Four-time Australian Rally Champion, Simon Evans, is the latest big-name entry into this year’s International Classic Rally of Otago.

Four-time Australian Rally Champion, Simon Evans.The popular Victorian will drive a Datsun Stanza owned by multiple Otago Rally competitor, Darryn Snooks.

A former factory driver for Toyota in the Australian Championship, Evans won his titles in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010.

He finished second in the 2016 championship after campaigning an ageing Subaru Impreza WRX.

“I’m really excited about contesting the Otago Rally,” Evans said.

“Obviously I’ve heard lots about the rally and have seen lots of video footage of the event, so I’m looking forward to doing the event in the Stanza.”

Evans’ entry into the Otago Rally is a real coup for the event. As one of the most popular drivers in Australia, this will be his first entry into the Otago Rally.

“It’s great news for the Otago Rally, and spectators are in for a real treat,” Rally Manager, Norman Oakley, said.

“Simon is a class driver and seeing him on some of our iconic Otago Rally stages will be something to see.

“While not many Kiwis will have seen Simon in action before, they’re all aware of his on-the-limit driving style and the excitement he brings to an event.”

Snooks is also likely to contest the rally himself, with plans under way for him to enter his magnificent works replica Datsun Violet 710.

Entries for the April 7 to 9 event continue to flood in. Irishman Frank Kelly has already confirmed his entry, with several Australians already on the list.

The current list of entries can be seen at: http://otagorally.com/home/competitors/entry-list

Simon Evans will contest the Otago Rally in the Datsun Stanza owned by Darryn Snooks, seen here in a previous Otago Rally.