Quesnel Takes New Leading Role with Peugeot Sport

Olivier Quesnel's job at Citroen Sport this year did not go unnoticed. Following his team's successful run in the World Rally Championship this season, the Frenchman has been appointed new director of the Peugeot Sport team for their 2009 sportscar campaign. The announcement was made through a statement issued by Peugeot-Citroen this morning.

Quesnel will go on to replace departed Michel Barge, who stepped down as Peugeot Sport director to take on another role within the organization. However, he will continue as team principal for Citroen Sport inside the WRC, while also coordinating the Peugeot Sport sportscar project.

“I'm very proud to have been appointed director of Citroen Sport and Peugeot Sport. I know the latter well, having started my career with this team and I will do everything in my power to enable Peugeot Sport to surpass the results they have already achieved.”

“The potential is definitely there, the 908 HDi is competitive and everyone in the team is extremely committed, and I am counting on their continuing motivation and determination to help me rise to this exciting new challenge just as successfully as we have done at Citroen Sport,” said Quesnel following the official announcement.

He also expressed his belief that Citroen Sport will continue his domination inside the WRC, following team's impressive performances in 2008. Thanks to Sebastien Loeb, Citroen ranked 1st overall in the manufacturers' standings, taking no less than 11 wins en route to their 4th championship title – maiden title for Quesnel in the WRC.

“As for Citroen, I'm confident that we have the capacity to repeat the exceptional results we obtained in 2008 - namely the manufacturers' WRC title and the drivers' world crowns for Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena for the fifth year running,” concluded Quesnel.