An aerial view at Circuit De La Sarthe. Photo Credit: ©Rolex/Stephan Cooper.
In Spring 2025, Rolex celebrates the spirit of endurance racing, focusing on the emotional and physical journey that defines the 24 Hours of Le Mans — the most prestigious race of its kind since 1923. As Official Timepiece and Exclusive Major Partner since 2001, Rolex honours the resilience and dreams of those who take part.
Tom Kristensen, known as “Mr. Le Mans,” exemplifies this spirit with a record nine wins, including six consecutive victories. His first Le Mans win in 1997 sparked a legendary career, and he commemorated his second win with a specially engraved Rolex Daytona.
“When I look at my watches, I reflect on my achievements, I see the moments behind the wheel during my races and the event as a whole,” states Kristensen.
“When you win a Rolex at Le Mans, there is the special engraving of the logo and ‘winner’ on the back – it’s incredibly personal and gives the watch even more sentimental value.”
AN ENDURING DRIVE
Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen in the garage during the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2012. Photo Credit: Rolex/Jad Sherif.
From June 14–15, 2025, the world will once again turn its eyes to Circuit de la Sarthe, where history, ambition, and endurance meet under the ticking hands of Rolex. At the iconic circuit, a new generation steps onto the stage.
Jamie Chadwick, making her Le Mans debut in 2025 with IDEC Sport in the LMP2 class, carries forward the tradition, guided by Kristensen’s mentorship. She joins fellow Rolex Testimonee Jenson Button, who returns for his fourth Le Mans appearance.
“Rolex’s long-standing partnerships with the sport’s leading championships and most prestigious races demonstrate the brand’s understanding and passion for the history and heritage of endurance racing.” – Tom Kristensen
Speaking on the challenges ahead, Kristensen stresses that the race is about speed and efficiency. “The high speeds and low downforce push the cars to their limits. The shifts from day to night and back to day again test not only the cars’ durability, but also the drivers’ ability to maintain focus over 24 hours.”
A LEGACY OF RACING
Action in the pit lane at night. Photo Credit: Rolex/Adam Warner.
Rolex’s legacy in endurance racing spans decades, supporting not just the 24 Hours of Le Mans, but also the Rolex 24 At Daytona and the Twelve Hours of Sebring — together forming the mythical Triple Crown of Endurance Racing. Kristensen has triumphed in two, reinforcing the values of teamwork, precision, and perseverance that link Rolex with the sport.
“Watchmaking and endurance racing share many synergies; both demand skill and the relentless pursuit of excellence in reliability, endurance and precision to achieve the best result,” he says.
“Rolex’s long-standing partnerships with the sport’s leading championships and most prestigious races demonstrate the brand’s understanding and passion for the history and heritage of endurance racing.”
As the attention shifts to the 2025 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the race remains a powerful symbol of human ambition and technical excellence. Whether chasing a first finish or a record-breaking win, every competitor shares one goal: to endure — and to leave their mark on motorsport history.
(Main Image: Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen. Photo Credit – Rolex/Andrew Baker)
