Photo : FRANCOIS NAVARRO - ACO/NIKON

Throughout the week of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, whenever there are cars on track a huge transformation takes place on the roads. From tree lined public road to mythical race track. The track has become legendary, not just because of the teams and manufacturers who compete in the race, but also because of the people who work so hard behind the scenes.

First, at the request of the ACO, the local council workers change the road signs to divert traffic away from and around what will become the circuit. The police then step in to enforce these diversions and keep the traffic flowing as smoothly as possible.

At the same time, a special technical team begins working on all the safety aspects of the circuit. They install the additional Armco barriers to enclose the track as well as signalling lights and all of the necessary equipment for the marshals.

When these phases are completed, the ACO takes delivery of the track and sends a document to the local government, ensuring that they have complied with all regulations and local laws.

At this point, the road to Tours becomes the Mulsanne Straight.

Before competitive action can take place, the Race Director takes control of the track and drives a lap, accompanied by the Colonel of the local police department to make sure that everything is prepared to their satisfaction.
  

Photo: CIRCUIT DES 24 HEURES DU MANS (LE MANS, SARTHE), 24 HEURES DU MANS, CIRCUIT PREPARATION IS WELL UNDERWAY TURNING THE PUBLIC ROADS INTO A RACE TRACK, 13TH JUNE 2012.