Banzet: GB defeat proves Ford’s threat

Citroen head Frederic Banzet has praised his company’s FIA World Rally Championship squad but acknowledged that Ford’s victory on Wales Rally GB is proof that it can never be complacent.

The French make remains on course for an eighth WRC manufacturers’ crown despite rival Ford ending its run of success in the series that stretched back to Philips Rally Argentina in late April.

“It’s been a very good year until now and the team is still as excellent as ever,” said Banzet, who was a visitor to Rally GB. “We’re leading the two championships and are first and second in the drivers’ championship so it’s a fantastic year and we’re proving we’re still the best.”

He continued: “The [win for Ford in Wales] proves that nothing is achieved, nothing is done. Ford is quicker here but what matters at the end of the championships is the most important thing. But for sure it’s a good thing to remember that there is always work to do and I can tell you they are working very hard.”

Citroen can secure the makes’ title on home soil in France, venue of round 11 of the 13-event WRC season. Sebastien Loeb can also make it nine drivers’ crowns on the Alsace-based rally from 4-7 October.