Hirvonen to shift to Citroen for WRC 2012

Mikko Hirvonen and co-driver Jarmo Lehtinen who were with the Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team since 2006, will replace Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia at Citroen for the 2012 season. Hirvonen pressed Sebastien Loeb hard in the 2011 season but had to settle for second place, just eight points behind Loeb in the championship.

“We’re very happy to welcome Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen. They’ve been our toughest rivals over the last four seasons and we’re really looking forward to our future collaboration. Mikko is a talented driver and his consistency will be a big help in our fight to retain the manufacturers’ title,” said Citroen Racing chief Olivier Quesnel.

Hirvonen made his WRC debut in 2002 and has been part of the Ford factory team for quite some time, finishing second in the drivers’ championship in 2009 as well as in 2011. His move to Citroen will surely make the 2012 season interesting especially considering that he was level with champion Loeb after 11 rallies in the season. With two best drivers of 2011 driving the same car, the 2012 season will surely be more interesting and cut-throat besides being beneficial for Citroen.

Meanwhile, Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia who were in Citroen will move to Volkswagen in 2013 but will be seen in the Skoda Fabia Super 2000 for the 2012 season.

Read the complete story of Sebastien Ogier’s move to Volkswagen

https://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/news/ogier-signs-for-vw-in-2013/10681/1