Citroen extends in WRC for a minimum of two years

Gilles Michel – Citroën’s management director for WRC – officially announced the extension of the manufacturer’s presence in the World Rally Championship WRC for another 2 years, at least until 2009.

The French team that enabled Loeb to secure 3 consecutive driver titles since 2004, and 3 consecutive constructor championships since 2003.

« We are a dynamic team, and our presence in the WRC fits perfectly with our image, » confirmed Michel.

« We will participate in 2008 and also in 2009, with the aim of winning the drivers’ and constructors’ championships. »

The spokesperson for the French team, who expects less competition with Gronholm’s departure in 2008, added that they are disappointed not to have TV rights in France, but also that a potential contract extension beyond 2009 could be possible depending on the competition.

« We will see how the situation evolves and what our competitors will do, as we are protagonists in a very tight championship, » continues the Frenchman.

« The TV rights are not yet significant enough, and over time this could become a problem, » he adds. The goal of every championship is naturally to be the most visible on different media.

Guy Frequelin, the current leader of the red team, has helped Citroën secure a spot after Peugeot in the WRC. But according to Michel, he is on the verge of retirement. Therefore, they would either need to replace him or stop competing. This is why, beyond 2009, the team has not planned anything regarding its future in the WRC.