Jordan-Peugeot strike all-gold

The Jordan-Peugeot team yesterday signed a pounds 15m sponsorship deal with Benson and Hedges that could transform their Formula One fortunes from also-rans to championship contenders.

The team's all-gold cars, driven by Martin Brundle and Rubens Barrichello, will promote a cigarette brand in this season's races, which begin on Sunday week with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The deal will give Jordan-Peugeot the financial backing necessary to tempt leading engineers, designers and drivers from rival teams.

Eddie Jordan, the team's owner, said: "It is a major breakthrough for us to secure a new title sponsor and, together with our partners Peugeot and Total, I am looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship. This is the final piece in the jigsaw to secure the future success and competitiveness of the team."