Just hours before the start of the famous 24 Heures du Mans, the all-female Kessel Racing crew, which is supported by the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, had the honour of being presented to Her Serene Highness, Princess Charlene of Monaco. The Princess is herself a former Olympic swimmer and, for the first time, officiated as starter of the grand finale of the 2018-2019 FIA World Endurance Championship Super Season.
 
Her Serene Highness, Princess Charlene of Monaco was joined by (l-r) Richard Mille, Michelle Gatting, Hurley Haywood, Tony Parker, President of the FIA Jean Todt, French Secretary of State for Equality between women and men Marlène Schiappa, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest Pierre Fillon, Deborah Mayer, Minister of Youth and Sport of France Roxana Maracineanu, and Manuela Gostner.
 
Rahel Frey, Michelle Gatting and Manuela Gostner then lined up on the grid for the 87th running of this legendary endurance race with their Ferrari 488 GTE, becoming the first all-female crew in 10 years to compete in the event on the Circuit de la Sarthe.
 
Team Manager Deborah Mayer, who has been instrumental in making the Kessel Racing project possible, said: “It is an immense honour and pleasure to meet Her Serene Highness, Princess Charlene of Monaco. Such an emotional moment has given us even more determination as we embark on the most mythical endurance race in the world.”
 
Michèle Mouton, President of the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission and winner of the Prototype 2L category at the 1975 Le Mans added: “To drive the 24 Heures du Mans is an incredible feeling and a unique experience, something very special. As is the case for all drivers, an immense challenge lies ahead for Rahel, Michelle and Manuela, but they have prepared well for what will, I’m sure, be one of the most significant races in their careers. Naturally we wish them luck and success.”