| |
The man
Glacially cool, Sebastien Loeb has been one of the real heroes of
the last two seasons in the World Rally Championship. He's already
won four times, but, what's even more impressive, is the fact that
Sebastien doesn't get over-excited about it. "I may look calm, but
it doesn't mean I don't feel it on the inside!" he says. Nonetheless,
his unflappability is one of the things that makes Sebastien so
likeable. He's very relaxed, completely genuine, and somebody who
is very easy to spend time with.
|
 |
 |
The driver
Sebastien is most experienced on asphalt, on which he exhibits
a silky smooth style that perfectly complements the power and handling
characteristics of the Citroen Xsara. But he has also made big strides
on gravel in 2003, finishing second in Australia and Rally GB to
ensure that now he's a real all-round talent.
|
The
prospects
After a sparkling 2003, in which he once again improved
his driving in all areas, Sebastien goes into 2004 as a title favourite.
The car's reliable and quick on all surfaces, and Loeb is one hungry
young man. Sit back and enjoy... |
 |
 |
The history
Sebastien is the first Junior World Champion to hit the big time,
but his links with Citroen go back a long way. He started in a French
one-make series, the Saxo Trophy, then was picked out by Citroen
to contest the French Championship and the Junior World series.
After that, a full-time move to the WRC with Citroen seemed logical. |
|
The man
Carlos is the most respected driver in the sport. He
has an awesome reputation, and every shred of it is
deserved. Speaking to him is like an audience with the
Pope – you're almost aware of intercession with a higher
being. Carlos is intense, yet scrupulously polite, a
stickler for accuracy and the most cerebrally professional
driver on the WRC scene. His memory is frighteningly
accurate, but anybody thinking his personality is austere
will be surprised by some sudden moments of pure warmth
that can make your day. Any young driver in search of
a role model need look no further.
|
 |
 |
The driver
Consistency has been Sainz's hallmark recently,
to such a staggering extent that it almost takes your
breath away. He is just always there. Sainz seems to
be a permanent fixture amongst WRC candidates, and tends
to be a mistake-free zone. His driving is best described
as efficient and intelligent, much like the man himself. |
The prospects
He'll undoubtedly be there or thereabouts – that's
his style. Now into a second year with Citroen and
driving a Xsara WRC which made big steps forward
in gravel-spec during 2003, and which has long been
an asphalt star. As ever, a realistic title hopeful. |
 |
 |
The history
Started off life as a racing driver, but
persuaded by budget to try rallying instead. He's
won every championship he ever contested and been
an almost constant fixture in the top six standings
of the WRC since his debut in 1987, which tells
you all you need to know. Has a wealth of experience
with almost every top team to enter the WRC, including
Toyota (with which he won his two world titles),
Lancia, Subaru, Ford and Citroen.
|
|
|
