The
Red Bull Rally Team has announced that it will enter two-cars in the
FIA Production Car World Rally Championship this season.
Andreas Aigner will continue to spear-head the operation however he will be joined by Bernardo Sousa, who will drive the sister Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX.
"Obviously, I am very pleased and indeed proud of the trust displayed by our partners in the project. At times such as these, continuity is particularly important," said team boss, Raimund Baumschlager.
"Andreas Aigner will be racing with a speedy new team-mate in 2008 thereby, having the chance to develop his talent by even improving his strong performances from last year.
"I regard Bernardo Sousa as a genuine rough diamond who totally struck me at last year's Rally of Portugal.
"Our team will be offering two cars, two drivers and substantially better professional support - better comparison values, an increase in the technical package and last but not least greater incentives for driving success."
Aigner, who notched up 10 points in the PWRC last season, his best finish coming in Greece, when he was second, is looking forward to another shot at the Production crown.
"I think that 2007 was on the whole a successful year for us and I was pleased to have been able to hold my own against fierce Group N competition," he added. "2008 will mean some further improvement - I am expecting that of myself. A second driver in the team can only help me achieve this aim!"
Sousa meanwhile, who began his career in karting and who also competed in Formula Renault, before switching his focus to rallying, is looking forward to the challenge.
"In my opinion rallying is more exciting and challenging than circuit racing. That's why I decided to make this step," explained the 20-year-old Portuguese ace.
"My family is supporting me all the way. I do however need to complete my studies this year along with the racing!"
The Red Bull Rally Team will begin its PWRC campaign in Sweden, before also taking in the events in Argentina, Greece, Turkey, New Zealand and Britain. Finland and Japan have been selected as the two 'dropped' events as required under the PWRC regulations.
