First shakedown on tarmac, first blood to Citroën

This morning, the five Citroën DS3 WRCs entered for Rally Germany took part in the shakedown between Mesenich and Grewenich. Sébastien Ogier set the fastest time on the 6,01-km stage from Sébastien Loeb.

Yesterday, the announcement of Loeb’s decision to sign with Citroën for another two seasons (2012 and 2013) was the main talking point. This morning, the Citroën Total World Rally Team concentrated all its efforts on the Rally Germany shakedown.

Loeb and his co-driver, Daniel Elena, winners of all eight World Championship German Rallies so far, are the hot favourites for victory in this year’s event on the Trèves tarmac.

“The Citroën DS3 WRC was a bit twitchy on these very specific roads,” said the seven-time world champion after the session. “The route was narrow and quick. We ran on the new hard rubber supplied by Michelin. In relation to the past, this tyre undoubtedly gives more grip, but it’s also more difficult to get it working properly on a surface as dusty as the one we had this morning.”

“We mustn’t underestimate our rivals,” Loeb continued. “I’m not the only one who wants to win. We’re going to try and keep up our good record here. I’ve always felt good in Germany.”

Sébastien Ogier in the second works Citroën DS3 WRC set the fastest time this morning, and his aim is also to be on the topmost step of the podium opposite the Porta Nigra on Sunday afternoon.

“We have to continue winning for the team. Personally speaking, I still have to improve on tarmac. As always we’re going to do our utmost to score the best result possible. My first impressions are pretty good, but we know it won’t be easy to beat Sébastien Loeb here.”

A starting ceremony will be held in the late afternoon in the centre of Trèves. The rally will kick off tomorrow morning at 09h30.