Why was the 24 Hours of Le Mans centenary a TV success?
The viewership of the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2023 has multiplied by 2.5 compared to previous editions. The presence of American manufacturers and a NASCAR race surely contributed to this.
The figures communicated by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest are impressive. 113 million people have followed the most famous endurance race from their screens. And 35 million others watched replays or highlights of the event on different platforms.
If the 113 million may seem small compared to major events like a World Cup final or the Super Bowl, it should still be noted that the audience has multiplied by 2.5 compared to 2022. This increase was made possible thanks to the 196 countries that broadcasted the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
A new audience reached
How to explain this renewed interest in this race? Firstly, because in the top category, there is more competition than in the past. Toyota is no longer running alone at the front. There are now seven manufacturers providing the show in the Hypercar class. And even nine or 11 next year.
Although there is competition, it is not there just for show. Ferrari, Peugeot, and Porsche can challenge the Japanese team that has been in place in the WEC for 11 years now. And among all the teams present, Cadillac (along with Corvette in LMGTE) has attracted a new audience: the United States. This audience has also followed the performance of the Garage 56 car. This team has entered a Nascar, one of the most popular racing cars across the Atlantic.
« Key markets such as Germany, Japan, and Denmark have also experienced fantastic audiences, which can be explained by various factors (the presence of Porsche in the Hypercar category, Tom Kristensen as Grand Marshal), explains the ACO.
More people, more cars
The next edition of the 24 Hours race will take place with an even more impressive Hypercar lineup. With likely renowned drivers. Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher are rumored to be participating, but nothing is official at the moment. The presence of these two men could attract more people, both at the event and watching on TV, as the German population may follow the achievements of their favorites.
A situation that would not only benefit the race and the organizers. Professionals in the catering and accommodation industry must already be rubbing their hands together. Nine months before the event, many hotels are already fully booked all over Sarthe. To confirm this enthusiasm, we will have to wait for the week of June 12th to June 16th, 2024.
