Le Mans 24 Hours Entry Update: Key Insights and Developments
As the countdown to the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours commences, the latest entry list reveals significant developments among competitors and participants:
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Debuts and Notable Entries:
- RD Limited will make their Le Mans debut in the LMP2 class. The Asian Le Mans Series champions are set to solidify their presence in endurance racing.
- Garage 59, previously racing under the Inception Racing banner, is entering the event under its own name for the first time.
- Genesis Motors marks a historic entry as the first South Korean manufacturer to compete at Le Mans.
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Veteran Drivers:
- Romain Dumas, co-owner of RD Limited, prepares for his 24th start at Le Mans, with 23 consecutive appearances.
- Richard Lietz will participate in his 20th consecutive race, while Sebastien Bourdais is set for his 19th start.
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Diverse Driver Line-Up:
- The entry list showcases a mix of talent with 13 drivers having previous Formula 1 experience, including sons of former F1 racers.
- Notable entries include Giuliano Alesi, son of Jean Alesi, aiming for his debut.
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Driving Classifications:
- A significant 35 out of 62 cars will feature a non-Pro (Bronze) driver, underscoring the increasingly diverse driver pool.
- The #62 QMMF by Iron Lynx AMG is noted as the first Qatari entry in Le Mans history, further expanding the race’s global footprint.
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Technical Highlights:
- The LMP2 class boasts a robust entry with 19 cars, the largest since 2023, reflecting the continued growth of this competitive category.
- The Pro-Am classification has reached a record-high of 10 entries, matching its inaugural year.
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Gender Representation:
- Following the withdrawal of the Iron Dames team, only two female drivers, Doriane Pin and Lilou Wadoux, are currently listed.
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Team Dynamics:
- Manthey Racing aims to uphold their undefeated streak in the LMGT3 category, having claimed victories with different entries in recent years.
- Dario Franchitti, the celebrated IndyCar champion and two-time Le Mans winner, is listed as a reserve for Ecurie Ecosse Blackthorn, marking his team’s absence on a significant anniversary.
The upcoming Le Mans 24 Hours promises a compelling mix of debutants, seasoned veterans, and an expanding representation of global motorsport, setting the stage for an exciting race weekend.
