Back to front for Loeb in Monte Carlo

World Rally Champion Sébastien Loeb grabbed a courageous second place in the snow and ice of the Monte Carlo Rally this weekend after incurring a five minute penalty at the end of day one for failing to finish the stage.

The debut event of the 2006 World Rally Championship saw an incredible fight back from the World Rally Champion and a precious 11 manufacturer’s points for Kronos Total Citroën WRT, including three from Spanish team mate Xevi Pons.

Starting back in eighth place on day two, nearly four minutes behind the leader, Loeb moved through the field, taking 10 stage victories, to seize a dramatic second place on the very last stage of the three day rally.

Sébastien Loeb commented: "I can honestly say that, from the inside of the car, this rally turned into a thrilling chase; the sort of battle that I really like. It showed us that our Xsara can more than stand up to the opposition."