WTCC – Citroën expects to suffer from ballast

Citroën Racing has dominated the WTCC since its arrival in 2014 with the C-Elysée. In addition to the Drivers' and Manufacturers' titles won with José-Maria Lopez, the Chevron brand won 92% of the poles and 81% of the victories. In order to strengthen the fight at the forefront, the regulations have been adjusted with ballast increasing from 60 to 80 kg.

“Even if we should only give relative importance to the free practice sessions, I keep in mind that we achieved seven best times out of eight sessions in Vallelunga (Italy)”, commented Yves Matton, director of Citroën Racing. “It is undoubtedly not a coincidence and we must see it as the fruition of the work of the entire team during the winter. I hope that we can leave the Circuit Paul Ricard (Var) with a convincing result, that is to say a victory. »

José-Maria Lopez will aim for a third consecutive title with Citroën which will only field two C-Elysées following the departure of Sébastien Loeb toward Peugeot . “We will have to wait until qualifying, when everyone puts on new tires at the same time, to get a real idea of ​​the hierarchy. It is certain that the 80 kg ballast will be a big handicap, perhaps more than a second per lap depending on the circuits. It will be difficult, but we are prepared for it”, declared the Argentinian.

Yvan Muller also expects to suffer from ballast at the start of the season. “We don't yet know the level of our opponents, but it is certain that we will suffer during the first two meetings. Any estimates that may be made are based on speculation. Victory may be difficult to achieve, but we have to deliver the best work and we will see what the hierarchy will be”, added the four-time world champion.

Sébastien Loeb Racing will also field three C-Elysées for Mehdi Bennani, Tom Chilton and Grégoire Demoustier who will fight for the Trophée des Indépendants. The WTCC will begin the weekend of April 3 at Paum-Ricard (Var).