Nicosia, Cyprus  - World champion Sebastien Loeb of France achieved another milestone in his illustrious rally career on Sunday when he won his 50th event, at the Cyprus Rally.

The Citroen driver Loew, 35, held off Finnish title rival Mikko Hirvonen for his third win in as many season races.

"This is incredible ... 50 is a big number," he said. "But I am not finished yet, now I am going for 51."

Loeb won his first rally 2002 in Germany and has since redefined the sport, including most successive wins at one event (seven in Germany) and most world titles (five
2004-2008).

The 50th success puts him 20 wins clear of the next best driver, Marcus Gronholm of Finland, who has 30 victories. dpa