An exhibition celebrating the incredible success of Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans opens in Maranello, home to the marque’s headquarters. The Italian car manufacturer first took part in the famous French race in 1949 and has been a regular on the Endurance scene ever since. The 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum was proud and delighted to contribute to the exhibition scheduled to run until 19 April.
Having won Le Mans at the first attempt, Ferrari made its mark on the Circuit des 24 Heures from the outset. Seventy years later, the marque is still winning and fully deserves its star status at the gruelling endurance race. Visitors to ''Ferrari at 24 Heures du Mans'’ will be treated to seven decades of mechanical prowess, from the same 166 MM Brachetta Touring with which Lord Selsdon and Luigi Chinetti took the first Ferrari win in 1949, to the 488 GTE that won its class in 2019 in the hands of Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado and Daniel Serra. The 24 Hours of Le Mans trophy takes pride of place, ensuring that the spirit of Le Mans reigns over the superb exhibition.
The 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum fittingly provided documents and other pieces from its collection to supplement the exhibits.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest: “What would the 24 Hours of Le Mans be without the machines, drivers, engineers, crews and constructors who have tackled the awe-inspiring race, the ultimate challenge? The legend began in 1923 and has been unfolding ever since, thanks to its participants. Ferrari joined the Le Mans throng in 1949. The brand played a prominent role in the post-war revival of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning the race at first attempt. That was the beginning of a new era, in many ways. Aside from an enviable success comprising 9 overall and 27 class wins, Ferrari has marked Le Mans 24 Hours with its special brand of style, art and competitive spirit. Ferraris have long turned heads at endurance racing circuits. This exhibition pays tribute to the winning partnership between Ferrari and the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1949 to 2019. I am sure it will delight enthusiasts of sleek motors and slick motor racing."