Experience the Thrill: Alpine’s Debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
The FIA World Endurance Championship heads to Le Mans this week for its marquee event.
The 92nd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off with scrutineering on Friday in the city centre, which marks the first major highlight.
Alpine’s A424 Hypercars debut at the Circuit de la Sarthe during Sunday's Test Day, and on 13 June at 12:30, Alpine will unveil its A290 hot hatch.
Alpine will also shine by demonstrating its hydrogen-powered Alpenglow Hy4, and brand ambassador Zinédine Zidane will start the race.
Alpine’s resurgence, initiated in 2013 by Jean Rédélé's legacy, saw success with models like the A450, A460, A460B, A470, and A480 at Le Mans. Their LMP2 victories in 2016, 2018, and 2019, along with extensive experience, have paved the way for their top-tier return.
Before tackling Le Mans, the Alpine Endurance Team assessed the A424 Hypercar's performance in FIA World Endurance Championship races at Losail, Imola, and Spa-Francorchamps.
In mid-May, the team tested at Circuit Paul Ricard, where Ferdinand Habsburg resumed driving post-recovery. The team serviced Hypercars and meticulously prepared spare parts before a final shakedown last Friday.
On Monday, the Alpine Endurance Team set up at the circuit. Before hitting the track, competitors undergo Scrutineering, the first administrative and technical checks by FIA and ACO stewards, happening Friday at 2:40 pm in the city centre for Alpine and its crews.
Following Saturday’s city centre procession, the Alpine A424s will engage in two three-hour Test Day sessions on Sunday. Drivers Nicolas Lapierre, Matthieu Vaxiviere, Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin, familiar with the circuit, will use these tests to optimise their setups, refine pit stops, and evaluate Michelin tyre compounds. Mick Schumacher will continue his rookie process under the team’s guidance.
Preparations intensify with data analysis on Monday, a public pit walk on Tuesday, and Wednesday’s free practice and one-hour qualifying session. Additional free practices on Wednesday and Thursday lead up to the Hyperpole, determining top-eight grid positions.
After Friday’s night practice and driver parade, Alpine will warm up on Saturday morning. Zinédine Zidane will signal the race start on Saturday afternoon with 62 cars, including 23 Hypercars. Alpine aims to gain knowledge in this ultimate, most demanding race of the year, with the first goal being to finish.
Alpine will reveal the A290 electric hot hatch during the event. Hours before the race starts, Zidane will join the hydrogen demonstration with Alpenglow Hy4. These models represent Alpine’s future in design and sustainable tech innovation. Expect more surprises throughout the event!
Philippe Sinault, Alpine Endurance Team Principal, expresses excitement as they approach the Le Mans track with a new car, leveraging their knowledge and simulations. Sunday’s limited running time will focus on aerodynamic balance and tyre endurance, which are crucial for building driver confidence and reliability.
