Published: 25 October, 2009, 16:37
Edited: 25 October, 2009, 16:56
Sébastien Loeb has claimed his sixth successive world rally title after winning the Rally of Great Britain in Cardiff.
Last year, the French Citroen driver surpassed Tommi Makinen's record four championships in a row. And on Sunday he improved his achievement at the title-deciding British round.
Going into the race, Finnish driver Mikko Hirvonen from Ford led Loeb by a single point, but couldn’t make any profit of this advantage finishing second.
Earlier this month Loeb’s Citroen secured the manufacturers' crown.
"I'm really happy for this one because Mikko is strong," Loeb told World Rally Championship radio. "It was an incredible battle all season. Today was tough mentally, as Mikko gave everything. It's been a season of highs and lows … and it's a huge moment. The battle was so intense."
Meanwhile, Hirvonen looked disappointed, but committed to taking revenge next year: "I need to go back to work and try to find more speed for next year. It was definitely the best year I've ever had, but a big disappointment in the end. All I can do is try again next year."