Peugeot predicts tougher challenge

Peugeot will not dominate the World Rally Championship this year in the manner it did during 2002

Jan 3, 2003, 4:10 PM

That is the view of the marque's sporting boss Corrado Provera, who is predicting a tough challenge from main rivals Citroen, Ford and Subaru this season.

"Our domination last year was surprising. I don't think it will be like this again," Provera told AUTOSPORT magazine. "There were many different things which allowed us to dominate in the way we did.

"I'm sure our opposition did not develop their cars for 2002. During 2002, though, they have developed their cars for this season."

That is in contrast to Peugeot, which has elected to make only minor revisions to its 206 WRC.

Provera explained why. "Look at our results, look at what the car has achieved. We are confident."

But he added that the team's motivation is as high as it was last year. "Winning is like a drug. Once you've tasted it, you need to keep tasting it."

For the full story of Peugeot's preparations and outlook ahead of this year's World Rally Championship, see this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, on sale now.