Rally legend to face “exciting challenge” at Algarve International Racetrack
Nine-time rally world champion Sébastien Loeb is preparing to make his debut in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM, or German Touring Car Masters) at the Algarve International Racetrack in Portimão between April 29 and May 1.
The 48-year-old Frenchman will be racing as a replacement driver for the Red Bull AlphaTauri AF Corse team.
“Throughout my career, I have always liked to change between disciplines. DTM is a famous championship and, as the opportunity came up for me to compete in it, I took it of course. It is an exciting challenge because the driving style is entirely different,” said Loeb.
Sébastien Loeb is a name that even those who do not follow motorsports are bound to recognise. The racer has nine world championship titles and 80 rally wins to his name, although he has had experiences with circuit racing in the past.
He participated in the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2006, having finished second, as well as the World Touring Car Championship in 2014 and 2015, finishing third in both years.
Despite being well aware that he will face up against the world’s best GT drivers, the Frenchman said he is looking forward to the season opener.
“Now, it is time to work. I will be up against specialists in such racers and my last proper GT3 race already is a long time ago. My goal will be to find my rhythm as well as I can, and I will try to use my experience to give the team good feedback about the set-up of the car. I know that it will be difficult, but the cars really are fun to drive. Really fast, nice cars. Therefore, I am looking forward to it,” the 48-year-old says.
Tickets for the event available at www.autodromodoalgarve.com
