Princess Charlene swaps her regal style for biker chic

Our engines were revving upon seeing Princess Charlene step out for the 24 Hours of Le Mans on Saturday, June 15. The 41-year-old former Olympian opted for an edgy ensemble at the race, one rarely seen in the buttoned up sea of royals floating through engagements. Her black leather jacket alone was a bold statement with its studded notch lapel and zipped cuffs. As she whirled around the Circuit de la Sarthe raceway in north-west France, we saw further proof of the royals’ less regal side.

The South African princess literally started and finished the race. She had the honor of waving the French tricolore to signal the beginning of the gruelling endurance contest, and later participated in the winner's ceremony.

Charlene was in attendance as a #3500LIVES Ambassador for the FIA Foundation, which promotes road safety around the global. In a group photo for the foundation, Charlene was seen with fellow ambassadors and Eva Longoria's ex husband Tony Parker.