Hyperpole in the Le Mans 24 Hours race is a run-off between the fastest 24 of the 62 cars to determine the positions on the starting grid. Generally, it involves the first six qualifiers of each class on the track, amounting to 24 cars, but for this year, only 23 cars will compete in the Hyperpole. It’s because there are only five Hypercar entries, who all progress straight into the half-hour session.
In 2020, Hyperpole was introduced for the first time by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) to allow cars to demonstrate pure speed on the 13.626 km long circuit for Le Mans 24 Hours race. The outcome would give the top six places in each class on the starting grid.
Back then, Pierre Fillon, the President of ACO talked at length about the reasons why Hyperpole was introduced in the first place. He was quoted as saying, “(It will be) guaranteeing two exciting sessions for both drivers and spectators, where all the focus will be on sheer speed in a quest for the perfect lap. Adrenalin, suspense and concentration will be at a max for every team out there.”
“It will be a thrilling prelude to the ensuing 24-hour battle on our iconic 13 km track. Le Mans will once again be a celebration of racing that goes on for several days, and not just a weekend,” he further stated.
Furthermore, during Hyperpole, competitors are free to choose their tyres, but it is limited to eight for the whole session. Also, they are not allowed to return to the pits to refuel while the half-hour session goes on.
