Short Description:
The Le Mans 24 Hours will see significant changes to its qualifying format in 2025, promising more competitive sessions for Hypercars, LMP2, and LMGT3 categories.
Read Time:
3 minutes and 30 seconds
Main Article:
The 24 Hours of Le Mans, an iconic endurance race, is set to revamp its qualifying format starting in 2025. Event organizer, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), has announced significant changes that aim to enhance competition among various classes of cars, particularly the top-tier Hypercar category, LMP2, and LMGT3 entries. This new format includes a split qualifying session for the first time, providing a fresh approach to determining which cars will progress to the coveted Hyperpole shootout.
Previously, all participating cars would qualify simultaneously in a single one-hour session. However, beginning in 2025, the ACO will implement two distinct 30-minute sessions. Here, the fastest 15 Hypercars will qualify for Hyperpole, alongside the 12 quickest entries from the LMP2 and LMGT3 classes. This modification is designed to allow each class to showcase its capabilities more clearly and create a more structured competition format. As fans look forward to the race, they’ll witness the skill and speed of each class in a competitive environment that encourages the best performance.
Also noteworthy in the revamped format is the introduction of distinct Hyperpole sessions for different classes. LMP2 and LMGT3 will once again be separated from the Hypercars, with both categories having a two-phase knockout session labeled H1 and H2—adding layers of strategy and excitement to the qualifying rounds. In the H1 session, the weakest performers will be eliminated, and the top contenders will then battle it out for ultimate pole position in the H2 phase. This structured elimination process aims to maintain tension and keep fans on the edge of their seats, reminiscent of high-stakes motorsport events.
The changes to the qualifying format are just one aspect of the ACO’s efforts to enhance fan engagement. For the upcoming event scheduled for June 14-15, 2025, the ACO has already announced plans for new grandstands, fan parks, and expanded viewing areas. Notably, the return of Mercedes to the event, marked by their partnership with Iron Lynx, and Aston Martin’s entry into the top class for the first time since 2011, reflects a growing interest in the World Endurance Championship.
Short Summary:
In summary, the Le Mans 24 Hours will feature a refreshed qualifying format in 2025, highlighted by separate sessions for Hypercars, LMP2, and LMGT3. The two-phase Hyperpole sessions are designed to enhance competition and fan engagement, with additional improvements anticipated for the event environment. This ensures that the upcoming race will be one to remember, showcasing thrilling performances from top racing teams.
