Nearly two thousand track marshals spread over one hundred and fifty posts, of which three quarters are located around the circuit, will officiate at the week of 24 hours. It is a complex organization worthy of a large company, the marshals are a large family of motor sport fans where everyone knows the rules and they apply them to the letter. Here we do take chances with safety. They work in the pit lane and around the track to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Track side, each marshal belongs to a team. In charge of each position is the “chef de poste”, with one or two assistants, handles all the details of the area that he is assigned. Flags, logistics, permanent connection to Race Control. Nothing is left to chance, drivers rely on these men and women who lurk behind piles of tyres, or guard rails. Everything is under control, observed and collated, the rules must be applied by all regardless of the situation. Once an event occurs, a report is prepared. Whether it is a pit stop or a mechanical failure or an accident on the track, every event is important. It is on these observations that decisions are taken and responses issued, such as rescue vehicles, or Safety Car for example. Race Control is the nerve centre for all information.

On the 9th of June, during the test day, it will be the dress rehearsal before the big week 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the grand finale of which is the race on the 22nd and 23rd June The pressure rises for marshals and also the feeling of belonging to a large family of friends and fellow race fans.

In this video clip, the words of a Le Mans track marshal. Commentary in French.

For more clips go to : www.lemans-tv.com

Thierry Arman / ACO