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Sainz splits with co-driver Moya

Long partnership comes to an end

The longest-running partnership in World Rally Championship history has come to an end after Carlos Sainz's co-driver Luis Moya announced his decision to quit in the wake of the Spaniard's deal to drive for Citroen in 2003.

Moya's reasons are financial. He claims that his salary would have been cut in half at Citroen from what he earned at Ford.

"We haven't been able to agree on a financial package," Moya told the Spanish press. "I've never been the best paid co-driver and I've never looked to be, but I'm not going to co-drive at any price. I don't see why I should be paid the same as a co-driver at Skoda."

In 14 years, Sainz has competed in 165 world championship rallies, only four of them without Moya by his side. Their 24 victories makes Moya the most successful co-driver in WRC history.

"The split hurts and the same is true for Carlos," Moya added. "I know that I will never win a world rally again. But I'm going to think about my two children and my future."

His replacement will be Marc Marti, who partnered Sainz in his first test for Citroen earlier this week. The veteran's deal with the French make has yet to be announced officially.

Bron: http://www.autosport.com