Andreas Mikkelsen will return to Hyundai Motorsport to share a third car with Esapekka Lappi and Dani Sordo in 2024.
After spending the last four years with Škoda in rallying’s second tier, the Norwegian’s return to the top-flight was confirmed by the Korean manufacturer on Wednesday.
Mikkelsen, who made 26 starts in an i20 Coupe WRC between 2017 and 2019, is delighted with the deal. The three-time world rally winner told DirtFish: “Rally1 is always the ultimate aim. I think we showed this year that we still have good speed.”
He added: “I am very excited to come back to the top category of rallying with Hyundai Motorsport. Since 2019, we have fought hard to return to the top flight of the sport, and I am very glad we are doing it with Hyundai.
“We have a big opportunity in front of us, and we will grab it with both hands and make the most out of it. I want to thank Hyundai Motorsport for putting their faith in us; we will give our maximum to help achieve the high targets that will be set for the 2024 season.”
Hyundai Motorsport team principal Cyril Abiteboul is happy to welcome another former employee back – Mikkelsen joins Ott Tänak in returning through the entrance at HMSG’s Alzenau headquarters.
“We are delighted to confirm the final elements of our experienced and talented 2024 WRC crew lineup,” said Abiteboul.
“Dani has contributed a huge amount to the team over the past 10 years, both on the stages and in the factory, so we are very happy that he will be continuing with us next season. It is also exciting to see Andreas return to our squad, as he brings with him proven success and plenty of experience that will benefit us in both WRC and Rally2.
“Thanks to their slightly different specialities and a huge amount of experience, the combination of Esapekka, Dani and Andreas will give us the opportunity to put the best team forward for every event to fight alongside Thierry and Ott.”
Mikkelsen’s addition means all five frontline Hyundai drivers have won world rallies heading into next season.
