IRC: FIRST PICTURE: Mikkelsen's new livery

Andreas Mikkelsen's Skoda UK Motorsport Fabia S2000 will feature a 'crisper' factory-designed colour scheme this season, it has been confirmed, as he looks to retain his IRC drivers' crown.

A statement from Skoda UK read:

"Mikkelsen's car will retain its unmistakable Skoda UK Motorsport identity with the familiar Union Flag appearing on the roof and bonnet once again.

"In addition, a new black side detail incorporates elements of the flag to make the car even more recognisable for spectators.

"Other changes for the 2012 car include the introduction of a thin black keyline that frames the lower bodywork's green panels. At the rear, a Union Flag has been incorporated into the rear tailgate with the bottom edge now featuring a matt black stripe."

Mikkelsen's car meanwhile will continue to be run on events separately from Skoda Motorsport, with Andy Rogers moving to the position of team manager and Pierfranceso Zanchi and Nicolas Roux continuing as team principal and chief engineer respectively.