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Polish team Inter Europol Competition, led by driver Jakub Śmiechowski, emerged victorious in the LMP2 category at the 91st edition of the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Their success marks the first time that a Polish team has clinched victory in this prestigious event. The Belgian team WRT, featuring Robert Kubica as one of their drivers, secured second place in the category.
General Classification Triumph for Ferrari Afcorse
In the overall general classification, the Ferrari Afcorse team reigned supreme, further solidifying their storied legacy at Le Mans. The Inter Europol Competition lineup included Śmiechowski, Swiss driver Fabio Scherer, and Spaniard Albert Costa. WRT’s team, alongside Kubica, consisted of Swiss driver Louis Deletraz and Angolan-born Portuguese driver Rui Andrade.
During the closing stages of the race, with only 75 minutes remaining, Scherer and Deletraz took the wheel, with Deletraz replacing Kubica. Despite facing a radio malfunction, leaving Scherer reliant on graphic displays for track information, the Swiss driver maintained a blistering pace and successfully held onto the lead until the checkered flag.
For the first time in Le Mans’ 100-year history, two Polish drivers stood on the podium. Inter Europol Competition’s victory and the presence of Polish teams garnered significant attention from the race officials. Both the WRT team, with Kubica, and the Inter Europol Competition faced penalties during the race, highlighting the scrutiny they encountered from the judges.
Unpredictable Weather and Resilient Performances
The 24 Hours of Le Mans posed numerous challenges for the drivers. A sudden downpour transformed the track into a river, causing some cars to veer off-course. Despite the treacherous conditions, the Polish teams navigated the difficulties unscathed. In the hypercar class, the Ferrari team, with drivers Antonio Giovinazzi, Alessandro Pier Guidi, and James Calado, dominated, enduring a brief scare when their car experienced an ignition issue during a tire change.
Dating back to 1923, the 24 Hours of Le Mans remains the oldest endurance race in the world. Taking place at the Circuit de la Sarthe, the race combines a closed circuit with public roads. This year’s event will be remembered for the triumph of Inter Europol Competition and the milestone achievement of having two Polish drivers on the podium.