Kévin Estre is a prime example for the Franco-German friendship. The clever driver with the mischievous smile is French, but has a soft spot for Germany – he even lives here. His home is in the city of Langenfeld between Dusseldorf and Cologne. After this weekend, the city with 57,000 inhabitants can boast another title-winning race driver: On Sunday, Estre won the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland at Hockenheim. “The Porsche title is a dream come true for me. I’m the happiest guy in the world,” stated Estre. The racing series, considered one of the most successful brand trophies in the world, has produced many internationally successful race drivers. In addition to Le Mans winners and endurance champions, the newly-crowned DTM Champion Mike Rockenfeller is one of them.
Estre notched up nine victories from 17 races to leave his rivals behind. In a field of about 35 vehicles, the 24-year-old golden boy posted pole position seven times. “The racing was especially tough this year. So I’m incredibly happy that I did it in the end. Motorsport is my absolute passion,” explained Estre, who is not afraid to show his emotions. When he crossed the finish line in Hockenheim ahead of Christian Engelhart (D/Konrad Motorsport) and Alex Riberas (E/Attempto Racing powered by Motorvision) in second and third respectively, he punched his arms into the air and cheered loudly.
Estre has contested the series for the Hanover-based squad Attempto Racing since 2011. The team principal Arkin Aka discovered the talented youngster from Lyon in the 2010 French Porsche Carrera Cup. Aka is delighted for his protégé: “Kévin simply has all the requirements for professional motorsport. I particularly value his immense technical understanding, his will to win and his indomitable fighting spirit. I’m proud that he drove for us this year. In the future we’ll hear a lot about him.” Hardly anyone prepares for racing as intensively as Estre. The professional racer undertakes a daily fitness routine which includes running, cycling, gym and badminton. “I’ve had good experiences especially with badminton. This fast sport is perfect for developing quick reactions,” says Estre. His long-term goal is a works contract. “I will do everything for this. The title might be a step towards it,” states the amiable Frenchman in fluent German with an unmistakable accent.
Aside from sport, the newly-crowned champion of the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland loves movies and good food. “As a Frenchman I love to spend time with my family and enjoy long meals with several courses. It’s a part of our culture and a piece of joie de vivre,” says Estre. On the occasion of his title victory, there will undoubtedly be a large celebration with friends. Bon appétit.
