The FIA World Endurance Championship’s much-anticipated stop at Le Mans this week marks a pivotal moment in the racing calendar. The 92nd edition of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off with Scrutineering in the city center this Friday.
Alpine’s Exciting Debuts and Unveils
This year, Alpine’s A424 Hypercars make their highly anticipated debut at the Circuit de la Sarthe during Sunday’s Test Day. Alpine will also unveil its A290 hot hatch on 13 June at 12:30, blending innovation and performance. Adding to the excitement, Alpine will showcase its hydrogen-powered Alpenglow Hy4, with brand ambassador Zinédine Zidane participating in the opening ceremony.
A Rich History of Motorsport Excellence
Alpine’s resurgence in motorsport began in 2013 with models like the A450, A460, A460B, A470, and A480, earning significant victories in the LMP2 category in 2016, 2018, and 2019. This accumulated expertise paves the way for Alpine’s return to the top tier of endurance racing.
Preparations and Performance Evaluation
Before facing the ultimate challenge at Le Mans, the Alpine Endurance Team evaluated their A424 Hypercar’s performance in the first three FIA World Endurance Championship races at Losail, Imola, and Spa-Francorchamps. Intensive testing at Circuit Paul Ricard, coupled with comprehensive preparations, ensured the team’s readiness for Le Mans. Ferdinand Habsburg’s return to the cockpit marked a significant step, as the team meticulously serviced their two Hypercars and prepared for every conceivable scenario.
Meticulous Inspection and Testing
Upon arriving at the circuit on Monday, the team settled into their quarters, ready for the first round of administrative and technical checks on Friday at 2:40 pm. This meticulous inspection by FIA and ACO stewards ensures compliance with rigorous standards.
Saturday’s city center procession will precede Sunday’s two three-hour Test Day sessions at the Circuit de la Sarthe. Drivers Nicolas Lapierre, Matthieu Vaxiviere, Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin will fine-tune their setups, master pit stops, and evaluate Michelin’s tyre compounds. Notably, Mick Schumacher will continue his mandatory rookie process, guided by the team’s extensive expertise.
Intense Preparations and Key Events
The pace of preparations will escalate with data analysis on Monday, followed by a public Pit-Walk on Tuesday. Wednesday’s schedule includes the first free practice session, a one-hour qualifying session, and two additional practice sessions. The high-stakes Hyperpole on Thursday will determine the top-eight grid positions in each category.
Friday’s final preparations include a night practice session and the iconic driver parade in the city center. On Saturday, a 15-minute warm-up session will precede the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, flagged off by Zinédine Zidane. Alpine aims to gain invaluable experience in this grueling race and strive for a strong finish among the 62-car field, with 23 competitors in the Hypercar category.
Showcasing Future Innovations
Throughout the event, Alpine will also highlight its future innovations with the reveal of the A290 electric hot hatch and a hydrogen demonstration featuring the Alpenglow Hy4, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainable technology and sporting excellence.
Team Principal’s Excitement
Philippe Sinault, Team Principal of Alpine Endurance Team, expressed his excitement: “We have been preparing for this moment for months, and the team’s dedication has been remarkable. Our focus is on aerodynamic balance and tyre endurance, building driver confidence for the challenging track conditions. Reliability will be key as we embark on what promises to be a defining race for Alpine.”
Timetable (CEST)
Friday, 7 June
Saturday, 8 June
- 3:30-4 pm: City Centre Procession
Sunday, 9 June
- 10 am-1 pm: Test Day
- 3:30-6:30 pm: Test Day
Tuesday, 11 June
- 2-6 pm: Pit Walk
Wednesday, 12 June
- 2-5 pm: Free practice 1
- 7-8 pm: Qualifying
- 10 pm-12 am: Free practice 2
Thursday, 13 June
- 12:30 pm: A290 Official Reveal
- 3-6 pm: Free practice 3
- 8-8:30 pm: Hyperpole
- 10-11 pm: Free practice 4
Friday, 14 June
- 4:30 pm: Alpenglow Hy4 Parade
- 4-7 pm: Driver Parade – Le Mans city centre
Saturday, 15 June
- 12-12:15 pm: Warm-up
- 12:35 pm: Hydrogen demonstration with Alpenglow Hy4 and Zinédine Zidane as passenger
- 1:30 pm: Alpine A110 parade in the presence of the Alpine A290
- 4 pm: Start of the 92nd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans given by Zinédine Zidane
Sunday, 16 June
- 4 pm: Finish of the 92nd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
