According to a press release the reason for the sudden decision
is the current economic environment, which has forced the
manufacturer to focus its resources on sales performance
instead.
This means that Peugeot will not participate in the new World
Endurance Championship starting in 2012. Further, the withdrawal
means that there will be no more fierce fights between Audi and
Peugeot, which has amused spectators since 2007, when the French
company entered the series with the 908.
"The Lions have been very strong competitors and we will miss
them a lot. I have the greatest respect for their results, their
team and their car. Naturally we want the hardest competition
possible and Peugeot has given us just that during the last five
years. The timing of the withdrawalv- shortly before the start of
WEC and allegedly while the team were in Sebring testing and
preparing for the new season - makes me sympathize with everyone in
Peugeot Sport. I hope they will soon get the opportunity to come
back," Tom K says.
The Le Mans legend, who is aiming for his ninth Le Mans title
and a victory in the WEC in 2012 still has an optimistic view
regarding the future:
"Toyota, Morgan and Acura are all new in the world championship
series this year - and with Porsche's comeback in 2014 the future
for WEC and Le Mans looks promising," he Dane ends.