WEC: 2022 Le Mans schedule revealed
With the 90th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans returning to its usual mid-June slot, the event is once again set to begin with scrutineering taking place at Place de la République in the city centre of Le Mans
Following technical and administrative checks, the first track action of the event will commence during the Test Day, held on Sunday 5 June.
The race week will feature the return of the popular pit walk, which is planned for Tuesday, with practice sessions kicking off the following day and the Hyperpole session scheduled for Thursday evening. The 2022 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans will start at 16:00 on Saturday 11 June.
The full circuit will remain open (and therefore the roads will be closed) from Wednesday until after the race on Sunday. The new procedure has the backing of local authorities and communities who are conscious that the event contributes greatly to the local and regional economy.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, said: “Back to normal at last! After two years of health and safety restrictions, the 24 Hours of Le Mans returns to our preferred midsummer slot, with a packed schedule. I am delighted to say that we will back in town for scrutineering and that fans will be welcome trackside. It’s going to be great to see everyone again. We are looking forward to spreading our passion for endurance racing far and wide.”
Richard Mille, FIA Endurance Commission President, said: “The last couple of years have been challenging for motor sport and events that offer a unique experience to the fans, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, suffered the most. Therefore, I’m pleased that this year’s edition will see the return of the traditional pre-event activities in the centre of the Le Mans old town. With this great race celebrating its 99th birthday, the timing couldn’t have been better. This coincides well with all of the positive developments we currently witness in the FIA World Endurance Championship.”
Dominique Le Mèner, chair of the Syndicat Mixte du Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans (the consortium of private and public bodies in charge of managing the track), said: “Thanks to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, La Sarthe is the centre of attention in June – giving us the chance to show the world what we have to offer. The Sarthe department holds a 50% share in the Syndicat Mixte, which invests heavily in the upkeep of the circuit to ensure that our race continues to merit its reputation as the world’s best. I am pleased to see scrutineering and the drivers’ parade back in the streets of Le Mans. Local people take great pride in their race and these events bring joy to many – as the sea of happy faces always proves.”