This weekend's Portuguese Grand Prix marks the beginning of the end of an iconic chapter in MotoGP. After more than three decades at the helm of his team, Hervé Poncharal is preparing to retire. The iconic Tech3 boss, a key figure in the paddock since 1990, will see his team come under the management of a consortium led by Guenther Steiner, former boss of the Haas Formula 1 team, starting next January.
Founded by Poncharal at the beginning of the 90's, Tech3 first made her mark in the 250cc category, winning the world title in 2000 thanks to Olivier Jacque — a consecration just one year after the start of the historic partnership with Yamaha .
En 2001, the team takes the step into MotoGP and becomes the satellite team of Yamaha until the end of 2018before embarking on a new adventure with KTM in 2019. It was with the Austrian firm that Tech3 will experience his greatest moment in the premier category: Miguel Oliveira gives the team its first two MotoGP victories in 2020, at Spielberg and then Portimão.
In addition to his role as team manager, Hervé Poncharal He was president of IRTA (International Racing Teams Association), ardently defending the interests of satellite teams and behind-the-scenes mechanics. He held this position until the beginning of the year, before handing it over to Lucio Cecchinello, team boss LCR Honda.
Hervé Poncharal: “ It will be a very moving moment. »
While the Grand Prix of Portugal, won by Tech3 in 2020, symbolizes one of the peaks of his career, Poncharal entrusted to GP One How deeply the end of this adventure affects him:
« Grand Prix racing has been my life for almost half a centuryAnd when you dedicate your heart and all your energy to a project – not just the race, but also the company and the people who make it up – So it's difficult to say goodbye. »
He also mentions his unbreakable bond with Carmelo Ezpeleta, the boss of Dorna :
"Carmelo called me several times recently and told me “You are not my friend, you are my brother.” He didn't say goodbye, because we'll see each other again. But my adventure as a team owner will end on November 16th in Valencia.. »
Poncharal He stands by his decision, but does not hide its emotional impact:
« It will be a very emotional moment. I don't mean to say it will be sad, because I've given this decision a lot of thought. I'm turning a page in my life today, but this long period could fill an entire book. I hope I'm strong enough to appear cheerful, but I know I'll be overwhelmed by powerful emotions. »
With over 30 years of continuous presence, Tech3 leaves behind a unique legacy: a 100% racing DNA, a loyalty to its human values and an essential role in the development of young talents.
The passing of the torch to Guenther Steiner opens a new chapter for the team, but the name ofHervé Poncharal will forever be associated with the spirit of MotoGP: that of enthusiasts, builders and dreamers.
