STORY OF THE DAY: Ferrari Wins Le Mans on Its Factory Return

James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi and Alessandro Pier Guidi won the centenary 24 Hours of Le Mans in Ferrari 499P number 51 on 11 June 2023. Ferrari prevailed in its first factory campaign in the top class for fifty years, defeating Toyota and earning major FIA World Endurance Championship points.

The duel with Toyota lasted through changing weather, safety-car periods and the night. Pier Guidi recovered after spinning into gravel, while a late scare occurred when the Ferrari hesitated during a pit restart. The crew retained control and completed 342 laps to secure a historic victory.

The 499P is a Le Mans Hypercar with a carbon-fibre monocoque, a three-litre twin-turbo V6 driving the rear wheels and an electric motor powering the front axle. Its hybrid system, seven-speed transmission and aerodynamics were developed specifically for modern endurance regulations and energy-management requirements.

Briton Calado and Italian Pier Guidi were established Ferrari GT champions and previous Le Mans class winners. Italian Giovinazzi brought Formula One and prototype experience while serving as a Ferrari works driver. Their combined familiarity with pressure, traffic and long stints anchored Ferrari’s successful return.