Former Ford, Peugeot and Subaru factory driver Markko Martin is a last-minute entry for the 2016 Otago Rally in and around Dunedin on April 8-10.
The Estonian will be co-driven by equally experienced Belgian Stephane Prevot in a Ford Escort RS1800 prepared by the Rossendale Wines Rally Team.
Martin replaces the previously entered Mikko Hirvonen, who has had to pull out of the event after his employer, Mini, added another event to its cross-country rally programme.
While disappointed that Hirvonen will be unable to come to the Otago Rally this year, event spokesman Roger Oakley said Martin would be a popular replacement.
"Nobody is more disappointed than Mikko to have had to pull out of the event, as he was really looking forward to it. However, a change in Mini's plans meant that it was out of his control,'' Oakley said.
"We completely understand his situation, and look forward to welcoming him to the Otago Rally in the future.
"Having said that, Markko Martin will also be a huge attraction.
"In his days in the World Rally Championship he was one of the most popular drivers, and his speed was electric.
"With five WRC wins to his credit, including an historic victory for Ford in the 2003 Rally of Finland, he has huge credentials.
"I know that the Otago Rally fans will be keen to meet both Markko and Stephane, and seeing them on some of the event's iconic stages.''
Martin retired from the World Rally Championship at the end of the 2005 season after 84 events and 101 stage wins.
Only last weekend, he had his first drive in a historic rally, driving a Ford Escort RS1800 in the Boucles a Bastogne event in Belgium, where he finished second.
"After competing in Belgium, I am very much looking forward to heading to New Zealand for the Otago Rally,'' Martin said.
"I have fond memories of competing in New Zealand's WRC event, and Stephane and I are eager to experience the Otago Rally, an event we have heard so many good reports about.''
Hyundai factory team co-driver for Hayden Paddon, John Kennard, has been instrumental in getting Martin as a late replacement for Hirvonen.
Markko Martin
At a glance
Nationality: Estonian
Born: November 10, 1975
WRC teams: Subaru, Ford, Peugeot
WRC rallies: 84
WRC wins: Five
WRC podiums: 18
First WRC rally: 1997 Rally Finland
First WRC win: 2003 Acropolis Rally
Last WRC win: 2004 Rally Catalunya
Last WRC rally: 2005 Wales Rally GB
