24h Le Mans
As 40 skippers cast off for the start of the 10th Vendée Globe round-the-world, non-stop, single-handed yacht race today (Sunday 10 November 2024), we ask the question: could a driver race solo in the 24 Hours of Le Mans?
It might seem crazy today, but it did almost happen at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in bygone times. The race’s history books recount the tale of Louis Rosier. In 1950, in the Frenchman’s third appearance in the race, he accomplished the heroic and unlikely feat of winning the race almost single-handed, having spent more than 23 hours at the wheel. Rosier allowed his son, Jean-Louis, the pleasure of completing a few laps before hopping back into the driver’s seat to set what is still a record in terms of endurance. This achievement is worthy of the solo sailors who are setting out to brave the oceans without assistance and will remain forever etched in the annals of the French endurance classic.
Today, such a performance would be simply impossible. The 24 Hours of Le Mans regulations stipulate that all teams must rotate three drivers through the car during the race. The rules are devised to ensure that teams’ safety and performance are not compromised during such an intense, demanding race. The time spent at the wheel is also restricted to four hours in any six-hour period, and all drivers must have a mandatory break between each stint.
Moreover, in the LMP2 and LMGT3 classes, Bronze and Silver drivers must spend at least six hours in total at the wheel during the race. The team faces a penalty and potential disqualification should a driver fail to complete the minimum driving time. Similarly, the sanction may result in disqualification should a driver exceed the maximum driving time.
These rules are strictly monitored by the Stewards to prevent overtiredness and safeguard the competitors. Unlike the Vendée Globe skippers, the drivers in the 24 Hours of Le Mans must therefore share the burden and each one plays a decisive role in the quest for victory.
Rosier’s achievement remains a unique feat in the history of motor racing and bears witness to an era where limits were tested differently to today. In 2024, the essence of the 24 Hours of Le Mans is teamwork, coordination and collective strategy, whereas the Vendée Globe skippers can only call on their inner strength and motivation when the going gets tough.
