24H of Le Mans
LeBron James, starter of the 24 2023 Hours of Le Mans!
LeBron James, NBA star, will be the starter of the Centennial edition! © 24 Hours of Le Mans
It was the last unknown for the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2023: who would be the famous Starter of the Centenary edition? The ACO just gave the answer this Monday afternoon, a few days before departure. Big surprise: it's an American basketball star who will wave the French flag on Saturday June 10, at 16 p.m. LeBron James, NBA legend and Los Angeles Lakers player, is the starter for the 91st edition of the Sarthe event.
An iconic starter for the race of the Century: #basketball player LeBron James @KingJames will be on flag duty at the@24hoursoflemans this Saturday!@NBAFRANCE #LeMansCentenary pic.twitter.com/pVWPCnyZBw
- 24 Hours of Le Mans (@ 24hoursoflemans) June 5, 2023
The ACO managed to find one of the biggest stars in world sport for this unique role during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a role that has existed since 1949. Fernando Alonso in 2014, Brad Pitt in 2016 and Rafael Nadal in 2018 took part in the exercise. LeBron James was crowned NBA champion in 2012 and 2013 with the Miami Heat, then in 2016 with the Cleveland Cavaliers then in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers. Since February 7, 2023, he is the leading scorer in NBA history.
“There is nothing like seeing and experiencing sport at its highest level. “It is an honor for me to participate in this historic moment in motorsport and to contribute to the celebration of the centenary of one of the greatest sporting events in the world,” said LeBron James. I can't wait to start this iconic race and see the world-class drivers compete on the iconic Le Mans track. »
“I am delighted to welcome LeBron James on the occasion of the Centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and thank him very sincerely for accepting the role of Starter, rejoiced Pierre Fillon, president of the ACO. The 24 Hours of Le Mans are known throughout the world and have, in their history, always welcomed big names from all walks of life. LeBron James is a true sporting legend and has a track record and a list of records that command admiration. We look forward to introducing him to the unique atmosphere that reigns on the circuit and the enthusiasm generated by the Centenary of the greatest endurance race in the world. »
ALSO READ > The complete program for the 24 2023 Hours of Le Mans
Dorian Grangier
A young journalist nostalgic for the motorsport of yesteryear. Raised on the exploits of Sébastien Loeb and Fernando Alonso.
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