Former Peugeot boss Provera died at the age of 82

Corrado Provera, the former boss of Peugeot Sport in WRC, passed away at the age of 82 years old.

The Italian played a crucial role on making Peugeot stronger in World Rally Championship with the Group B 205 T16 and afterwards he continued working with them, but this time on an engine project for the Formula1 championship. He convinced Peugeot to get involved in WRC again and, thanks to him, the team won three munufacturers' titles (2000-2002) while their driver, Marcus Gronholm, became a two-time WRC Champion (2000, 2002) by driving the 206. 1999 was the year that Peugeot rejoined the series before its first title came with the help of Gilles Panizzi and Gronholm. In 2003, the sister brand, Citroen, topped the world of rallying as Sebastien Loeb, Carlos Sainz and Colin McRae were victorious with the Xsara WRC. Peugeot switched from 206 to 307 WRC car the last two years of its competition in WRC, but it was the worst decision due to the fact that 307 was the most unreliable car in the history of WRC. 

"It is with great regret that we learn of the passing of Corrado Provera", Peugeot Sport's statement says. 

"His years at the head of Peugeot Sport were marked by his charisma and energy. 

"We send our sincere condolences to his family and all those who knew him".

Photo Credits: Peugeot Sport