F1 News
Le Mans '25 date could cause headaches: Problems for drivers' calendars
- Tygo Bekkema
This weekend the 24 Hours of Le Mans is scheduled to be run, with the race starting at 16:00 on Saturday. But in the meantime, people are already looking ahead to next year. After all, the FIA have announced the calendar for the 2025 World Endurance Championship, and that caused some frowning faces. Le Mans moves into a controversial spot on the calendar.
The Le Mans 24 Hours is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of the global motorsport calendar. Organised annually since 1923, the long-distance race is a highlight of many drivers' years. In the past, the race has been won by many big names.
Everything at the same time
Although the Le Mans race is also 'just' part of the WEC, it is also a race in its own right. While it could be a blessing for fans to watch good racing for a longer continuous time, it can also cause some headaches. Many drivers from other racing classes also take part in the iconic race. This year, for example, IndyCar drivers Alex Palou and Scott Dixon are on the start line. But this, the 2025 calendar shows, will no longer be possible next year. The race will then be held on 14 and 15 June and will coincide with an IndyCar race.
Incidentally, the race also coincides with the Canadian Grand Prix. That could also pose problems, as many reserve drivers are also meant to compete at Le Mans. Some teams will then likely have to tackle this question similarly to Ferrari, where when Antonio Giovinazzi is missing, Oliver Bearman is the team's reserve driver.