French racer Pierre Ragues has today been confirmed to drive in the final two rounds of the 2014 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) with the NewBlood by Morand Racing squad. 

 

Ragues, who is enjoying a busy 2014 season combining participation in endurance racing and rallying, will return to the NewBlood by Morand Racing team following a highly competitive performance in the 4 Hours of Red Bull Ring in July.

 

The NewBlood by Morand Racing team has been at the forefront of the ELMS championship this season with podium pace in all rounds so far, as well as a top ten finish in the Le Mans 24 Hours. Ragues took the #43 BMW Judd-powered Morgan car as high as second during his stint in Austria, so will be looking to compete at the sharp end of the field in the final two rounds, which will be held at Paul Ricard 13-14 September and Estoril 18-19 October. 

 

Ragues will once again be partnered by Christian Klien and Gary Hirsch in the #43 car. The NewBlood by Morand Racing squad currently reside sixth in the teams’ standings. A podium in the season opener at Silverstone followed by the fifth place in Austria sees the team on 25 points after three rounds with plenty still to fight for. Ragues will aim to use his vast experience in endurance racing to contribute to the team’s points tally in the final two rounds of the year.

 

Ragues will also continue to benefit from the invaluable support of his personal sponsors Group Auto, as well as the full backing of Alpine for whom he acts as an ambassador.

 

Pierre Ragues commented: “I am delighted to rejoin the NewBlood by Morand Racing team for the final two rounds of this year’s European Le Mans Series. We had a very positive race in Austria and I felt that I settled quickly and easily into the team. We found competitive pace in the #43 car and I was pleased to run in the top two during my time in the car. We will now look to bring that level of performance to Paul Ricard and Estoril and to further improve our position in the standings. I am honoured that the team has placed its faith in me for the run-up to the season finale and will do all I can to use my experience in endurance racing to help the team alongside Christian and Gary. I am also thankful to my personal partners Group Auto and to Alpine for allowing me to make the most of this wonderful opportunity.”