Dumas-Sarrazin: Cevennes duel in Sarthe

When, in the Cévennes, motorsport enthusiasts talk about the Dumas-Sarrazin duels, until now this takes them back to the 70s with Maurice (Dumas) and René (Sarrazin) at the wheel of their respective R8 Gordini. Have a good time at the Ronde Cévenole or the Critérium des Cévennes! This region, also known for its chestnut specialties or its pélardon, has always been a privileged terrain for motor sports with Daniel Rouveyran, a citizen of Alès, also at ease in rally that in hill racing, seen three times in 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970, 72 and 73.

Today, it is naturally the next generation of Alésiens who takes the spotlight. Romain Dumas and Stéphane Sarrazin, who have become international references in terms of endurance, will defend this weekend the colors of the two favorite brands, respectively Audi and Peugeot . A unique case in the history of the 24 Hours on the scale of a city of around 40 inhabitants.

These 24 Hours will also be the first direct confrontation on the circuit between these two champions, with the aim of absolute victory. Of course, neither of them is a novice at Le Mans, but they have never found themselves confronted like this. In eight appearances, Romain has only had a car capable of aiming for the podium on two occasions. It was in 2007 and 2008, when he defended the Pescarolo colors. Two editions where Stéphane, with his Peugeot 908 HDi, was 5th? around? This year, it is in tenths of a second that our two friends should explain themselves. And everyone intends to win!

Find this entire article in your AUTOhebdo magazine N°1704