Citroen rounds out record year with Loeb’s Welsh victory

Sébastien Loeb has claimed victory at Wales Rally GB for the first time in his record-breaking career. Loeb’s performance, along with fellow Citroen driver, Dani Sordo, who placed third, guaranteed Citroen the 2008 Manufacturer’s world title* - adding to the Company’s 2003, 2004 and 2005 titles.

Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena, who had already picked up the Driver’s title earlier in the season, put on a fantastic performance on the twisty tracks of the Rheola forest and the frozen terrain through Margam Park. Loeb’s C4 WRC took a decisive victory in the year’s very last stage, which allowed Sébastien to become the first Frenchman to win Britain’s round of the WRC. With a total of 11 wins this year, Loeb and Elena have also set a new record for the highest number of world class wins in a single season.

"There couldn't be a better reward for this team and the fantastic season it has put in,” beamed Sébastien Loeb. “The added bonus of winning this weekend's highly complex event is the icing on the cake. To have succeeded in steering clear of all the potential pitfalls to finally finish ahead of our rivals is tremendously satisfying."

Adding to Citroen Motorsport’s success, at Sunday’s 2008 Autosport Awards, Sébastien Loeb was crowned International Rally Driver of the Year and the mighty C4 WRC given the Rally Car of the Year title.

*All results subject to FIA confirmation.