Rally Deutschland: Peugeot preview

The 307 WRC Looking To Continue on The Victory Trail in Germany

While the first half of the season failed to be as successful for Peugeot as the French outfit had been hoping, Marcus Grönholm's recent victory in Finland - Round 9 of the sixteen-round 2004 calendar - was naturally a tremendous boost for the morale of the entire team. With a win now under the 307 WRC's belt to prove the car's speed and competitiveness, Peugeot's intention from now until the end of the year will be to fight for first place in every one of the remaining rounds with the intention of helping Marcus Grönholm in his bid to clinch the Drivers' title.

As the first encounter of the season's final seven rounds, the Rallye Deutschland will be a chance to put this policy into practice. The two drivers nominated by the team as eligible to score Manufacturers' points in Germany are Marcus Grönholm and Cédric Robert, while a third 307 WRC has been entered for Freddy Loix.

The Rallye Deutschland is an all-asphalt competition based in the Trier region, close to the borders of both Luxembourg and France. Included in the WRC calendar for the first time in 2002, its route features a combination of narrow lanes that criss-cross the steep vineyards of the Mosel Valley, as well as faster stages to the south, including some over military ground.

Marcus Grönholm's record on this event boasts a third place in 2002 and second place in 2003. This time round, the Finn will be out to notch up his first ever win on asphalt. Peugeot's ranks will also include Cédric Robert whose mission will be to score Manufacturers points instead of the team's usual gravel specialist, Harri Rovanperä. Robert has already contested the Rallye Deutschland on three previous occasions, including last year's event driving a 206 WRC.

The 2002 French Super 1600 Championship runner-up is an excellent asphalt performer. Last season, he started every asphalt round of the World Championship with a 206 WRC and finished top privateer each time. "I am delighted to be driving a 307 in Germany. The car has competed in only one asphalt round so far, the Monte Carlo Rally. I am convinced it has the potential to win and its performances on the loose are a good pointer," enthuses the French driver.

A third 307 WRC will be present in Germany for Freddy Loix. With no obligation to ensure Manufacturers' points for the team, the Belgian will be free to attack as he sees fit.

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