One of the most recognizable officials in Le Mans competition has waved his final checkered flag, as longtime race director Daniel Poissenot has left his post at the Automobile Club de l’Ouest.

Poissenot, who served as the Clerk of the Course of the 24 Hours of Le Mans since 2001, announced his retirement last week after a 42-year run with the ACO.

The Frenchman worked more than 300 local, national and international races over his illustrious career, including serving as race director in the European and Asian Le Mans Series, Intercontinental Le Mans Cup, as well as involvement in the American Le Mans Series.

“Of course, with sadness, I leave my friends, colleagues and marshals who we built this beautiful race [together],” Poissenot wrote on his Facebook page. “Times are changing, and so are people.

“I will always [remember] the best memories of all these past years made of incredible emotions, positive and negative…

“Among these races I’ve been able to meet people with enormous talent and also make a few friends and bring the Le Mans name all over the world.”

Poissenot will be replaced by Patrick Morisseau at Le Mans, while Eduardo Freitas will continue to serve as race director in the FIA World Endurance Championship.