Hyundai Motorsport has confirmed its driver line-up for the 2017 World Rally Championship.
Next season, current drivers Thierry Neuville, Hayden Paddon and Dani Sordo will all race following the announcement of a two-year contract extensive for Neuville. Paddon and Sordo will also compete through the 2017 and 2018 seasons as the sport transforms following next year’s introduction of revised regulations.
At the Paris Auto Show, the team revealed (in camouflaged guise) its 2017 entrant. Adorned with brand new body work, the new i20 WRC includes flared front and rear wheel arches, a massive rear wing, bold front splitter and a host of other aerodynamic aids to make it faster than ever. As with other 2017 competitors, the size of the air restrictor will also be increased to lift power to the 380 hp mark.
Thierry Neuville’s recent contract extension comes on the back of his three previous seasons with the team where he has amassed nine podiums and claimed two race victories.
Discussing his contract extension, Neuville said “I am delighted to extend my contract with Hyundai Motorsport for two more years. Although I had alternative options available, it seemed the most logical decision to keep up the great momentum we have within this team. 2017 will be a new era for the WRC with the revised regulations. We have shared very special moments together since the team’s debut in WRC. Our first win together in Germany was one of my career highlights. With a new car next year, and even more ambitious targets, I am excited by what this next chapter will bring.”
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