Mazda 787B is making its return to the Circuit de la Sarthe to celebrate 100 years of Le Mans.
Mazda Motor Corporation has exciting news for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. The iconic Mazda 787B, the first Japanese car to clinch victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, will be making a grand return to the Circuit de la Sarthe in France. This historic event will take place from June 7 to 11, 2023, as part of the Centenary Anniversary celebrations of the world-renowned endurance race. Let’s delve into the details of this momentous occasion.
The Triumph of the Mazda 787B
In 1991, the Mazda 787B secured its place in motorsport history by claiming victory at the 59th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Powered by a remarkable four-rotor rotary engine, this groundbreaking vehicle showcased Mazda’s engineering prowess and innovative spirit. Fast forward to the present day, and the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), the event organizer, has extended a special invitation to Mazda to conduct a demonstration run with the legendary 787B.
The Demonstration Run and Mazda’s Representative
Scheduled for June 9 and 10, the Mazda 787B will grace the Circuit de la Sarthe once again, thrilling spectators with its iconic design and the unforgettable sound of its rotary engine. Behind the wheel will be the legendary Yojiro Terada, an accomplished driver who holds an impressive record of 29 appearances at Le Mans. This exciting demonstration run promises to transport spectators back in time and honor the rich heritage of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Celebrating the Centennial Anniversary
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Le Mans Museum will exhibit the winning race cars from previous years. From June 1 to July 2, motorsport enthusiasts will have the opportunity to admire these legendary machines up close. Furthermore, the Mazda 787B will participate in a demonstration run on the short course on the evenings of June 9 and June 10, preceding the start of the 24 Hours race. During this run, it will share the limelight with other iconic Japanese Le Mans winning cars from Toyota Motor Corporation/TOYOTA Gazoo Racing. Additionally, the Mazda 787B is scheduled to demonstrate at the Le Mans Classic, a renowned vintage motorsport event, from June 30 to July 2.
Japan Endless Discovery: A Themed Exhibition
In collaboration with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Toyota, and Mazda, a themed exhibition titled “Japan Endless Discovery” will take place during the Le Mans Centennial race week. This exhibition aims to promote inbound tourism to Japan and showcase the country’s commitment to carbon neutrality. Alongside various displays, Mazda will present the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV (European specification) equipped with their latest rotary engine technology functioning as an electric generator. This innovative approach aligns with Mazda’s vision to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and highlights their human-centered philosophy.
