Mikko Hirvonen gave it all he could at Rally Great Britain to take a maiden World Rally Championship title at the season-ending event, but Sebastien Loeb came out ahead of the epic battle.

The Finn concluded the 2009 campaign with a one-point deficit, making it one of the most hard-fought title victories for the Citroen-driving Frenchman.

Ford World Rally Team boss Malcolm Wilson had words of praise for Hirvonen: "He missed out by just one point against possibly the best driver the sport has ever seen, and he will leave here stronger for that.

"He deserves enormous credit for fighting his way back into the championship battle with four consecutive wins when the title looked all but over in the summer," he pointed out.

Loeb encountered points-costly problems on several rallies during the mid-season, giving Hirvonen an opportunity to not only catch up to his rival in the standings, but overtake him and arrive at Rally Great Britain with a one-point lead.

Although disappointed for missing out on the title, Hirvonen promised to do all he could to beat Loeb at this game before the six-time champion retires. Ford Team Principal Wilson believes the Finn now has everything he needs to make that goal come true.

"His consistency has been remarkable and he was the only top driver not to make a mistake this season," he said. "The way he has matured and stepped up his pace this season makes me look forward to 2010."

Ford of Europe motorsport boss Gerard Quinn agreed: "Mikko will learn from this weekend and we're already looking forward to renewing rivalries again on the opening round of the 2010 season.

"I would like to congratulate Sebastien on his world title. He and Mikko provided the championship with a thrilling battle and it's a shame there could only be one winner," Quinn said.