Loix to drive Suzuki on Rally Ireland.

Belgian ace Freddy Loix has confirmed that he will compete on the Rally Ireland next month.

The 33 year old will drive a JM Engineering Suzuki Ignis 1600 in the 235 kilommetre long three-day WRC pilot event from October 14-16. The target of Rally Ireland is to secure WRC status in 2007.

"I am very happy to be doing my first real rally in Ireland as I have heard some many good things about rallying in Ireland and their WRC plans," said the Belgian driver.

Loix who has been a factory driver with Toyota, Mitsubishi, Hyundai and Peugeot has a wealth of WRC experience. He has previously competed at the Rally Experience event at Punchestown, Co. Meath and has visited Ireland on a number of occasions in the past.

"This is a great chance for young Irish drivers to test their skills against Freddy as this will be a real benchmark of their talent," added Rally Ireland promoter Sean O'Connor, who has enjoyed a long term friendship with the Belgian driver.