Rally Mexico - Success first time out for Sebastien Ogier Sebastien Ogier won the first round of the 2008 FIA Junior - WRC
Citroen C2 Super 1600 crew Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia won the first of the seven rounds of the 2008 FIA Junior World Rally Championship.
Making their debut at world level, the Equipe de France FFSA-backed pair put in an impeccable drive, pulling clear of the pack to begin with and then masterfully controlling from in front to finish ninth overall.
The short final leg included just 60.69km of stages yet it had the makings of being a real sting in the tail. "Given our overnight lead, we preferred not to take any risks," explained Sebastien after spraying the champagne on the J-WRC podium. "We really didn't know what to expect before coming to Mexico. My Citroen, PH Sport and the World Championship scene were all new to me and I had no idea where we stood compared with the others. There was so much we had to take on board! I am obviously delighted to have won the JWRC category and also to have finished ninth overall."
"Sebastien and Julien accomplished the mission we gave them to the letter," observed Nicolas Deschaux, President of the FFSA (Federation Francaise de Sport Automobile). "I am very pleased with the result and also the way they set about achieving it. Given their limited experience, their success is a major feat. However, along with Olivier Quesnel and Citroen, we are perfectly aware that this result is just one step in their bid to win the Junior title at the end of the year--"
Rally Mexico winner
Sebastien Loeb was particularly appreciative of Sebastien Ogier's performance: "There was so much that was new to Sebastien and Julien, and it really wasn't easy for them. Despite that, they put in just the sort of run that was expected of them, that is to say quick to begin with before controlling from in front. Their win is a great omen. Congratulations!"
FFSA
