Pepe Oriola, born in Barcelona on 9 July 1994, will become the youngest driver who ever raced in WTCC. The Spaniard has signed a deal with SUNRED Engineering to drive a SEAT León in the next season and is set to make his WTCC debut in Brazil on March 20th, 2011 at the age of 16 years, 8 months and 11 days.
“This is a dream that comes true. It will be tough to be the youngest in the field, but I’ll do my best to have an impact. Obviously it will be difficult to fight for the title, but I will have the opportunity to learn from the best,” Oriola said.
Despite his young age, Oriola has already achieved impressive results, starting from his very first car race in the 2009 SEAT León Supercópa when he finished on the podium at the age of 15. Last year he was classified fourth in the SEAT León Eurocup with a double victory in Valencia.
“We are confident that Pepe is mature enough for delivering a great maiden season. He has the potential to provide more than a surprise,” declared SUNRED principal Joan Orús.