After two years of absence, the 24 Hours of Le Mans will welcome back the traditional scrutineering sessions in the centre of town for the 90th edition of the French endurance classic.
For the past two years, pre-race checks of the cars were held behind closed doors at the Circuit de la Sarthe as fan access was restricted, a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For 2022, the popular event will return to the Place de la Republique in the centre of Le Mans. It takes place on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 June.
Additionally, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest has confirmed the returning of the Pit Walk sessions as part of the trackside festivities for the first time since 2019. Held on Tuesday 7 June, it offers the fans the opportunity to meet drivers and catch a glimpse of the cars.
“Back to normal at last! After two years of health and safety restrictions, the 24 Hours of Le Mans returns to our preferred midsummer slot, with a packed schedule,” said ACO president Pierre Fillon.
“I am delighted to say that we will be back in town for scrutineering and that fans will be welcome trackside. It’s going to be great to see everyone again. We are looking forward to spreading our passion for endurance racing far and wide.”
The opening practice session for the twice-around-the-clock enduro takes place on Wednesday 8 June, with the Hyperpole qualifying format set to return for the third consecutive year on Thursday evening.
The ACO has also stated that following last year’s successful experiment, it will be closing the public road section of the circuit permanently from Wednesday 8 June until the conclusion of the race on Sunday. This differs from the procedure in previous years, where the roads would be opened in between sessions.
According to the organisers, the new procedure ‘has the backing of local authorities and communities who are conscious that the event contributes greatly to the local and regional economy.’
