Sebastien Ogier will join the Volkswagen team in the World Rally Championship following his exit from Citroen, it has been announced.
The Frenchman left Citroen a year before of the end of his contract to make way for Finn Mikko Hirvonen, who will partner eight-time world champion Sebastien Loeb from next year. Ogier is joining Volkswagen effective immediately.
The 27-year-old will be helping shape the development of the Polo R WRC for Volkswagen's planned entry in 2013. The move means Ogier is set to miss the 2012 WRC season while he works on the development of the car.
"Volkswagen is the number one in Europe and will soon be number one in the world," said Ogier. "I"m sure that they"re going to compete with the goal of clinching the WRC title. And I'm happy to be part of this from the outset."
Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen added: "We are proud that such a successful and quick duo as Sebastian Ogier and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia have decided to join Volkswagen.
"The aim of putting a competitive Polo R WRC on the road for them as quickly as possible will additionally drive our team. We look forward to working with them and are hoping for many victories and titles in the future."