PARIS (19 September 2024): Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) has renewed its long-standing partnership with IMG, extending its role as the exclusive global licensing representative for the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a multiyear deal running through 2029.
Under the new agreement, IMG will continue to expand the global reach and resonance of the iconic race through innovative licensing opportunities and strategic brand collaborations across all categories.
Widely regarded as one of the most iconic motor races in the world, the 24 Hours of Le Mans continues to captivate fans worldwide with its thrilling action, technological innovations, and legendary drivers. Amid the recent resurgence of motorsports, the endurance race has further cemented itself as a must-watch event of the year, appealing to both die-hard petrolheads and casual fans of all ages. This year alone, the race attracted nearly 120 million viewers across television and digital broadcasts, while reaching an audience of over 250 million on social media.
Since 2008, IMG has worked closely with ACO to build a robust licensing programme for the race with more than 130 licensees across multiple categories, doubling the annual revenues in the last 3 years. Brand collaborations were instrumental in activating the race’s centenary celebrations last year with a range of specially designed products. Highlights included an eyewear collection with Persol, replicas of the Le Mans hypercars with LEGO, toy ranges with Mattel-owned Hot Wheels and commemorative high-end collections with S.T. Dupont and Montegrappa.
With its prestigious fashion pedigree, 24 Hours of Le Mans remains a highly sought-after partner for fashion and lifestyle brands. Italian brand Kappa has recently signed on as the race’s official outfitter through 2026, launching the collaboration this summer with a 30-piece collection. Additionally, the ACO collaborated with streetwear brands Anti Social Social Club and Period Correct for apparel and accessories.
Stéphane Andriolo, Sales and Marketing Director, ACO, said, “IMG has been making a valuable contribution to the prestige of the 24 Hours of Le Mans brand for over 15 years. We are delighted to extend this winning partnership over the next five years and have every confidence in IMG’s backing of the 24 Hours of Le Mans through this golden age of endurance.”
Mickael Andreo, Vice President of Licensing, IMG, said, “For over 100 years, 24 Hours of Le Mans has pioneered trends not only in motorsports but also in fashion, technology and culture. It has consistently set the standard for blending tradition with innovation, successfully connecting with both older and younger generations. We’re excited to keep working with the ACO to grow the brand through strategic collaborations that reach diverse global audiences, unlock new revenue streams, and enhance fan engagement.”
For more information on licensing opportunities with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, visit https://imglicensing.com/brands/24h-le-mans/.
About The 24 Hours of Le Mans
The 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race has existed since 1923, it is an exceptional event offering unforgettable experiences to a vast public of almost 350,000 track-side spectators and over 150 million television viewers across the world. However, its legendary 13.6 kilometre circuit is also a testing ground for the cutting edge of technological innovation. The 24 Hours of Le Mans continues to be inspired by its experiences of the previous century with a very clear objective: GET AHEAD OF THE FUTURE.
About Automobile Club de l’Ouest
Founded in 1906, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) organised the first ever Grand Prix in 1906 and introduced the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1923. A staunch defender of endurance racing, the ACO contributes to the organisation and promotion of the FIA World Endurance Championship and instigated the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in the USA, the European Le Mans Series and Asian Le Mans Series. Aside from the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours, ACO circuits host the 24-hour motorcycle race (24H Motos), the French motorcycle Grand Prix, the 24-hour go-karting event and the 24-hour truck race (24 Heures Camions).
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a test bed for innovations in automotive technology, the ACO’s main focus in terms of development. The ACO’s commitment to sustainable mobility currently takes the shape of the MissionH24 project to introduce a hydrogen class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The ACO defends the interests of everyday motorists and takes pleasure in offering excellent hospitality to members at motor sports events organised by the club.
Driving skills being an important part of the safety and the pleasure of motoring, the club has a driving school, Le Mans Driver, as well as a go-kart complex with simulators and an international standard track. The club’s trackside facilities are a sought-after event venue, often coupled with multi-lingual tours of the circuit. Merchandise and tickets are on sale in outlets in Le Mans, Tours, Rouen, Paris.
About IMG
IMG is a global sports, events and representation company. It is a leader in rights management, multi-channel content production and distribution, consultancy and fan engagement; owns, produces and commercially represents hundreds of live events and experiences; and manages licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.