Fans ofEndurance are served. From 2026, Le Mans Classic will take on an annual rhythm! Since its creation in 2002 by Patrick Peter, the event celebrating the history of 24 Hours of Le Mans followed a biennial rhythm. Faced with the strong demand for modern vehicles, the organization now headed by Marc Ouayoun decided to impose a change of gear.
Among the challenges, displaying and running a batch of more modern cars on the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit was on the organization's agenda. Today, nearly 700 vintage racing cars and more than 8 collector cars are on display, attracting a large crowd – the 000 edition having set a new record (2023 visitors).
Le Mans Classic opts for alternating generations
With a meeting now set each year in Sarthe, Le Mans Classic will present two distinct editions, alternating from one year to the next. Thus, Le Mans Classic Heritage will showcase cars seen at Le Mans, dating from 1923 to 1975, while Le Mans Classic Legend will welcome models designed between 1976 and 2015.
Furthermore, the Legends of Le Mans event, also showcasing historic 24H vehicles, will now be held as a curtain-raiser to certain races in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) at the rate of two sprint races per meeting concerned. This support race will only concern LMP1 and LMP2 cars from the 2010s intended for gentlemen and gentlewomen drivers.
ALSO READ > Key announcements from the ACO press conference
Continue reading on these topics:
Hilton Leon
19/06/2025 at 02:07 a.m.
Would Patrick Peter have approved of this race for money?