The ‘Star Driver’ program by Pirelli unveiled today

The FIA has released details of its brand new program aimed at discovering new talents from all around the globe to allow them to access the WRC – World Rally Championship.

Launched in collaboration with Pirelli, the sole manufacturer of the championship, the ‘Star Driver’ project aims to find five drivers in the FIA regional championships in 2008 and 2009.

A driver will be selected from each of the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa championships, and two will emerge from the European championship after a three-day final. All drivers must be under the age of 27 by January 1 of the year they participate in the championship. The FIA hopes to expand its project to South America by 2009.

Each year, the selected drivers will participate in six world championship rallies behind the wheel of identical Group N or Super 2000 cars.

The FIA is still looking for other opportunities to develop the project during the 2008 and 2009 seasons. The most outstanding driver might even be invited to participate in tests with a team participating in the World Championship.

Beyond the search for new talents, the Pirelli and FIA project aims to internationalize rallying.

The FIA regions, in collaboration with national sporting associations, will need to promote their own championship and assist competitors during events. This project will allow for the collection of funds for personal, physical, safety, and promotional development programs.

According to a statement from the FIA