LE MANS: Roger Federer will serve as official starter for this year`s 24 Hours of Le Mans sportscar r ace in June, organisers said on Thursday.

The Swiss tennis great will lower the flag to start the 93rd edition of the endurance race at 4 pm on June 14 at the Sarthe circuit in north-west France.

The Automobile Club de l`Ouest invites a wellknown international personality to start the race every year. Last year`s was flagged away by French football World Cup-winner Zinedine Zidane.

`It will be a tremendous privilege to welcome Federer as the official starter of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

His influence extends far beyond tennis,` said ACO president Pierre Fillon.

Federer, winner of 20 grand slam titles, said it was a huge honour.

`Ive always been fascinated by the commitment, precision and resilience it (the race) demands,` he added.

Ferrari have won the last two editions. Switzerland`s Sebastien Buemi is a four times winner and triumphed most recently with Toyota in 2022.

Other Swiss winners are Neel Jani (2016) and Marcel Fassler (2011, 2012 and 2014).-Reuters