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SEBASTIEN LOEB JOINS HYUNDAI WRC

Sebastien Loeb signs with Hyundai for 2019 WRC season - Photo: Supplied

By Bruce Williams

Sebastien Loeb signs with Hyundai for 2019 WRC season - Photo: Supplied

Sebastien Loeb signs with Hyundai for 2019 WRC season – Photo: Supplied

Nine-time world champion, Sebastien Loeb has signed a two-year deal to compete in the World Rally Championship for Hyundai commencing in 2019.

Hyundai announced the deal that will see the Frenchman will compete in six rounds of the championship in an i20 Coupe WRC alongside long-time co-driver Daniel Elena, starting at Rallye Monte-Carlo.

“I am delighted to announce that Daniel and I will compete in six WRC events for Hyundai Motorsport in 2019,” said Loeb.

“Winning at Rally de España re-ignited my desire to continue competing at the very front of WRC. Joining Hyundai will give us a fresh challenge and one that I can’t wait to tackle. I have been impressed with the team’s approach and their determination to succeed.”

The Korean manufacturer driver line-up will be completed by Spanish crew Dani Sordo and Carlos del Barrio who have been confirmed for an eight-rally campaign next season, starting from Rally México after the pair agreed to a one year extension.

“Hyundai Motorsport has become a special team to me,” said Sordo.

“We have built some good memories over the years and, alongside Carlos, I felt that 2018 was one of my most competitive seasons. We know that when things work in our favour we can really be strong contenders. We have an exciting crew line-up with Sébastien coming on board. He brings an immeasurable amount of experience which will be a huge benefit to the entire team, as we move forward.”

The new deal leaves Kiwi driver Hayden Paddon without a confirmed drive for 2019 with all the manufacturer back WRC seats now filled.

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