LM24: Philippe Sinault named 2021 Spirit of Le Mans

Philippe Sinault, Team Manager of Alpine Elf Matmut, has been awarded the ACO's "Spirit of Le Mans" trophy for 2021, having entered this year in the Hypercar class and being ever-present in the discipline since 2009.

The award honours those men and women who embody the values of endurance racing: dedication, commitment, teamwork and sporting endeavour.

Sinault, founder of the Signatech team, sums up his view of motor racing and the reasons for his success with these wise words: “An individual, anonymous approach never results in victory. Winning requires hard teamwork and effective communication.” Sinault is now living his dream at the head of a structure that recently celebrated its 30th anniversary.

He has brought on board around 40 highly motivated people to pull in the same direction. Although Sinault started out as a driver, he soon found himself at the helm of a fulfilling team venture. Signatech has since established itself as a talented operational team commanding widespread respect in endurance circles.

Philippe Sinault, Team Manager of Alpine Elf Matmut: I am extremely proud that I have been nominated as 2021 Spirit of Le Mans. It’s a fabulous acknowledgement for the 55-year-old child that I am! I should say ‘We have been nominated’ as I must share this award with my entire team and our partners. Spirit of Le Mans means sharing human and sporting values. Philosophical values even. What really makes me proud is having managed to create and pass on strong, shared emotions that so often lay the foundations for success. It’s a huge honour – thank you!

Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest: Philippe Sinault truly embodies the values upheld by endurance and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and I’m delighted that the Spirit of Le Mans Trophy will be awarded to him this year. His dedication, leadership and analytical skills are admired throughout the paddock. For 2021, Alpine has decided to take a step up to the top class in the discipline. It is a huge challenge, but Philippe is undoubtedly the best person to tackle it.

Source: ACO Media