Peugeot UK will continue in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge in 2011. However, Kris Meeke, the 2009 IRC drivers’ champion, will no longer form part of the team’s line-up after announcing his decision to take up a new challenge away from the series next year.
Peugeot’s Director of Communications, Andrew Didlick, said: “Kris has been a great ambassador for the Peugeot brand and, along with the Peugeot 207 S2000, has surpassed all our expectations when we entered the IRC in 2009. By winning the drivers’ title in his first year in the IRC, Kris clearly demonstrated his world class abilities. It’s been a non-stop source of excitement having him on board and we wish him every success for the future.”
Meeke, who will see out the current IRC season with Peugeot UK, started his career with the manufacturer in 2000 after winning a competition to unearth a future star driver. He rejoined the brand to spearhead Peugeot UK’s IRC bid and also helped Peugeot win a third consecutive IRC manufacturers’ title in 2009.
The 31-year-old Northern Irishman has scored eight podium finishes for Peugeot UK, including five wins, from the 19 rallies he has contested with the importer.
“I’d like to extend a huge thanks to Peugeot UK for giving me the opportunity in the IRC and for its commitment and support over these last two years,” said Meeke.
Peugeot UK will announce details of its IRC programme for 2011 at a later date.
– Credit: www.ircseries.com