Martin Birrane competed in the Le Mans 24 Hours ten times during his career, securing a class victory in 1985. This achievement was part of a life that spanned property development and high-speed motorsport. Over several decades, he transformed personal capital into industrial stakes, most notably by acquiring a prominent British racing car manufacturer during the late 1990s.
Early Life and Business Ventures
Born in 1935 in Ballina, County Mayo, Birrane attended St Muredach's College. His primary commercial success originated in property development, managed through his firm, Peer Group. By 2011, The Sunday Times Rich List estimated the value of his holdings at €85 million, reflecting his long-term focus on real estate investment.
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Beyond his business interests, Birrane remained an active participant in professional racing. His commitment to the sport included ten appearances at the Le Mans 24 Hours. In 1990, he attempted to surpass the Irish land speed record of 294.56 km/h, which Mel Nolan had established in 1981. Driving on Dublin's unopened Westlink road, now part of the M50, Birrane attained a speed of 176 mph, or 283 km/h.
Ownership of Racing Entities
Birrane expanded his involvement in the industry through direct ownership of assets and teams. He purchased the Mondello Park racetrack in County Kildare, an FIA-certified 3.5-kilometre circuit used for both domestic and international competitions. From 1991 to 1992, he owned Team Ireland, which operated within the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. Later, in 1997, he acquired the racing car manufacturer Lola Cars, maintaining control of the business until its closure in 2012.
Fast facts
- Born: 1935, Ballina, Ireland
- Died: 9 June 2018
- Primary business: Peer Group
- Le Mans GT class win: 1985
- Lola Cars owner: 1997–2012
- Mondello Park owner: County Kildare
- Top recorded land speed attempt: 176 mph
Questions readers ask
What was the scale of Martin Birrane's business success?
The Sunday Times Rich List 2011 valued his assets at €85 million.
How long did Birrane own Lola Cars?
He owned the manufacturer from 1997 until it closed in 2012.
