Lequien Succeeds Neveu as Head of LMEM

Frederic Lequien has been appointed as the new head of Le Mans Endurance Management, the organization responsible for running the FIA World Endurance Championship and the European Le Mans Series.

Lequien, 48, succeeds Gerard Neveu who had held the position of LMEM CEO since 2012.

Neveu announced his end-of-season departure from the role last September, shortly after this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans.

His successor Lequien was formerly the deputy general manager and spokesman of the Dakar Rally from 2005-11 before establishing a marketing and events agency that organized the Silk Way Rally.

He was also the project manager of Eurosport International from 2002-5, directing the hospitality aspect of the LG Super Racing Weekend events that included FIA GT Championship and European Touring Car Championship races.

“I am proud and honored to join LMEM,” said Lequien.

“The WEC and the ELMS are both world-renowned championships. We intend to continue attracting a mix of factory and private teams and are ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Lequien’s first year as LMEM CEO will include the debut of the Le Mans Hypercar formula and the implementation of a shorter, cost-cutting six-round WEC season.

He is also set to be involved in the prototype convergence process between the ACO and IMSA.

“I extend a warm welcome to Frederic Lequien, on behalf of the ACO and LMEM,” said Pierre Fillon, president of Le Mans organizer the Automobile Club de l’Ouest.

“This appointment is excellent news for the world of endurance racing. With 20 years in motorsport, Frederic brings valuable expertise to this position.”

FIA Endurance Commission president Richard Mille added: “I would like to wish Frederic Lequien all the best in his new role as the CEO of Le Mans Endurance Management.

“In many ways, 2021 marks a new chapter for the sport and I’m sure that with new management at the helm the FIA World Endurance Championship will go from strength to strength.”

Outgoing LMEM boss Neveu is now CEO of the Le Mans Esports Series and is also understood to be working in a consultatory role on the prototype convergence process.