24 Hours of Le Mans: A Legendary Endurance Race

The History and Evolution of the Iconic Race

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an endurance race held annually at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France. It is the oldest active endurance race in the world and is considered one of the most prestigious and challenging events in motorsport.

Foundation and Early Years

The inaugural race was held in 1923 as a way to showcase the latest technological advancements in automotive engineering. The first winners were André Lagache and René Léonard in a Chenard & Walcker.

Post-War Boom and Golden Age

Following World War II, the race gained immense popularity, attracting some of the biggest names in the automotive industry. The 1950s and 1960s are often referred to as the "Golden Age" of the 24 Hours.

Modern Era and Hybrid Innovations

In recent decades, the race has witnessed technological advancements, including the introduction of hybrid powertrains. This has led to improved performance and efficiency, with some cars achieving lap times that were unthinkable in the past.

The 2024 Edition

The 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans will be the 92nd running of this iconic event. Sixty-two cars from three classes (Hypercar, LMP2, LMGT3) will compete on the 13.626-km circuit.