Briton embarks on fifth WTCC campaign with high hopes
Loeb full of admiration for new recruit
Chilton to partner Bennani and Demoustier in WTCC Trophy bid
Tom Chilton is aiming for a top-three finish in this season’s FIA World Touring Car Championship after signing to drive a Citroën C-Elysée WTCC for Sébastien Loeb Racing, the team co-founded by the motorsport legend and six-time WTCC race winner.
Briton Chilton, 30, is embarking on his fifth season of WTCC action and will partner Mehdi Bennani (Morocco) and Grégoire Demoustier in the three-strong Sébastien Loeb Racing line-up. All three will be eligible for the recently announced WTCC Trophy for independent racers.
“It’s a very exciting year, it will be one of the best seats to be racing in,” said Chilton. “The team has been in the championship for a short period but has achieved great results and many more to come. The Citroën C-Elysée has proved to be a championship-winning car. With the combination of a professionally run team, it can only be a positive step forward for me.”
Chilton, who has claimed three race wins since stepping up to the WTCC from the British championship in 2012, is targeting even more success with his new team.
“To finish top three is my aim for the main WTCC with a goal to also secure the WTCC Trophy, with the Teams’ Trophy too,” said Chilton. “I’ve built up a lot of knowledge which can only be a positive thing to add to the team and my team-mates. I have huge respect for Sébastien Loeb and it’s an exciting feeling to be racing in his team.”
Loeb said: “Tom has shown how competitive he is, I know as I’ve raced against him. He’s an ambitious driver, we appreciate his approach and he will be bringing great experience with him. We want him to meet his objectives. I’m convinced we have the potential to clinch good results.”
François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, the WTCC promoter, added: “Tom has proved to be a competitive driver since joining the WTCC and has won races when he’s been in a car capable of doing so. We all know the level of the Citroën C-Elysée WTCC so we’re expecting to see some strong results from Tom this season.”
