Auriol: Champion kicking his heels

Auriol won the world title with Toyota in 1994

Once a leading light in the dominant Lancia and Toyota teams in the mid-1990s, and a world champion in his own right in 1994, Auriol's star is beginning to wane these days.

This, though, is not thought to be a reflection on the Frenchman - it would be difficult for anyone to shine in a Cordoba.

Auriol still undoubtedly has what it takes as much as he ever did.

When the mood takes him, when he gets "the feeling" as he puts it, Auriol can beat anyone.

Peugeot chance

Problem is, even if the feeling took him in a Seat, he would be looking at nothing better than a fifth place.

He moved to Seat this season hoping to give his career a fresh start but the team has disappointed and he finds himself looking for a drive again in 2001.

The hot money has him moving to the French Peugeot team. In a competitive car, he will again be able to prove just how much remains of the exciting talent that has made him a central feature in rallying for more than 10 years.