Citroën Racing Wins the 2013 Monte Carlo Rally
Introduction
Abu Dhabi, UAE, January 20, 2013: The new partnership between Abu Dhabi and the eight-time manufacturers' champion, Citroën Racing, quickly bore fruit in its inaugural appearance in the World Rally Championship. French driver Sébastien Loeb achieved a historic victory at the Monte Carlo Rally, which was ultimately halted by organizers due to severe weather conditions.
Championship Results
Following the first round of the World Rally Championship, which consists of 13 rounds, the Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team advanced to claim the top position in the manufacturers' standings. Team members hope to maintain their momentum and replicate their efforts in the upcoming round, the Sweden Rally from February 7-10, as well as in future events.
Sheikh Khalid Al Qasimi's Return
The Sweden Rally will mark the return of Emirati driver Sheikh Khalid Al Qasimi to the World Rally Championship, although he is primarily focused this year on leading the Abu Dhabi Racing team, which comprises five cars, in the Middle East Rally Championship, kicking off its first round in Qatar this weekend.
Details of Sébastien Loeb's Victory
Loeb's victory at the Monte Carlo Rally, alongside co-driver Daniel Elena, was confirmed after the last two stages of the rally were canceled on Saturday evening for safety reasons due to the overwhelming number of spectators surrounding the course, prompting organizers to take precautionary measures against potential accidents.
Drama Unfolds
This decision came after a series of dramatic incidents involving three of the top seven drivers in the mountainous terrain overlooking Monaco, who were forced out of competition due to the harsh weather conditions.
Record Achievements
Loeb won by a margin of 1 minute and 39.9 seconds over French driver Sébastien Ogier, thereby equaling the previous record of four consecutive Monte Carlo Rally victories, a feat previously held by driver Tommi Mäkinen for many years.
Dani Sordo and Mikko Hirvonen's Performance
Driver Dani Sordo, competing in the Citroën Abu Dhabi World Rally Car, also made it onto the podium, followed by Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen in the Citroën Total Abu Dhabi car.
Weather Challenges
As the weather deteriorated on Saturday, with continuous rain in Monaco and snow at elevations exceeding 800 meters, Loeb was compelled to push harder to maintain his lead. He remarked, "I had to drive on a mix of snow, ice, and rain. It was very dangerous despite the car being equipped for 'wet conditions' all the time. We couldn't exceed 30 km/h on the straight sections, or we would lose complete control of the car and drop out of the race."
