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Track Week: Circuit De La Sarthe (Le Mans)
The 24 Hours of Le Mans, held at the Circuit De La Sarthe, is perhaps the most famous motorsports events worldwide. Its name sake adorns the ALMS (American Le Mans Series) and is even paid a tribute by the 24 Hours of LeMons. Now on its 14th revision, Circuit N°14 is one of the world’s longest at 13.629km (or just short of 8.5mi). Circuit N°1 was 17.262km, or about 10.7mi, in length.
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The Circuit, named for the Sarthe River, incorporates public roads and was once known for a 6km long straight where driver’s would reach over 250mph. Its features are sponsored by the likes of Dunlop (Curve), Ford (Chicane), and Porsche (Curve). The former two make up part of the Bugatti Circuit, named for Italian coachbuilder Ettore Bugatti. Which begs the question, “where is the fellow countrymen Andre Citroen love”? Even in its current configuration most of the track is done at full throttle and accordingly punishes drivetrains and brake components.
The Legacy of LeMans
In 1955, tragedy struck the 24 Hours of Le Mans. 2 hours in to the race an Austin Healey 100 swerved in to the middle of the track to avoid a pitting car. The Austin’s driver did not notice two Mercedes-Benz 300 SLRs approaching from behind. The sloped rear of the Austin served as a ramp for Pierre Levegh’s SLR, causing it to fly in to the air. When the MB made contact with the ground it struck a mound which was meant to protect spectators from wayward cars. Instead of stopping, the SLR was sent somersaulting in to the stands.
The motor separated from the chassis and kept going at full speed. The fuel tank had also ruptured adding kindling to the ensuing fire. The bodywork was part magnesium, unbeknownst to emergency crews, so as they poured water on to the flames they only made the fire worse. The accident killed 80, making it the most deadly crash in auto racing history. Investigations after the incident led to a ban of motorsports in France, Germany, Switzerland, and many other European nations. To this day, the ban on racing in Switzerland still stands.