TATI Team Beringer Racing’s bid for Bol d’Or success was a case of what might have been after a thrilling hero to zero performance from the Kawasaki-powered privateer outfit.

Having enjoyed a brief stint in the lead during the opening hour when it capitalised on its decision to use intermediate Pirelli tyres for the rapidly drying conditions, the French team was forced to retire from the FIM Endurance World Championship season finale after 19 hours while running in an increasingly secure fourth position.

The result was poor reward for the squad and its three riders, Hugo Clere, Baptiste Guittet and newcomer Randy Krumennacher, who rode the first stint.

“We were doing really well,” said Swiss rider Krumennacher, who was competing in his first EWC race and also his first 24-hour race. “The night was tough but a real experience too. Having survived the night, we were starting to feel as if we were heading into the final stages. I finished my stint at 10h00 on Sunday and again handed the bike to my team-mate Hugo. But after a few more laps, I could see on the monitor that there was a problem. The bike was smoking and once in the hands of the mechanics, we realised the engine was broken and couldn’t be repaired.

“This was a real blow for us all because these races are incredibly intense, but they also really bring everyone who is working on the bike and supporting us together. A real pity, but this too is racing, it happens and this time it happened to us. I’m nevertheless very pleased that I took part, because it has opened my eyes to a new and interesting world.

“I want to thank TATI Team Beringer Racing, my team-mates Hugo and Baptiste, the sponsors, our supporters and everyone involved in this absolutely positive experience.”