Five-time world champion Sebastien Loeb would notch up his 50th career world championship victory, 20 ahead of his nearest challenger, should he win the Cyprus Rally which runs from Friday to Sunday.

The special feature of this year's Cyprus rally, the third round of the championship, is that it is a mixed-surface event, with one day of asphalt competition followed by two days on loose stages.

Initially favourable to the idea of a mixed-surface rally, Loeb later changed his mind when it was decided that all three days would be driven on gravel tyres alone.

As championship leader the Frenchman will tackle the opening day?s stages first but runs the risk of being kept in that position on Saturday by strategic driving from his Ford rivals behind.

As soon as the competition switches to loose gravel on Saturday the driver first on the road will be disadvantaged as he sweeps a clean line for those following.

Loeb won this event in 2004, 2005 and 2006 and says he is targeting further success this time round — even if the conditions are less than ideal: "It's a shame to have only done things by half," he said. "We will be competing on asphalt with ill-suited brakes, tyres and suspension.

"The balance of the car is still very good with this set-up, but we are aware that we will need to look after our tyres to avoid punctures. It will probably be nice for the spectators to see the cars sliding, but I don't think it will be all that stimulating for the drivers."