http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/AllCars/236832/

This is fantastic news. Atkinson will be driving a car just like Sebastion Loeb's in Rally Ireland.

The article does not mention co-drivers. Assuming Atkinson has someone that he's comfortable working with, we will see how much of Loeb's dominance has been due to the car and how much to the driver. Loeb is a great driver, but he tends to be better on tarmac than dirt. Atkinson shines on gravel, and has made dramatic strides on ice, as well. His tarmac driving is very good, and continues to improve. Generally, drivers who are good on low-traction surfaces can get better on tarmac, but the converse can be problematical for some. Driving sideways, steering with the gas pedal is not a minor adjustment from smooth, even lines.

His podium finishes with a less-than-stellar Subaru last season say he has ability. If he could beat Loeb in Ireland, it would turn WRC upside down. Obviously, that's a long shot. More likely would be a podium finish, behind Loeb. If he pulls that off, Citroen will have to ponder how often they will let him run the "junior" team. They appear to be trying to share the ride among four drivers, but Atkinson is much better than the other three.

Unfortunately, with the economy, rides in motorsports (of all kinds) will begin to resemble a game of musical chairs, with fewer and fewer seats for the pool of drivers. This is Atkinson's chance to make the cut.