Loeb Impresses on first Day of Monte Carlo Rally

Nine-time world champion Sebastien Loeb returned to rally racing in style as he took command of the season-opening Monte Carlo Rally on day one Thursday.

The Frenchman, who has won the race seven times and ended his full-time rally career in 2012, won the opening special stage held at night in his Citroen, then settled for third behind defending world champ Sebastien Ogier, and Jari-Matti Latvala in second.

Loeb was in a class of his own in the first stage, mastering the icy and tricky roads to beat his closest rival, Ott Tanak of Estonia, by 22 seconds.

Loeb, who is teaming up with longtime co-driver Daniel Elena, surprised even himself with his stunning scratch time of 15 minutes, 53.5 seconds over the 21 kilometers of the opening stage.

"I said to Daniel three kilometers before the end that it felt like we were stopped," he said. "The road was full of ice everywhere, and it was very, very difficult. But I'm happy for this time."

Ogier cut his deficit in the standings to 13.3 seconds by winning the second stage, with his Volkswagen teammate Latvala third overall, 36.1 seconds back. The rally continues on Friday with six special stages.

In announcing his return last year, Loeb said he does not plan to take part in the whole series, instead focusing on the World Touring Car Championship.