15 Jan 13

Loeb: I’m here
for the fun,
but also to win

Sebastien Loeb has underlined his intention to win this week's Rallye Monte-Carlo, even though his limited WRC programme this year means he won't be fighting for the bigger prize of a tenth FIA drivers' title.

With just a four-round programme in 2013, as he bows out of his full time WRC role with Citroen, the Frenchman said today that his priorities had altered, but his desire to win remained just as strong.

“The goal is not the same, but the preparation for the rally is the same,” said 38-year-old Loeb. “On the recce, everything was really serious. If I am able fight for victory, I will try to do it. But if not, it’s not as bad as in the past. I am here for fun and in these conditions…it will be fun.”

Loeb explained that with the 2013 season now under way he had no second thoughts about stepping back from a full-time campaign.

“It’s a bit different, but I feel happy about that. I spent a long time thinking about retiring but now I have made the decision and I have other plans – and I am excited about those plans also.

“It’s exciting to be here at Rallye Monte-Carlo Rally. It’s a nice rally from which I have good memories and it’s my co-driver’s home rally. It’s important to start this one, but the situation is not the same. I am just here…,” he added.