Kazuki Nakajima, a three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, has been chosen as the Grand Marshal for this year’s event on June 15 and 16. Deborah Mayer, founder of Iron Dames, was also recognized with the Spirit of Le Mans Trophy.
Nakajima, who is currently the vice president of Toyota GAZOO Racing, achieved his three consecutive victories at Le Mans (2018-2020) while driving for Toyota. He has been with the team since their return to high-level sports car racing in 2012 with the TS030 Hybrid LMP1.
His first Le Mans victory in 2018 marked the beginning of Toyota’s five consecutive wins. As Grand Marshal, Nakajima will have the responsibility of guiding the 62 cars on the formation lap.
Additionally, Deborah Mayer, founder of Iron Dames, will be honored at the 92nd edition of Le Mans for her significant contributions in creating and leading the organization. Iron Dames not only promotes female talent in sports car racing, but also in the FRECA single-seater championship.
Pierre Fillon, president of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, expressed his gratitude to Nakajima and Mayer, recognizing their contributions to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and to motorsport. He highlighted Nakajima’s exceptional achievement with his three consecutive victories and Mayer’s inspiring work with Iron Dames, which led to the victory of Sarah Bovy, Rahel Frey, and Michelle Gatting in the FIA World Endurance Championship at the 8 Hours of Bahrain in 2023.
In an interview, Mayer expressed her gratitude for the support they received from fans, noting the increasing presence of pink hats at the track. She emphasized the empowerment of women in sport and thanked fans for their support, stating that their success benefits everyone involved.
