Alexandre Prémat, French race car driver

Alexandre Prémat, born on 5 November 1982, is a distinguished French racing driver whose career trajectory has seen him excel across various motorsport disciplines, ultimately making a significant mark in the fiercely competitive world of Australian touring car racing. His journey from European open-wheel circuits to becoming a revered endurance specialist highlights a versatile talent and an unwavering commitment to the sport.

Before etching his name into the annals of Australian motorsport, Prémat honed his skills and showcased his speed in Europe's challenging open-wheel categories. He competed in the GP2 Series, a primary feeder series for Formula 1, and proudly represented France in the A1 Grand Prix series, often dubbed the "World Cup of Motorsport." These foundational experiences provided him with a deep understanding of high-performance racing and strategic endurance, preparing him for the unique demands of events like the Supercars Championship's long-distance races.

Triumphs in Australian Supercars

Prémat's career took a significant turn when he transitioned to the Australian Supercars Championship, particularly as an endurance co-driver. In this role, he quickly proved invaluable, partnering with some of the series' biggest names and contributing to multiple high-profile victories.

2016 Pirtek Enduro Cup Victory

One of Prémat's most notable achievements came in 2016 when he clinched the coveted Pirtek Enduro Cup. This championship-within-a-championship is a highly respected segment of the Supercars calendar, comprising a series of longer-distance races where primary drivers are partnered with specialist co-drivers. Driving for the powerhouse Triple Eight Race Engineering, Prémat was paired with the formidable New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen, a multiple Supercars champion. Their combined skill, consistency, and strategic prowess over events like the Sandown 500, Bathurst 1000, and Gold Coast 600 demonstrated a powerful synergy, leading them to ultimately secure the prestigious Pirtek Enduro Cup title.

2019 Bathurst 1000 Glory

Perhaps his most celebrated victory arrived in 2019 at the legendary Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. Affectionately known as 'The Great Race,' the Bathurst 1000 is the pinnacle of Australian motorsport, a gruelling 1000-kilometre endurance test at the iconic Mount Panorama circuit. This event demands an unparalleled blend of speed, strategy, and resilience from both driver and machine. Partnering with the reigning Supercars champion Scott McLaughlin for DJR Team Penske, Prémat played a crucial role in navigating their Ford Mustang to a historic victory. This triumph was not just a personal highlight for Prémat but also a significant milestone for DJR Team Penske, marking a dominant era for the team and further cementing Prémat's status as a highly sought-after and successful endurance co-driver in one of the world's most challenging touring car series.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Alexandre Prémat primarily known for in motorsport?
Alexandre Prémat is primarily known for his successful career as an endurance co-driver in the Australian Supercars Championship, where he won both the Pirtek Enduro Cup and the Bathurst 1000.
When and where was Alexandre Prémat born?
Alexandre Prémat was born on 5 November 1982, in France.
Which major Supercars titles has Alexandre Prémat won?
Prémat has won the 2016 Pirtek Enduro Cup and the 2019 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000.
Who were Prémat's co-drivers for his major Supercars victories?
He won the 2016 Pirtek Enduro Cup alongside Shane van Gisbergen and the 2019 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 with Scott McLaughlin.
Which teams did Prémat drive for during his Supercars triumphs?
For his 2016 Pirtek Enduro Cup win, he drove for Triple Eight Race Engineering. In his 2019 Bathurst 1000 victory, he was with DJR Team Penske.
What is the Pirtek Enduro Cup?
The Pirtek Enduro Cup is a sub-championship within the Australian Supercars Championship, contested over a series of long-distance, multi-driver races.
What is the Bathurst 1000?
The Bathurst 1000, often called 'The Great Race,' is a renowned 1000-kilometre touring car race held annually at Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, Australia. It is considered the pinnacle of Australian motorsport.