Le Mans 2024: When F1 Has-Beens and Famous Kids Try to Win Something That Actually Matters

By Lewis Barnett 13 June, 2025 6 mins read 46 Views

God, I love Le Mans weekend.

Look, I've been covering motorsport for longer than I care to admit (my back reminds me every time I climb out of those media center chairs), and there's something absolutely magical about watching 62 cars tear around the Circuit de la Sarthe for 24 straight hours. This year's grid? It's like someone threw F1's greatest hits album into a blender with a healthy dose of nepotism and a sprinkle of MotoGP legend.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off this Saturday at 4pm, and honestly, the driver lineup reads like a "where are they now" article I'd write after three beers. We've got 19 former F1 drivers signed up to chase one of motorsport's holy grail trophies - part of that Triple Crown thing alongside Monaco and Indy 500 that makes drivers go all misty-eyed.

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Button's Back (And So Is Everyone Else)

Jenson Button headlines this reunion tour, teaming up with Sebastien Bourdais in the #38 Cadillac. Remember Bourdais? Dominated ChampCar, then got absolutely destroyed by Vettel at Toro Rosso back in 2008-09. Poor guy never recovered from that psychological beating.

But here's the thing about Le Mans - it doesn't care about your F1 pedigree. Nico Hulkenberg proved that when he won with Porsche in 2015, and Fernando Alonso (back when he still had something to prove) grabbed back-to-back victories in 2018 and 2019 with Toyota.

Kevin Magnussen's making his second appearance since Haas gave him the boot last season. His response to getting axed? "Already updating my resume." Classic Kevin.

The Nepo Baby Brigade

This is where it gets interesting - and slightly uncomfortable if you think too hard about it.

Mick Schumacher's there representing Alpine, carrying the weight of his father's legacy like a ghost at a family reunion. Eduardo Barrichello (Rubens' kid) is also on the grid, because apparently being the son of a Ferrari legend gets you places. Then there's Pietro Fittipaldi - grandson of two-time F1 champ Emerson - making his third Le Mans appearance.

Listen, I'm not saying these guys don't have talent. But when your last name opens doors that others need crowbars for... well, you do the math.

Sky Sports Casualties and F1 Washouts

Paul di Resta's putting his time to good use after Sky Sports F1 gave him the axe in 2023. He's partnered with Jean-Eric Vergne in the #93 Peugeot, probably grateful to be anywhere near a racetrack that isn't a TV studio.

The grid's also packed with guys who absolutely dominated F2 and F3 but couldn't handle the step up to F1. Jack Aitken, Nyck de Vries, Will Stevens - all talented drivers who discovered that being fast in junior categories means absolutely nothing when you're sharing teh track with the world's best.

De Vries particularly stings. Guy won Formula E, dominated F2, then lasted exactly 10 races in F1 before AlphaTauri decided they'd seen enough.

The Real Champions

Here's where Le Mans gets beautiful: some of the biggest names on this grid never won squat in F1 but are absolute legends at La Sarthe.

Sebastien Buemi raced in F1 for two forgettable years with Toro Rosso, then went out and won Le Mans FOUR times. Four! Meanwhile, Brendon Hartley and Andre Lotterer have three wins each. These guys figured out that sometimes the best career move is knowing when to walk away from F1's meat grinder.

And Then There's Valentino

Oh, adn Valentino Rossi's back for his second Le Mans appearance.

Nine-time MotoGP world champion trying his hand at four wheels again. The man's 45 years old and still can't sit still. Respect.

You can catch all the action on TNT Sports or Discovery+ if you're in the UK. Fair warning though - 24 hours of racing does things to your sleep schedule that coffee can't fix. I learned that the hard way back in 2019 when I tried to watch the entire race and ended up hallucinating checkered flags for three days.

This weekend's going to be special. 62 cars, 24 hours, and enough former F1 drivers to fill a retirement home. What could go wrong?

Frequently Asked Questions

How has the introduction hybrid power units affected Formula 1 costs?

In Formula 1, the introduction of hybrid engines has led to a greater level of technological complexity, and therefore, increased costs. Due to the high costs of development, maintenance, and production of these hybrid engine, teams have seen their costs rise since 2014. Since the introduction of hybrid engines in 2014, teams have had to increase their budgets to research and develop to stay competitive.

What is the cost of a Formula 1 Engine?

The Formula 1 engines are among the most advanced pieces of machinery in the sport. Teams spend anywhere between $7 million to $10,000 on a single engine to achieve the performance and technology necessary to compete in the highest level.

How are Formula 1 racing suits priced?

The racing suits worn by Formula 1 drivers are engineered for safety, comfort, and performance, integrating fire-resistant materials and cutting-edge technology. These suits cost from $2,000-$5,000, reflecting their bespoke features and safety.

How important are transport and logistics in Formula 1 costs?

Transport and logistics are crucial and expensive aspects of Formula 1 racing, involving the shipment of cars, equipment, and personnel around the world. Teams spend anywhere between $8 million to $10 million each season on logistic costs, although larger teams and those with more equipment will incur higher costs.

What is the financial impact of Formula 1 sponsorship?

Formula 1 teams depend heavily on sponsorships for their financial well-being. They provide a vital source of income that helps cover the exorbitant costs of competing. Sponsorships can range from small, logo-based contributions to major, title sponsorships worth tens of millions of dollars annually. Teams need these partnerships to stay competitive and maintain their operation.

Can Formula 1 teams buy vehicles from competitors?

Formula 1 teams design and build their cars themselves, but can buy certain components from other competitors, like the gearboxes and power units. Nevertheless, specific parts, such as the chassis and aerodynamic surface surfaces are required to be proprietary in order to ensure competition and diversity within the sport.

Statistics

Wind tunnel testing costs in Formula 1 can be as high as $100,000 per day, which is a critical part of car development.
Pirelli F1 tires cost around $2,700 each, resulting in a set of four tires costing approximately $10,800.
The financial cost of a Formula 1 car crash can range from a few tens of thousands to over $1 million, dependent on the extent of the damage.
Formula 1 teams may spend up to $10 million on the engine alone, due to the high level of technology and performance required.
The cost of a full-scale Formula 1 simulator can reach several million dollars, with annual maintenance adding to the financial impact.
The budget cap introduced in Formula 1 for the 2021 season was set at $145 million, which is aimed to level the playing field.
Hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix can cost a hosting circuit more than $70 million, including the sanctioning fees and the cost of preparations.
The average cost to construct a Formula 1 car chassis is estimated to be between $10 million and $15 million.

External Links

How To

How to Find Sponsorships for Formula 1 Racing

In order to secure Formula 1 sponsorships, you must build a brand which attracts potential sponsors. Focus on networking and building relationships with companies that align with the team's values and fan base. Present a detailed proposal highlighting the exposure and marketing opportunities Formula 1 offers, including branding on cars, uniforms, and team gear. Emphasize data-driven results, demographic reach, and the prestige of being associated with a technologically advanced sport. Maintain a proactive approach to seeking new sponsors while nurturing existing relationships to ensure long-term partnerships.

Did you miss our previous article...
https://sportingexcitement.com/formula-1/maxs-home-track-gets-the-boot-dutch-gp-bites-the-dust-after-2026