Klien joins Peugeot bid

Christian Klien will take time out from Formula 1 testing duties with BMW to race for Peugeot at the Le Mans 24 Hours.

The 25-year-old Austrian was the surprise announcement when Peugeot revealed its roster of drivers for its three 908 HDi turbo-diesel prototypes in Paris. “BMW was happy for me to get some more race miles,” said Klien. “It wants what is best for me.”

Klien, a veteran of 46 Grands Prix with Jaguar and Red Bull, is one of three F1 test drivers in the Peugeot squad. He joins Marc Gené, who was part of the full 908 programme last year, and newcomer and 1996 race winner Alex Wurz.

Jacques Villeneuve is back for a second crack at Le Mans, while Franck Montagny has also been signed up for the 24 Hours.