A LOOK BACK AT THE REMPARTS CIRCUIT'S RECORD-BREAKERS

The Circuit des Remparts in Angoulême, France, is a historic street racing circuit that has attracted drivers from all over the world since its inception.
Over the years, numerous records have been set on this prestigious circuit, showcasing the speed, skill and talent of some of the world’s best drivers.
Here’s a list of the current record holders on the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, along with their respective records.

  1. Jean-Pierre Beltoise: Fastest lap time.
    The French driver set this record in 1972 with a lap time of 1 minute and 37 seconds.
  2. Jackie Ickx: Number of consecutive victories.
    The Belgian driver won the race several years in a row, setting an impressive record for the number of consecutive victories.
  3. Alain Prost: Total distance covered over the years.
    The French driver has taken part in numerous races on the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême over the years, covering a record total distance for a single driver.
  4. Mario Andretti: Number of cars finishing the race.
    The American driver took part in numerous races on the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, with a record number of cars finishing the race under his direction.

These talented drivers are legends in the world of motor racing, and their records at the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême will forever be etched in racing history.
They are a source of inspiration to current and future drivers, who seek to surpass their performances to establish their own mark in motor racing history.


THE CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS D'ANGOULEME UNVEILS ITS 2024 POSTER AT RETROMOBILE

A loyal supporter of the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, for which he designed the poster for the fiftieth anniversary of the event, once again this year Dingo has agreed to lend his talent, creativity and sensitivity to the legendary race.

The 2024 Circuit des Remparts poster is the brainchild of this brilliant photographer, who produced a total of five visuals for this edition.
Each one highlights the unique atmosphere of the Angoulême event, and tells the story of the race within the race in a quirky yet poetic way.

Taken during the summer of 2023, in Dantean heatwave conditions, these shots, conceived without any post-production tricks, are as always with Dingo the fruit of a highly ordered and technical process.

Imbued with a spirit of generosity, they were created with the joyful complicity of the town’s residents and volunteers from the Remparts association, for an exceptional human adventure.

The visual for the 2024 poster – opposite – highlights the city of Angoulême, its cathedral, and of course its mythical ramparts, which gave the race its name back in 1939.

In a nod to the Paris-based brand that took part in the inaugural Circuit des Remparts with Maurice Mestivier, the 2024 poster is a magnificent tribute to Amilcar.

For me, the most important thing has always been the emotion felt.

The human effervescence that surrounded the shooting of the poster for this 2024 edition was particularly inspiring.”

To find out all about Goofy’s world: https://www.dingophoto.fr/

Jean-Marc Laffont, President of the Association du Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême: “I’m delighted that Dingo has agreed to design this new poster. He knows better than anyone how to capture the soul of the Circuit des Remparts and convey this sporting and human adventure. Each of his photos tells this extraordinary story, which we strive to keep alive. I’d also like to thank the Chapal company, who agreed to provide us with clothing and accessories for even more authenticity, as well as the Locatoumat company, without whom the logistics of these acrobatic shots would not have been possible”.

The 2024 poster and the four other visuals proposed by Dingo are presented on the Rétromobile stand of the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, Hall 1, Allée F, Stand 071.

You can download the 2024 visuals at this link.

Press releases for the 2023 edition are available at this link and a selection of photos © Agence Austral at this link.


Dingo: “Above and beyond creativity, I always try to incorporate the human element into my stagings.
That’s what makes my photos unique and inimitable, making those who see them smile or move them.


THE REMPARTS CIRCUIT: A PASSION TO BURN!

I’m having the most incredible experience of my life at the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême.
I’m surrounded by car enthusiasts and unique vintage cars, such as BUGATTI, Lotus, Porsche and Ferrari.
I’m stunned by the beauty and power of these mechanical marvels.
The purr of vintage engines is simply mesmerizing.
Each turn of the engine is like a journey back in time, reminding me of a time when technology was less complex but just as exciting.
The smell of burning oil, the sound of speed and the roar of the engines send shivers down my spine.

