Volkswagen adds Marcus Grönholm to its ranks

Put simply, this is definitely one insanely big addition to Volkswagen Motorsport’s WRC project. Not just because Marcus Grönholm is one insanely tall guy, but because of his experience, knowledge, talent and competitive spirit. Even though he claims to be all done in terms of active WRC competition, Marcus is always around, in the background, lurking, sharing tips and advice, and, I am quite sure, making people laugh with his famously flat-out kind of humour. Recently Grönholm took part in rally battle on the streets of Helsinki, proving once again that he may be retired, but that doesn’t make him any slower.

Many fans around the globe are still hoping Marcus could break his own promise and return to WRC action in the future, but for now he will focus on his new duties as a test driver and consultant, as if Volkswagen Motorsport really needed (that kind of) help in the first place.

More info about Marcus’ new job in the press release below.

Double World Rally Champion to support Volkswagen at tests

Volkswagen Motorsport has secured the services of former World Rally Champion Marcus Grönholm: the 46-year-old Finn, winner of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2000 and 2002, will support the works team at test sessions with the Polo R WRC. Grönholm boasts a vast wealth of experience acquired from 150 WRC rallies enormous, 30 of which he won, and his findings will provide invaluable assistance when it comes to testing and further developing the World Rally Car.

“We are delighted to have Marcus Grönholm on board as test driver for our WRC project,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito. “Marcus is one of the most successful and talented rally drivers around, and will support us with the further development of the Polo R WRC. Thanks to his in-depth understanding of technical aspects and his analytical skills, he will be able to provide our engineers with valuable input.”

“To get behind the wheel for the World Championship winning team from Wolfsburg is obviously a great opportunity for me,” said Marcus Grönholm. “I am really looking forward to testing and having the chance to work on the further development of what is currently the best rally car out there – the Polo R WRC.” “Bosse” Grönholm took his place at the wheel of the Polo R WRC for the first time during the gravel tests in Fontjoncouse (southern France) in early August. Grönholm will assist the Volkswagen WRC team at selected tests.

Grönholm’s career as a works driver in the World Rally Championship began in 1999 at Peugeot. In only his second year as a pro, the Finn won four rallies and claimed his first World Championship title. Two years later he added a second title with Peugeot. The father of three subsequently switched to Ford, where, at the end of the 2007 season, he brought the curtain down on a dazzling career that included 30 wins, 60 podiums and 540 stage wins.