Famous Bernard Hinault to start Shimano 24 Hours Cycling (Le Mans)

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The start will be given by Bernard Hinault, one of the greatest French champions who won five Tour de France, three Giro d’Italia and two Tour of Spain.

Bernard Hinault nicknamed “Le Blaireau” in the professional peloton, he dominated international cycling between 1978 and 1986. He will take part in the race with a 8 riders team, composed of friends and family members.

At the end of June, French Cycling Federation confirmed the possibility to organize cycling races in August. This is the official announcement that the organiser was expecting regarding the Shimano 24 Hours Cycling 2020 edition, next 22/23 August on the Le Mans circuit.

Other personalities will also participate, such as ex-pro riders Sylvain Chavanel, Jérémy Roy and Roger Legeay.

Last November, the maximum of 560 teams was reached in less than two days, proof of the enthusiasm for the Sarthe cyclosportive. Finally and due to Covid19, 2516 riders divided into 541 teams will start the race.

Since the limit for ” 5,000 people meetings” is still in effect in August, only one entry will allow access to the circuit and count of participants, team staff and visitors. Accesses will be available on site but in limited quantities.
La Matinale Le Maine Libre, the Saturday morning event, will exceptionally be cancelled and replaced by a studying of the track in two sessions for competitors. A strict sanitary protocol will be applied and a “covid referent” will ensure its execution.

The official speaker of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Bruno Vandestick, will animate the event with regular live videos on Facebook. His mission will be to meet participants for live interviews. It is a good alternative to allow fans to follow the event ‘s highlights, if they can’t be physically on the circuit.

Romain Gasnal for CGO Événement concludes: « Over the last few months, I have been very touched by riders’ enthusiasm and motivation. Now my priority is to adapt our organization to ensure the highest level of safety on site and we are in regular contact with the Sarthe Prefecture. We have been welcoming cyclists on the Bugatti circuit for more than ten years now, and I know that everyone will apply the right behaviors and barrier gestures to ensure a great celebration of cycling. »

To see the full list click here (PDF).

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