SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 15, 2025 – At the 2025 edition of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, Team Peugeot TotalEnergies encountered a difficult start during qualifying, missing out on the Hyperpole session. However, the team approached the race weekend with resilience, unity, and a deep focus on strategy and preparation.
The two PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercars were classified 18th and 19th in qualifying, which meant they did not progress to the final Hyperpole shootout. Despite noticeable improvements since Free Practice, Stoffel Vandoorne (#94) and Jean-Eric Vergne (#93) clocked lap times of 3:25.240 and 3:25.494. Both drivers had laps deleted due to track limit violations, and a puncture forced Vergne to make a pit stop during the session.
Team Peugeot TotalEnergies remained motivated and focused on the race, which started on Saturday, June 14 at 4:00 PM in front of more than 300,000 spectators.
Challenges in Qualifying Didn’t Shake Team Resolve
Even though the team had entered Le Mans off the back of three consecutive Hyperpole appearances in the FIA WEC season, the unique conditions at Le Mans posed a new challenge. Still, the team stayed positive and determined to maximize their performance during the race.
Jean-Marc Finot, Senior VP of Stellantis Motorsport, stated:
“While we were in the game at Spa, it's frustrating and disappointing not to make it into the Hyperpole. Given the specific regulations of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, we didn’t expect to break the 3-minute 26-second barrier in Qualifying — and we did! The Team Peugeot TotalEnergies did an excellent job, and the drivers gave their all on track. Even if we’re lacking a bit of pace, Le Mans is also about strategy, race incidents management, and seizing opportunities. We’ll do everything we can to be in the game, and we’ll fight to deliver the best race possible. Everyone remains motivated and focused, also thanks to all the support we’re receiving”
Drivers Stayed Focused as the Race Began
While performance expectations were high, both drivers acknowledged the challenges they faced on the Le Mans circuit. The team chose to concentrate on the race ahead, preparing the PEUGEOT 9X8s during the final practice sessions and warm-up.
Stoffel Vandoorne commented:
“In terms of performance, it’s going to be tough. The WEC/Le Mans regulations are a bit different, and we’re struggling a bit more here this week. So, we’ll focus on the race—that’s what really matters. Things are bound to happen, especially if the weather conditions are unstable.”
The Le Mans week also featured the Pit Stop Challenge, a must-see moment that highlighted the precision and teamwork behind the scenes. Events like this reinforced the camaraderie and determination of the crew.
Malthe Jakobsen added:
“A frustrating day with FP1 and Qualifying. Of course, we were hoping to get both cars into HYPERCAR, but the results are in line with our expectations. We’ll keep a cool head and stay focused on the upcoming practice sessions and the race. The team stands united, determined to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way.”
Looking Back on a Battle of Endurance
Although Team Peugeot TotalEnergies did not start from the front of the grid, the true essence of Le Mans has always been about endurance, adaptability, and seizing the right moment. From unpredictable weather to technical incidents, the race delivered the kind of drama that defines this motorsport classic.
Fans can revisit the full Le Mans experience and the latest updates from Team Peugeot TotalEnergies at www.peugeot-sport.com.