Subaru has decided to withdraw from the 2009 World Rally Championship in order to try and save on costs during 2009.

The announcement follows Suzuki’s withdrawal from the rally and Honda’s exit from Formula 1.

Subaru’s name has been synonymous with WRC after 20 years in the sport during which time the Prodrive-run Subaru team has won six WRC championships.

David Richards, Prodrive chairman, said: "Subaru’s departure from the World Rally Championship is a great loss as it is one of the sport’s icons.

“The Subaru World Rally Team has created true champions such as Colin McRae and Richard Burns and its absence will be felt by many the world over. Although this decision closes a significant chapter in Prodrive’s history, our focus now turns to the future.”