Mini returns to the WRC

    Mini will return to top-line rallying next year with its all-wheel drive Countryman

    Published On Jul 28, 2010 07:00:00 AM

    2,097 Views

    Mini returns to the WRC

     

    Mini has confirmed that it is returning to world championship rallying next year, with a Countryman WRC developed and run by Prodrive.

    The deal, which has been rumored for several months, includes a limited programme in 2011 with the Countryman WRC - designed to the World Rally Championship's new turbocharged 1600cc, four-wheel-drive regulations. A full campaign will then follow in 2012.

    Mini says "the involvement is planned for several years”; the firm is said to be keen to exploit its brand’s history in rallying, including its famous victories on the Monte Carlo Rally.

    Testing of the car will begin in the autumn, but Mini has yet to specify a date for a competitive debut. Rallying insiders say that next's year's Rally Sardinia is the most likely event. The firm has not confirmed any drivers either, although multiple world champion Marcus Gronholm has been linked with the campaign. Britain's Intercontinental Rally Challenge title-holder Kris Meeke is also said to have had discussions about a drive.

    Ian Robertson, BMW Group's sales and marketing boss, said, "I am delighted Mini will be represented on one of the most popular stages in international motorsport. "The deal is a coup for Prodrive, which has been absent from the World Rally Championship since Subaru's withdrawal at the end of the 2008 season.

    Mini has revealed that the firm has been working on the Countryman WRC since early 2009.The firm's chairman David Richards said, "This is a very exciting new motorsport programme. I believe our new Mini will become a firm favourite of the latest generation of rally fans."

    Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.

    Comments

    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now

    Search By Car Price

    Poll of the month

    The Creta will be the third Hyundai N-Line model in India. Should more mass-market brands have sporty sub-brands?

    Yes, it's something special for enthusiasts

     

    18.27%

    Yes, but only if there is increased performance

     

    44.42%

    No, it's just a gimmick to increase the price

     

    29.38%

    It doesn't always work; just look at Tata JTP

     

    7.93%

    Total Votes : 1576
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe