TGR Staff - Photos by 24 Hours of Le Mans - 06/11/2023
In a historic event, Ferrari made a triumphant return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans after a 50-year absence, toppling the formidable Toyota in the centenary running of the world's most iconic sports car race. The last time Ferrari competed at Le Mans was in 1973, but this year they participated in the new hyperclass category, which showcases hybrid technology.
The introduction of the hyperclass was the result of a rules convergence that allowed competitors from the top sports car series in the United States, IMSA, to join the race at Le Mans. This convergence also provided automakers with an enticing platform to showcase their street car technology.
Ferrari meticulously developed its program over several years, following a strategy similar to that depicted in the film "Ford v Ferrari." The two-car Ferrari effort, competing in the World Endurance Championship, aimed to dethrone the dominant Toyota Gazoo team, which had enjoyed a five-year winning streak in the twice-round-the-clock race.
Prior to the race, Toyota faced a setback when race officials controversially adjusted the "balance of performance," adding extra weight to the dominant GR010s. Despite this advantage, Ferrari, with its pair of 499Ps, seized the opportunity and dominated the qualifying sessions, securing the front row. They successfully handled every challenge thrown at them by Toyota. Ferrari's chances were further bolstered when Kamui Kobayashi crashed out of the race, leaving Toyota with only one car against Ferrari's two.
Despite repairs taking roughly 3 minutes, it wasn't enough time to aid Chip Ganassi Racing, the American team representing IMSA at Le Mans. This year marked the first time IMSA's top class was granted participation at Le Mans, thanks to the new hyperclass. Cadillac, represented by Ganassi, and Porsche, with Roger Penske at the helm, made their return to both IMSA and WEC, aiming to conquer the few races missing from Penske's illustrious list.
The introduction of the hyperclass sparked significant interest from manufacturers, contributing to a sold-out crowd of over 300,000 spectators at the sprawling 8.467-mile (13.626 km) Circuit de la Sarthe.
As for the Ganassi Cadillacs, they were running third and fourth when Hirakawa's spin dashed their hopes of a repeat victory. Toyota executed flawless pit stops, leaving no opportunity for the Cadillacs to gain ground. Ultimately, the WEC team of Earl Bamber, Alex Lynn, and Richard Westbrook secured the final spot on the podium, with the IMSA team of Sebastien Bourdais, Renger van der Zande, and Scott Dixon finishing fourth.
Ferrari's second car crossed the finish line in fifth place, just ahead of the leading Porsche from Team Penske. Unfortunately, Penske's other two cars had early retirements.
One of the Cadillacs, fielded by Action Express Racing, crashed on the first lap and was never in contention. This team, supported by IMSA and NASCAR owner Jim France, successfully brought a stock car to Le Mans to represent the American series on its 75th anniversary season.
NASCAR made a return to Le Mans this year with a version of its second-year Next Gen car, the "Garage 56" Camaro, fielded by Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet, and Goodyear. The goal was initially to finish the race and showcase
NASCAR's presence, as the winningest team, manufacturer, and tire supplier in NASCAR's 75-year history, attracted attention. The "Garage 56" Camaro, led by Chad Knaus, exceeded expectations. Until a brake issue occurred with about five hours remaining, there was a thrilling possibility that the lineup of seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson, 2009 Formula One champion Jenson Button, and former Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller could beat the entire 21-car GTE AM field.
Although the brake issue dashed their hopes, the car persevered. It underwent a gearbox change but managed to complete the distance and cross the finish line, triggering a well-deserved champagne celebration for the NASCAR effort.
Finishing 39th in the 62-car field, the Camaro secured 10th place among the GTE cars, an impressive achievement for the NASCAR project. The "Garage 56" entry, representing innovation and exploration, seldom completes the race, making this accomplishment all the more significant.
_websize.jpg)
