Dutch Federation Retain Duo for 2009 J-WRC Season

Netherlands will be present in next year's Junior World Rally Championship series through drivers Hans Weijs Jr. and Kevin Abbring. The Dutch Motor Sport Federation (KNAF) confirmed the two drivers for the 2009 lineup, as they will benefit from the support provided by the Dutch Olympic Committee and the Netherlands Sport Federation.

Abbring competed for KNAF in last year's J-WRC programme, finishing the season as the 13th best driver of the series. He drove a Renault Clio RS R3 model and, together with teammate Weijs, brought Netherlands the FIA National Federation (ASN) Cup. This was actually the main reason why the Dutch Federation decided to give the pair another shot at winning the J-WRC title in 2009.

“I’m happy that we can now fully concentrate on next year’s program and the 2009 J-WRC calendar looks very promising with a few new (gravel) events. As from 1 March there will be new specs, which will make the Clio even faster and more competitive - especially on gravel,” said Abbring after being re-confirmed for 2009.

Weijs Jr., on the other hand, is not sure what car he's going to use throughout the 2009 season. He competed on a Citroen C2 in 2008, ranking 17th in the overall classification (only 2 points).

“I am very pleased with my re-election by the KNAF; last season was quite disappointing with a lot of mechanical problems, although I gained a lot of experience. At this moment I’m still not sure what car I will drive next year, and with the J-WRC season starting in less than six weeks that’s far from ideal. We are still talking to Suzuki, Renault and of course Citroen, and all three are very interested to offer me a drive in 2009,” admitted Weijs Jr.