Loeb takes to the circuit to dominate Porsche Cup event at Pau

Sebastien Loeb produced a stunning display in this weekend's Porsche Matmut Carrera Cup at the Pau street circuit to win both races from pole position.

The eight-time World Rally champion was piloting one of his own squad's Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars at the iconic French circuit and proceeded to dominate the event, fending off young team-mate and 2010 Indy Lights champion Jean-Karl Vernay in both races.

Loeb held on to his pole at the start of the 40-minute Saturday run ahead of Vernay. The leaders quickly pulled away from the pack, which saw plenty of engaging battles between the likes of Vincent Beltoise, Julien Briché, Gaël Castelli and points leader Come Ledogar.

Loeb and Vernay were in a class of their own out front, the WRC legend holding off his young team-mate for the win. Behind them Ledogar emerged victorious in the battle for the final rostrum spot.

Loeb again led Vernay away from pole in Sunday's shorter second race. This time the rally star was able to take a more comfortable win with Vernay left to fend off Ledogar, the pair again completing the podium behind Loeb.

"The weekend was 100% positive," Loeb commented afterwards. "Jean-Karl scored the most points for the championship and I personally enjoyed myself.

"I am very pleased to have taken the first victory for the team," added the Frenchman, whose outfit are new for 2012. "They would still have won [without me], but it will remain a great memory."

The Citroen WRC star will be back in more familiar surroundings when he contests the Acropolis Rally in 10 days time (24–27 May).

Watch Acropolis Rally coverage on Motors TV


James Weeks