Major Changes Unveiled for 24 Hours of Le Mans: Dunlop Bridge to Be Replaced
The iconic Dunlop Bridge, a hallmark of the Circuit de la Sarthe since 1923, will be replaced as part of significant renovations announced by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) in collaboration with Goodyear ahead of the 94th annual 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The new spectator bridge, featuring Goodyear branding, will take the place of the Dunlop Bridge, which has been an enduring presence at every edition of the race. This transition comes after the recent sale of the Dunlop brand in key markets to Sumitomo Rubber Industries, effectively reestablishing Dunlop as a global rights holder.
In addition to the bridge, a comprehensive renovation of the Goodyear Racing Club situated at the end of the pit straight is planned. The Goodyear Grandstand adjacent to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum will also undergo updates.
Goodyear has played a crucial role in endurance racing, having rebranded Dunlop tyres to Goodyear in the FIA World Endurance Championship’s LMP2 category starting in the 2019-20 season. Since then, it has secured contracts to be the sole tyre supplier for both LMP2 and LMGT3 categories in the WEC and European Le Mans Series.
To commemorate the legacy of the Dunlop Bridge, the ACO and Goodyear will donate a ‘heritage collection’ of memorabilia to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum, preserving its historical significance for future generations.
Stéphane Andriolo, Head of Clients and Events for the ACO, stated, “Le Mans is more than a race – it’s a global celebration of motorsport heritage and innovation. With these new developments, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike.”
Xavier Fraipont, Goodyear Vice President of Global Racing, emphasized the importance of Le Mans in the company’s racing legacy, saying, “As we celebrate 45 years of the Eagle brand and 60 years since our first Le Mans win, we’re proud to deepen our partnership with the ACO. The enhanced brand presence reflects our future-focused strategy and passion for innovation in racing.”
These transformative changes aim to elevate the spectator experience while honouring Le Mans’ rich heritage.
