Already regarded as one of the leading touring car drivers around, Yvan Muller cemented his place as the cream of the crop by finally knocking Andy Priaulx from his position as WTCC title holder.

Muller's season was build on consistency as he finished every race and only failed to come home in the points on two occasions – with back-to-back eleventh place finishes at Brands Hatch and Oschersleben in the middle of the year.

The Frenchman started the year with a win in Brazil and despite not winning again until Imola, his consistent approach saw him move to the head of the standings and as the season drew towards a close, it became apparent that the title was his to lose.

Muller duly secured the crown in the opening race of the season finale in Macau and he will now look to make it two-in-a-row with the diesel-powered Leon in 2009.

“I'm pleased to be named as the top driver and it's a nice surprise,” he said. “Thank you very much for your votes.”