Ferrari chairman John Elkann has been named as the starter for the 89th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Elkann will wave the French tricolor to signal the start of the twice-around-the-clock enduro on August 21.
Last year, the ceremonial role was taken up by Carlos Tavares, CEO of automotive firm Stellantis.
“To wave the flag that starts the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the world’s iconic motor races, is a truly exceptional privilege and one filled with emotion for me,” said Elkann. “Le Mans is much more than a challenge of mechanical endurance. It is a unique space in time that recalls some of the greatest racing rivalries of the past, and creates new tales and legends every year it is run.
“Ferrari’s history, that also binds us to these 24 hours, is one of passion, excitement and success at Le Mans that began in 1949. But above all, it is a story of innovation, technological daring and dramatic sporting challenge at the very highest level.
“All of which also explains our recent decision to bring Ferrari back to the Hypercar class and to Le Mans in 2023. This year’s eagerly awaited race welcomes back the fans whose presence is so fundamental to its magic.
“I would like to thank the Automobile Club de l’Ouest for its incredible work and of course for this exceptional privilege of starting the 24 hours of 2021.”
Ferrari remains one of the most successful manufacturers to ever race at Le Mans, scoring nine overall victories between 1949 and 1965.
It will return to top class competition at Le Mans in 2023 with its Le Mans Hypercar programme.
“I’d like to thank John Elkann for his commitment to this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans,” said ACO president Pierre Fillon. “Given the all-round jubilation witnessed when Ferrari announced its return, it is particularly fitting that he should start the race. Having manufacturers as prestigious as Ferrari join the Hypercar class signals a glittering future for endurance racing.
“I’m extremely honoured that John Elkann will be starting the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year as we welcome fans back to the circuit.”
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