The Goodyear blimp, created in the 1920s, has long been a part of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Emblematic promotional and advertising tool of the tyre manufacturer, several generations of the blimp have existed through today.

A few days before the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, the chain of events resulting from Mike Conway’s accident led to Akkodis ASP Team calling up Jack Hawksworth – 2023 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar GTD Pro champion – to stand in for José María López in the Lexus RC F GT3. Hawksworth will be back in 2025.

Jack Hawksworth&nbsp;will replace&nbsp;Ben Barnicoat for the 93rd 24 Hours of Le Mans (11-15 June 2025), with the Chesterfield-born driver still recovering from a bike accident. Hawksworth will share the wheel of the #78 Lexus RC F GT3 with Finn Gehrsitz&nbsp;and Arnold Robin. 
Last year, Esteban Masson, Takeshi Kimura and Hawksworth drove the #87 Lexus to 10th place in the LMGT3 class after entertaining hopes of a podium for a while.

The #78 Lexus RC F GT3 currently lies third in the chase for the FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGT3 Teams on the back of a fourth place in the Qatar 1812 Km and a third place in the 6 Hours of Imola.

Jack Hawksworth to replace Ben Barnicoat for Akkodis ASP Team

As a key player in the field of braking technologies, Brembo is tackling a whole range of challenges in its quest to improve the efficiency and reliability of Hypercar brakes.

The brake systems fitted to the Hypercars competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans call for specific materials that can withstand the demands of the race. While carbon-ceramic materials are used on sporty street-legal models, Hypercar brake discs are made of carbon. This element, specifically designed for racing, requires a temperature of at least 200&deg;C for optimum performance, making it inappropriate for use on everyday vehicles. Carbon-ceramic discs, however, offer road cars an excellent compromise between light weight, heat resistance and efficiency, even at lower temperatures.

<h2>Up to 1000&deg;C for brake discs</h2>

During a race like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, brake disc temperature fluctuates around 400&deg;C&nbsp;on average, but can exceed 1000&deg;C in heavy braking situations. Materials like carbon can withstand such extreme temperatures without compromising safety or braking performance.

As well as ensuring high levels of performance in its brake systems, Brembo is seeking to improve their durability throughout the 24 hours of racing. The Italian manufacturer is therefore working on developing friction materials offering lower wear rates and pioneering caliper concepts to reduce drag resistance. These innovations help maintain a high level of braking performance throughout the race, thus eliminating the need for frequent replacements and improving the car&rsquo;s overall efficiency.

<h2>Energy recovery and regenerative braking: a hybrid system</h2>

Brembo has integrated energy recovery systems (ERS) into the braking mechanism on hybrid Hypercars. On decelerating, an electric motor converts the vehicle&rsquo;s kinetic energy into electricity which is then stored in batteries for reuse. However, the electric motor alone cannot supply all the braking force required. A conventional system based on brake-by-wire technology is therefore used to supplement the action of the electric motors. This system ensures precise control of the pressure applied and optimises braking performance in all situations.

The main challenge with hybrid systems lies in striking a balance between traditional hydraulic braking and regenerative braking as energy recovery is not constant throughout the race. It depends on several factors such as battery charge and the changing cell temperature. The brake system must therefore adapt to these variations to offer constant performance and optimum durability.

<h2>Aerodynamics and brake cooling: a technological dilemma</h2>

Hypercar aerodynamics have&nbsp;a significant impact on brake cooling. Although airflow is channelled through ducts towards the brakes, it generates extra drag that can affect the car&rsquo;s top speed. The engineers must therefore find a compromise between efficient brake cooling and optimised aero performance to minimise air resistance without sacrificing braking efficiency.

To maximise brake performance throughout a stint, it is vital for drivers to be able to control disc and pad temperatures. Keeping the brakes within an optimum temperature window guarantees consistent performance and avoids the risk of overheating or failure. The drivers must also adapt their braking to race conditions and modulate the pressure to avoid premature wear&nbsp;and tear on the components.

The brake systems designed for Hypercars at the 24 Hours of Le Mans are a perfect illustration of the ingenuity and innovation that characterise motorsport. When it comes to managing extreme temperatures, improving energy recovery and resolving aerodynamic issues,&nbsp;Brembo constantly pushes the boundaries of technology&nbsp;in the quest for outstanding performance. These developments, honed through tackling the challenges of endurance racing, are finding their way into production vehicles, illustrating the direct impact of the sport on tomorrow&rsquo;s motorcars.

Brembo sheds light on 24 Hours of Le Mans Hypercar brake systems

The 93rd 24 Hours of Le Mans starts at 16:00 on Saturday 14 June. The famous race is the fourth round of the FIA World Endurance Championship. As we count down the weeks until the big day, now is the time to announce what the Automobile Club de l’Ouest has in store for spectators.

