Ferrari's #50 499P secured a consecutive win at the 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours, overcoming challenges including heavy rain and safety car periods. The race saw intense competition across various classes, with notable performances from Porsche and Toyota.
The 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours was marked by challenging weather conditions and fierce competition across all categories. Ferrari emerged victorious for the second year in a row with its #50 499P, driven by Nicklas Nielsen, Antonio Fuoco, and Miguel Molina, despite a late-race scare with a malfunctioning door. The event was characterized by multiple safety car periods and a record nine cars finishing on the lead lap, highlighting the intense level of competition.
The race was heavily affected by adverse weather conditions, leading to over a quarter of the event being run behind the safety car. A significant four-and-a-half-hour safety car period during the night due to rain was a critical factor, with the #50 Ferrari and the #7 Toyota GR010 Hybrid battling it out in the final stages. Despite a door issue that forced an unscheduled pit stop, the #50 Ferrari managed to maintain its lead and secure victory.
Apart from the headline-grabbing Hypercar class, the LMP2 and LMGT3 classes also saw intense competition. The #22 United Autosports ORECA clinched an unexpected victory in LMP2, while Porsche dominated the newly introduced LMGT3 class with the #91 Manthey EMA 911 GT3 R taking the win. The race also highlighted strong performances from other teams, including Toyota and Porsche, each showcasing resilience and strategic prowess.
Ferrari's victory at Le Mans, a pivotal round of the FIA World Endurance Championship, positions them strongly in the season standings. This win not only adds to their illustrious history at Le Mans but also significantly impacts the championship race. The performance of other teams, particularly Toyota and Porsche, sets the stage for a highly competitive remainder of the season, with strategies and vehicle reliability likely to play crucial roles.
The 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours will be remembered for its dramatic weather, strategic battles, and Ferrari's outstanding performance under pressure. The race not only tested the endurance and skill of the drivers but also the strategic acumen of the teams involved. As the season progresses, the results from Le Mans will undoubtedly influence team tactics and could be decisive in the championship outcomes.
"This win not only adds to our illustrious history at Le Mans but also significantly impacts the championship race." - Ferrari Team Spokesperson