“I have been aware of the Otago Classic Rally for a number of years, and it has always been an event that I wanted to do one day,” Hirvonen said.“I have competed in Rally New Zealand many times, but have never competed on the South Island roads. “The attraction of competing on these roads in a legendary BDA Escort is irresistible. “For sure, I will be aiming to win, but I am looking forward to also visiting this beautiful area and mixing with the local competitors,” he added.
Mikko Hirvonen won 15 WRC rounds in a distinguished career at the top level. Photo: Maurice Selden
“Mikko is known for being very approachable and likeable, and we are delighted to welcome him to the Otago Rally.”The Otago Rally has a history of attracting WRC stars to the event, including Bjorn Waldegard, Hannu Mikkola, Juha Kankkunen, Ari Vatanen, Miki Biasion, Didier Auriol, Michele Mouton and father and son, Jimmy and Alister McRae. The 2019 Otago Classic Rally was won by Norwegian WRC star, Mads Ostberg, driving the same Escort that Hirvonen will drive next year. Ostberg contested the rally twice, as has Estonian Markko Martin in recent years. The 2020 Otago Rally will be held from April 3 to 5 next year. The Rally is grateful for the support of Dunedin City Council Premier Event funding. For more information on the Otago Rally, visit the event website at www.otagorally.com
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