Skip to content
Custom Racing Suit
Get Started for FREE
2025 Le Mans 24 Hours Qualifying Format Fully Uncovered
LISTEN
0:00 0:00
Highlights
- Le Mans 2025 qualifying follows 2006 F1 knockout format.
- Three classes: Hypercar, LMP2, and LMGT3, qualifying separately.
- June 11 features initial sessions; top cars advance to Hyperpole.
- June 12 hosts two Hyperpole stages, eliminating slowest competitors.
- Fastest Hypercar in final Hyperpole claims overall pole position.
- Strategic choices impact results in tight, timed qualifying sessions.
Qualifying for the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours has adopted a format similar to the F1 knockout system that debuted in 2006. The event features three separate classes: Hypercar, LMP2, and LMGT3.
Hypercars compete for the top spot and overall win, while LMP2 and LMGT3 aim for their own class victories. During qualifying, Hypercars run in their own sessions, while LMP2 and LMGT3 qualifiers take place together.
The action starts on Wednesday, June 11, with two qualifying segments that day. The LMP2 and LMGT3 session runs from 18:45 to 19:15 local time (Central European Time), followed by the Hypercar session from 19:30 to 20:00.
After these sessions, only the 15 quickest Hypercars, 12 fastest LMP2s, and 12 fastest LMGT3s advance to Thursday’s Hyperpole.
Hyperpole is a two-stage process for each group. On Thursday, June 12, Hyperpole 1 for LMP2 and LMGT3 takes place from 20:00 to 20:20, where the slowest four drivers from both classes are eliminated.
Shortly after, at 20:35, Hyperpole 2 for these classes is held, with the top 8 LMP2 and top 8 LMGT3 drivers competing for class pole.
The Hypercar group gets its turn later on Thursday night. Hyperpole 1 for Hypercars starts at 21:05 and ends by 21:25, eliminating the five slowest Hypercars.
The remaining 10 fastest Hypercars then compete in Hyperpole 2, scheduled from 21:40 to 21:55. The quickest Hypercar from this final session claims the overall pole position for the 24-hour race.
The split between classes in qualifying reflects the different performance levels on the Le Mans circuit. Each class getting a separate shot at pole maintains fairness and excitement.
The knockout rounds build tension as each cut eliminates competitors up to the final battle for pole. This structure also introduces a strong strategic element for teams.
Timing, tire choices, and traffic management can make a big difference as the field narrows. Every lap in these short, pressured sessions counts, and mistakes can end a team’s chances for a strong starting spot.
The clear schedule lets fans follow each phase closely across June 11 and 12. As the top teams and drivers fight for track position, anticipation builds for the start of the iconic race.
The field will be set, and teams will prepare for the biggest endurance challenge in global motorsport.
John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.
