Stig Blomqvist is one of the greatest rally drivers of all time - a former world champion whose attacking style won him legions of fans in his heyday in the 1970s and '80s.

After a one-off on the Rally Finland with Skoda last year, Blomqvist has been tempted back for his biggest world championship campaign in years.

At 55, he is unlikely to trouble today's megastars - any one of whom he could have given a run for their money at his best.

But he probably still has the talent to shine from time to time - and his experience will be vital to Skoda as they attempt to grow.

While Kenneth Eriksson and Toni Gardemeister will constitute Skoda's main challenge, Blomqvist will race in half of the season's events.

In the others, his seat will be taken by Czech rising star Roman Kresta.

It remains to be seen whether his appointment reflects a genuine hope for the future, or a PR drive by a Czech manufacturer hoping to boost its image at home.