The illustrious brand Delage, known for its historic win in the 3L category in 1937, is poised to make a grand return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, coinciding with the race's centenary celebration. Partnering with the Idec Sport team, Delage will participate for the seventh time, showcasing the enduring legacy of this French manufacturer in the world of motorsport.
"The IDEC SPORT team is delighted to be partnering with Delage. The name evokes great things in car fans. And there is a real history in the Sarthe, a history that we have also been writing on our own scale for 7 years now," said Patrice Lafargue, President of the IDEC Group and founder of IDEC Sport. Lafargue expressed pride in this collaboration, highlighting that the 100th edition of the race offers a unique opportunity for both entities to contribute to the event's storied tradition.
Delage's history in the race spans from 1923 to 1950, with a notable class victory in 1937 marking their peak achievement. The forthcoming participation, more than 65 years later, is a testament to the brand's resilience and continuous evolution. Over the years, Delage has also gained recognition among collectors, with many of its cars frequently featured at prestigious events like the Concours d’Elegance.
Since being revitalized in 2019 under the leadership of Laurent Tapie, Delage has embarked on a path of innovation and excellence. The debut of the Delage D12 showcar in 2020 was a significant milestone, followed by the revelation of a rolling prototype that drew attention at last year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. With production of customer cars set to begin soon at Magny-Cours, the brand anticipates its first deliveries in 2024, pending European homologation certification.
"For Delage, the opportunity to return to Le Mans is a fantastic chance to continue rebuilding the brand’s reputation internationally," remarked a confident executive from Delage. "I would like to thank Patrice Lafargue and the entire Idec Sport team for giving us this opportunity. The technical cooperation between our teams can make us optimistic for the race, as there is so much skill and enthusiasm combined."
The Oreca IDEC SPORT will be unveiled to the media in a special blue livery amidst the backdrop of the Delage D12, symbolizing a fusion of past glory and future aspirations. This collaboration marks not just a return, but a qualitative leap in both teams' ongoing narrative within the sport.
As the countdown to the 91st edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans continues, fans and experts alike are eager to see how this partnership will unfold on one of the most revered racing stages in the world. The return of Delage, complemented by the expertise of IDEC Sport, promises to add a compelling chapter to the event's illustrious legacy.
For updates and exclusive content leading up to the race, fans can engage with IDEC Sport across various social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, ensuring they do not miss any key moments leading to this historic race.
