Sebastien Ogier (right) and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia - Photo Credit: Volkswagen Motorsport
Sebastien Ogier has joined Volkswagen ahead of the German manufacturer's entry into the 2013 World Rally Championship.
The Frenchman won five rallies in 2011 with Citroen, finishing third in the final standings. He left the French squad at the end of the season, to be replaced by Mikko Hirvonen.
“Volkswagen is the number one in Europe and will soon be number one in the world,” said Ogier. “I'm sure that they're going to compete with the goal of clinching the WRC title, and I'm happy to be part of this from the outset.”
Ogier's co-driver Julien Ingrassia also makes the switch, and added: “We're looking forward to a team with a fighting spirit and the determination to win. Anything's possible.”
“I am very happy about Sebastian Ogier and Julien Ingrassia joining us,” said Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for the Development Division. “Both of them are important pieces of the puzzle on our way towards building a successful team in the World Rally Championship. It is also a mark of confidence for our team if such a strong pairing opts for a new team in the WRC that is still in the process of being developed.”
Motorsport Director Kris Nissen added: “We are proud that such a successful and quick duo as Sébastian Ogier and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia have decided to join Volkswagen. The aim of putting a competitive Polo R WRC on the road for them as quickly as possible will additionally drive our team. We look forward to working with them and are hoping for many victories and titles in the future.”
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