The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the world’s oldest motor car race held every year in the town of Le Mans, France since 1923. This race is a test of endurance and efficiency pushing a car’s mechanical capacity for 24 hours. The event is part of the Motorsports Triple Crown.

The race is hosted by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) and takes place on the Circuit de La Sarthe. The race uses both public roads and specialized racing circuits. Drivers must maintain sufficient speed while minimizing any mechanical damage to their cars.

The Le Mans was designed specially to test a car manufacturers ability to create a sporty car that could last 24 hours of tough racing. This led to numerous innovations in fuel-efficiency and producing reliable and durable vehicles. These innovations have trickled down into the manufacturing of modern cars for the average person.

The race runs annually and was first held in May, 1923. Qualifying and practice take place on the Wednesday and Thursday before the event with car inspection occurring on the Monday and Tuesday. Friday is an allotted day of rest before the 24 hours of racing commences.

Interesting Fact: The race is held in June, often during hot conditions, begins in mid-afternoon and requires a driver to cover well over 5,000 km (3,110 mi) within 24 hours.