Citroen Racing Look to the Future

After the success of 2011 Citroen Racing sign up a new crew alongside World Rally Champions Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena.

After an exceptional 2011 season in the World Rally Championship Citroen Racing is already turning its attention to 2012 with the arrival of a new crew for next season. Initially contracted until December 2013, Citroen Racing has decided to finish their collaboration with Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia at the end of this season.

In 2012 and 2013, Sebastien Loeb’s and Daniel Elena’s teammates will be Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen. The Finns, runners-up in the 2009 and 2011 World Championship, have scored 14 victories and 51 podium finishes in 124 starts in the WRC.

This season the Citroen Total World rally Team had ten victories, won their seventh Manufacturers’ title and Sebastien Loeb/Daniel Elena won their eighth drivers’ title.

Frederic Banzet, General Manager Citroen Automobiles said: ‘I’d like to repeat my congratulations to the whole Citroen Racing team for their 2011 titles, as well as Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena for their eighth consecutive crown. He added: ‘I would also like to welcome Mikko and Jarmo who are joining us to continue Citroen Racing’s sporting adventure and its determination to score more victories in 2012.’

Olivier Quesnel, Citroen Racing Team Principal, said: ‘Seeing Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia leave strikes a particular emotional chord in the whole team. They had a very good season and achieved third place in the Drivers’ World Championship. He added: ‘We’re very happy to welcome Mikko and Jarmo. They’ve been our toughest rivals over the last four seasons and we’re really looking forward to our future collaboration.’