The qualifying format for the 24 Hours of Le Mans has been shaken up in favour of a new 'Hyperpole' format, which will be introduced from 2020.
Organisers of the world-famous endurance event have taken the decision to move away from the traditional three sessions – which spanned several hours – to just two significantly shorter sessions, with the idea of spicing up the on-track action prior to the weekend's race.
A 45-minute session on Wednesday will take place from 23:15 to 00:00, and the grid will be settled in all four classes in all positions below sixth place.
Thursday's new 'Hyperpole' session will take place at 21:00-21:30 and last for just 30 minutes and the 24 cars – the top six from each class – will be permitted to take to the La Sarthe circuit to compete for pole position.
Teams will have a free choice of tyres within their race allocation during the session, but drivers will not be allowed to return to the pits at any time while the session is in progress.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, said: “It’s all change at the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans. With this new qualifying format and the Hyperpole showdown for the fastest 24 competitors – six from each of the four classes – we are guaranteeing two exciting sessions for both drivers and spectators, where all the focus will be on sheer speed in a quest for the perfect lap.
“Adrenaline, suspense and concentration will be at a max for every team out there. It will be a thrilling prelude to the ensuing 24-hour battle on our iconic 13km track. Le Mans will once again be a celebration of racing that goes on for several days, and not just a weekend.”
