Capito begins Volkswagen stint

Jost Capito has taken over from Kris Nissen as boss of Volkswagen Motorsport.

The 53-year-old ex-Ford of Europe motorsport head started work yesterday (Wednesday) when he met members of the German team that will enter a fleet of Polo R WRCs in next year’s FIA World Rally Championship powered by Nokia.

During his first day in charge, Capito said: “I’m very much looking forward to working together with this strong team and have a lot of respect for the successes that have been achieved so far. My first impression is that the squad is working with great enthusiasm and operates in a likeable and friendly atmosphere. Big and interesting tasks are awaiting all of us and we will tackle them with high motivation. My thanks also go to Kris Nissen, who has done very good preparatory work and who will continue to play a part in [the] handover.”

After formally standing down, Nissen added: “I’m very proud of what the squad has achieved over the past few years. Volkswagen has never before had such an extensive and, above all, successful motorsport programme as it has today. We have to thank the fantastic work of the entire team for this. I would like to thank Dr [Ulrich] Hackenberg for his trust and his support and wish the team and Jost Capito all the best for the future.”

News of Capito’s appointed first circulated in March. Nissen, who oversaw three Dakar Rally triumphs with Volkswagen, will continue working for the firm in an advisory capacity.