Loeb expects complicated rally

The Citroen driver admits such conditions could cause problems for all teams given that tyre choice has to be decided today (Monday), four days before the start of the event.

"Following the date switch, this event is likely to be the most complicated gravel rally of the calendar on the tyre front," Loeb said. "Part of the rally will be played out on Monday when we nominate our tyre choices. The conditions stand to vary from dry and hard to cold, damp, muddy or even pouring rain.

"To be sure of having the ideal tyre for each situation, we could nominate a bit of everything, from ultra-soft rubber to hard compounds. But, in that case, we will only have a limited quantity of each, and we will end up running short if the conditions are consistent. The alternative, riskier solution will be to go without certain products."

Team boss Guy Frequelin added: "For both Citroen and the drivers, this rally marks an important step, although it probably won't be conclusive. We are in a positive spiral at the moment and that needs to result in us achieving our two objectives. It's therefore essential that we stick to that.

"I won't surprise anyone if I say that, as usual, we will start by gauging where we stand early on. If we sense that victory is possible, we'll do all we can to win. Otherwise we'll try to come away with as many points as possible. Once again, we're not in a situation where we'll have to take unnecessary risks."