LeBron James Ignites the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary with a Memorable Start

. The celebrated athlete had the distinct honor of being the official starter, continuing a tradition upheld by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest since 1949, which sees renowned personalities inaugurate this prestigious racing event.

Over the years, the 24 Hours of Le Mans has seen a variety of famous individuals take on the role of starter, including Hollywood star Brad Pitt in 2016, tennis legend Rafael Nadal in 2018, French actor Alain Delon in 1996, and the iconic Steve McQueen in 1971. For its Centenary in June, the event welcomed one of the most accomplished athletes in sports history, LeBron James, to launch the race.

LeBron expressed his excitement and honor in participating in such a significant moment in the world of racing. His role involved releasing 62 cars onto the track, marking the start of the race. He was also entrusted with the responsibility of delivering the iconic line, "Drivers, start your engines," in French, to the drivers lined up on the grid, a moment that was both symbolic and memorable.

The ceremony was held on Saturday, June 10, at 16:00 local time, where LeBron James, following the footsteps of other renowned figures, officially commenced the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary. This event not only celebrated a century of racing history but also underscored the diverse appeal of the sport, attracting figures from various fields, including the basketball legend himself.