2023-06-05 17:33:54
The centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans is already an event that goes beyond the framework of motorsport. It is even more so since Monday and the announcement just made by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), the historic organizer of the event. This Saturday, at 4 p.m., LeBron James will be the “starter” of the race. It is he who will have the privilege of lowering the French flag signifying the start, in front of crowded stands.
Legend of basketball and world sport, the player of the Los Angeles Lakers will give the start to the 62 crews in the running. “There is nothing like seeing and experiencing the sport at its highest level, says the four-time NBA champion in the ACO press release. It is an honor for me to participate in this historic moment in motorsport and to contribute to the celebration of the centenary of one of the greatest sporting events in the world. I can’t wait to get this iconic race started and see the world-class drivers go head-to-head on the iconic Le Mans track. »
Every year since 1949, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest has entrusted a personality with the task of lowering the tricolor flag at the start. We can cite pell-mell Brad Pitt (2016), Rafael Nadal (2018), Alain Delon (1996), but also Georges Pompidou (1972) or Steve McQueen (1971), main actor of the eponymous film shot the year before.
He has a collection of beautiful cars
“I am delighted to welcome LeBron James on the occasion of this centenary, and thank him very sincerely for accepting the role of starter, says Pierre Fillon, president of the ACO. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is known throughout the world and has, in its history, always welcomed big names from all walks of life. LeBron James is a true sports legend and has a track record and a list of records that command admiration. We look forward to showing him the unique atmosphere that reigns on the circuit and the enthusiasm aroused by the centenary. »
Eliminated from the title race by Denver, the leading scorer in NBA history is also a great car enthusiast. Even if he does not have a team like Michael Jordan in Nascar, he shares with the legendary Bulls n°23 a collection of beautiful cars (Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce) valued at several million euros.
#Hours #Mans #LeBron #James #start #race #Saturday