Today marks an exciting day for motorsport fans as the 48th edition of the 24 Heures Motos is set to kick off at the iconic Bugatti circuit in Le Mans. The race, which begins at 3 PM, is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators, potentially setting a new attendance record. This year’s event promises not only thrilling motorcycle racing but also a vibrant atmosphere filled with additional races and entertainment.
Before the main event, three preliminary races will take place this morning, giving fans a taste of the high-speed action to come. The schedule starts with the Continental Cup race from 8:55 AM to 9:20 AM, followed by the PMR Bridgestone Cup from 9:45 AM to 10:10 AM. The morning festivities will be interrupted at 10:30 AM for a warm-up session for the 24 Heures Motos, allowing teams to fine-tune their bikes ahead of the main race.
At 11:50 AM, the FIM Side-Car World Championship will take the stage, showcasing a different but equally thrilling aspect of motorcycle racing. The excitement will build throughout the day, culminating in the official ceremony and presentation of the 53 teams participating in the 24 Heures Motos at 2 PM. The ceremony will set the stage for the grand start, which will be given by French actor and director Mathieu Kassovitz.
Kassovitz's involvement in the event carries a significant personal touch. Just a day prior, on April 18, 2025, he made a triumphant return to the track, riding for the first time since a serious accident on September 4, 2023. Surrounded by friends and under the supervision of the Automobile-club de l’Ouest, Kassovitz took to the Bugatti circuit, expressing how special it felt to be back. "Monter sur le circuit, c'est comme aller sur un dojo de karaté. Un endroit un peu légendaire. Un endroit de travail," he said, reflecting on the legendary nature of the track.
The day will also feature live performances, with Finnish band Steve’N’Seagulls set to entertain the crowd after the racing activities. Known for their unique bluegrass renditions of rock classics, including their viral cover of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck," the band promises to keep the energy high as the sun sets over the circuit.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the race, the atmosphere at the Bugatti circuit is electric. Fans are pouring in, and the excitement is palpable. With a history steeped in motorsport tradition, the 24 Heures Motos is not just a race; it’s a celebration of speed, skill, and the spirit of competition.
In addition to the main event, local sports enthusiasts will have other options to enjoy later in the day. At 6 PM, the Le Mans Sarthe Basket team will face off against Strasbourg at the Antarès hall, providing another thrilling sporting experience for fans in the area.
This year's 24 Heures Motos is shaping up to be a memorable event, with Kassovitz's participation adding a layer of narrative that fans are sure to appreciate. As he prepares to signal the start of the race, the anticipation builds not just for the competitors but for every spectator who has come to witness this legendary event. With the roar of engines and the cheers of the crowd, the 24 Heures Motos promises to deliver an unforgettable day of motorsport.
