Always smiling, up for a laugh, but still on point when things get serious. French racing driver Jules Gounon (30) drove the MANN-FILTER Mamba in the DTM for the Mercedes-AMG Team MANN-FILTER this year. Known for his easy-going nature, his passion for racing, and his ambition, Jules can look back on a remarkable career: He is a two-time GT World Challenge Europe champion, IMSA champion, and winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona. His impressive résumé also includes two victories at the 24 Hours of Spa and three triumphs at the 12 Hours of Bathurst.
Back in 2017, he claimed the ADAC GT Masters title, marking an early highlight in his career. Six years later, he added the GT World Challenge Endurance crown to his achievements. Most recently, he completed the 2025 DTM season in ninth place overall Time to chat with Jules and review the season.
What did you particularly like about working with MANN-FILTER?
“It was my first time racing with MANN-FILTER, and I enjoyed every minute of it! The fan base is absolutely incredible. The Mamba’s design is truly unique. People will still remember the Mamba in 10 or 15 years. I spent a lot of time with the fans, signed countless autographs, and handed out merchandise. The sponsorship with MANN-FILTER is something really special, and I hope I can continue it in the future!”
MANN-FILTER stands for precision and high-quality filter products. How involved are you in the technology during a race weekend?
“Filters are extremely important in a race car. If there is no filter or the wrong one is used, it can lead to engine damage in the worst case. I’m not a technical expert—my passion is racing—but I know that MANN-FILTER has the best filters, and I trust them. I also use them in my private cars, and how cool is it that I can use my sponsor’s products in everyday life!”
How would you rate MANN-FILTER’s sponsorship compared to other sponsors?
“To be honest, there are sponsors that I wouldn’t represent with complete conviction. But MANN-FILTER is definitely one of the partners that I am very, very proud of! That makes a big difference to me. There are many well-known companies and brands, but the support of MANN-FILTER is unique in comparison.”
The yellow and green Mamba design is well known. What has been the experience with the fans? Are they purely Mamba fans, or have many of them also become Jules fans over the course of the season?
“There are real Mamba fans! Very passionate ones, in fact. They love the Mamba and have been following it for a long time. Hopefully, they have also become Jules fans over the course of the season. The interaction with fans young and old was great and gave me a lot of pleasure. I hope I was able to give something back to them and that they had a lot of fun throughout the season.”
After a successful 2025, do you already have plans for next year?
“Yes! I’ve already planned everything out. To be honest, there’s no big break for me. The details of my plans haven’t been announced yet, but I already know exactly when and where I’ll be racing. I’m currently at Paul Ricard testing for next year. I’m really looking forward to 2026 and everything the new year has in store!”
MANN-FILTER would like to thank all its partners, fans, and supporters who made this season unforgettable, and Mamba rider Jules Gounon!
