With Pierre-Louis Loubet switching co-drivers it raises a larger question, does the Frenchman have a spot in the WRC next season?
Loubet’s 2023 Season
Pierre-Louis Loubet hasn’t necessarily been living up to expectations this season. Although it is only his first full WRC season, the Frenchman showed some promise in 2022. As Loubet finished top five twice last season and was on pace to win EKO Acropolis Rally Greece. That was until a mechanical issue ended his hopes. Loubet hasn’t managed to finish top five at all this season. With his highest finishes being sixth at Rally Sweden and Rally Estonia. Loubet has suffered a mechanical issue or crashed out of 6 of the 11 events so far this season. His 2023 season is reminiscent of Adrien Forumaux’s 2022 season. As both drivers are talented they just haven’t been able to find themselves in the top level of the WRC.
What Could Be Next?
Loubet likely won’t continue with M-Sport next season. As Loubet has made some unfavorable comments about the team and started a large rumor about the team leaving the championship next season. Loubet may get the same treatment as Oliver Solberg, Gus Greensmith and Adrien Fourmuax are getting this season. That treatment is the WRC2 treatment. As Solberg, Greensmith and Fourmuax all got pushed down to WRC2 at the end of last season to help them develop and find themselves. Something Loubet needs to do. WRC2 may not be a bad thing for Loubet. As it will allow him to work out his kinks in a car that is much simpler to drive and handle compared to the Rally1 car.
Who Could Loubet Drive For?
If Loubet and M-Sport part ways and Loubet wants a WRC2 drive he will likely get a good bit of interest. Chances are Loubet will end up with one of Toksport, Toyota, some Citroen team or go back to Hyundai. Sköda and Toyota would give Loubet the best chance at winning. However, Loubet has more experience in Hyundai rally cars. As he drove a Hyundai i20 WRC before joining M-Sport.