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The sole opportunity to conduct tests ahead of the standout event at Le Mans unfolded under impeccable weather conditions and pleasant temperatures slightly exceeding 20 degrees Celsius. Porsche Penske Motorsport and its associated customer teams maximized this chance. The three Porsche 963 vehicles of the factory team delivered remarkably consistent laps during extended runs, securing the top three positions on the time sheets. Notably, works driver Kévin Estre from France clinched the fastest lap of the entire testing day in 3:26.807 minutes.
“My utmost gratitude goes out to the entire team, who impeccably readied both the cars and equipment,” expressed Urs Kuratle, Director Factory Racing LMDh. “Our third Porsche 963, along with some crew members, arrived directly from the USA. The integration was seamless, and the race car immediately matched the high standard of the other WEC vehicles. We achieved speed and remarkable reliability throughout. Our checklist was methodically ticked off, with only a puncture on car number 5 being the sole setback — even the customer teams encountered no issues. That is quite an achievement. However, the lap times from today do not provide a definitive comparison with our competitors.”
![FIA WEC, Race 4, Le Mans (F), test day, 2024, Porsche AG](https://automart.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/M24_3018_fine.jpg)
“The test session was utilized to evaluate the brakes and test critical elements,” remarked Jonathan Diuguid, Managing Director of Porsche Penske Motorsport. “We spared no effort in ensuring optimum preparedness for the upcoming race week. From tire tests to various setup adjustments, we have amassed ample data for in-depth analysis.”
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Additionally, the customer teams Hertz Team Jota and Proton Competition dedicated considerable laps during the official trial day. The No. 38 car from the British team helmed by 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button (Great Britain) completed the lengthiest distance among the six Porsche 963 vehicles, covering 967 kilometers. In the LMGT3 category, the two Porsche 911 GT3 R competitors fielded by Manthey EMA and Manthey PureRxcing also executed a thorough testing regimen, accumulating a total of 125 laps on the Circuit des 24 Heures. The 13.626-kilometer racecourse predominantly traverses country roads exclusively cordoned off for the endurance classic and the test day. The initial free practice sessions commence on Wednesday, 12 June, at 2 pm.
TV coverage and live streaming of the race
The 92nd iteration of the 24 Hours of Le Mans initiates next Saturday, 15 June, at 4 pm. The prestigious endurance event will be televised in Germany on the free TV channel Nitro from the RTL media group as well as on the sports channel Eurosport. Official FIA WEC and ACO Le Mans organizer apps provide paid live streaming and live timing services.
Further insights on the test day
Mathieu Jaminet (Porsche 963 #4): “I only had a brief stint on the track today, but it felt fantastic to return to Le Mans. We experimented with multiple vehicle setups, resulting in impressive lap times across all three cars. Hopefully, we can maintain this form in all upcoming sessions next week.”
Michael Christensen (Porsche 963 #5): “Being back on this special Le Mans circuit is a wonderful sensation. Conditions were optimal today as our car handled superbly, allowing us to cover most of our testing agenda. Nevertheless, the practice sessions at the beginning of race week will finalize our preparations. The test day remains crucial for us, as drivers and as a team.”
Kévin Estre (Porsche 963 #6): “Our car performed flawlessly from the first lap, providing an immediate positive impression. Progress was evident during the test day as we fine-tuned the setup. I secured two clear laps in the second session without traffic interference, reflecting in my lap times. We are undoubtedly in a stronger position compared to the previous year.”
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Dieter Gass (Team Principal Hertz Team Jota): “Both cars ran smoothly without issues during the productive test day. Although there were some extended interruptions due to red flags or safety car drills, we met our anticipated performance level. Witnessing our two Porsche 963 vehicles perform equivalently is a reassuring sign as we embark on race week with optimism.”
Christian Ried (Team Owner Proton Competition): “Our standard procedure involves familiarizing with car operations and functions on the morning of a test day. The track was still relatively dirty in the initial session. We adjusted the car setup in the afternoon, benefitting from improved track grip. Conditions were ideal today, instilling confidence that our Porsche 963, drivers, and team are well-prepared for the demanding race week. Le Mans remains a yearly pinnacle event!”
Richard Lietz (Porsche 911 GT3 R #91): “We methodically addressed our checklist during the test day preparations, including validating spare parts for potential incidents. Everything functioned normally, marking a routine and positive start to the extensive Le Mans week.”
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Joel Sturm (Porsche 911 GT3 R #92): “My initial drive on this unique track was exhilarating and enjoyable. The test day proceeded smoothly as we accomplished our outlined program. Assessing our competitive standing at this juncture is challenging, but I am confident in our preparedness. The much-awaited race week is finally here!”
Complete results from the test day can be found on fiawec.alkamelsystems.com.