Peugeot Launch: Soper supports back-to-basics

Soper returns to the BTCC this year in the French marque's latest challenger, which was unveiled today (Friday) at Autosport International 2001. The erstwhile BMW driver has left the world of sportscars to compete in the revamped championship which has been taken back to basics by new promoters BMP.

"I think the new approach is a great idea," said Soper. "The cars are going to have less grip and will move around a bit more and it's the same for everyone. The good drivers are still going to win.

"It's going to be another year until the series grows and builds properly, but it's a new championship even though it has the same name - people have to realise that. The cars look great and I think our new 406 looks better than any of the old BTCC cars."

Soper is renowned in the world of touring cars and despite never winning the BTCC title the Englishman holds an envied reputation. His team mates for this year are former Team Dynamics Independent Matt Neal and National Saloon ace Dan Eaves. Soper does not expect to receive any special treatment.

"All three of us [the drivers] are going to contribute and give our input to the team," he said. "There aren't any superstars in the team or people saying 'we've got to do it this way'. It's a team effort and three heads are better than one."

Peugeot intends to score it's first BTCC win this year and will have to take the fight to main rivals Vauxhall, which launched it's car at the end of last year. The 47-year-old Soper has not driven a front-wheel drive racing car for almost 15 years, but does not foresee any problems in making the switch.

"It's not going to be a problem," he said. "Its not something I've really thought about. After the first race I might be saying something totally different and pulling my hair out, but at the moment I don't think it's a problem."