WRC: Loeb satisfied with strong points haul

Defending world champion Sebastien Loeb has declared himself satisfied after finishing second on Rally Sweden at the weekend.

The Citroen driver, the only non-Scandinavian to win the event, wasn’t able to match the pace of Ford’s Mikko Hirvonen during the three-day rally, but isn’t too concerned after the WRC season opener and is already planning his revenge on Rally Mexico next month.

“As I’ve always said, I start each rally with victory as my aim,” said the Frenchman. “But if I feel that winning isn’t within my grasp, I prefer to bag the maximum number of points rather than risk an accident.

“I didn’t reckon I was the favourite for this event and I found myself up against a rival (Hirvonen) who drove a perfect rally. It’s good to start the season with a large haul of points and I’m looking forward to Mexico to get my revenge!”

Team-mate Dani Sordo finished fourth and reflected Loeb’s thoughts about concentrating on round 2.

“My mission was simple: hold on to fourth and score points for Citroën in the Manufacturers’ World Championship,” he said. “Mission accomplished, but sometimes it’s difficult to run at a slower pace than to push really hard like I did on Friday. I’m sorry not to be on the podium, but like Seb I’m now looking forward to the next rally.”

Watch the WRC on Motors TV (Sky Channel 413, Virgin Media 545) in 2010.


Andy Wilkinson