are the only factory teams set to participate.

Darland switches

The 9 Racing team, a USAC Midget fixture since 1979, has a triple threat for 2006: Dave Darland, one of only four drivers in USAC history to claim the "Triple Crown'' (Silver Crown, Sprint and National Midget titles), will return to 9 Racing. In addition, Dave Steele, reigning two-time USAC Silver Crown champion, will drive a second 9 Racing Midget at all pavement races. Additionally, the team announced that Toyota will power both cars for '06, a first in Midget competition. Engine builder Ed Pink will provide the new powerplants. Toyota Racing Development (TRD) has developed a new, four-cylinder race engine for USAC Midget competition. 9 Racing is run by Steve Lewis, who as an owner has won 10 Midget championships and fielded drivers such as Tony Stewart, Kasey Kahne, Jason Leffler, Kenny Irwin, J.J. Yeley and Bobby East. The USAC season opens at the 2006 Copper ...