Aigner looking forward to the new seasonThe Red Bull Rally Team is to enter two cars in the 2008 World Rally Championship (PWRC). Andreas Aigner / Klaus Wicha and Bernardo Sousa / Carlos Magalhaes complete the line-up in which six World Championship rounds and two more
international runs are planned.
“I'm delighted and proud that we are able to continue our success in 2008 with two cars," began team boss Raimund Baumschlager.
Austrian driver Andreas Aigner will be given the chance to further develop his talent this year. A second talent will also be racing alongside the young Styrian for the Red Bull Rally Team in 2008. The team will be aiming for success in the newly designed Red Bull Mitsubishi EVO IXs.
“Obviously, I am very pleased and indeed proud of the trust displayed by our partners in the project," Baumschlager continued. "At times such as these, continuity is particularly important."
"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.
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"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,” he concluded.
Andreas Aigner is aiming for success in 2008 after a strong season last year. A win in Spain, a second-placed finish in Greece and a third place in Norway provided the highlights of the youngster's year.
The Styrian is currently co-operating with Baumschlager by taking part in the January Rally. Obviously, he was very pleased to seal the contract extension.
“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 N Group competition," Aigner stated. "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!”
Bernardo Sousa ranks as one of the brightest talents of his country at the tender age of 20. He began his career with karting, winning the Italian Open of 2005, one of the most prestigious events for young racers.
After his karting success, Sousa was forced to decide between single-seaters and rally. The youngster opted to set his sights on a career of international rallying fame in the World Championship.
“In my opinion rallying is more exciting and challenging than circuit racing," Sousa said. "That's why I decided to make this step. My family is supporting me all the way. I do however need to complete my studies this year along with the racing!”
Source Red Bull Rally
