It’s the big day for the 48th edition of the 24 Heures Motos! On Saturday, April 19, 2025, 53 motorcycles will take the starting line at the iconic Bugatti circuit in Le Mans. The excitement is palpable as fans gather to witness this thrilling endurance race. At 15:00, renowned French actor Matthieu Kassovitz will signal the start of the race, with the Yamaha of YART proudly occupying the pole position.
This year’s event marks not only a celebration of speed and skill but also the opening round of the 2025 FIM EWC World Endurance Championship. The anticipation is building as spectators flock to the circuit, with tens of thousands expected to fill the stands. However, with such a massive turnout, traffic is expected to be heavy around the circuit throughout the day, especially just before the race begins.
Adding to the excitement, the basketball team MSB will also host Strasbourg for the 26th day of Betclic Elite, with their game starting at 18:00 at Antarès. This dual event has created a buzz around the area, prompting local authorities to implement special traffic plans. Several roads will be closed or altered, including Chemin aux Bœufs and the exit on RD323.
For those looking to avoid the congestion, taking the tramway is a viable option. The T1 line heading towards Antarès will transport fans to the circuit in just 20 minutes from the station, and a short 150-meter walk will lead them to the east entrance of the Bugatti circuit.
As the race approaches, the excitement surrounding the competitors intensifies. Among the notable participants is Gregg Black, the reigning champion in the EWC category, who is eager to defend his title. Black has had an impressive career, recently winning the 87th edition of the Bol d'Or and securing his third world championship title. He aims for a fourth title this season, and the pressure is on as he and his team prepare for the grueling race ahead.
Maxim Pellizotti, another talented rider from Charente, is also in the spotlight. Having finished the previous season on a high note with a victory at the Bol d'Or, Pellizotti is determined to make a mark in the Superstock category. He expressed his eagerness to compete, stating, “We can’t wait to see what we’re made of against the competition. Everyone wants to beat us, and we’ll do our best to hold our ground.”
In a thrilling twist, the Yamaha N.7 of YART has secured the pole position after clocking the fastest time during the qualifying rounds. Marvin Fritz, the pilot for YART, set a record lap time of 1’34’’489, making him the fastest pilot in the history of the 24 Heures Motos. “I had a good lap — not perfect, but I’m satisfied with the pole,” Fritz commented after the qualifying round. His achievement grants the team five additional championship points, a crucial advantage as the race unfolds.
Following YART is the Suzuki N.1 of Yoshimura SERT, the reigning world champions, who are looking to reclaim their title after a successful 2024 season. The Honda N.4 of the Tati Team secured the third spot on the grid, setting the stage for an intense battle among the top teams.
In the Superstock category, BMW #713 from HERT By Moto-Jungle Racing leads the pack with a time of 1’36’’712, closely followed by BMW #25 from Team Etoile and Honda #27 from TRT27 AZ Moto. The Experimental and Production categories are also set for fierce competition, with teams eager to showcase their skills.
This year’s 24 Heures Motos is particularly special as the Bugatti circuit celebrates its 60th anniversary. The race has become a legendary event since its inception in 1978, and this year promises to be no different. Fans are reminded that the race will be broadcast live on L'Équipe and Eurosport 2, allowing those unable to attend to experience the adrenaline from home.
As the countdown to the race continues, the atmosphere at the Bugatti circuit is electric. Riders are gearing up, and teams are making final adjustments to their bikes, all while navigating the logistical challenges posed by the influx of spectators. With unpredictable weather conditions on the horizon, the race is set to be a test of endurance and strategy.
In a unique twist, Quentin Wisniewski, a newcomer to the 24 Heures Motos, will be racing under the Cam Racing Team 135 banner in the Superstock category. Wisniewski expressed his excitement about participating in such a prestigious event, stating, “It’s a dream come true to race at the 24 Heures du Mans. It’s a legendary race, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”
As the clock ticks down to the starting signal, the anticipation builds. Fans, riders, and teams alike are ready for what promises to be an unforgettable 24 hours of high-octane racing. With the stakes higher than ever, the 48th edition of the 24 Heures Motos is sure to deliver thrilling moments and fierce competition.
