24 Hours

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Award-winning writer Richard Williams narrates the extraordinary tale of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an iconic motorsport event celebrating its centenary in 2023. Established in 1923 by a group of Frenchmen, the race captivates spectators, major manufacturers, and drivers eager to join its prestigious history. Notable participants have included Bugatti, Bentley, and Alfa Romeo between the wars, followed by Ferrari, Jaguar, Mercedes, Aston Martin, Ford, Porsche, Audi, and Toyota, all contributing to fierce rivalries. Over the years, the race has developed a rich folklore, featuring tales of petrol tanks sealed with chewing gum, a driver’s last pit-stop for champagne, and a woman in a fur coat driving her MG through the night. Competitors have ranged from princes and debutantes to drug smugglers and a Nazi spy. The allure of the event has drawn Hollywood filmmakers, such as Steve McQueen, who starred in Le Mans (1971), and James Mangold, who directed Le Mans '66 (2019). However, the race also witnessed the 1955 tragedy, where 82 people lost their lives in a catastrophic accident, threatening the sport's future. From the Bentley Boys of the 1920s to modern stars like Allan McNish, this narrative celebrates the skill, courage, and technical brilliance of those who have made the race renowned worldwide.