Automeca, Manu Guigou’s new challenge

This is the start of a new story. After ten years rich in rally, Emmanuel Guigou has just taken over Automeca, the Savoyard team which has raced renowned drivers such as Jean Ragnotti, Yvan Muller, François Delecour, Romain Dumas, Simon Jean-Joseph, Thierry Neuville or the late Philippe Bugalski? then became leader of the team. Alongside Jean-Michel Astier, his former car manager at Renault Sport, the Provençal wants to launch the team into new challenges, still in rallying but also on the circuit. A new era which began with a move at the beginning of the year to new premises in Aix-en-Provence.

“Without hanging up my headset, leading a team is an idea I’ve had for some time” , explains Manu Guigou. ?So I didn?t hesitate for long when the opportunity presented itself. The association with Jean-Michel Astier is one of the key points of the new face of Automeca. His technical knowledge, his ability to find solutions and his ability to work are all assets for the team and its clients. » For Jean-Michel Astier, “it’s a new challenge that’s beginning.” “The structure is already active and we aim to develop it. Our personalities and skills are complementary, and I particularly appreciate Manu's perfectionist side. He is particularly well placed to understand the expectations of a client, whether a private pilot or a manufacturer. The idea is to offer Automeca customers rental cars for which we ensure technical monitoring and validation in the field! Manu will also be able to provide advice on setting up and managing a race. »

To develop, Automeca wants to launch into VHC and circuits, new disciplines for this company. “Our structure has already shown its potential by working for large manufacturers”, underlines Emmanuelle Guigou. “This will still be the case in 2013. But as has always been the case within Automeca, we do not forget the amateur drivers. We have the capacity to run all cars, from R1 to R5. I also want to share my experience with young pilots. All year long, I am asked many questions, in very varied areas. I want to put this expertise at the service of Automeca customers. » The sports program will be revealed very soon, and Manu Guigou still intends to run.