Driving a Citroen DS3 WRC, Loeb’s victory, which came after three days of intense competition on asphalt and gravel in changeable weather conditions, was also his 33rd and, possibly, last using Michelin covers as he prepares to go part time in 2013 before switching to the FIA World Touring Car Championship two years from now.

“It’s the best score of any of the tyre manufacturers who have been involved in the world championship for the past 40 years,” said Serge Grisin, the manager of Michelin Competition’s four-wheel activities. “We claimed all those wins during periods when the championship permitted open competition between tyre brands.”

Loeb’s team boss, Yves Matton, added: “We’re pleased to have secured our partner Michelin’s 250th win in WRC, and to have done so in appropriately varied conditions - gravel and tarmac, and in wet and dry conditions.”

Did you know? Fifty drivers have won rounds of the WRC using Michelin tyres since 1973.