Loeb to contest three WRC events for Citroen in 2018

The 43-year-old tested a C3 WRC on asphalt and gravel this year and will now return to the series on a limited programme to compete in Corsica, Mexico and Spain.

Loeb will drive alongside Kris Meeke, who leads Citroen’s assault on all 13 rounds, while Craig Breen will tackle 10 rounds, missing the three Loeb starts.

Alongside his WRC appearances, Loeb will also contest the Dakar Rally and World Rallycross Championship with Citroen's sister brand Peugeot.

Loeb’s last WRC outing came with a one-off on the 2015 Monte Carlo Rally, where he led early on before dropping down the order when he slid wide and damaged a wheel.

The nine-time world champion said: “Everyone was pleased after the test sessions done this year – myself first and foremost – and these three appearances were the next logical step.

“The feeling you get in rally is one of the most thrilling feelings I have ever experienced, and I was excited about driving one of these new WRC [cars] in a race. And it's nice to be able to do it in the team with which I have enjoyed so much success!”

Loeb added the emphasis would be on competing and enjoying the sport rather than any targeted results, saying: “I don't have any expectations, I just want to enjoy myself.

"I thought it made sense to take part in the French round, especially since I've always loved racing on tarmac, although I'm not familiar with the current route of the Tour de Corse. Spain seemed like a good option too.

"I also wanted to contest a gravel rally. We opted for Mexico, since I have good memories of racing there and the route hasn’t changed too much since I was last involved in the championship.”

Stephane Lefebvre, who contested eight rallies for Citroen in 2016, is now confined to a WRC2 programme for 2018, while Khalid Al Qassimi will a third C3 WRC on selected rounds.

Team principal Yves Matton said: “The aim will be to target podiums and secure some wins, but Kris can also go for position in the championship.

"Craig proved that he was the perfect foil, with some very consistent performances. There is still room for him to improve and aim even higher.

“I’m also delighted to see that there will be another chapter in the great history between Sebastien Loeb and Citroen. He couldn’t have returned to the WRC with anyone other than us!

"Seb confirmed he has lost none of his speed and skill during the test sessions completed, although he is bound to be short of knowledge of the stages and time in the car, compared with the increasingly tough competition.”