Le Mans/France, June 13 (QNA) - Team Qatar is preparing to make its historic debut in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the world's most prestigious and demanding endurance races, held at the legendary Circuit de la Sarthe in France.

The team's driver lineup features Abdullah Al Khulaifi, Julien Hanses, and Giuliano Alesi. Competing in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered in partnership with Iron Lynx, Team Qatar will start from 12th position on the grid in the LMGT3 category.

The entry marks a significant milestone for Qatari motorsport, as the team takes on leading manufacturers and some of the world's top endurance racing drivers. The participation reflects the ongoing efforts of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) to support Qatari drivers and strengthen their presence on the international stage.

Team Qatar has enjoyed a promising start to race week, finishing fourth in the opening free practice session. Qatari driver Abdullah Al Khulaifi also guided the team into the Hyperpole 1 qualifying session, narrowly missing out on a place in Hyperpole 2 by just 0.072 seconds.

Al Khulaifi described qualifying for the Hyperpole session as a major achievement for the team in its maiden Le Mans appearance, expressing his satisfaction with the performance delivered during qualifying.

A total of 183 drivers are competing in this year's event. On Thursday, Team Qatar's drivers took part in the traditional Le Mans drivers' parade through the city alongside the rest of the field ahead of the start of the official race. (QNA)