24h Le Mans
In anticipation of the February 5th press conference during which the Automobile Club de l'Ouest will reveal the entry list for the 83rd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, we will be giving you a day-to-day preview of the festivities coming in June.
Photo : Olivier BEROUD - VSA
First of all, Test Day on Sunday, May 31st, which will actually begin on Friday, May 29th.
Friday, May 29
Administrative Checking and Scrutineering
Competitors that take part in the test day undergo scrutineering in a pre-set order over two days. The checks are carried out by FIA and ACO scrutineers and take place at the circuit. Crowds flock to watch as the cars are measured one by one.
Saturday, May 30
Administrative Checking and Scrutineering
The test day is open to cars other than those invited to take part in the Le Mans 24 Hours. With so many competitors, scrutineering spans two days, much to the excitement of the spectators, who appreciate being able to see the cars at close quarters.
Official photo of the cars
Teams line up their cars entered for the Le Mans 24 Hours along the grandstand straight for the official photo. The LM P1 are in front, followed by the LM P2, LM GTE Pro and LM GTE Am.
Sunday, May 31
Test Day
Competitors can take part in an official test day two weeks before the race to get their bearings on the track. Entry is free to spectators who have tickets to the actual race. For some drivers, participation in the test day is not mandatory, for others it is imperative. Drivers who are competing in their first Le Mans 24 Hours are required to complete a minimum of 10 laps during the Test Day and undergo simulator training.
The Test Day comprises two 4-hour sessions. The sessions are timed, but admission to the race is not affected. Other than rookies, new cars (at least one car per model) and new competitors, i.e. members of teams who have never yet taken part, must also complete the Test Day. The day provides an opportunity to gauge the competition, although many keep a few tricks up their sleeves.
