The Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) has announced that world-renowned cyclist Sir Mark Cavendish, who holds the record for the most Tour de France stage wins, will flag away next month’s 2026 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (10-14 June).
An emblematic figure around the globe, Cavendish re-wrote cycling history as he put his name to one Tour de France stage after another – totalling 35 in all, achieved between his second appearance in 2008 and his final participation in 2024.
Appointed a Knight Commander of the British Empire two years ago, the ‘Manx Missile’ is particularly fond of France, having won many a sprint on its roads and inspired a whole generation of cyclists. Not only that, but the Tour de France and 24 Hours of Le Mans have much in common – both are monuments of international sport, both are French, and both are household names worldwide.
“France and I go back a long way,” acknowledged Cavendish, commonly regarded as cycling’s greatest road sprinter of all time. “The Tour taught me everything I know about pain, glory and pushing your limits. Some competitions transcend their discipline – they belong to all sports fans everywhere. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of them. It’s a temple of sport, and I’m looking forward to experiencing the start from the inside.”
As official starter of the race – which will get underway at 16:00 local time (CEST) on Saturday, 13 June – the Olympic medallist joins a list of great sportspeople who have paid the event the same honour, including tennis heroes Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, footballing legend Zinédine Zidane and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, LeBron James. A formidable competitor, he will be in excellent company on the starting grid.
“Sir Mark Cavendish is an outstanding sportsman and a fitting starter for our 94th 24-hour race,” commented ACO President, Pierre Fillon. “He stands for all that this event holds dear – dazzling performance and shared passion.”
Check out the full entry list for the forthcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans.
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