FIA President at the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the First Time

France, 11 June 2023

As the centenary 24 Hours of Le Mans race begins, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with CEO of Stellantis Group Carlos Tavares, French Minister of Sports Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, and M. Akio Toyoda who will drive the Toyota Hydrogen car during the Hydrogen event at Maison Blanche Le Mans Track. Ben Sulayem discussed various motorsport events with his counterparts, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans race itself.

Following his meetings, Ben Sulayem commented: “I’m very excited to finally attend what I believe is one of the biggest and greatest motorsport events ever. Without the 24 Hours of Le Mans, motorsport wouldn’t be the same, and some of the most iconic cars wouldn’t have even been built. Innovation has always been part of Le Mans’ DNA, which also combines heritage with the future of endurance racing.”

Ben Sulayem added: “Both Le Mans and the whole FIA World Endurance Championship are enjoying a great period of growth. Of course, I can’t speak about Le Mans and WEC without mentioning the Hypercar class, which really came of age this year with the strongest entry to date, right on time for the race’s 100-year celebration.

To have 16 cars from 7 brands is impressive; it means that the Hypercar technical platform is relevant to manufacturers. This also stands as solid proof to the redevelopment of WEC’s regulatory foundations, a joint effort between the FIA and the ACO over the last couple of years.”