TGR StaffIn the world of high-performance automobiles, few roles carry the weight of the Bugatti Pilote Officiel. Since 2005, this title has been synonymous with excellence, entrusted to only the most skilled and passionate drivers who embody the essence of the legendary marque. For nearly two decades, Pierre-Henri Raphanel held this distinguished position, guiding customers and enthusiasts alike through the exhilarating world of Bugatti’s hyper sports cars. Now, as Raphanel transitions into a new chapter of his life, the torch is passed to Bruno Spengler, a racing champion with a storied career and an unrelenting passion for performance.
A Legacy of Excellence
For Pierre-Henri Raphanel, the role of Bugatti Pilote Officiel was more than just a title—it was a calling. A former Formula 1 driver and a competitor in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, Raphanel’s tenure at Bugatti saw him become the face of the brand’s unparalleled performance. He was instrumental in showcasing the world’s most powerful and exclusive hypercars, from the groundbreaking Veyron 16.4 to the innovative Chiron. Perhaps most notably, he piloted the Veyron Super Sport to a world-record-setting speed of 267.8 mph in 2010, cementing Bugatti’s reputation as the pinnacle of automotive engineering.
But Raphanel’s contribution went beyond speed records. He was the bridge between Bugatti and its elite clientele, offering them firsthand experiences of what it meant to command a machine engineered at the edge of possibility. His ability to communicate the soul of Bugatti, not just its mechanical prowess, made him irreplaceable. And yet, the evolution of Bugatti demands a new champion—one who can continue this tradition while ushering in a new era of performance and innovation.
Enter Bruno Spengler: A Racing Champion with a Passion for Performance
Bruno Spengler is no stranger to high-speed competition. Born in France and raised in Canada, he built a formidable career that spans over two decades, showcasing a relentless drive that aligns perfectly with Bugatti’s ethos. His journey through motorsport is one defined by dedication, skill, and an insatiable hunger for victory.
Bruno Spengler made his mark in the fiercely competitive Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM), where he spent seven years with Mercedes-Benz before joining BMW M Motorsport in 2012. Over the course of his DTM career, Spengler claimed an impressive 16 victories and 50 podium finishes, ultimately securing the coveted 2012 DTM title. His ability to dominate in one of the world’s most grueling racing series solidified his reputation as one of the best touring car drivers of his generation.
Beyond DTM, Spengler’s talent extended into endurance racing, with notable appearances at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. His adaptability and prowess behind the wheel made him an asset to any team, further enhancing his credibility as a driver who understands the nuances of performance machines at the highest level.
Now, as he takes on the role of Bugatti Pilote Officiel, Spengler steps into a world where artistry meets engineering perfection. His mission: to embody the brand’s legacy, provide unparalleled experiences to Bugatti’s discerning clientele, and play a vital role in shaping the future of the marque.
A New Era Begins with Bruno Spengler and the Bugatti Tourbillon
Spengler assumes his new role at a pivotal moment in Bugatti’s history. The unveiling of the Bugatti Tourbillon in June marked the beginning of a new chapter—one that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with the brand’s timeless commitment to craftsmanship. As Bugatti enters this new era, Spengler will be at the forefront, representing the marque at exclusive events, working with customers to explore the limits of their hyper sports cars, and contributing to the continued evolution of Bugatti’s driving experience.
His deep understanding of performance vehicles, combined with his ability to communicate the intricacies of speed, handling, and control, makes him the ideal successor to Raphanel. Whether demonstrating the Tourbillon’s capabilities on a closed circuit or guiding a client through the nuances of a Bugatti’s unparalleled engineering, Spengler is poised to elevate the Pilote Officiel role to new heights.
Honoring the Past While Driving Towards the Future
Though he may be stepping away from the driver’s seat, Pierre-Henri Raphanel remains closely connected to Bugatti. His passion for automotive excellence now extends to his company, Nations Racing Legends, where he is reviving the iconic Bugatti Type 52 as a series of exquisitely crafted art pieces. These heirloom-quality creations serve as a tribute to Bugatti’s storied history, ensuring that its legacy continues to be admired for generations to come.
For Bruno Spengler, the road ahead is as thrilling as it is demanding. He inherits a position defined by prestige and responsibility, a role where the past and future of Bugatti converge. As he dons the mantle of Bugatti Pilote Officiel, he carries forward the spirit of those who came before him while embracing the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. And for those fortunate enough to experience a Bugatti under his guidance, there is no doubt that the legacy of excellence will continue to flourish.
Bugatti has always been about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With Bruno Spengler now at the helm, the next chapter in the marque’s history promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
