P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Nicolas Lapierre has announced his professional motorsport retirement after standing on Alpine’s first Hypercar podium at the 6 Hours of Fuji.
After announcing at the 6 Hours of Fuji that it was his last professional motor race, the two-time WEC LMP2 champion and Le Mans class-winner with Alpine, Lapierre expressed gratitude for his career in a heartfelt Instagram post. The 40-year-old Frenchman had been actively competing in the World Endurance Championship since 2012, notably with Toyota’s LMP1 Hybrid project. Lapierre mentioned key figures such as Hugues de Chaunac and his close supporters like his father and wife, emphasizing the importance of his journey. Looking ahead, Lapierre shared his excitement for a new chapter on the pit wall side of the sport he loves so dearly. As Lapierre transitions to a team principal role at COOL Racing, reserve driver Jules Gounon may take on a more permanent driving role for Alpine starting from the 8 Hours of Bahrain season finale.
