It was seemingly rumoured that Mads was asked for 3 to 4 million euros for (a presumably partial?) season in a third car. If that is the cost we're talking for that, is it not utterly incredible that that budget can't be found for Loeb to do a partial season? Loeb, PSA darling and legend, a long time Reb Bull athlete, a likely rally winner, competing in a Championship where Red Bull are the promoter, yet collectively they can't provide what is a relatively small increase in budget for such a cause? Just seems odd to me the more you think about it, given the amount both organisations must be investing in the WRC overall.

Separately I wonder whether Abu Dhabi walked away because Citroen asked them for more money than they'd previously been paying. Having sponsored Citroen throughout the 'dark years', maybe they felt a bit insulted to be squeezed for more once the team finally got itself in a better position going forward?

Basically Budar maybe over played his hand, thinking Abu Dhabi would pay more, Mads would pay for his drive and the Loeb drive would be sorted on the foundations of those things falling into place...?