Citroen, Loeb to race together again

Citroen and Sebastien Loeb will team up once again to tackle the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) in 2014, in a first for both team and driver.

The decision to enter the WTCC presents new challenges for Citroen Racing and Loeb, with their long-standing relationship set in the sport of rally.

Citroen Racing team principal Yves Matton said the team was still committed to rallying and would continue to work hard to try and get the best possible result in this year’s World Rally Championship.

“Competing in a category for the first time, starting from scratch, gives our division a superb challenge,” Matton said.

“Work has already begun in our Versailles technical centre and is set to be stepped up in the coming weeks.”

Loeb said he was pleased the 2014 WTCC deal had been confirmed.

“It’s a bit of a dream to think that we are going to write a new chapter in our history,” Loeb said.

“I have used this transitional year to try out various experiences and to improve my track driving skills.

“I don’t expect to win straight away, but I am determined to get there one day.”

Since ending his WRC career as a full-time driver with Citroen at the end of the 2012 season â€" after claiming nine consecutive world titles â€" Loeb has proven successful in a 407kW/800Nm Citroen DS3 XL, a McLaren MP4-12C GT3 and in two guest appearances in this year’s WRC.

The Frenchman will also take on the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado on June 30, behind the wheel of a 652kW, 875kg Peugeot 208 T16 that can reach 100km/h in 1.8 seconds.