Wales Rally GB

08th December 2008

Newly crowned WRC champ Sebastien Loeb signed off his season in style – with a win in last weekend’s Wales Rally GB. It’s the first time the five-time champion has won the British event. His victory also helped Citroen secure the manufacturers’ title for the first time since 2005.

But Loeb didn’t have an easy run to the flag, as he had to battle treacherously icy conditions and competition from Ford’s Jarri-Matti Latvala. The young Finn led the rally for two days and was overhauled by his French rival only on the final stage. The third podium place was taken by Dani Sordo, who drove the second factory Citroen C4.

Ford's bid for a third straight manufacturer's crown was thwarted at the end of the first day when Mikko Hirvonen rolled his Focus. The Finn lost nearly four minutes on the leaders, but was able to fight back up to eighth place at the finish.

Top Brit was Matthew Wilson, who brought his Ford Focus home in ninth, while MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi put in an impressive performance, finishing in 12th position.

Finally, British youngster Tom Cave starred on his WRC debut. Just days after passing his driving test, the 17-year old guided his Ford Fiesta to 30th overall, and won his class by a comfotable 15 minutes!