Loeb is to join Belgium’s Thierry Neuville and Spain’s Dani Sordo in the seventh race of the world championship, from 30 May to 2 June.

“After a competitive performance in Chile, Sébastien Loeb and [co-driver] Daniel Elena will be in Portugal, alongside the duo Thierry Neuville/Nicolas Gilsoul and Dani Sordo/Carlos Barrio,” a statement from Hyundai said.

In the previous round in Chile, Loeb went on the podium for the first time with Hyundai, after finishing in third place, being the best in the South Korean brand.

“I had an excellent impression with the i20 in Chile, which was translated into our first podium,” Loeb said.

“I am happy to have the opportunity to continue the good time by participating in the Rali de Portugal.”

The decision was explained by the team’s sporting director, Italy’s Andre Adamo, with the need to “increase the potential to gain points to the team in Portugal.”

Loeb is currently sixth place in the world championship with 39 points.

Rali de Portugal is to take place in Exponor, in Matosinhos, a municipality in Porto, from 30 May to 2 June.