With the Centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans now in the rear-view mirror, the ACO will see some changes in its organisation as it looks to the future. After four years, Stéphane Darracq will vacate his role as CEO, with the full blessing of Pierre Fillon, to return to his business interests.

Stéphane Darracq, CEO, Automobile Club de l’Ouest: In just over four years, I have got to know and love the Automobile Club de l’Ouest. When I arrived in 2019, my brief was to help this wonderful institution through a period of transition. The launch of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy in 2021, and its implementation today, are extremely gratifying. Likewise the outstanding success of the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary, the organisation of which has been universally hailed. I also recall the difficult times we successfully negotiated during the COVID pandemic. I must tip my hat to all the staff at the ACO for their admirable resilience and solidarity. I am proud to have helped promote the 24 Hours of Le Mans as well as all our other events and permanent activities. Thank you to the ACO’s employees and volunteers, our partners and everyone who works with us. Finally, I’d like to thank Pierre Fillon for his trust throughout these four years.

Pierre Fillon, President, Automobile Club de l’Ouest: Stéphane Darracq has done a marvellous job as the ACO’s CEO. When he was appointed in 2019, he was tasked with helping the ACO achieve benchmark status in terms of Corporate Social Responsibility, and with playing an active part in preparing the race of the century, the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Both priorities have been accomplished despite an unprecedented crisis. I thank Stéphane most sincerely for his commitment and professionalism over the last four years and wish him all the best for the future.