THE FUN BEGINS ON 6 JUNE 
 
The great 24 Hours of Le Mans race week kicks off on Friday 6 June with the traditional <a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/news/2025-24-hours-of-le-mans-scrutineering-schedule-59592">Scrutineering procedure</a> which spans two days. Place de la&nbsp;R&eacute;publique in Le Mans city centre is the place to be to see drivers and cars at close quarters. The procedure will close with a procession of Hypercars and other racing machines at 15:00 on Saturday 7 June. Tens of thousands of fans are expected to line the route. 
 
Sunday 8 June is Test Day, when teams try their settings and get their bearings. With the Ligier European Series race in the interval between the two free practice sessions, spectators can look forward to an action-packed day. Bonus: access to the grandstands and the support paddock is free to all ticket holders on Test Day (and Practice/Qualifying days)! 
 
TUESDAY IS FAN DAY 
 
On Tuesday 10 June, the action is beside rather than on the track. Fans can meet their idols during the pit lane autograph session, admire the teamwork in the Pit Stop Challenge, take in the sights of the ACO H2 Hydrogen and Manufacturer villages and then recuperate in one of the Fan Zones. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
HYPERPOLE: THE MOMENT OF TRUTH 
 
The track hots up on Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 June with the 24 Hours of Le Mans free practice and qualifying sessions, the Ford Mustang Challenge, Porsche Sprint Challenge and Road to Le Mans supporting fixtures and the <a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/news/don-t-miss-the-2025-24-hours-of-le-mans-hyperpole-59415">new-look Hyperpole session</a>. 
 
<a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/tickets">Book your tickets now</a> to attend the practice and qualifying sessions, including Hyperpole, and check out the stage presence of star French musicians Eddy de&nbsp;Pretto (Wednesday) and Pascal Obispo (Thursday). 
 
On the eve of the race, Friday 13 June, pedestrian and non-motorised transport access to the track will be open to the public between 15:00 and 19:00.&nbsp;

RACE DAY, THE ONE WE&rsquo;VE BEEN WAITING FOR 
 
International tennis legend Roger Federer will wave the start of the race at 16:00 on Saturday 14 June, the culmination of the starting ceremony which will include a hydrogen racing demonstration. 
 
Le Mans favourites Kool &amp; The Gang and The Avener are set to wow the crowd in the evening, followed by this year&rsquo;s 24 Hours of Le Mans Show, when music, light, and pyrotechnics create a uniquely spellbinding atmosphere to round off the day.&nbsp;Spectators will be treated to an immersive 20-minute-long onboard experience like no other. Fireworks, drones and lasers add to the splendour as time stands still. Meanwhile, on track, lap after lap, the clock ticks as the 24-hour competition plays out. 
 
At 16:00 on Sunday 15 June, the race finish marks the beginning of the celebrations and the ever-emotional podium ceremony. 
 
FESTIVITIES PLANNED THROUGHOUT THE WEEK 
 
Alongside the packed racing schedule, the 24 Hours of Le Mans experience includes a wealth of entertainment opportunities:

<ul>
	<li>Fan Zones&nbsp;(Family, Concert, East gate (Porte Est), Tertre Rouge (new), and Karting (new)), with things to do and see for all: simulators, zip lines, rock climbing, gaming, charity stands and more.</li>
	<li>The Manufacturer Village, with interactive stands by Alpine, BMW M, Ford, Genesis, McLaren, Mercedes AMG, Porsche, Toyota Gazoo and Iron Dames.</li>
	<li>The ACO H2 Hydrogen Village has two main themes this year: motorsport of the future, and hydrogen in mobility today. Hydrogen-powered endurance racing prototypes will be displayed alongside the TotalEnergies 700-bar filling station, complete with refuelling demonstrations. Visitors can also witness how hydrogen is already used in air, road and water transport.</li>
</ul>

Several <a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/news/24-hours-of-le-mans-new-spectator-vantage-points-59091">new spectator vantage points</a> have been added this year, including a hillock overlooking the Karting curves offering breathtaking views.&nbsp; 
 
The 24H EXPERIENCE app is the pocket guide to the race.&nbsp;Check what&rsquo;s on when and where and find your way there thanks to the interactive map.&nbsp;

IMPACT CHALLENGE: TAKING RESPONSIBILITY TOGETHER

This year, the ACO&rsquo;s commitment to social responsibility shifts up a gear with the IMPACT CHALLENGE. A step on from the Green Ticket, the game involves spectators in the organisation&rsquo;s Race to 2030 sustainability policy. The Impact Challenge gives new meaning to the 24 Hours of Le Mans spectator experience. Included in the 24H EXPERIENCE app, the challenge comprises 170 missions to defend the interests of the planet and those who live on it.

