24h Le Mans
Today, Tuesday 14 June, spectators have access to the pit lane where the drivers will be available for autographs. Later in the day the village of Ruaudin is holding the successful Les R’Hunaudières event for the second year running.
The sixty competitors for this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans have left the clamouring crowds in the city centre and are now back at the circuit where teams are busy working on the finishing touches before the first practice session starts on Wednesday at 16:00.
Audi, Toyota and Porsche undergo scrutineering
Some checks for LM P1 cars i.e. the Porsche 919 Hybrids, Toyota TS 050 Hybrids and Audi R18s have to be completed at the circuit rather than in town and will take place today.
Official photo 10:30-10:45
The official photo of the 180 drivers is scheduled for 10:30 on the pit straight. Before the photo session, race officials Eduardo Freitas and Patrick Morisseau will brief drivers.
Scrutineering for Road to Le Mans and the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli
Officials will then check entrants for the Road to Le Mans support race between 13:30 and 18:00. These LM P3 cars will then join the other classes in the paddock at the circuit.
Last opportunity for reconnaissance
Drivers have a last opportunity to walk or cycle around the 13.629km between 15:00 and 17:00 and will then be available for autographs.
Official autograph session 17:00-18:30
Later in the afternoon, the pit lane is opened to the public. Fans queue up in front of each garage, eager to see their favourite team, driver or car. All general enclosure ticket holders are invited to this session. This is the second opportunity for fans to get close to the drivers. Many go away with signatures on everything - photos, posters, caps, t-shirts... even on skin. Anything goes! Whatever the weather, the atmosphere is always friendly and warm.
Les R’Hunaudières in Ruaudin 16:00-23:00
The day will end with a relaxed evening: the second edition of the R’Hunaudières, the fringe event organised by the village of Ruaudin. A host of Italian cars plus several Alpines will be on display at the event near the famous Mulsanne Straight 16:00-23:00. There are stands, eateries, exhibitions and entertainment plus an award ceremony for the track marshals, the whole set to music and with a laid-back atmosphere.
Photo: Trackside at the 24 Hours of Le Mans - French driver Frédéric Mackowiecki (left) and New Zealander Earl Bamber will be sharing the wheel of the #92 Porsche 911 RSR in the GT class.
