Loeb downplays F1 switch chances

The multiple world rally champion has been linked with a move to F1 once his rallying commitments for the year have ended, and there was talk that he could make a permanent move to grand prix racing.

However, speaking to AUTOSPORT, Loeb has said that such a career change is unlikely as he expects to extend his contract with Citroen for the WRC.

"If I do Abu Dhabi - and at the moment nothing is done for this - it would be too late in the season for me to change my mind for next year," said Loeb.

"I'm sure I will have signed for Citroen next year and I would have already begun testing for the WRC.

"I am keen to sign a contract with Citroen and that is the only negotiation that I am having at the moment. It would be a pleasure to drive in F1, but I don't know if I am able to do that or not.

"I will take the opportunity for a race one day and I will be happy to do it. I am not sure I would be able to fight for the win and my job is for rallying next year and not F1. My priority is to stay in rallying."

Loeb expressed an interest in driving for Scuderia Toro Rosso a few weeks ago, but any hopes of an early drive with the team were scuppered by his Citroen team, which has made it clear that the Frenchman's priority must be to win this year's WRC title.