"I'm hoping that is a good omen, although realistically it will be very tough for us. The priority will be to get off to a solid start by finishing and scoring points."
Of the rest Sebastien Ogier will make his debut in the JWRC in Mexico – the Frenchman is backed by the French motorsport federation and will carry the colours of
Citroen, while last year's rookie winner, Shaun Gallagher will switch from a C2-R2 to a C2 S1600.
Other significant entries:
42 crews set to start.
42 crews are due to start round three - 14 of which will be in World Rally Cars, with all the manufacturer teams' represented.
In addition to the usual 'works' entries,
Conrad Rautenbach will make his debut in a Citroen C4 WRC, having stuck with the Xsara for the first two events in Monte Carlo and Sweden, while local star Ricardo Trivino will use a Peugeot 206 WRC.
Conrad is looking forward to making his debut appearance with the C4 and getting back onto gravel.
"I tested the C4 recently and immediately found a good feeling with the car, as it suits my driving style more," said the reigning African Rally champion.
"It is quite a different animal to the Xsara but I am confident that a combination of a good set-up and going to gravel, a surface I am more familiar with, will help me adjust to the new car.
"The world rally cars really are a step up from what I'm used to. There has been quite a lot to learn. I am though, really loving the experience."
Of the rest, in addition to the nine Junior WRC runners, eight will battle it out for the Group N honours - including Jan Kopecky, who will use a Fiat Grande Punto Abarath S2000 - while nine will be in contention for the A6 class victory and two will compete in the N3 category.
Route:
Mexico was a late inclusion in the calendar following the withdrawal of Rally Australia.
The route is virtually identical to 2007 with just a few small variations to some stages. It has the shortest route ever for a WRC event, covering just 830.83km with a remarkable 43 per cent of that being competitive.
