LeBron James says he is honoured to be the official starter of the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
The competition is the world’s oldest endurance race with the first event held in May 1923. It is often considered the most difficult race in the world as drivers go up against each other non-stop for 24 hours.
James will be tasked with lowering the French flag at the Circuit de la Sarthe, signalling the start of the endurance race.
The NBA’s all-time leading scorer joins a list of celebrities such as Rafael Nadal, Brad Pitt and Steve McQueen to have started the iconic race.
“There’s nothing like seeing and experiencing sports at their highest level,” James said.
“It’s an honour for me to be part of this historic moment in motorsport and help celebrate the centenary of one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
“I look forward to kicking off this iconic race and watching its world-class drivers compete on Le Mans’ global stage.”
An iconic starter for the race of the Century: #basketball player LeBron James @KingJames will be on flag duty at the@24hoursoflemans this Saturday !@NBAFRANCE #LeMansCentenary pic.twitter.com/pVWPCNyZBw
— 24 Hours of Le Mans (@24hoursoflemans) June 5, 2023
Pierre Fillon, President of Automobile Club de l’Ouest, the organising body of the Le Mans 24 Hours race, stated that he was thrilled to have LeBron start the centenary edition, drawing inspiration from the achievements and records he has set over the course of his career.
“I am thrilled to welcome LeBron James to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary and thank him most sincerely for accepting our invitation,” Fillon said.
“The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a world-renowned event that, in the past, has welcomed some great names from various fields.
“LeBron James is a true sporting legend whose list of achievements and records commands respect and admiration. We are looking forward to introducing him to the unique Le Mans atmosphere and the excitement generated by the centenary of the world’s greatest endurance race.”
The 2023 Le Mans main race will hold this Saturday through Sunday. It will however begin with four free practice sessions holding on Wednesday and Thursday. Qualifying and hyperpole will also hold on those respective days.
The trio of Sebastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa of Toyota Gazoo Racing are the reigning champions of the race.
