LE MANS, France – In light of the changing health situation related to the coronavirus and the latest government guidelines, the 88th 24 Hours of Le Mans has been postponed until Sept. 19-20.
Restrictions are currently in force in France and other countries around the world to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Consequently, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest decided, in conjunction with the Féderation Internationale Automobile and the World Endurance Championship to push back the event after it was originally set for June 13-14.
“Postponing the 24 Hours of Le Mans from its original dates in June is now the most appropriate way forward in the current exceptional circumstances,” said Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest. “First and foremost, I urge everyone to avoid putting themselves, their loved ones and others at risk. The most important thing today is to curtail the spread of this virus. Our thoughts go out to medical staff working relentlessly for the sake of us all.
“The postponement of the 24 Hours of Le Mans means making changes to the WEC and ELMS calendars, and we shall announce the new dates shortly,” Fillon continued. “The safety and quality of our events will not be compromised. Competitors, sponsors, fans, media, medical services and organizers – it is time to pull together, more than ever before.”
The postponement of the 24 Hours of Le Mans will affect the FIA WEC calendars, and the revised dates will be communicated shortly.
The European Le Mans Series, Michelin Le Mans Cup and Ligier European Series calendars will also be updated accordingly.
“It is the right decision to delay in light of the current situation,” noted Gérard Neveu, the CEO of the World Endurance Championship and the European Le Mans Series. “We are now working on revising our WEC and ELMS calendars for the remainder of this season, and for the WEC’s ninth season, which was due to start in September.
“We will return in the coming days with more news for both the FIA World Endurance Championship and the European Le Mans Series.”
Fans who have already bought tickets can use them on Sept. 19–20 with no exchange required. If necessary, fans will be able to request a refund by using the linked form.