The Norwegian still has aspirations to return to the top division of the FIA World Rally Championship, but he’s also well aware of the scarcity of Rally1 seats right now.
Regardless, the three-time world rally winner is happy with a second WRC2 title in three years.
“I didn’t know what I was doing at the start of the year,” said Mikkelsen. “For sure, it didn’t look like we could make the full [WRC2] championship, but slowly we made some more events and eventually we could [complete the season]. I’m happy for me and for Škoda. It was important, you know, they still had the new car and we were able to give them wins and the championships.”
Mikkelsen met with Škoda officials to review the year and to look ahead to 2024 shortly before this month’s FORUM8 Rally Japan.
“I think everybody is happy,” said Mikkelsen, “but there’s nothing I can tell you about next season yet. Like I said before, if it’s WRC2, it will be Škoda.
“For Rally1, it’s difficult. If we could bring some budget it would be easier, but that’s not possible. Of course, we keep fighting for this and that’s the priority for me, but if it doesn’t happen then it’s not the end of the world.”
Finland
Italy
Hungary