Tom Kristensen named Grand Marshal of the Centenary, Akio Toyoda Spirit of Le Mans

This is a great way to pay tribute to personalities who have marked, or at least contributed, to the history of the heritage of 24 Hours of Le Mans. For the 2023 edition, that of the Centenary (June 10-11), the Automobile Club de l'Ouest has decided to honor: Tom Kristensen and Akio Toyoda, the first as Grand Marshal, the second as as Spirit of Le Mans.

« I am very honored to have the presence of Tom Kristensen and Akio Toyoda, confides Pierre Fillon, President of the ACO. I would like to thank them very sincerely. These two essential personalities of the 24 Hours of Le Mans perfectly illustrate what this race represents: innovation, perseverance, victory, the future. Tom is a living legend of the world's greatest endurance race and has, in recent months, been a valuable ambassador. Akio Toyoda honors us with his presence. As Chairman of Toyota, it was natural to present it with the Spirit of Le Mans trophy, as this brand perfectly embodies the values ​​that we defend. I can't wait for the race to start! »

For Tom Kristensen, the symbolism is very great since the Dane is the most victorious driver in the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He has no less than 9 victories in Sarthe and with three different manufacturers: Bentley, Audi and Porsche (1997 · 2000 · 2001 · 2002 · 2003 · 2004 · 2005 · 2008 · 2013).

President of Toyota Motor Corporation, Akio Toyoda was awarded the Spirit of Le Mans, the trophy honoring men and women who uphold the values ​​of endurance: involvement, commitment, sharing and competition.

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