Arctic challenge for MG ZR.

Following his success in a Group N MG ZR at the Network Q Rally of GB, Formula One panellist Tony Jardine will be teaming up again with MG Sport & Racing later this month to take on the challenge of the Arctic Rally in Lapland. Together they will will face one of their toughest tests yet, taking on thick snow and ice whilst battling against temperatures well below freezing point.

The Arctic Rally is just one of the events that Tony will take part in this year with MG, a union that saw several class victories in events last year.

"Both parties have benefited a great deal from this partnership," MG Sport & Racing MD Rob Oldaker explains, "and Tony did a fantastic job in the MG ZR last year, the highlight being his class win at the Network Q Rally of GB. The Group N car is effectively the same car as a customer can purchase from one of our showrooms, so it really shows the car's ability and stamina. I'm in no doubt that the Arctic Rally will be a real contest but I wish Tony and the team every success."

Tony has previously competed in the Arctic Rally and is relishing the chance of returning in the MG. He said: "The Arctic Lapland Rally is one of the most exciting events on the calendar and rarely before have I seen such a strong field. In our class alone there are 12-15 ultra competitive cars. Of course taking on the Scandinavians on their home ground is always incredibly tough, but you learn a lot from them. I just hope it's not going to be -35?C as it was this week!"

Des Kelly joins Tonay as co-driver on the event. Des, who works as Deputy Editor at the Daily Mirror, has previous experience of co-driving in various rallies including the Network Q Rally of GB, and the Arctic Rally with Tony three years ago.

"There are few experiences in motor sport more exhilarating than the Arctic Rally," says Des. "When you're travelling across snow and ice at speeds in excess of 100mph you have to concentrate all the way because there is a very fine line between success and failure.

"I've been in this rally before, and learned a few lessons the hard way - like not trying to push the car without gloves on since fingers stick to the freezing metal. But where else would you be taught how to kill a reindeer to survive just in case the Rescue team is unable to reach you and you're stuck in temperatures of -40?C. Our first aim is to finish safely. Then it's to win our class."

The Arctic Lapland Rally is held on the 24th and 25th of January.