The 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race in France, is the oldest endurance type auto race in the world and is the third race in the Triple Crown of Motorsport. The race is held annually in June and organized by the Automobile Club de L’Ouest. It is a French race and takes place on the Circuit de la Sarthe. The race takes place over 24 hours straight, which is unique and creates the need for cars and teams which can be present, functioning and participate for this entire 24 hours.
This event is one of the most significant races of the FIA World Endurance Championship, as well as the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup, and was once part of what was known as the World Sportscar Championship between 1953 and 1992.
Th
e unique 24-hour format did not take long to catch on and has both inspired and influenced similar style events all over the world, from England to the United States, and competitions which range from endurance car races to truck races.
The first ever race was held in May of 1923 and took place over the streets of Le Mans. This race gained popularity over the following years but had to take a five-year hiatus or so from 1939 until 1945 to allow for the facilities to be renovated. Since then, the race has continued to evolve into what it is today; an influential and essential race for auto racing fans and enthusiasts all over the world. This race is also considered a platform for, and a promoter of, innovation, leading the way for endurance racers around the globe.
