At the wheel of a Citroën C2 Super 1600 in Mexico, Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia claimed the first of the FIA Junior World Rally Championship's seven events. As beginners on the world scene, the French Motorsport Federation-backed duo superbly managed their race, building on their time gap before controlling their adversaries. The crew finished the Mexican round with a remarkable ninth overall position.

The last day of the rally was short but still held the possibility of springing a few surprises; the Frenchman therefore took no chances with the knowledge that victory was at hand.

"With the lead we had this morning (Sunday), we drove without taking any risks," Ogier explained after tasting the podium champagne.

"We showed up in Mexico without really knowing what to expect," Ogier admitted. "I was adapting to the Citroën, the PH-Sport team, the rally, and I didn't know where I stood in regards to the competition... That was a lot! I am obviously very pleased with this victory and our final ranking."

"Sébastien and Julien perfectly attained the high goals that we had established for them," said Nicolas Deschaux, President of the French Motorsport Federation (FFSA). "I am very satisfied with the result and with the manner in which it was obtained. For a driver possessing little experience, it's quite a feat."

"Now, with Olivier Quesnel and Citroën, we are quite aware that this victory is only one step in clinching the Juniors title at the end of the season," Deschaux added.

As the winner of Rally Mexico, WRC World Champion Sébastien Loeb recognised Sébastien Ogier's work: "With all they had to discover, Sébastien and Julien did not have it easy. They nonetheless conducted the race as was expected of them: first quick, then well managed. This victory bodes well. Congratulations!"