Death of François Castaing - Hugues de Chaunac : "It was through our adventure with the Viper that I got to know him"

Although he took part in the Gordini epic at Le Mans in the 60s and 70s, François Castaing was no stranger to the GTS-R epic in endurance racing. Considered to be one of the 'fathers' of the Viper, the Frenchman forged strong links with Hugues de Chaunac, the chairman of Oreca, at the end of the 90s, who won with the racing version of the fastest reptile all around the world.

" It was with great emotion that I learned of François Castaing's death" Hugues de Chaunac said. "We became close in 1976, as he had important responsibilities at Renault Sport and we raced F2 cars with Renault engines. But it was mainly through our incredible adventure with the Viper that I got to know him. At the time, he was Vice President of Dodge Chrysler, and was an enormous help and support in one of ORECA's most memorable epics. Together, and thanks to this extraordinary program, we experienced some of the finest emotions. The world of motorsport has lost one of its most visionary players. To his wife and children, I send my most affectionate thoughts. Rest in peace François. "

Since the announcement of François Castaing's death yesterday, tributes have been pouring in, demonstrating the leading role he played in the automotive industry.