24-year-old French driver Franck Mailleux has secured one of the most prestigious drives in the Le Mans Series for 2010 after renewing his contract with Signature, recently announced as Official LMP1 Partner of Aston Martin Racing. Franck, who participated in his first full season in the LMP1 class with solid results in 2009, will hold the formal title of Official Aston Martin Racing Team Partner Driver in his second season in endurance racing, and will be looking to compete for podium positions with the legendary manufacturer in 2010.
With the continued support and management of Quadra Sports, Franck will once again partner compatriot Pierre Ragues in the Le Mans Series as Signature begins its second season in the highly competitive championship. Franck will also be hoping to take part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, subject to Signature receiving the necessary invitation to compete in the legendary event.
Commenting on the announcement, Franck said: “I am very excited to have the chance to drive in one of the most sought-after seats in the Le Mans Series with Signature and Aston Martin. It is a privilege for me to hold the title of Official Aston Martin Racing Team Partner Driver in 2010. It promises to be a fantastic season working with such an iconic and esteemed manufacturer like Aston Martin, who demonstrated such competitiveness and performance by winning the championship last season.
“I was very pleased with my performances in 2009, my first year in Le Mans Series, and I am optimistic that I can carry my improvements into 2010 and be in an even more competitive situation. With the support of Aston Martin and the professional teamwork from everyone at Signature, I think we will definitely be one of the teams to watch. I’d like to thank Philippe Sinault for his faith in my capabilities; I can’t wait to get started with our preparations in the New Year.”
Fresh from a highly competitive debut season in the LMP1 class of the Le Mans Series, 25-year-old driver Pierre Ragues has secured one of the most prestigious drives in the championship for 2010. The Frenchman has extended his contract with the highly-regarded Signature team, who were recently confirmed as Official LMP1 Partner of Aston Martin Racing for next season.
As a consequence of his renewed collaboration with Signature, Pierre will assume the formal title of Official Aston Martin Racing Team Partner Driver in his second season in LMP1 class of endurance racing. Following a solid debut season in the class throughout 2009, Pierre will be looking to improve further and compete for podium positions with Signature and Aston Martin in 2010. He will also continue to be supported and managed by Quadra Sports for the entire season.
Not only will Pierre return to familiar surroundings within the confines of the Signature squad, he will also once again partner compatriot Franck Mailleux in the Le Mans Series for his and Signature’s second season in the highly competitive LMP1 championship. Pierre will also be hoping to take part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, subject to Signature receiving the necessary invitation to compete in the legendary event.
“This is definitely the highlight of my career so far!” commented Pierre. “To be able to continue working with a team as professional and motivated as Signature is fantastic, but to have the opportunity to race with a manufacturer of Aston Martin’s status is truly wonderful. I am so proud to have been offered this chance and I will do all I can to repay the faith that the team has placed in me.
“My experiences in LMP2 gave me very useful experience in preparation for my first season in LMP1 with Signature in 2009 and I think we performed well above everybody’s expectations. Next year, with Aston Martin support, I think we will be much held much higher in people’s expectations but I am sure we will rise to that challenge. Thanks must go to Phillipe and all at Signature for this excellent opportunity; I am really looking forward to getting started after the winter break.”
Source : Quadra Sports