Official: Mini back in rallying with Countryman WRC

27th July 2010

By Anthony Peacock

Forty-three years after a Mini won at world rallying’s highest level, the iconic name will return with a Prodrive-built Countryman WRC next season.

Confirmation of a deal, which has been the source of intense speculation, has just been received from Mini’s base in Munich.

The Prodrive-Mini collaboration will produce the Countryman WRC in time for a selected programme of World Rally Championship rounds next season ahead of a full campaign in 2012. No events were detailed in the communication although sources have suggested the car will make its competition debut on Rally d’Italia-Sardegna in May 2011. The statement from Mini points out that the programme is planned for several years to come.

The Countryman WRC is due to start testing in the autumn, although no mention is made of who will drive the car.

Ian Robertson, member of the board of management of BMW AG, responsible for sales and marketing, said: “I am delighted Mini will be represented on one of the most popular stages in international motorsport. The success enjoyed on the rally circuit has made a vital contribution to the image of the brand. Mini customers have always shown great interest in motorsport. I am convinced we will add a few more chapters to our success story in rallying.”

He continued: “The Mini Countryman provides an excellent basis, from which to create a competitive racing car for the world championship. In Prodrive, we have a strong and experienced partner. We will work hard together over the coming months to ensure we get the project on track right from the word go.”