It was driven by the experienced Jean Alesi, team boss Alain Prost's ex-Ferrari teammate, and reigning Formula 3000 champion Nick Heidfeld.

Heidfeld also suffered the indignity of being disqualified after qualifying for the Nürburgring round after his car was found to be underweight and was not even allowed to take part in the race.

Prost's criticism of Peugeot soured their relationship and combined with the lack of results, the latter withdrew from F1 as an engine supplier.

[5] Alesi and Heidfeld were unable to make much of an impression, but the Frenchman managed to qualify eighth at Monaco and run fourth at Spa-Francorchamps before retiring.

A poor pitstop in France was caught by the TV cameras with a visibly distraught Alain Prost shaking his head in despair.