“The Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, where passion for classic cars meets the adrenaline of racing, is where automotive history is experienced in person.”

JC Vincent

The race atmosphere is electric.
The drivers are focused and determined, and the crowd is excited by every lap.
I can feel the adrenaline in the air as the cars roar around the circuit.
I’m amazed by the performance of the cars and drivers, and I’m proud to be part of this crowd of enthusiasts.
I’m also impressed by the unique vehicles taking part in this race.
Each car has its own story and personality, and I’m blown away by their beauty and power.
I’m happy to be able to share my passion for cars with other enthusiasts, and I’m honored to be taking part in one of the most important events in the automotive industry.
All in all, I’m delighted to be living this unique experience at the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême.
I’m driven by a passion for cars, and I’m grateful for the chance to take part in the world’s biggest vintage car race.
It’s a day I’ll never forget, and I’m looking forward to many more exciting adventures in the automotive world.


WHY COME TO THE CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS?

Angoulême’s ramparts are considered legendary for several reasons.
Firstly, they are a remarkable example of medieval fortifications in France, dating back to the 13th century.
What’s more, their hilltop location offers panoramic views over the city of Angoulême and the surrounding countryside, making them a popular tourist attraction.
The ramparts are also associated with the famous annual “24 Heures du Mans” motor race.
Held every June, the race attracts thousands of vintage car fans from all over the world.
The ramparts of Angoulême are often used as the starting point for the race, providing an exciting spectacle for spectators.

The ramparts are also associated with the famous annual “24 Heures du Mans” motor race.
Held every June, the race attracts thousands of vintage car fans from all over the world.
The ramparts of Angoulême are often used as the starting point for the race, providing an exciting spectacle for spectators.
For classic car enthusiasts, a visit to the ramparts of Angoulême is an experience not to be missed.
In addition to the annual race, there are often vintage car shows organized in the area, making it an ideal location for vintage car enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the ramparts of Angoulême are legendary for their history, their panoramic views and their association with motor racing.
For classic car enthusiasts, a visit at least once in a lifetime is highly recommended.

  1. History: The circuit was inaugurated in 1930 and is considered one of the oldest circuits in France.
    It is considered an important part of the history of motor racing in France.
  2. Prestigious event: The Circuit des Remparts is the setting for a prestigious annual event, the Rallye des Remparts, which attracts hundreds of vintage racing cars from all eras.
  3. Exceptional setting: The circuit takes place in the streets of Angoulême’s old town, surrounded by historic architecture and monuments, making it a unique setting for a motor race.
  4. Exceptional atmosphere: The Circuit des Remparts is known for its festive, friendly atmosphere, with thousands of spectators coming to admire the vintage racing cars in action.


JUAN MANUEL FANGIO AT THE CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS

Juan Manuel Fangio, one of the greatest racing drivers in Formula 1 history, took part in the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême on several occasions during his career.
Born in Argentina in 1911, Fangio began racing in Argentina before making his debut in Europe in the 1950s.
He quickly established his reputation as one of the finest drivers of his generation, winning five consecutive world championships between 1951 and 1957.
At the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, Fangio demonstrated his talent and mastery of the track, dominating the race with style and elegance.
He amazed spectators with his speed and agility on the winding streets of Angoulême’s old town, breaking speed records and setting marks that inspired many drivers to follow in his footsteps.

“My approach to racing is like pool. If you hit the ball too hard, you go nowhere. If you handle the cue correctly, you direct it with more finesse.”J.M Fangio

Fangio was known for his calm, determined approach to racing, and his ability to get the best out of his car in the most difficult conditions.
At the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, he demonstrated these qualities on several occasions, often finishing at the front of the race despite intense pressure from competitors and difficult track conditions.
Today, Fangio is considered one of the greatest racing drivers in history, and his legacy continues to inspire the generations of drivers who follow him.
At the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, he remains a living reminder of his talent and determination, and his participation in the race is a key moment in the circuit’s history.
In short, Juan Manuel Fangio is a name synonymous with the greatness of motor sport, and his participation in the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême remains a memorable moment in the history of the race.
His talent, determination and elegance on the track inspired many drivers to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today.


