Briton Alister McRae has expressed concern about the split between his French team mate and Mitsubishi but believes his own job remains secure.

Francois Delecour parted company with Mitsubishi because of the team's decision to sit out the 2003 season to develop an improved car for next year.

Mitsubishi said in a statement on Monday that Delecour, who had a year left on his contract, had been released by mutual agreement.

"Delecour is now free to pursue alternative options," it said.

Mitsubishi said they remained fully committed to returning to the world championship next year.

Vice president Ulrich Walker added: "Next season we will be back at the WRC with our Lancer Evolution and we will be back to win," he said.

Obviously, something like this will always be a little worrying Alister McRae

McRae told the official world rally championship website on Tuesday: "Obviously, something like this will always be a little worrying.

"But I've not heard any news like that for myself, so all I can do is keep doing what I'm doing."

Delecour told the official website that he had hoped to test until the end of the year and had turned down offers from Ford and Hyundai in 2002.

"There's not an easy way back now," he said.

"Of course I will be looking, but to find another drive will be very difficult. Most of the seats are already spoken for.

Delecour added: "I've got nothing on for the immediate future but I certainly don't want to stop."

McRae, younger brother of former world champion Colin, said he had still not heard about any testing opportunities and was waiting to see what emerged.