Five-times world rally champion Sebastien Loeb has confirmed that he has been in contact with USF1 about a drive for next season.
World rally champion curious to know whether F1 teams are interested
Five-times world rally champion Sebastien Loeb has confirmed that he has been in contact with USF1 about a drive for next season.
Loeb, who is reportedly also in talks with Toro Rosso about making an appearance at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, told France's
L'Equipe newspaper that he would like to race in F1 when his WRC commitments with Citroen did not clash.
"After the Abu Dhabi episode, Toro Rosso asked me whether I really wanted to make it in F1," the 35-year-old said.
"From my side, I wanted to know if I was of interest to anyone, just out of curiosity. A person I know therefore made contact with this new team [US F1]. I do not know what he said.
"I am enjoying myself driving a WRC car, and I'm about to extend my deal with Citroen.
"However, if the opportunity to race in one or more grands prix in 2010 occurred when the F1 and rally schedules do not clash, then why not?
"Rather than constantly asking the question, what could I do in F1? I might as well give it a go. At least, then I would be sure."
USF1 boss Peter Windsor refused to rule out the possibility of Loeb racing for his team, one of three expected to join the grid in 2010.
"Loeb's manager got in touch with us last week," Windsor told the
DNA newspaper.
"Loeb's manager calling us is a significant thing. The Frenchman is a legend and an incredible driver. I won't say no to anything. Maybe, something interesting could emerge."
Aside from contesting the Le Mans 24-hour race - in which he finished second in 2006 - Loeb has also tested F1 cars for both Renault and Red Bull.
