Multiple Protests In Wake of GTE-Pro Finish at Le Mans

Photo: John Dagys

The drama from Sunday’s 24 Hours of Le Mans hasn’t ended with the waving of the checkered flag, as there have been multiple protests issued, all involving the GTE-Pro finish.

Sportscar365 has learned that Ford issued a protest against the No. 82 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTE in the final hour of the race due to the Ferrari not having functional leader lights.

Risi was given a stop-and-go penalty for the infraction but the American team did not serve the penalty.

Toni Vilander, Giancarlo Fisichella and Matteo Malucelli crossed the line second in class, celebrated on the podium, but all GTE-Pro trophies were taken from drivers and team principals following the ceremonies.

Additionally, Ferrari has issued a joint protest against Ford post-race, alleging that the American manufacturer’s Ford GTs violated the ACO’s performance window between the LMP2 and GTE-Pro classes.

The so-called “7 Percent Rule” enforces a 7 percent performance gap between classes, which the manufacturers have alleged Ford broke during the race.

When asked about the protests, Chip Ganassi Racing Managing Director Mike Hull told Sportscar365 that he was aware of the protest against Ford but was not aware of the protest Ford lodged against the Risi team during the race.

Manufacturer representatives, as well as team principals are currently meeting with ACO and FIA officials to review the protests.

Stay tuned to Sportscar365 for the latest on this breaking story.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John