Citroen, having released their 2018 driver line-up, have made the call to ‘drop’ Stephane Lefebvre to WRC2, and despite some expected disappointment, the Frenchman is focusing at the positives.
The 25 year-old is looking at this the right way, and is looking forward to the challenge.
"It's a new challenge for the new year (2018)," he said.
"Sometimes you have to take a step back before taking two steps forward, and I've been given a great opportunity to show just how competitive the Citroen C3 R5 is."
The French manufacturer has completed many miles of development testing.
The tactic of taking a step back to WRC2 has had a good track record in previous years.
Some might ask, ‘how does dropping to a WRC2 car help to make you World Rally Champion?’
Well, in the case of Sebastien Ogier, it worked.
His year in the S2000 Skoda helped springboard him to his first title with Volkswagen in 2013.
Ott Tanak and Elfyn Evans, also, have used the challenge to boost their talent, and propel them to WRC success.
Using social media to communicate to his fans, Lefebvre stated his only goal – to win the title.
Stephane Lefebvre has his sights firmly set on the 2018 WRC 2 title.
In developing the brand new C3 R5, he will also be adding to his technical knowledge, and growing the relationship with the team - something which is vital to a championship run.
If previous seasons are anything to go by, the WRC2 championship is set to be another strong, close and competitive chase.
Likely to be competing against the likes of Veiby, Rovanpera, Huttunen, Nordgren, and potentially Camilli and Suninen, gives the Frenchman another opportunity to prove his worth.
"The aim is to win the title, and make the car the new benchmark in the category."
"I'll come into the races with a lot of miles under my belt, and that's what really matters at this stage of my career." he added.
A WRC2 title would all but ensure a full time World Rally Car seat in 2019.
The Citroen C3 R5 is the most recent in a long line of cars to compete in the class.
Â
https://rallysportmag.com/citroen-confirm-loebs-wrc-entry/
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.
