Sebastien Loeb should need no introduction to real motoring enthusiasts. The nine time WRC champion is a tarmac specialist and all of his rally victories have been at the wheel of a Citroën.
Now the same pair are set to challenge the FIA World Touring Car Championship (FIA WTCC) from 2014 onwards. Citroën Racing’s entry into the world of track racing will coincide with the introduction of a new generation of cars.
“Competing in a category for the first time, starting from scratch, gives our division a superb challenge,” confirmed Yves Matton, Citroën Racing Team Principal. “Having said that, we will be able to re-use a large part of our existing expertise, starting with the DS3 WRC’s 1,6-litre direct injection turbo engine.
The French team has already begun development work at its Versailles technical center with the first tests of the car taking place later this year. While the Frenchman’s entry into the 2013 Pikes Peak International Hillclimb is a one-off, he will be a full time participant in the WTCC.
Loeb has made no secret of his enthusiasm about tackling this challenge with his favourite team: “First of all, I am pleased that this has been confirmed. It’s a bit of a dream to think that we are going to write a new chapter in our history. I can’t wait to get out on track in the car and start testing. I don’t expect to win straight away, but I am determined to get there one day.”
