Loeb's title defense is a leap in dark

With new rules, WRC reigning champion faces tough season

KARLSTAD - Defending World Rally champion Sebastien Loeb is taking nothing for granted as the 2011 season starts on Thursday with the new regulations and the new cars putting his unfavored wintry conditions to the back of his mind.

The Swedish event is the only true snow race on the 2011 World Rally Championship (WRC) 13-leg circuit, but France's Loeb, who has won the past seven drivers titles was more concerned about the effects of the close season revamp than weather conditions.