Federer named honorary starter for Le Mans

Today at 12:53 PM

Tennis star Roger Federer has been named as the official starter of the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours by Automobile Club de l'Ouest.

Swiss icon Federer, who boasts an outstanding record of 20 Grand Slam titles and 310 weeks as world number one, will lower the flag to get the race underway on Saturday, June 14 at 4:00pm in front of a sellout crowd at the Circuit de la Sarthe. He adds to a list of famous starters for the endurance classic in recent years, which includes NBA stars Lebron James and Tony Parker, soccer star Zinédine Zidane and actor Brad Pitt.

"It will be a tremendous privilege to welcome Roger Federer as the official starter of the 24 Hours of Le Mans," Pierre Fillon, president of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest, said. "His influence extends far beyond tennis. He is a living legend, admired as much for his achievements as for his human qualities. His involvement will further boost the appeal of this year's race, which is already gearing up to be outstanding."

Said Federer: "It's a huge honor to have been invited to start the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an iconic but extremely gruelling race. I've always been fascinated by the commitment, precision and resilience it demands. Being at the heart of this emblematic event will be a remarkable experience."