24 Hours of Le Mans

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an endurance sports car race held every year near the French city of Le Mans. It is organised by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest and forms part of the FIA World Endurance Championship.

Cars compete in 3 classes, Hypercar, LMP2 and LMGT3, and prizes go to each class winner as well as to the overall winner. Rather than being run over a set distance, the race goes to the car that travels farthest within the 24 hours. It uses the Circuit de la Sarthe, which combines a permanent track with public roads that are closed temporarily for the event.

The 2027 edition is confirmed for 9 to 13 June, in Le Mans, in the Pays de la Loire region. The access details are still an estimate: attendance is expected to be ticketed, with tickets expected to be available through the official site, official shops and official agencies, and an official resale platform also expected.

The week begins with support races, which bring young talent and close racing to the circuit before the main event gets under way.

On race day, a 15-minute warm-up lets the competitors return to the track a few hours before the start to fine-tune the last details. Minutes before the start, the crews take their places on the track, so fans can cheer them on one more time. An official ceremony then marks the final moments before the start, and spectators can follow it from the trackside or on giant screens.

When night falls, concerts take over, with artists performing on stage between highlights of the race. After dark, a show blending projections, lights and music brings the legend of the race back to life for the crowd.

The race was designed as a different test from Grand Prix racing, stressing reliable, sporty cars rather than simply the fastest machines.

Racing resumed in 1949 after the circuit facilities were rebuilt, drawing renewed interest from major car manufacturers. The traditional Le Mans start, where drivers sprinted across the track to their cars, was altered in 1970, and since 1971 a rolling start has opened the race.

Le Mans also saw the first televised champagne-spraying celebration by a winner, when Dan Gurney sprayed those around him after winning in 1967.

Giant screens are set up around the circuit, so visitors can follow the key moments of the race wherever they are.

The Village sits at the heart of the circuit and extends the experience beyond the track, with many exhibitors offering discoveries, meetings and activities. Fan Zones around the track add further activities and a shared passion for the event.