ACO Pays Tribute to Ferdinand Piech

The Automobile Club de l’Ouest has paid tribute to renowned engineer and business magnate Ferdinand Piech, who died on Sunday at the age of 82.

Alongside his endeavors at the top of the Volkswagen Group, Piech was a notable high-level figure in Porsche’s motorsport division from the 1970s onwards.

After joining Porsche in 1963, Piech worked on several racing projects including the Porsche 917, which took consecutive 24 Hours of Le Mans victories in 1970 and 1971.

He joined the VW group in 1972, working for Audi and playing an instrumental role in developing the four-wheel-drive Audi Quattro Group B world rally car.

In 1993, Piech became the boss of VW and oversaw the group’s acquisition of the Porsche, Bugatti, Seat, Lamborghini and Bentley brands in subsequent years.

He was honored for his contribution to sports car racing in 2001 when he served as the official race starter at Le Mans.

ACO president Pierre Fillon said, “Ferdinand Piech was a strong-willed, ingenious figure and a true personality of the motoring world. He enjoyed a stellar career in the fields of motorsport and business.

“As racing team boss and captain of industry, he has left an indelible mark on the history of our sport and our race.

“His passing brings home the value of his contribution. On behalf of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, I present my most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”