The rumours about a Bentley no-show have been going on for months, although frankly, the reasoning isn't really clear. The suspicion is that the real reason is financial. It would be such a tremendous shame and a let down for all the British fans if there are no Bentleys on the grid at Le Mans next year. You only had to be at the race this year to appreciate the depth of feeling towards the name and the cars. (And that's leaving aside the derivation of the engine and so on....).
And it's not only the Brits either. The French were captivated by the return of such a famous name to the great race (and deservedly milked it for all it was worth!).
Bentley or Lambo? Give me a Bentley any day.
Bentley or Skoda? Give us a break!!
If the Bentley Boys don't make it back in 2002 it will prove that sentiment and history no longer have any place in motor racing.
