Andreas Mikkelsen is still trying to arrange his participation in the 2017 World Rally Championship with a privately run Volkswagen Polo R WRC. The WRC teams did not reach an agreement with the FIA for homologating the car. They wanted more details before agreeing to let it run in the championship.
Despite that the Norwegian still has faith he could be part of the series for at least three events.
“The aim is to be back in a factory car and fighting for the world championship next season. But this year, we’re looking at three rallies in the Polo ‘17 car”, Andreas told Autosport.
“We had hoped to compete in the car in Sweden, but there was no way to get it homologated in time, so we’re now working on Portugal. I have done so much testing in the Polo, it’s the only car I know how to drive!”
Andreas Mikkelsen added he has to find sponsors and “what is possible for the homologation”
It is still unclear which team would run private Polo R WRC. Volkswagen promised technical assistance to anyone willing to use the new car. But hiring high-level engineers and mechanic would cost a lot of money. Nasser All-Atiiyah’s VW project was already redirected for 2018.
If the VW idea cannot be fulfilled, the Norwegian can continue to drive with Skoda.
Just a few days ago he won the WRC2 race in Rally Monte Carlo in his guest appearance for the Czech team. Mikkelsen was 7th in the overall standings.
“Skoda opened the door to the big rally world for me and it is a special feeling for me to return with this triumph. Thanks to the whole team. I am happy to give them this success at the legendary ‘Monte’. The Fabia R5 is a good rally car and I am satisfied with our performance,” commented Mikkelsen.
