Loeb choice thrills Sweden chief

Rally Sweden clerk of the course Bertil Klarin has expressed his delight after Sebastien Loeb confirmed plans to tackle the snow spectacular in February.

Loeb has handpicked four rounds of the 2013 FIA World Rally Championship that he will contest with the new-look Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team outfit and Sweden appears on that list along with Monte-Carlo, Argentina and France.

“Naturally we’re very happy that Loeb has decided to compete in the Swedish Rally in 2013,” said Clarin. “It will give our spectators a chance to see and celebrate him one last time.”

The 38-year-old nine-time world champion triumphed in Sweden in 2004 (pictured), albeit in slightly fortuitous circumstances. He now wants to win on merit on what is likely to be his final appearance on the Karlstad-based round from 7-10 February 2013.

“I would really like to win the Swedish Rally once more,” said Loeb, who became the first non-Scandinavian winner in Sweden almost a decade ago. “I would love to win one more time and this time in perfect winter conditions.”

Rally Sweden will also mark Khalid Al-Qassimi’s first appearance of eight appearances of the 2013 season.