24h Le Mans
Enjoying a 24-Hour race from the trackside at Le Mans requires preparation. Read on to find out how best to follow the race, avoid tiredness and share your experience with others.
Let’s start with how to follow track action. These days, with an internet connection, spectators have access to the same information as the journalists in the media centre and even race control. Your best friend is therefore likely to be your mobile phone - along with a few printed guides.
Entry List
Here’s the list of all sixty cars entered for the 85th running of the race, with their teams, numbers and drivers. Keep it with you at all times during track action to help you identify less well-known competitors.
Official Programme of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
The programme is on sale in ACO stores and at stands around the circuit. Packed with pre-race news and analysis, it’s a must-have for all real fans. Pick one up from your nearest stand.
The 24 Hours of Le Mans app
Download the official app to keep up-to-date with the rankings, watch replays and read the latest articles published by the ACO editorial team. Don’t forget to add the Météo France app for precise weather forecasts and a traffic app to help you plan your journey to and from the circuit. A tip: you won’t be alone!
A portable radio
Travel with a radio and tune in to Radio Le Mans on 96.0 FM for expert commentary and regular updates.
Or, if you prefer to use your trusty phone, Radio Le Mans is available via the TuneIn app.
Dyed in the wool fans carry a pencil with them and cross cars off the entry list as they retire.
Watching a 24-hour race is a full-time job! Well, OK, you don’t need to train quite like a racing driver, but it’s important to look after yourself all the same. Remember to stock up with plenty of water and snacks. If you don’t want to carry a packed lunch, there are 75 eateries around the circuit so there’s no excuse to go hungry! But don’t forget to take a few snacks for when you’re on the go, walking between two vantage points.
Just a reminder, glass bottles are forbidden within the grounds.
And of course, there are plenty of restaurants in and around the city. If you’re camping for the whole week, it can be a good idea to get away from the circuit from time to time. You’ll appreciate it all the more for having left it for a while! If you are in need of inspiration, we can recommend a few places to go.
A day in the open air requires a few precautions.
Sun cream
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is held in June for a reason. The founders of the world’s greatest endurance race chose mid-summer to maximise daylight hours. Not only are the days long, but they are often hot and sunny too. Sun cream is an absolute must!
Hat and sunglasses
Depending on your chosen vantage point, you may have the sun in your eyes, so sunglasses are essential. A hat is also a good idea, given the many hours spent in bright sunshine. If you don’t already have your firm favourites in your suitcase, head to one of the ACO stores for Le Mans-branded merchandise that’s sure to tempt you!
Ear plugs
The Automobile Club de l’Ouest has teamed up with Acoufun once again to offer a full range of ear protection solutions. Also in ACO stores, noise-cancelling headphones with built-in FM radio. The ultimate ear-gear!
Warm clothes
It goes without saying that a 24-hour race lasts all day - and all night. So don’t forget some warmer layers to cover up when the sun goes down.
Bonus tip: plasters for those irksome blisters on your feet, a raincoat and ideally a change of footwear.
Much to our regret, the 24 Hours of Le Mans only comes round once a year, so take something home to help you get through those empty 12 months.
Camera
Take plenty of pictures to remind you of your trip on the 364 non-Le Mans days. Don’t forget spare batteries and a memory card to transfer all 36,000 pics you’ll have taken!
And if that’s not enough, the race village is teaming with souvenirs to take home. You’ll find everything, from stickers to collector’s scale models. Just make sure your case is big enough!
