Pierre Ragues: “We have a great crew”

When did you start discussions with Signatech-Alpine ?

I speak with Philippe (Sinault, the main team. Editor's note) every winter since 2013. Each time, whether in 2015 or 2016, we did not come far from finding an agreement. This time we succeeded. I am very happy to find this team with whom I won theELMS in 2013, already with Nelson (Panciatici. Editor's note), for what is certainly today the greatest moment of my career. I hope that we will be able to write a new beautiful page in this story together.

Did you miss piloting a prototype?

I like cars that generate aero but I had a lot of fun in GT and I know I will do it again. It was not a default choice, far from it. I had a great season at Larbre Compétition (on the #7 Corvette C50.R, in GTE Am. Editor's note), a professional team with a lot of experience. It will remain a great memory.

What do these new LM P2s inspire in you?

It revives my memories of LM P1, a category that I covered for two years with Signature (in 2009 and 2010, before moving to Oak Racing in 2011. Editor’s note).

If you and Nelson have extensive experience inEndurance, how is the integration of your new teammate, the Brazilian, going? Andre Negro ?

When I see how Nelson (Panciatici. Editor's note) acclimatized to Endurance after leaving GP2, I don't see why André, who is taking the same route, wouldn't succeed. I think we have a great crew. The main objective obviously remains the 24 Hours of Le Mans (June 17-18. Editor’s note). Spa will serve as a learning session. The other car (theAlpine A470 n°36. Editor's note) will play in the championship and we will try to shine in each of our outings. For the moment, only Le Mans and Spa are on the program. After Le Mans, we will make decisions about what to do next.

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