Rally legend Sebastien Loeb can't wait for Macau GP challenge
Frenchman was unbeatable in first discipline, but Guia circuit is a completely different test
Nine-times world rally champion Sebastien Loeb has raced in some of the toughest terrains and trickiest circuits, but nothing will really prepare him for "one of the most challenging races of all" at next week's Macau Grand Prix.
The flamboyant Frenchman, who retired from world rallying in 2012 leaving behind a legacy as the greatest-ever driver, loves a good challenge. But he said he was unsure what to expect racing on Macau's tight, twisting and unforgiving 6.2km Guia circuit.
His nine straight world titles (2004-2012) are the stuff of legend and might help the cause, but the challenge still fascinates and excites Loeb, who will compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup (next Sunday) on a street circuit that has often brought drivers and riders to their knees.
"This is a tough track from what other drivers have told me, and I will discover it during the practice sessions. It's a new challenge; one more discovery for me. It looks interesting, especially in view [that it will host a leg of the World Touring Car Championships next year]," said Loeb.
If there's any consolation for Loeb, his knowledge of "tarmac" racing could be an advantage, having raced in street circuits in Monaco and Pau in his native France.
"I was told that it was one of the most difficult tracks that doesn't forgive if you make a mistake. This is one of the reasons why I wanted to make the run in Macau before competing in the WTCC [full season] next year.