Start playing from 1 June and earn points until the chequered flag comes down on Sunday 15 June. Your missions (should you accept them) include entering the EngageMans quiz, answering questions from our partners or performing tasks. The more points you earn, the better your chance of winning one of the 4,000 prizes. With the 24 Hours of Le Mans Impact Challenge, passion goes hand in hand with action.

In Le Mans, 24 hours last ten days!

Genesis Magma Racing is shaping its future GMR-001 Hypercar away from the tarmac thanks to an extremely powerful simulator. Welcome to the world of virtual development, at the crossroads of endurance and innovation.

Genesis Magma Racing is set to enter the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship &ndash; and, consequently, line up at the 24 Hours of Le Mans &ndash; in the Hypercar class. The Korean manufacturer recently unveiled the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/news/genesis-magma-racing-unveils-the-livery-of-its-gmr-001-hypercar-59515" target="_blank">Genesis GMR-001</a> at the 2025 New York International Auto Show. Meanwhile, the team&rsquo;s mechanics, drivers and engineers are honing their operations by competing in the European Le Mans Series with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.24h-lemans.com/en/news/why-genesis-magma-racing-chose-idec-sport-for-its-future-in-endurance-racing-59215" target="_blank">the backing of IDEC Sport</a>.

To develop its Hypercar, Genesis is relying on advanced simulation technology&nbsp;supplied by Dynisma Ltd, the world&rsquo;s leading motion simulator designer. The aim is to generate feedback on the car and its environment that is as lifelike as possible.

&ldquo;For Genesis Magma Racing to be successful in the 2026 WEC season, we need to take every opportunity to gain experience and gather data as we develop the GMR-001 Hypercar in parallel with building the team,&rdquo; says&nbsp;Hyundai Motorsport President Cyril Abiteboul.&nbsp;&ldquo;Access to the simulator gives Genesis Magma Racing&rsquo;s engineers and drivers an important head-start in developing the GMR-001 Hypercar, putting us in the best possible position when on-track testing begins later this year.&rdquo;

Three-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and FIA World Endurance Champion Andr&eacute; Lotterer is clearly swayed.&nbsp;&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve already started working with Dynisma&rsquo;s DMG-1 simulator to support the early development of our new GMR001 Hypercar, and the level of realism is really impressive,&rdquo; says the German racer. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve worked with simulators across my career and I&rsquo;ve always been a bit sceptical, but Dynisma&rsquo;s simulator is really realistic. Because of the low latency, the feedback is immediate and natural - it feels like driving the real car. You&rsquo;re not adapting to the simulator, you&rsquo;re getting a 1:1 response that allows you to focus on true vehicle development and performance. The correlation to the real world is strong. You can feel the balance of the car, push right up to the limit, and trust the inputs. With the right vehicle model, the hardware gives us exactly what we need. It&rsquo;s a realistic and reliable tool and it&rsquo;s already an essential part of our race preparation.&rdquo;

<h2>Sights firmly on the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans</h2>

The simulator is, however, just the first leg of a long journey. After the virtual development phase, Genesis Magma Racing is planning to run its first tests in real conditions by the end of the year. The aim is to be ready for a first full season in the FIA WEC and to make its 24 Hours of Le Mans d&eacute;but.

With a brand identity reflecting innovation and sustainable performance, Genesis intends to make an immediate splash.&nbsp; The team is banking on methodical preparation, cutting-edge technology and the experience of top-notch drivers like Lotterer and&nbsp;Luis Felipe Derani to do so. Like many future rivals who have recently joined the Hypercar ranks, Genesis Magma Racing embodies this new wave of competitors who are shaping the future of endurance.

Genesis Magma Racing – how to develop a Hypercar without leaving the office

Have you always wondered how a blimp is made? This video, in accelerated time lapse, shows all the stages of the construction. Impressive...

	<img class="imgVideo" id="3068" src="/wpphpFichiers/video/3068-goodyear-s-blimp-build.jpg" />

	Thierry Arman &amp; C&eacute;cile Bonardel / ACO - Translation by Nikki Ehrhardt / ACO

24H LE MANS

24 Hours of Le Mans - The construction of the famous Goodyear blimp (video)

Related News

Jack Hawksworth to replace Ben Barnicoat for Akkodis ASP Team

Brembo sheds light on 24 Hours of Le Mans Hypercar brake systems

In Le Mans, 24 hours last ten days!

Genesis Magma Racing – how to develop a Hypercar without leaving the office

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