Pierre Ragues has today joined the G-Drive by Signatech-Nissan team for the traditional scrutineering event ahead of the Le Mans 24 Hours, which this year takes place in the new location of Place de la République du Mans. 

Pierre joined his team-mates Roman Rusinov and Nelson Panciatici to watch the #26 Oreca 03 chassis, powered by Nissan, go through the range of scrutineering requirements. The team then also took part in the typical pre-event team photos with the passionate crowd eagerly following their movements.

A team of around 12 staff are on hand to ensure that all competitors conform to the stringent technical regulations ahead of this year’s Le Mans event. Far more than a straight-forward weigh-in, the technical checks are divided into three with the cars being repositioned on each occasion.  

The car must first go through laser measurements for the main dimensions of the vehicle (width, length, wheelbase, etc.) as well as being placed on scales for weighing.  Next, the car is placed on a lift so that officials can check size of diffusers, size and shape of the floor to ensure a minimum clearance to the ground. Finally, the body is partially dissembled to inspect the security aspects of the car (fire extinguishers, belts, circuit breaker, etc.), as well as fuel tank and all stickers, lights and the data acquisition unit. All in all, the scrutineering takes 50 minutes per car, while the drivers themselves have to pass admin checks such as licences, helmets, overalls

The entire mini-event is always packed with fans and interesting crowds and this year was on exception, setting a thrilling atmosphere for the week ahead.

Pierre said: “This year’s Le Mans will be the 80^th running of the event, and my sixth participation, but the scrutineering event is always the same fantastic, enjoyable and incredible experience. We moved location to Place de la République this year but the atmosphere was just as electric. We were also able to carry out some media work and the traditional pre-event team photo with Roman and Nelson. It promises to be another high-profile, exciting event and I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s drivers’ autograph session.”