Peugeot eyes more wins for Neuville
Peugeot believes Thierry Neuville can now be regarded as a contender for victory on every Intercontinental Rally Challenge round after his breakthrough win in Corsica
Kronos' 22-year-old rising star moved into second place in the IRC standings by following up his Canarias podium with a maiden win on round three.
According to Peugeot Sport's customer competition boss Frederic Bertrand, that performance has proved Neuville's learning period is over and he is ready to be a title contender.
"He has suddenly changed status," said Bertrand. "He will now be a favourite for the win each time out.
"We believe his shoulders are broad enough to carry that responsibility."
Neuville currently sits just five points behind IRC championship leader Freddy Loix, who is not entered for this weekend's Yalta Rally. Despite Bertrand's comments, the Belgian said he would stay calm and try not to change his approach to the rallies even though he was now a proven winner.
"I have no intention of getting ahead of myself," Neuville said. "I will approach this event just like all the other recent IRC rounds, which is to say with confidence but one step at a time."
Bertrand is also keen to see Peugeot's higher-profile drivers get their IRC title bids back on course in the Ukraine this weekend. Monte Carlo winner Bryan Bouffier and Neuville's Kronos team-mate Guy Wilks both crashed out in Corsica.
"The crucial thing for Guy Wilks and Bryan Bouffier will be to reach the finish," said Bertrand. "They were strong in Corsica, so there is every reason to be optimistic about their chances this weekend."
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