Peugeot makes it official for 2001.

Despite being a near certainty since the all-new 2001 BTCC regulations were announced back in June, Peugeot finally confirmed that they would return to the series in a works capacity next year with a two-car factory backed attack.

Peugeot's Sports Director Mick Linford confirmed the news from the marque's base in Coventry on Friday after the outline plans for the 2001 season were given the go ahead by the firm's bosses.

"We are confident that this controlled format will provide not only a level playing field for competing manufacturers but also spectacular entertainment for both racetrack and television audiences," said Linford who has overseen the firm's highly successful National Saloon Championship campaign. "Peugeot has a long tradition of sporting success and we fully intend to play a major race winning role within the restructured BTCC."

Peugeot will run two cars; probably a pair of the brand new 307 models, and the crack NSC Bowman Racing team has been given the task of preparing the factory machinery. Vic Lee, whose Touring Car VIP Club squad won Class B of the BTCC this year, will be in charge of operations and his extensive Touring Car experience will be a great benefit to the squad.

In addition to the factory squad, Peugeot will also build two more cars that will be sold to an existing team to run alongside the works effort, putting Peugeot in a very healthy position to take their first ever BTCC title.

Current Peugeot NSC pilots Toni Ruokonen and Dan Eaves are among the favourites to get the factory drives and both impressed greatly in their guest outings in the BTCC this year. Class B Champion Alan Morrison would also have to be considered although he may chose to stay with the Touring Car VIP Club outfit if they decide to remain in Class B next year.

The destination of the second pair of cars is also unknown but Linford did suggest that he would like to see one of this year's Super Touring drivers in one of his cars next year. The marque would be a popular choice to any driver as they have greatly improved their facilities and personnel since they bombed out of the BTCC in 1998 after six indifferent years.

Peugeot join Vauxhall as confirmed factory participants next year and the news is a great boost to series promoters BMP who hope to attract at least 20 National Saloon Plus cars for the 2001 season opener next spring.