24h Le Mans
Significant renovation work is in progress at the Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans as the home of the world’s greatest endurance race gears up for the 2023 season. To meet some of the goals of its Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy and improve the experience for spectators and competitors, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest – in partnership with the Syndicat Mixte des 24 Heures du Mans – has several projects lined up. Here’s what’s in store.
North and South Gates
The Syndicat Mixte – a consortium of local authorities – is pressing on with its aim of enhancing visitor safety and comfort at the two main gates. The North Gate, now mainly for pedestrians during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, will be improved further to ease queuing and reduce congestion. A new building and wider entrance lanes at the South Gate are designed to improve vehicle traffic flow. The work at these two gates will be completed by the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Medical Centre
To optimise safety at the circuit and improve emergency response, a new Track Medical Centre will be installed as part of our partnership with the MMA insurance group. It will include a helipad to airlift casualties to hospital. This Medical Centre is scheduled to be operational during the 2023 season.
Museum extension
The 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum showcases the history of the motor car, attracting over 120,000 visitors a year. Its popularity has grown consistently since the ACO became owners in 2017. The organisation is committed to expanding the exhibition areas and renewing the visiting experience. This 3400 m² extension – an architectural statement – will primarily house cars from a private collection. The current premises will subsequently be refurbished to match the extension. The aim of the project is to make the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum the finest motorsport museum in Europe. Make a date for 2024 to see this new jewel in the Le Mans crown!
Museum Esplanade
Work is about to commence to give a whole new feel to this area located near the Museum. A total area of almost 10,000 m² will be renovated with spaces created to accommodate open-air exhibitions and fairs. The ACO is also keen to improve access for people with reduced mobility in line with its CSR strategy. The renovation work on this Esplanade will also be completed in time for the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary.
La Chapelle
One of the circuit’s iconic spots, greatly appreciated by all spectators, will also be given a makeover before the Centenary. Major upgrade work is in the pipeline to improve the spectator experience at the foot of the Dunlop Footbridge. Plans include revegetating areas totalling more than 6000 m², in line with the ACO’s environmental targets.
