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Loeb ‘surprised’ by Corsica crash

Sébastien Loeb was surprised by the 'stupid mistake' that destroyed his chance of claiming victory on the Corsica Linea - Tour de Corse last weekend.

The Citroën C3 driver went off the road on Friday's second stage, Piedigriggio - Pont De Castirla, and got stuck in a ditch as he tried to get back on the road.

Speaking after the rally, the nine-time champion admitted his early exit had come as a shock.

"I'm not used to this on asphalt. Usually, I was always able to go fast on asphalt without taking a risk with a good feeling. To make a stupid mistake like this was surprising," he said.

Loeb's off prematurely ended a strong start for the Frenchman, who was second quickest to eventual winner Sébastien Ogier on the opening stage. Returning under Rally 2 rules on Saturday, Loeb claimed three stage wins but talked down suggestions he could have battled for the win.

He added: "I will not say now that I would have been fighting for victory - I don't know. But I was in the rhythm of the others, so victory or no victory I would have been in the fight at the front, and that would have been exciting."

Despite his misfortune, Loeb was pleased with his competitiveness in Corsica - 10 years after his last visit to the island rally.

"I had done a few rallies - one or two in a year with some other cars - but I still knew the rhythm and I still had the feeling. But I didn't know exactly where I would be in the top level of the world championship, so at least it was a good surprise." he explained.

After his appearances for Citroën in Monte Carlo and Corsica, Loeb now faces a six month break until his next scheduled WRC outing at RallyRACC Catalunya - Rally de España (25 - 28 October).

Zdroj: wrc.com