Rolex and the 24 Hours of Le Mans Welcome the Next 100 Years of Racing - Speedway Digest

On Saturday 15 June at 4.00 p.m. local time, 186 drivers across 62 cars will contest motor sport’s legendary race against the clock, the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 2024, the event marks its 101st year, heralding the next century of excellence at the world’s oldest and most prestigious endurance race. Rolex has supported the 24 Hours of Le Mans as the Exclusive Major Partner and the Official Timepiece since 2001, recognizing the intrinsic qualities that are required for this challenge: durability, dedication and exceptional performance. As the weekend’s action commences at Circuit de la Sarthe, the Rolex countdown clock will bear witness to the most exhilarating 24 hours on the motor sport calendar.

Jenson Button, a Rolex Testimonee and the 2009 FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion, returns to the 24 Hours of Le Mans next weekend. Looking ahead to the event, he says:

“I’m thrilled to have joined Hertz Team JOTA for the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year. It’s an incredible opportunity for me to be part of a team with racing spirit at its heart. I believe that we have a fantastic chance of competing for the podium at Le Mans.”

Reflecting on the Swiss watchmaker’s long-term support of the contest, Button continues:

“In motor sport, time is of the essence. Whether looking at lap times, counting down the hours or preparing for your next shift, you are always watching the clock. It makes complete sense that Rolex is deeply entwined with the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The race is very special to me as it’s so renowned and closely connected to Rolex.”

The evolution and growing popularity of endurance racing worldwide has attracted new automotive manufacturers to the top class, the Hypercar category, including Alpine, BMW and Lamborghini, alongside defending champion, Ferrari. This expansion has also drawn an experienced and diverse driver line-up, who are captivated by the allure of this ultimate test of skill and stamina. Ahead of the main event, spectators will experience a world-first preview of the H2 category hydrogen protoype vehicles as part of MissionH24, aligning with the race’s long-term commitment to zero-emission mobility. The pioneering H2 category is set to challenge the supremacy of the Hypercar category into the future, championing the highest standards of engineering and environmental stewardship.

Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen, the record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, reflects on the changing landscape of the sport, a decade since he retired from endurance racing. He says:

“The new manufacturers joining the grid in 2024 encourage healthy competition among returning teams and drivers, while attracting an even bigger audience. The more high-profile car brands participating will ultimately inspire more world-class racing at Le Mans. It’s amazing to see the sport gaining greater momentum and recognition globally because of the event. The 24 Hours of Le Mans has always attracted drivers from all areas of motor sport and continues to do so in this new century.”

After a relentless twice-around-the-clock race, the triumphant drivers at the 24 Hours of Le Mans will grace the podium and have their legacy etched onto the winners’ trophy. In recognition of their unwavering commitment and quest for excellence, they will also be awarded a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, one of the greatest accolades in motor sport.

Rolex PR