Ogier to make IRC return in Sardinia

Sebastien Ogier will make his return to the Intercontinental Rally Challenge when he contests Rally d’Italia-Sardegna next month.

Ogier, who was victorious on his IRC debut on Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo last season, will drive a Peugeot 207 Super 2000 on the demanding gravel event, which is based in Olbia from 4-6 June.

It will mark the Frenchman’s second appearance in the IRC in 2010 after he entered Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo for a second time back in January, only to retire on the final night while he was firmly in contention for a repeat victory.

Ogier is no stranger to the Sardinian stages, having contested the island’s world championship qualifier back in 2008 en route to winning the Junior world title that season.

In addition to Ogier, the Peugeot challenge in Sardinia will also be boosted by Paolo Andreucci. The four-time Italian champion will drive a similar 207 S2000 and will start as one of the pre-event favourites.