NEWS
Double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso has been named as the honorary starter for Le Mans 24 this weekend. Previous starters include Ferrari boss, Luca di Montezemolo and six-time Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx.
It will be the first time in the history of the 24 Hours that the role of honorary starter has been given to an active racing driver and "shows the strong links that exist between the Automobile Club de l'Ouest and Ferrari", according to a statement from the ACO.
Reigning WEC champion and 2013 Le Mans winner Allan McNish has been named as grand marshal of the event, and will lead the grid around during the formation lap.
Corvette Racing programme manager Doug Fehan will also be honoured during 24 Hours week with a 'Spirit of Le Mans' award for his contribution to a race in which his operation has recorded seven class wins. Previous recipients of the award include Derek Bell, Henri Pescarolo, Reinhold Joest Norbert Singer, Phill Hill and Tom Kristensen.
Alonso makes Le Mans Start
Well almost...
image courtesy Octane Photographc