THP: Guilvert receives prize Peugeot test

Gregory Guilvert will receive his prize for winning the 2009 THP Spider Cup this week; a test session in the factory LMP1 Peugeot 908 HDi.

The Frenchman will make his way to Paul Ricard for the test, following in the footsteps of previous winners Dino Lunardi and Simon Moulton.

While the THP Spider Cup season has yet to finish, the final round taking place at the Le Mans Bugatti circuit next month, Guilvert’s haul of 11 wins from 12 races means he has an unassailable lead at the top of the standings, prompting Peugeot to bring his prize test forward.

Guilvert’s time in the car will coincide with a schedule test session by Peugeot Sport as the team prepares for the 2010 and its defence of the Le Mans 24 Hours.

“It’s taking time for everything to sink in, what with the phone-call from Serge Saulnier, and yesterday’s visit to the factory, it’s all happening so quickly,” admitted Guilvert, who previously raced for Peugeot in Touring Cars in 2005.

“Peugeot Sport engineer Christophe Besse helped me settle in the car to find the ideal driving position, and the best settings for my seat and the pedals, etc. He then talked me through the different functions. I was very impressed as I climbed inside the cockpit which seemed very narrow. It felt as though I couldn’t see a thing to begin with, but my field of vision soon widened. I feel very intimidated and I don’t really know what to expect. I am worried about not being up to the job, but at the same time I can’t wait to get started!”

Watch THP Spider Cup highlights on Motors TV.


Andy Wilkinson