When you see a list of names such as these, you can only be further convinced that RML is very serious indeed about its GT and sportscar commitments for 2004. It may take a little while for the effects to filter through to the result sheets, but it can’t be far away. “I’m really looking forward to meeting up with Peter Elleray,” admitted Erdos. “He was responsible for so much at Bentley and brings an enormous amount of experience with him. It seems staggering to me that RML has brought people of such calibre into the team, and fills me with confidence for the future.” He is also keen to get to grips with some new offerings from Dunlop, the team’s tyre supplier again this season. “I’m sure they’ll have something fresh and exciting for us to try!” he enthused.

The Brazilian was also pleased to know he’d be joining up with Nathan Kinch again. He last drove alongside the young Scot two years ago, when Nathan tried his hand at the Saleen in the British GT Championship. For some while it had even seemed likely that the two would pair up for an assault on the FIA GT Championship before Kinch went off to join Lister, and Tommy established his relationship with Mike Newton. Now all three will be together in the MG. “Sharing the car with Mike and Nathan will be a wonderful opportunity,” he said.