Citroën Racing Team Principal Yves Matton has paid tribute to driver Yvan Muller, who has revealed that the current World Touring Car Championship season will be his last.
Muller announced earlier today that he would depart the WTCC when his current season with Citroën ends, drawing a close to an 11-year run in the top flight of touring car racing.
Matton has worked with Muller since the 2014 season, when the French manufacturer signed the four-time WTCC champion to join its new team in the championship.
Since then, Muller has gone on to claim 11 wins with Citroën, whilst finishing runner-up in the 2014 and 2015 championships.
“The whole Citroën Racing team is proud to have Yvan Muller in its ranks,” said Matton. “Every time we get involved in a competition, we look to recruit the best drivers. That is why we invited Yvan to join us from the start of our involvement in FIA WTCC. We will not forget his contribution.
“Coming in from rally driving, we had everything to learn, and he has always been more than happy to offer the team the benefit of all his experience. He is a great competitor and a great guy, who has always put Citroën’s interests first.
“It is to Yvan’s credit that, after three seasons with us, he has decided to end his career at a point when he is still capable of winning pole positions, races and titles.
“He will always be part of the Citroën Racing family and we wish him all the best for the next stage of his life, which we will follow with interest!”
Citroën had already announced last year that they would cease factory involvement in the WTCC at the end of 2016.