LeBron James Takes The Wheel As Official Starter For Historic Le Mans 24 Hours Race

Photo: Instagram/LeBron James

LeBron James, the renowned basketball player, has been chosen as the official starter for the upcoming Le Mans 24 Hours race, commemorating the event's centenary, according to organizers of the endurance classic.

With his impressive basketball career, as the leading scorer in NBA history and a four-time champion, James joins a distinguished lineup of celebrity starters who have fulfilled this ceremonial role throughout the race's history.

Past starters have included Hollywood actor Brad Pitt in 2016 and iconic figure Steve McQueen, who started the race in 1971 while starring in the film "Le Mans" and lowered the French flag.

Photo: Instagram/LeBron James

On Saturday, the highly-anticipated race will see LeBron James initiating the action for the field of 62 competitors. Expressing his enthusiasm, the 38-year-old athlete stated, "There's nothing like seeing and experiencing sports at their highest level."

He also expressed his honor at being part of such a historic moment in motorsport and contributing to the celebration of one of the world's greatest sporting events.

James, who is a partner in Fenway Sports Group, which co-owns the RFK Racing NASCAR team, has a strong connection to the motorsport world. Coincidentally, the Le Mans race coincides with the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-based stock car series, NASCAR.

In a remarkable collaboration, the RFK Racing team will feature a special entry at Le Mans, with seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson, 2009 Formula One champion Jenson Button, and 2010 Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller taking the wheel.

LeBron James's involvement as the official starter for the Le Mans 24 Hours race not only adds star power to the event but also highlights the intersection between sports and motorsport.

It demonstrates the enduring global appeal of Le Mans as it reaches its centenary milestone and continues to captivate fans worldwide.

Read Next: Team USA's World Cup Roster Strengthens With Jaren Jackson Jr. And Brandon Ingram's Addition

Source: ESPN

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