Ostberg in WRC 2 Pro with Citroen

Mads Ostberg has confirmed he will contest this year’s WRC 2 Pro series in a Citroen C3 R5.

Ostberg, who contested eight world championship rounds with the Citroen factory team last season, was left without a seat for this year but has elected to drop down to the WRC’S support series – albeit the Pro class where only manufacturers can enter – rather than sit the 2019 season out.

“I was disappointed when it was clear to me the WRC at the highest level was not an option for me,” said the 2012 Rally Portugal winner. “It was never an option to give up on my dreams. Rallying is more than a job, it’s in my blood.”

Ostberg will drive a C3 R5 prepared by Belgian team DG Sport. He starts his campaign for WRC 2 Pro glory at Rally Sweden, but before that the Norwegian will make his competitive C3 R5 debut at Rally Hadeland on February 2.

“This year will be a challenge,” said Ostberg. “I have no experience with the car and my first rally is coming soon. It will be a busy time, but with my [rally] experience and Citroen Racing’s expertise, hopefully we can clinch the first C3 R5 win in WRC 2 [Pro].”

Ostberg will contest this Saturday’s Sigdalsrally, where he will drive one of his own Adapta team Group N Subarus on the Norwegian series opener.