Yvan Muller: “Not a return, rather a freelance”

« How did this program come to fruition?
My participation with Volvo in Qatar for the WTCC final was a nice experience, but I hadn't planned anything else. In reality, I try to develop my stable as best as possible. I had the opportunity to set up a WTCR program, but for it to be carried out successfully, I had to be committed to it. I wouldn't call it a return, more like freelancing, certainly over a season, but more to launch my team on a program that will give us experience.

Why did you choose this model rather than a proven or French car?
The choice was multiple but it was decided by the partners. I was personally very interested in the Seat Leon; I knew the staff well from my time under their colors in the WTCC (between 2006 and 2009, one title. Editor's note).

To what extent did the adoption of the TCR rules allow you to confirm your arrival at world level?
We are returning to cars that are less expensive to purchase and maintain (compared to the WTCC TC1). This is a crucial element. I have been defending this regulation for many years. Economically, it's the right solution and I believe in this format. The proof, all places are taken.

How will you organize your schedule between the WTCR and your racing obligations? team boss in FFSA GT et ELMS in LM P3?
I will be present as much as possible. There will be two clashes of dates, the weekend of May 12-13 with the WTCR at Nürburging (Germany), the FFSAGT in Pau (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) and the ELMS in Monza (Italy) and on October 27-28 with Japan in WTCR and the ELMS final in Portugal. I will do all ten WTCR rounds, probably four or five FFSA GT races and as many in ELMS. I can rely on a team in whom I really trust, I know my staff, even if we recruited this winter. »

The Yvan Muller Racing team will enter two Hyundai i30 N, one for the four-time WTCC world champion boss and the second for the outgoing WTCC winner, Thed Björk.