Ex-WRC driver Gigi Galli launches Kia World Rallycross programme
Italian former World Rally Championship driver has confirmed he will join the World Rallycross Championship with a new Kia project from his home round at Franciacorta next month
The WRC podium finisher will drive a brand new Kia Rio Supercar and has employed the services of his former co-driver Giovanni Bernacchini to help manage the new team.
"I am delighted to be back in World RX," said Galli, who made his debut at the Italian event last season in an OlsbergsMSE run Ford Fiesta, just missing out on a place in the final.
"My supporters and my own endless passion for racing have made this happen.
"I am especially excited about creating a brand new team and car, and to have Giovanni by my side."
The Rio is the first of its kind in rallycross and Galli is realistic about the new car's performance on its debut.
"Our aim is not to win [at Franciacorta], it would be foolish to think we could do that straightaway - we simply want to demonstrate how hard we have worked so far," he said.
Galli competed in a total of 66 WRC events and twice finished on the podium.
He has not regularly competed at international level since ending his WRC career in 2008.
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