Due to the ongoing health crisis and pressure on French hospitals, on Friday 2 April the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, organiser of the 24 Heures Motos, Eurosport Events, the FIM EWC championship promoter, and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) announced that the race would be postponed.

Following the rescheduling of the 8 Hours of Oschersleben, the Le Mans 24 Heures Motos will now open the 2021 FIM EWC Endurance World Championship on Le Mans’ Bugatti Circuit on 12-13 June. As it is still unclear what restrictions will apply to large events in the coming months, the race will go ahead behind closed doors.

Aware that teams require plenty of flexibility as they plan another season disrupted by the pandemic, competitors who are unable to compete in the rescheduled race may withdraw if they inform the ACO of their intention between 24 April and 14 May. 

Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest: “Since the start of this crisis, our main goal has been to maintain our events whenever possible. It is crucial for our competitors, their partners and for the championship that the race take place, even if the grandstands remain empty. Again, we are doing all we can to guarantee maximum exposure for this year’s race, which promises to be as exciting as ever.”

Sébastien Poirier, President of the Fédération Française de Motocyclisme (FFM): “In current circumstances, we must remain flexible and ready to adapt. I’d like to congratulate Pierre Fillon and his staff, as well as the FIM and our promoter Eurosport Events for all they have done to make sure the race goes ahead. The 2021 Le Mans 24 Heures Motos will happen and there is an outstanding grid. The event is a highlight of the motorcycling season and although it will again run behind closed doors, we will be able to keep up with all the action on various TV channels and digital media.”

François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events: “The new date for the 24 Heures Motos is essential for the FIM Endurance World Championship and for all the competing teams. Eurosport Events will go all out to make sure that the broadcast of this race behind closed doors is a thrilling experience for French fans as well as viewers around the world. We are also making every effort in Germany to find a later date for the 8 Hours of Oschersleben."