The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most prestigious and grueling endurance races in motorsport history. Held annually at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France, this race pushes drivers and their vehicles to the absolute limit over a full day of non-stop competition. The 2025 edition marks the 93rd running of this legendary event, featuring 62 teams, 186 drivers, and 13 manufacturers across three categories: Hypercar, LMP2, and LMGT3.

The Circuit de la Sarthe

The Circuit de la Sarthe is a semi-permanent track spanning 8.5 miles (13.6 km) with 38 turns. Its unique layout combines high-speed straights with technical corners, making it a true test of both speed and endurance. The track’s history and challenging nature have cemented its status as a motorsport icon.

The 2025 Grid

This year’s race sees Ferrari aiming for a third consecutive victory in the Hypercar category, the top-tier class reserved for professional drivers. Other notable manufacturers include Porsche, Toyota, and Cadillac. The LMP2 and LMGT3 classes also feature a mix of professional and amateur drivers, adding to the event’s diversity and excitement.

Star Drivers

The 2025 grid boasts an impressive lineup of former Formula 1 stars and motorsport legends. Jenson Button, the 2009 F1 champion, returns for his fourth appearance, while Antonio Giovinazzi, the 2023 Le Mans winner, aims to defend his title. Valentino Rossi, the MotoGP legend, continues his transition to four wheels in the LMGT3 category. Additionally, Jamie Chadwick, a three-time W Series champion, represents one of the five female drivers competing this year.

Race Format

Each team consists of three drivers who alternate stints behind the wheel over the 24-hour period. Drivers are limited to a maximum of 14 hours in the car, ensuring they remain sharp and focused. The team that covers the most distance or completes the most laps is declared the winner.

Qualifying and Hyperpole

The race weekend includes four practice sessions, qualifying, and the hyperpole shootout. In qualifying, drivers aim to set the fastest lap in their respective classes. The top six cars from each class then compete in the hyperpole to determine their starting positions for the race.

The Triple Crown

Le Mans is a key component of the motorsport triple crown, alongside the Indianapolis 500 and the Monaco Grand Prix. Only one driver, Graham Hill, has achieved this legendary feat, winning all three events during his illustrious career.

Behind the Scenes

The Ask Me Anything team from BBC Sport provides in-depth coverage of the event, offering insights into the race’s history, mechanics, and the stories of the drivers and teams. Their comprehensive reporting spans the BBC Sport website, app, social media, and YouTube, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action.

Conclusion

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of human and mechanical endurance. With its rich history, challenging circuit, and star-studded lineup, the 2025 edition promises to be another unforgettable chapter in motorsport history.