PHOTOS/VIDEO: Rafael Nadal gave a start to the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, 16 June 2018

LE MANS, France  (AP) — Rafael Nadal played the role of official starter on Saturday to get the 86th edition of the 24 Hours Le Mans classic endurance race underway amid light rain. 

Former Formula One champions Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button are among 180 drivers in the crews of three.

Alonso, racing for Toyota, is competing in his first Le Mans as he bids to match British driver Graham Hill's feat of completing motorsport's unofficial Triple Crown, including wins at the Monaco Grand Prix and Indianapolis 500.

Photos: EPA; AFP; AP; Sarthe; TOYOTA GAZOO Racing; WEC; DPPI