Bridgestone-Supported Yoshimura SERT Motul Clinches EWC Crown with Victory at Bol d’Or 2024
The Bol d’Or, one of the most famous endurance motorcycle races in the world, once again thrilled fans this year at the Circuit Paul Ricard. The 24-hour race, which marks the grand finale of the FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), saw intense competition, amazing performances, and a victory built on skill, strategy, and reliability.
Victory for Yoshimura SERT Motul
Yoshimura SERT Motul, riding on Bridgestone tyres, delivered an unforgettable performance, securing their second Bol d’Or win in a row. This win capped off a season full of determination, precision, and teamwork. Despite tough competition, the team, made up of riders Gregg Black, Dan Linfoot, and Étienne Masson, stayed focused and strong for the entire 24-hour race.
After a season that included a win at Le Mans, a second-place finish at Spa, and third at Suzuka, Yoshimura SERT Motul came to the Bol d’Or determined to win the title. They performed perfectly, overcoming mechanical problems, relentless competition, and the physical demands of 24 hours on the track. This win not only secured their dominance at Circuit Paul Ricard but also marked their second EWC championship victory on Bridgestone tyres.
Gregg Black, who fought through an injury earlier in the season, showed incredible courage by completing 10 stints in the race, helping to seal the victory. For Linfoot, who had reached the podium in every EWC race this year, this win was the highlight of an already outstanding season. Bridgestone’s focus on performance, reliability, and endurance played a key role in the team’s success. The tyres’ steady grip and durability allowed the riders to push hard, even during the most critical moments of the race.
YART Yamaha’s Fighting Spirit: Podium Finish Despite Problems
The Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team, another Bridgestone-supported squad, started the Bol d’Or as one of the main contenders for the EWC title. Leading the standings going into the race, they hoped to win the championship with a strong showing. However, two unexpected pit stops hurt their chances, leaving them fighting for a podium spot.
Riders Niccolò Canepa, Marvin Fritz, and Karel Hanika showed incredible determination as they worked through mechanical problems that slowed them early in the race. Despite these setbacks, YART Yamaha finished in third place at the Bol d’Or, proving they are a strong team even when faced with challenges.
For Niccolò Canepa, the Bol d’Or was the last race of his career. Although he didn’t achieve the third world title he had hoped for, his legacy as one of the greats in EWC racing is secure.
F.C.C. TSR Honda France Leads Early but Falls Short Due to Engine Trouble
Our third Bridgestone-supported team, F.C.C. TSR Honda France, started the Bol d’Or strong, leading the race early with great speed and precision. Unfortunately, their journey ended early due to engine failure. Despite their early exit, the team’s performance showed great potential, and their early lead was a testament to their abilities.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Endurance
The Bol d’Or 2024 will be remembered for its drama and incredible endurance. With two podium finishes and a strong early lead, the three Bridgestone-supported teams once again showed the value of preparation, teamwork, and high-performance equipment.
As the season wraps up, Bridgestone continues to be at the heart of endurance racing, helping some of the sport’s most successful teams reach new heights. This victory marks Bridgestone’s 4th consecutive EWC title and its 5th overall since joining the championship in 2017. The triumph of Yoshimura SERT Motul, along with the determination of YART Yamaha and F.C.C. TSR Honda France, proves that endurance racing is about more than just speed—it’s about pushing beyond limits and lasting the distance, something Bridgestone understands all too well.
