Sourced: www.formula1.com
The 2025 24 Hours of Le mans features a strong lineup of former Formula One (F1) drivers. Including Mick Schumacher, Jenson Button, Kevin Magnussen, Robert Kubica and Pascal Wehrlein. Each brings valuable F1 experience to the endurance classic but adapting to the grueling demands of Le Mans presenting a unique challenge.
After leaving his role as Mercedes’ reserve driver, Schumacher has embraced endurance racing, learning to balance aggression with patience. Schumacher’s transition to endurance racing has been a turning point allowing him to develop a more strategic approach to racing. The 2009 F1 World Champion, Button has competed in Le Mans before using his race craft and tyre management expertise to excel in long stints. Button’s return to Le Mans solidifies his legacy beyond F1 proving his adaptability across multiple disciplines.
Known for his aggressive driving style, Magnussen has adapted to endurance racing by focusing on consistency and teamwork. Magnussen’s move to BMW’s hypercar program gives him a fresh challenge after spending years in F1’s midfield. A former Grand Prix winner, Kubica’s ability to handle changing conditions makes him a strong contender in endurance racing. Kubica’s endurance career has been a redemption story following his F1 comeback and subsequent move to sports car racing.
After success in Formula E (FE), Wehrlein is marking his Le Mans debut bringing his energy recovery expertise to the hypercar class. Wehrlein’s debut at Le Mans marks a new milestone as he continues to build his reputation in hybrid and electric racing.
Sourced: www.formula1.com
Button – Competing for Cadillac Racing marking his fourth Le Mans appearance
Magnussen – Making his BMW hypercar debut following his departure from F1 in 2024
Kubica – Driving for Ferrari AF Corse aiming to replicate Ferrari’s recent Le Mans success
Schumacher – Representing Alpine Endurance team transitioning from his Mercedes reserve role
Wehrlein – Racing for Porsche Penske Motorsport making his Le Mans
Ferrari AF Corse remains a strong favourite with Kubica’s team aiming for a third consecutive victory. Cadillac Racing has shown competitive pace giving Button a realistic shot at a podium finish. BMW’s hypercar program is still developing making Magnussen’s chances uncertain but promising. Porsche Penske Motorsport has been lurking with intent, meaning Wehrlein’s team expected to challenge for top positions. Alpine Endurance Team faces tough competition but Schumacher’s adaptability could be key in long stints.
Ferrari aims for a third consecutive win while Toyota seeks redemption after narrow losses in 2023 and 2024. Cadillac’s V-Series.R hypercars will challenge Porsche’s 963 prototypes with both teams showing strong pace in testing. Alpine’s A424 and BMW’s M Hybrid V8 are expected to be dark horses capable of surprising the front-runners.
Teams must balance fuel management, tyre degradation and driver rotations to maintain pace over 24 hours. Rain is expected overnight which could shake up the race order and force teams to adapt their strategies. Drivers must maintain focus and stamina handling fatigue while navigating traffic from slower LMP2 and LMGT3 cars.
Button – A victory would cement his post F1 career proving his adaptability across multiple disciplines
Magnussen – Winning would mark a major milestone solidifying his transition from F1 to endurance racing
Kubica – A Le Mans win would be redemption following his F1 comeback and move to sports car racing
Schumacher – A triumph would establish him as a top endurance racer proving his ability beyond single seaters
Wehrlein – A debut win would elevate his status in hybrid and electric racing reinforcing his versatility
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