FIA World Endurance Championship Highlights Achievements and Vision at EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week
Frederic Lequien, CEO of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), and Marius Louvet, WEC Director of Marketing and Communications, provided compelling insights into the championship’s remarkable growth, competitive balance, and strategic outlook during EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week. Their discussion emphasized WEC’s commitment to innovation, audience engagement, and delivering unparalleled motorsport experiences.
A Landmark Season: Hypercar and LMGT3 Categories Excel
The 2024 WEC season delivered a display of competitive parity across its Hypercar and LMGT3 categories. With three manufacturers claiming victories in Hypercar and four different manufacturers winning in LMGT3, the season demonstrated a level of balance and excitement rarely seen.
Lequien noted, “We’ve successfully unified LMH and LMDH platforms within the Hypercar category through strategic Balance of Performance (BOP) measures, proving the coexistence of diverse technologies can thrive on the global stage.”
Louvet added, “The introduction of LMGT3 has strengthened the grid’s diversity, connecting the fascination of elite motorsport with everyday automotive culture.”
Engaging a Younger, Global Audience
WEC continues to see its audience grow, particularly among younger demographics. Digital strategies have been pivotal, with YouTube viewership doubling in the past two years and over 61 million views in 2024.
“Our audience is younger than ever, with 55% under the age of 34,” Louvet shared. “We’ve tailored content for platforms like YouTube, embracing algorithms and trends to resonate with this dynamic audience.”
Lequien also emphasized the power of the sport’s universal appeal: “WEC offers dreams—iconic brands, exhilarating competition, and the spirit of Le Mans brought to fans worldwide.”
Strategic Expansion and Stability
With rule stability guaranteed through 2029, WEC is attracting new manufacturers, including Mercedes-AMG in LMGT3 and Genesis entering Hypercar in 2025.
“The stability of our regulations ensures manufacturers know the cost structure and can plan long-term participation,” Lequien explained. “The presence of iconic brands and the tight competition make WEC a premier platform for showcasing technology and performance.”
Louvet highlighted the significance of bringing WEC back to the U.S. at the Lone Star Le Mans at COTA in 2024: “Despite challenges like extreme heat and Labor Day scheduling, the event exceeded expectations, showcasing the unique accessibility and excitement of WEC to American fans.”
Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond
The 2025 season will feature the debut of the Aston Martin Valkyrie, promising a distinct auditory experience for fans, alongside new entrants like Mercedes-AMG. The schedule includes eight races, emphasizing both global reach and consistent quality.
Lequien reflected on the championship’s momentum: “We’ve had six different winners in eight races and consistent top-tier performances across a diverse grid. This parity ensures every brand can thrive, regardless of podium finishes, offering exceptional ROI.”
Louvet concluded by emphasizing WEC’s unique blend of history and innovation: “Our series represents a fusion of motorsport heritage and cutting-edge competition, continuing to captivate audiences and manufacturers alike.”
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