Ever the gentleman, Martin Birrane managed to integrate his keen passion for motorsport into his business activities. He competed in many disciplines in a career spanning more than forty years. He raced at the 24 Hours of Le Mans ten times between 1973 and 1988, winning the GT class at the wheel of a BMW M1 in 1985. In July 2007, his final competition saw him drive a Lola T70 MK3B. 
This car was particularly dear to him as he became the boss of Lola Cars in 1997. His company was a shining light in the automotive world. He had also been the immensely proud owner of the Mondello Motor Racing Circuit in Caragh, in his country of birth – Ireland. This FIA-approved track is home to British Superbike, British Touring Car Championship and FIA Sportscars events. 

Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, paid this tribute: “We have lost a man who worked tirelessly for fifty years in motoring and motorsport. Martin Birrane was a driver, team boss, carmaker and circuit owner. He knew every facet of a motoring world for which he held such passion. It is a very sad day. My warmest thoughts and sincere condolences go to his family and loved ones.”