One of the most regarded tennis champions, Roger Federer, will wave the flag at the start of the 93rd 24 Hours of Le Mans on 14-15 June.
Association of Tennis Professionals ranked Federer No. 1 in men’s singles for 310 weeks, including a record 237 weeks consecutively.
The 43-year-old former player retired from professional tennis in 2022 and is one of the most accomplished players of all time with his record of 20 Grand Slam titles.
Federer said: “It’s a huge honour to have been invited to start the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an iconic but extremely gruelling race.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the commitment, precision and resilience it demands.
“Being at the heart of this emblematic event will be a remarkable experience.”
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, added: “It will be a tremendous privilege to welcome Roger Federer as the official starter of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“His influence extends far beyond tennis.
“He is a living legend, admired as much for his achievements as for his human qualities.
“His involvement will further boost the appeal of this year’s race, which is already gearing up to be outstanding.”
Icons from the sporting world have previously taken the role as starter for the Le Mans 24 Hours, including former football player Zinedine Zidane last year.
In 2023, the Centenary edition of the Le Mans 24 Hours, American basketball star LeBron James waved the flag to mark the all-important race start.
This year’s 93rd running will start on Saturday 14 June at 4pm local time before running 24 hours to the checkered flag on Sunday 15 June at 4pm.
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