[18-09-2013]
PIERRE RAGUES REVELS IN CHAMPIONSHIP-CHANGING HUNGARIAN VICTORY
 Pierre Ragues and the Signatech-Alpine team have set up a tantalising championship finale at Paul Ricard after the Frenchman put in one of the performances of the season to guide the team to victory in Hungary last weekend.
Ragues set a phenomenal pace to move from third on the grid, dicing his way to the front before building up a staggering one minute lead – all in his first stint. It was a performance that earned Ragues plenty of praise from commentators and onlookers and that leaves Signatech-Alpine jointly leading the European Le Mans Series heading into the final event of the season in France next week.
Quick Q+A with Pierre Ragues
Pierre, have you had enough time for the win to sink in?
“It still feels great even three days later but looking back I think it was absolutely the perfect race for us and with a lot of pressure that we didn’t really feel at the time. We didn’t have an ideal build-up to the race but we still knew the A450 was competitive and so it proved in the race. We were quick all weekend and both Nelson and I were able to get the maximum out of the car and Michelin tyres.”
You seemed to be top form driving the car as well!
“It was one of the best drives of my career, I think. I have felt strong this season and think I am driving better than ever but I was particularly pleased with my opening stint in Hungary. The wet weather in qualifying on Saturday morning meant that we were not able to get pole but starting from third place, I knew I had to push hard. The car was perfect so I felt confident I could push. It was very satisfying to get some good overtakes in, especially the one for the lead. Seeing Nelson continue the lead and take the chequered flag was a wonderful feeling for us all, as it was to stand on the top step of the podium.”
It must have been even more special to take the first win for Alpine in 35 years?
“All season it has been a privilege to represent both Signatech and Alpine, and to be part of the return of the legendary Alpine brand to endurance racing. We felt such a buzz at Le Mans and the support has been incredible. To win in Hungary is the culmination of all we have worked towards as a team and it is a special result, one which we will cherish for a long time. The season is not over yet and we are set for a real showdown in Paul Ricard, where we will do all we can to fight for the championship.”
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