24h du Mans - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the world's oldest active sports car race in endurance racing, held annually since 1923 near the town of Le Mans, France.
- 2. The race is organized by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) and is part of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
- 3. The race is famous for its unique format, where teams of drivers compete to cover the greatest distance in a 24-hour period, driving through the day and night.
- 4. The Circuit de la Sarthe, where the race takes place, is a mix of public roads and a purpose-built racing track, featuring long straights and challenging corners.
- 5. The race attracts top manufacturers and teams from around the world, competing in different classes based on their car's performance and technology.
- 6. The race has seen legendary battles between manufacturers like Porsche, Audi, and Toyota, as well as iconic drivers such as Tom Kristensen, Jacky Ickx, and Derek Bell.
- 7. The current lap record at Le Mans was set by Kamui Kobayashi in a Toyota TS050 Hybrid in 2017, with a time of 3:14.791.
- 8. The race has been won by a variety of cars over the years, including prototypes, GT cars, and even a rotary-powered Mazda in 1991.
- 9. The event is not just about racing, as it also features a festive atmosphere with camping, concerts, and other entertainment for fans.
- 10. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is considered one of the Triple Crown of Motorsport, along with the Monaco Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500, and is a must-watch event for any motorsport enthusiast.