Pierre Ragues is ready to begin his latest adventure as an ambassador for the prestigious Alpine brand as he takes part in the legendary Tour Auto Optic 2000 this week alongside his father, Marcel.

 

The reigning European Le Mans Series champion for Signatech-Alpine will contest the 23rd running of the event in the iconic A110 Berlinette 1600 S from today through to Saturday when the popular event comes to a conclusion.

 

Each year, a new route is run for the Tour Auto Optic 2000 ever since its debut in 1992. This year’s event will be focussed on the eastern part of France but gets underway in traditional style at the Grand Palais in Paris with over 200 cars on display. 

 

The event itself will be run over four circuits and nine stages on closed roads with the Tour ending in Marseille. For Pierre Ragues, continuing to represent the Alpine brand in an ambassadorial role, the event will be very special, particularly competing once again alongside his father with whom he has shared excellent results in recent rallies.  

 

Pierre Ragues said: “I am honoured to have the chance to take part in this 23rd running of the Tour Auto Optic 2000 and to be representing the Alpine brand as an ambassador. We have shared some great successes in the past, not least our ELMS championship in 2013 so it is a privilege to represent the brand by driving the incredible A110 Berlinette in this event. We will get underway at the symbolic Grand Palais in Paris and take part in this wonderful event all week. I cannot wait to get started.”

 

Bernard Ollivier, CEO of Alpine Automobiles, said:  “Pierre Ragues achieved great things in the colours of the Alpine brand in 2013 by winning the ELMS drivers’ title alongside his team-mate Nelson Panciatici and the helping the Signatech-Alpine team to clinch the team’s title. More than that, he demonstrated fine characteristics and personal attributes that are in line with those of the Alpine brand created by Jean Rédélé – humility, warmth, professionalism, tenacity and the spirit to win. Despite our best efforts, he does not have a car with which to defend his title in 2014 but he is a valued member of the Alpine family and we are pleased that he will remain an Alpine brand ambassador. Alongside his father Marcel, he will contest this week’s Tour Auto Optic 2000 in the iconic A110 Berlinette and we are all proud that they can represent the Alpine brand in this fantastic competition. We wish them success but most importantly a lot of fun!”