Peugeot UK has announced that it will field a Peugeot 207 S2000 for Kris Meeke in the 2009 Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

Kronos Racing will be charged with running the car next season, which has already proved itself to be the dominant force in the IRC having taken the title in both 2007 and 2008.

Meeke will return to Kronos for the new campaign having previously driven for the Belgian outfit in the Junior World Rally Championship and he said he was thrilled with the opportunity presented for 2009.

“This is an incredible opportunity for both myself and Paul [Nagle – co-driver]!” he said. “It brings my career somewhat full circle, as my first introduction to rally was through a Peugeot UK supported competition in 2000.

“Some awesome and diverse challenges lie ahead in the 2009 IRC, but I can rest assured that with the championship winning pedigree of Peugeot and Kronos, I will have the best opportunity in order to prove my abilities in the coming season!”

Pierre Louis Colin, managing director for Peugeot UK, was also delighted with the news.

“I very pleased we have been able to enter next years IRC championship with Kris,” he said. Rallying is in the blood of Peugeot and it is a good demonstration of the dynamism of Peugeot cars, especially the 207.

“We know we have a winning car, and in Kris and Paul we also have a winning team. In these difficult times it is important that you make sound commercial decisions but it is also important to communicate to your customers in a positive way your brand and your commitment to it.”