Loeb launches racing team, targets Le Mans LMP assault

Rally legend Sebastien Loeb has begun to lay the foundations for his post-WRC career with the creation of a GT team.

The Frenchman will partner with long-time friend Dominique Heintz to launch Sébastien Loeb Racing, which is set to run in the Porsche Matmut Carrera Cup and the Le Mans Series.

The French-based Porsche series will see the team field two cars, whilst the LMS programme is set to be a single entry effort in the one-make prototype FLM class.

"I've had a few experiences on circuits, in different disciplines, and I liked those experiences as well as the atmosphere around them," said seven-time WRC champion Loeb.

"Rallying represents a large part of my life and it's something I still enjoy, which is why I'm continuing in the sport. But in the coming years, when I'll have more time available, I want to discover a new universe."

The team's long-term aim is thought to be a progression in to prototypes, with an LMP2 entry at the Le Mans 24 Hours being targeted for as early as 2014.

"This isn't a one-shot deal. We want to build a serious and professional team, which will be there for the long haul," commented Heintz.

"It's a real challenge: we can't underestimate the size of it. But that's also what's good about it. I'm going to discover new aspects, aspects that will represent my future, and which will allow me to stay in racing and therefore keep living my passion."

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James Weeks