Vatanen up for challenge

The 54-year-old Finn's association with the African-based event appeared to be over when he missed last year"s event and then became a member of the European parliament.

But, after Volkswagen dropped former winners Bruno Saby and Jutta Klienschmidt, Vatanen was quickly on the phone to the German manufacturer, and he is determined to prove he was worth the punt.

Vatanen said: "I knew that there was an opportunity to be part of this very competitive team so I immediately knocked on their door [when I heard that Jutta and Bruno were no longer with the team].

"And after insisting, they eventually opened that door and we organised test sessions in July. I quickly understood that I still had what it takes."

Vatanen has an exceptional record on the Dakar as he won the event at the first time of asking in 1987 and went on to add to it with victories in 1989, 90 and 91 to make it four wins in the car category - a record that still stands today.

The 1981 world rally champion is especially excited about being able to go head to head with his old friend and rival Carlos Sainz, who also drives for Volkswagen.

Vatanen added: "We both witnessed magnificent battles, especially during the 1000 lakes rally. It'll be very interesting to see each other again during the Dakar"