Having participated in the WRC as far back as the 1980s, its fair to say that Volkswagen is no stranger to the event. However, in recent years the German manufacturer has focused more on the Dakar Rally. But, with the release of initial details surrounding this mean-looking Polo R Widebody, the firm has voiced its intention to return to the WRC in 2013.
Volkswagen made the announcement shortly before the Rally Italy in Sardinia, stating that the Polo R will undergo rigorous testing during the course of 2012 in order to compete the following year. The company’s motorsport boss, Kris Nissen, also announced that a budget has been put in place to accommodate three years of competition.
During the mid-1980s, Volkswagen ran a fleet of front-wheel-drive Golf GTIs, but the company’s new WRC programme will constitute a more organised and aggressive attempt to capture the overall title. The initial plan is to run the proven Skoda Fabia Super 2000 during selected events next year to in order to build the team's experience of rallies ahead of 2013.
Volkswagen’s WRC programme has been linked to a number of drivers, including Sebastien Loeb and Petter Solberg, but the company has declined to confirm any signings at this stage. Rumours have already begun to circulate on the back of Volkswagen’s decision not to confirm Solberg’s signing that Loeb could still be a potential driver.
“We have plenty of time and I am sure we will find a driver whose ambitions and values match those of Volkswagen,” said board member Dr Ulrich Hackenberg. Nissen added that the company’s WRC effort will be able to draw upon an experienced and proven team that has given a great account of itself in the WRC in recent years.
“Even though the WRC is new territory for us and involves learning in many areas, the team already meets some important prerequisites now as it brings an unwavering professional attitude and resolve to deliver absolute perfection to this commitment,” said Nissen.
According to Nissen, the company’s decision to compete in the WRC campaign will put an end to its successful Dakar programme. He did, however, point out that such a move won’t necessarily spell an end to Volkswagens competing in the Dakar. “We have had many approaches, we have the cars and it is possible that we could run a customer team.”
Volkswagen has not divulged exact details regarding the Polo R, but initial speculation suggests a competitive product with around 224 kW at its disposal. Couple this with capable drivers and there’s a distinct chance that Volkswagen upcoming foray into the WRC will be a successful one…