Le Mans 24 Hours 2008 - June 11th - 15th

Le Mans Classic 2008 - July 11th - 13th

The 24 Hours of Le Mans began in 1923 when the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) created a new circuit to replace the Le Mans - Saint Calais - La Ferte Bernard loop that had previously been used for the French Grand Prix. From the very first running of the race, there has been a strong British presence, in fact the famous Bentley boys took the chequered flag no less than 5 times during the first 8 years. This laid the foundations for a healthy British racing pedigree at Le Mans and a fanatical following that haven't faltered to this day. In 2007 there was huge joy for the British fans at the Le Mans 24 hours as the Prodrive outfit with their two Aston Martin DBR9s finally beat the Corvettes to take the GT1 crown. In LPM1 automotive giants Audi and Peugeot went head to head for the overall victory in diesel powered cars with Audi coming out on top. However, with a years development under their belt Peugeot are sure to come back fighting in 2008.

Peugeot and Audi will go head to head again in '08

2008 is also an ‘on year’ for the biannual Le Mans Classic. Much more laid back than the modern 24 hours, it is an enthusiast’s dream with staggering grids of ex Le Mans racers from between 1923 and 1979. Think pre war Bentleys, Lagondas and Buggattis, think Jaguar C Type and D Type, Aston Martin DBR1, Austin Healey 3000, Ferrari 250 GT, AC Cobra, Ford GT40, Lola T70, Porsche 917, Shelby 350GT, BMW CSL, BMW M1 and many, many more. The cars are divided into 6 ‘grids’ based on their age with each grid racing 3 times during a 24 hour period to ensure continuous action right through the night in the true spirit of Le Mans.

Cobras and GT40s in abundance at the Le Mans Classic

If you are thinking about buying into the Le Mans experience or would simply like to enjoy our free guide to either event then use the menu on the left to find more information on prices, accommodation, the circuit and more. Click the tickets button at the top of the page at any time for the booking procedure.