Sebastien Loeb - Nine-time World Rally Champion is all set to compete in this year's Pikes Peak Hill-Climb for Peugeot . L...
Loeb's FB page says, "It's now official, I will participate in the race side of Pikes Peak with a Peugeot 208 T16 and Red Bull. In the USA, one goal: victory! As always, you will be kept abreast of any of my preparation." Also disclosed that Loeb will drive a purpose-built 208 T16 Pikes Peak in the unlimited class.
Being his first Pikes Peak that runs on June 30, although Peugeot has won it before, the then 405 T16 at the hands of legendary Ari Vatanen in 1988. Climb Dance film was released the following year celebrating its victory in the global event.
Maxime Picat, director general of Peugeot Automobiles, said; "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Citroen for this one-off 'loan' of its exceptional champion. Our objective is to win, so we needed to stack up as many cards as possible in our favour by joining forces with the very best partners for this unique project, namely Total, Red Bull, Michelin and Sebastien Loeb. Pikes Peak is a legendary race that has inspired all the brand's teams. It is also a tough, exceptional challenge which leaves no room for error."
The hill climb has 12.42-mile route up Pikes Peak featuring 156 corners with an ascent from 2,800 m to 4,300 metres. Originally being a all-gravel event, over the period of years it has seen constant up-gradation to sealed surface [asphalt], and this year for the first time it is an all-asphalt surface from start to finish.
Rhys Millen set a new record for the climb in his Hyundai last time in 2012, crossing the finish line in 9m46.164s and that is what Loeb has to beat to claim his throne there.
And Loeb's career into racing will be started from this weekend, at Nogaro - FIA GT, behind the wheel of McLaren MP4-12C GT3. We wish him the best of luck.
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