Mutual Understanding
IN 2012 they also paired up in Volkswagen Motorsport’s learning year in the WRC, which both team and driver contested in a Škoda Fabia S2000.
Andreas Mikkelsen and his previous co-driver, who currently find themselves third in the Drivers’ Championship behind the Volkswagen duos of Ogier/Julien Ingrassia (F/F) and Jari-Matti Latvala/Miikka Anttila (FIN/FIN), have parted by mutual agreement. Mikkelsen and Markkula can look back on a successful start to the season together – including their first podium, in the form of second place in Sweden, and two fourth places in Portugal and Argentina.
“We are pleased to be able to welcome Ola Fløene back to Volkswagen,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito. “We have not forgotten his professionalism and friendly manner, and the entire team will give him a warm welcome. The driver can, and must, make his own decision regarding which co-driver he works with.
“Their mutual understanding is a key success factor in the World Rally Championship, both in the cockpit and away from the route. As such, we fully support Andreas Mikkelsen’s decision. At the same time, we would like to thank Mikko Markkula for his work alongside Andreas. In improving the pace notes, he played an important role in this year’s strong results – particularly in Sweden and Argentina. We wish him all the best for his future career as a co-driver.”
author: Rally Live .com