Tuesday | 04 Nov 2014

Sordo signs two-year deal with Hyundai

Dani Sordo has agreed an expanded two-year deal with Hyundai that could see him contest all rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship in 2015 and 2016.

The Spaniard has driven six rounds this season and has been the Korean manufacturer’s strongest performer after lead driver Thierry Neuville, helping the squad to a one-two finish in Germany as the Belgian claimed Hyundai’s maiden victory.

Details of which rallies Sordo will contest next year have not been finalised. However, a Hyundai Motorsport spokesman said it was expected he would tackle at least 10 rounds, and maybe all 13, ahead of a complete season in 2016.

“I am delighted to be continuing my partnership with Hyundai Motorsport following a very successful debut season working together,” said Sordo.

“We have shown great promise with the Hyundai i20 WRC this year and we will never forget the one-two result at Rallye Deutschland, which was a truly special moment.”

Team principal Michel Nandan said Sordo’s return would give Hyundai a strong line-up following an impressive debut season in 2014.

Dani Sordo - finished second in Germany

“Dani has demonstrated impressive consistency this season on different types of terrain. He has shown himself to be quick in different circumstances, in the face of challenges and, most importantly, to be a valued team player.

“We have seen the results of the partnership between Dani and Thierry already this year in Germany, where we celebrated our fantastic one-two. Let’s hope this is the start of similar celebrations in the future,” he added.

The announcement leaves question marks over the futures of Juho Hänninen and Chris Atkinson, who have both driven for the team this year, as well as Hayden Paddon, who has driven a third i20 on five rounds.

Hyundai’s spokesman said if Sordo contested 10 rounds in 2015 there would be a chance for other drivers in the main team, but it was too early to say if a third car would appear.

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