Peugeot eyes Sebring

Peugeot could take on Audi in the 2008 12 Hours of Sebring. The French manufacturer is considering taking part in the American Le Mans Series opener in March if Audi–its rival for the overall win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans–opts out of racing against its 908 HDi turbodiesels full time in the European-based Le Mans Series.

Peugeot admitted that it was surprised by Audi's race pace at Le Mans this year and conceded that it needs to race against the R10 TDIs before it returns to Le Mans.

"We need some reference point before Le Mans. That means racing against Audi," said Peugeot Sport team manager Serge Saulnier. "If they do not come to the LMS, we expect to race at Sebring."

That also stands as a veiled threat to withdraw from the LMS. Peugeot Sport boss Michel Barge has backtracked on a firm commitment to stay in the series and now insists that there is no decision for 2008.

Saulnier explained that a schedule combining "the best races of the ALMS and the LMS" around its Le Mans bid is one option for next year. AutoWeek