Jean Ragnotti, born in 1945 in Pernes-les-Fontaines, France, was one of the most exciting and beloved rally drivers of the 1980s. Known for his flamboyant driving and infectious personality, Ragnotti made his name piloting agile Renaults on tight and twisty European roads. While not a full-time WRC championship contender, he was a consistent threat on tarmac rallies, particularly Monte Carlo and Corsica, where his sideways antics and precision braking brought massive fanfare.
Ragnottiās success helped establish Renaultās rallying credentials during the 1980s and turned him into a national icon.
Few drivers have been as closely associated with a car as Ragnotti was with the Renault 5 Turboātogether, they defined French rallying flair.
Ragnotti was pure entertainmentāflicking his car sideways through hairpins, diving under braking, and thrilling spectators wherever he went. His style wasnāt just for show; it was incredibly effective on asphalt. While others aimed for optimal lines, Ragnotti used body language and balance to dance through corners. His legacy lies not in championships, but in unforgettable moments that defined rallyingās theatrical side in the 1980s.
Ragnotti partnered closely with co-driver Jean-Marc AndriĆ© early on and later with Pierre Thimonier. Their smooth delivery of pace notes and ability to adapt to Ragnottiās instinctive style made them one of the most synchronized crews in French rallying. Their teamwork was essential in tight tarmac rallies where timing and rhythm were everything.
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