Loeb: Inexperience cost me WTCC title

Sebastien Loeb says he hopes to have learned the lessons of 2014 and use the experience to challenge for the this year’s World Touring Car Championship title. Last year marked the Frenchman’s debut in the series after switching from WRC, where he claimed nine world championships between 2004-2012.

Loeb, who celebrated his 41st birthday yesterday admits his lack of experience in touring cars seriously hampered his first year in WTCC but is optimistic for the year ahead.

“I started from zero last year and it’s really strange for a rally driver to be on track with other cars,” Loeb said. “I did more mistakes than the others but I think this was because I was disturbed by the other cars. Now I am trying to be better.”

Loeb picked up two race victories on his way to third in the drivers’ standings in the Citroen C-Elysee during his debut season in WTCC. The French driver was only beaten by his team-mates, champion Jose Maria Lopez and runner-up Yvan Muller, and he is hopeful to get the better of them in 2015.

“The target will be to do better than last year,” he said. “Last year I had to learn everything and I just hope I learn enough and I will be able to use all these experiences to improve my driving and to be fighting more for the victory. These drivers are really strong and although I finished third behind Yvan and Pechito, it could have been better.”

The season commences in Argentina next month on the 7-8 March and Loeb will begin his second season as one of several title contenders.