What is Le Mans Classic?
The event is held over three days every two years at the famous Le Mans circuit in France, using the full 24-hour track, which includes road sections, including the famous Mulsanne straight. Practice takes place on Friday 9th July, through the day and night with racing starting at 16.00 on Saturday and going on for 24 hours until the chequered flag at 16.00 on Sunday, with other events around the track from Friday morning.
The Race - The fifth Le Mans Classic, which has become part of motor sport heritage, brings together nearly 450 historic racing cars, from 1923 to 1979, split into 6 grids, relaying each other on the 13 kilometre long circuit for 24 hours. There are over 1000 drivers from more than 30 countries.
The Car Clubs - In 2008 the meeting was supported by over 200 car clubs displaying more than 6500 cars inside the Bugatti circuit. Any car built before 1966 plus other more recent notable classics are accepted. And more clubs are expected this year. There are also concours prizes for the best clubs and cars.
The Spectators – Over 100,000 spectators attended Le Mans Classic in 2008, making it the 2nd biggest sporting attendance in France (less than the Le Mans 24 hours and more than F1). A Goodwood style village with public entry to all the plateaux, where the race cars may be seen in tented garages. There is also an automobilia village for books, paintings, and rare automobile items. Plus Le Mans Heritage Club where 24 former Le Mans cars which participated between 1923 & 2010 will be exhibited. The cars represent the history and evolution of the race over nearly 90 years. For more information see their website: www.lemansclassic.com
