LONDON // Frenchman Sebastien Loeb claimed a record sixth successive world rally title today.
The 35-year-old Citroen driver, who last year surpassed Finnish great Tommi Makinen's four championships in a row, made it six on the trot by winning the title-deciding British round in Cardiff.
Finn Mikko Hirvonen of the BP Ford Abu Dhabi team led Loeb by a single point going into the race, with Citroen having already wrapped up the manufacturers' crown in Spain this month.
"I'm really happy for this one because Mikko is strong," Loeb told World Rally Championship radio. "It was an incredible battle all season.
"A sixth title is awesome. 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."
Hirvonen, who had to make do with second place in the race and the overall standings, said: "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."
* Reuters
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