ELMS – Ragues: Alpine, “the high point of my career”

Pierre Ragues still savors his title won with Nelson Panciatici and Signatech-Alpine in ELMS against Thiriet by TDS Racing. The Frenchman cannot be proud of the feat achieved with the famous manufacturer. Interview.

Published on 08/10/2013 à 10:34

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ELMS – Ragues: Alpine, “the high point of my career”

Pierre, an incredible European champion title but in very stressful conditions? Tell us about Paul Ricard from your point of view.

It's a perfect end to Signatech's very competitive season-Alpine but it was very distressing at times! We knew we had to finish ahead of the Thiriet team but also keep in mind that Jota could mathematically win the title if we didn't score a point. Therefore we had to attack hard and make sure we finished in the points. There were a few incidents during the race but we kept calm and took the checkered flag with the expected result. The last hour was endless!

How do you feel mentally when a problem arises in such a tense race?

Fortunately, the Signatech team is very calm and professional under pressure and when we encounter a problem, as was the case for Nelson with the broken steering wheel during his stint, they do their job. You never know what can happen in endurance so we have to stay focused and get the most out of the car. As in every race this season, the Signatech-Alpine A450 was competitive at Le Castellet and we had the pace for a podium like at Silverstone, Imola, Austria or Hungary.

What contribution do you think you made to the return of?Alpine in endurance?

The partnership with Alpine this season has been very special and sentimental. It is an honor to be part of the return of such an iconic brand but to have won their first victory since 1978 and the first European endurance title in almost 40 years is undoubtedly the highlight of my career. I feel like I have never driven so well this year and I was really encouraged by the Signatech team-Alpine. Our victory in Hungary was fantastic and really highlighted my driving abilities and experience. Overall, I think we managed the season perfectly. It was also important to be part of the return of Michelin and see them win the championship against all the other cars equipped with competing manufacturers. Overall, we had a dream season, also thanks to the support of my main partner Group Auto. I am really looking forward to the start of the 2014 season. Above all, I hope to have demonstrated my value to continue to be part of the great comeback of?Alpine as an endurance champion.