The ACO has announced that Kazuki Nakajima, three-time winner of the 24 Hours of the Mans with Toyota, will be the grand marshal for this year’s running of the French endurance classic next month.
Nakajima, who currently serves as vice chairman of Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe following the conclusion of his professional driving career, will wave the flag at the start of the 92nd edition of the race on Saturday June 15th at 16:00.
In addition, the ACO has revealed that Deborah Mayer has been awarded the Spirit of Le Mans trophy, which “honours the men and women who embody the values of endurance racing: involvement, commitment, teamwork and sporting endeavour.”
This award recognises Mayer’s work as the founder of the Iron Dames project and the president of the FIA Commission for Women in Motorsport, a position she filled from 2022 to 2023.
“I am extremely honoured to welcome Deborah Mayer and Kazuki Nakajima. I would like to express my sincere thanks to these two people who have contributed so much to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and to motorsport. Together they exemplify perseverance, achievement and a passion for endurance,” said Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest.
“Kazuki Nakajima stands out as one of the rare drivers to have claimed three consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Meanwhile, Deborah Mayer has been at the forefront of a unique project with Iron Dames, sparking inspiration across the paddock and achieving remarkable success, culminating in Sarah Bovy, Rahel Frey and Michelle Gatting’s FIA World Endurance Championship win at the 8 Hours of Bahrain at the end of 2023.”
