24h Le Mans
The Fan Wall that gives ACO members the chance to be a part of the 24 Hours of Le Mans was officially unveiled at 9 o’clock this morning. Any member can have their engraved name plaque displayed alongside those of the most illustrious drivers.
“This wall symbolises the return of our fans,” said ACO President Pierre Fillon at the official opening of the fan wall behind the Georges Durand members' grandstand (T17).
Fans who add their name to the wall will also be helping Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque, a charity that has been a partner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans for more than a decade. “Part of your contribution will help to treat a child with a heart condition,” underlined Pierre Fillon.
Charity director Orso Chetochine explained why this type of initiative is so important. “We have already saved 82 children who were born with heart malformations in countries that don’t have the facilities to treat them. We are always welcomed throughout the year, and people really try to support us.”
Nine-times 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen also attended the inauguration where he received a replica of his plaque. “This wall belongs to the fans. Things were very complicated last year, but the ACO still organised the race. It’s great to have the spectators back, and the way everyone has pulled together over the last two years shows that we can all move forward, together.”
Members of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest can order their plaque now, engraved with their name and the date they joined Club ACO. Each plaque costs €40, with €5 going to Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque. For an additional €40, a replica of your plaque in a display case will be delivered to your home.
Want to see your name on the wall? Click here!
