This week I’m writing to you from 38,000 feet as I head across the Atlantic en route to France for the 100th Anniversary running of the 24 Hour Le Mans. I’ve journeyed to the Circuit de le Sarthe many times during my career, initial years as a competitor on the OEM side and most recently representing IMSA; this year is somewhat unique as I’m doing both!
In a few short days, we’ll see the Garage 56 Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – which is entered in the “Innovation car” class – presented alongside all the new generation LMDh/LMH prototypes and GT cars at the Place de la Republique as the scrutineering commences.
Getting the No 24 car ready to race Le Mans has required a massive collaborative effort with NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet, Goodyear, and IMSA. I’m excited to see our team and all-star driver line-up – Jimmy Johnson, Mike Rockenfeller, and Jenson Button – take to the start line on Saturday, June 11th.
Ed Bennett, IMSA CEO, and I will also be reconnecting in person with our colleagues and close partners Frederic Lequien, WEC CEO, and Pierre Fillon, ACO President. Our 2023 seasons – FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship – have so far exceeded all expectations. Fans worldwide are being entertained by the new Hypercars and GTP cars delivering highly competitive racing. We’ll see examples of cars from both classes competing at Le Mans this year. It’s a very special and exciting time for endurance sportscars racing globally.
Collaboration between our race organizations creates a partnership ecosystem benefiting all. The convergence of specifications resulted in lower costs, and the chance to race the same car on both series has enticed manufacturers to the sport. Today, combined, we enjoy commitment from an unprecedented twelve manufacturers.
On se voit à la piste
John