Block thrilled to get Atkinson on board

Ken Block says he is ecstatic that the Monster World Rally Team has managed to expand to a second car for former Subaru star Chris Atkinson in Mexico.

American ace Block has long been keen to bring Atkinson - who has only made one World Rally Championship appearance since Subaru’s departure at the end of 2008 - into the Monster fold, and has done what is currently a one-off deal for Mexico, where Atkinson will drive a Ford for the first time.

"Atko’s an incredible driver and we’ve been friends for a few years now," said Block. "Obviously, I’m thrilled that he’s going to be joining me in Mexico as a teammate and racing for MWRT.

"Mexico’s already one of my favorite races of the year and this is going to make it that much better."

Atkinson has already tested the Ford Fiesta RS WRC in preparation for his Monster outing.