Le Mans 24 Hours: the biggest challenge

The Le Mans 24 Hours has been a motorsport legend for decades and the 72nd running of the race, from June 12-13, should be no less of a classic. After the extensive test sessions carried out during practice, teams and drivers are now ready to race on this uniquely demanding track. Added to the circuit's length and complex design is the challenge of the race's duration. For 24 consecutive hours the concentration of every driver, plus the durability of tyres and mechanical components, will be tested to extreme limits. Behind the scenes, teams and tyre providers work equally hard to provide the best back-up possible to drivers and cars. The 13.6 km long La Sarthe circuit is characterised by a low-grip asphalt surface, which leads to a relatively low tyre wear rate even at high temperatures. On the other hand, the massive race duration frequently leads to punctures caused by debris and damaged bodywork, especially on the 'dirty' side of the track. Pirelli will provide its teams with the new P Zero tyres tried out at the recent Le Mans test weekend, to ensure maximum grip and consistency both in the warmth of the day and in the frequently low temperatures at night. During this unique endurance race, the reliability of tyre structure and compound is paramount. Pirelli P Zero-equipped teams confirmed for the Le Mans 24 Hours: Le Mans Prototype 2 category: Intersport Racing - 1 Lola Judd W. Binnie, C. Field, R.Sutherland Le Mans GTS category: Barron Connor Racing - 2 Ferrari 575 Maranello John Bosch, D. Sullivan, T. Biagi, M.Hezemans, A.Barde, J.Deletraz