2018, ARI VATANEN, THE HISTORIC RALLY DRIVER GIVES HIS IMPRESSIONS.

Ari Vatanen at Circuit des Remparts 2018!
Ari Vatanen, 1981 World Rally Champion and 1997 World Rally-Raid Champion, will be the Guest of Honor at Circuit des Remparts 2018.
The Finnish driver has agreed to accompany all of the event’s events: on Saturday September 15, he’ll take part in the International Rally at the wheel of a historic BMW, then chair the State Competition jury.
On Sunday 16, his evolutions at the wheel of a competition BMW will punctuate the various events on the circuit.

ARI VATANEN, GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE RAMPARTS: “IN LIFE, YOU HAVE TO GO FOR IT AND ACCEPT THE SLIPS”.

Jean-Marc Laffont, President of the Association du Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême, is particularly delighted by the arrival of the world champion: “It’s a great honor for Angoulême, for the Circuit des Remparts, its partners, its spectators, for all the competitors, to welcome Ari Vatanen. Ari is an extraordinary driver. He has managed, before anyone else, to win on all types of terrain, from the icy tracks of the Swedish Rally to the scorching sands of the Dakar and the asphalt of the San Remo and Monte Carlo – half tar, half ice! Not to mention his human qualities, which are as good as his record of achievements…”.
Ari Vatanen had never been to the Charente region before: “I’ve been hearing about the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême for years, but my schedule had never allowed me to make the trip. It was time to accept this invitation. I’m very happy to be able to come and breathe in vintage motoring and historic racing in Angoulême at its most authentic, festive and convivial!”.
BIOGRAPHY : Ari Vatanen, born April 27, 1952 in Tuupovaara, Finland, lives in the south of France. World Rally Champion in 1981 (Ford Escort, co-driver David Richards), he has contested 101 world events, won 527 special stages and finished on the podium 27 times, including 10 top-spot finishes, in an exceptionally long career (1974 to 2003).
He also won the Paris-Dakar four times: three with Peugeot (1987, 1989, 1990) and once with Citroën (1991).
On another front, one of his most spectacular feats was his victory (and the record for the fastest ascent) in 1988 at the Pikes Peak hill-climb in the USA, at the wheel of a Peugeot 405 T16.
His performance was captured on film in Jean-Louis Mourey’s Climb Dance.


THE HISTORY OF THE RAMPARTS CIRCUIT

The Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême is an annual motor racing event held in the streets of the old town of Angoulême, France.
This sports car race is considered one of the oldest street races in the world, dating back to the late 19th century.
The history of the Circuit des Remparts began in 1900, when motor sports enthusiasts got together to organize a car race around the ramparts of the old town.
The first edition took place in 1901 and was a great success.
Over the years, the race has attracted increasing numbers of participants and spectators, and has become a fixture in the French motoring calendar.

ARI VATANEN, GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE RAMPARTS: “IN LIFE, YOU HAVE TO GO FOR IT AND ACCEPT THE SLIPS”.

In the decades that followed, the Circuit des Remparts underwent several transformations and improvements, but its competitive spirit and historic charm endured.
In 2003, the race was included in the French hill-climb championship calendar, further enhancing its prestige and reputation.
Today, the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême is considered one of the biggest motorsport events in France, with thousands of spectators flocking to watch the race every year.
The race is a unique opportunity to see vintage and modern sports cars battle it out in the streets of Angoulême’s old town, providing a fascinating spectacle for all car enthusiasts.
In short, the Circuit des Remparts d’Angoulême is a rich and exciting tradition that dates back over a century and has retained its charm and prestige over the years.
This sports car race is a not-to-be-missed event for car enthusiasts, and a not-to-be-missed spectacle for visitors to the old town of Angoulême.