Bouffier gets second Hyundai chance

Bryan Bouffier will get another chance with the Hyundai World Rally Championship team in France next month despite crashing twice on his top-level debut in the i20 WRC in Germany.

The Frenchman was elevated to Hyundai's front-line squad for the first time in Germany after spending the season so far as a test driver, but had a heavy accident on the event's second day when running ninth. The team managed to repair Bouffier's car so he could rejoin under Rally 2 on the final leg, only for him to crash again at the start of the Powerstage finale.

Hyundai team boss Michel Nandan said Bouffier deserved another chance at his home event.

"We have decided to give another opportunity to Bryan following the difficulties he faced in Germany, so he will drive the No. 20 in France," he said.

After its breakthrough one-two with Thierry Neuville and Dani Sordo in Germany, Hyundai will continue to run three cars for the next two rounds in France and Germany. Sordo stays on alongside full-season lead driver Neuville for both, with Hayden Paddon returning to the third car for Spain after Bouffier's outing.