24 Hours

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Award-winning writer Richard Williams recounts the extraordinary history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an iconic motorsport event celebrating its centenary in 2023. Established by a group of Frenchmen in 1923, the race captivates spectators, major manufacturers seeking publicity, and drivers eager to join its prestigious ranks. Notable manufacturers like Bugatti, Bentley, and Alfa Romeo competed between the wars, while Ferrari, Jaguar, Mercedes, Aston Martin, Ford, Porsche, Audi, and Toyota have since engaged in fierce rivalries, ensuring the race's enduring allure. Over the years, it has developed a rich folklore, featuring tales of leaking petrol tanks sealed with chewing gum, a competitor's last pit-stop for champagne, and a woman driving her MG through the night in a fur coat. The event has attracted a diverse array of participants, from princes and debutantes to drug smugglers and a Nazi spy. Hollywood has also been drawn to its romance, with Steve McQueen's 1971 film and James Mangold's 2019 portrayal. However, the race was marred by tragedy in 1955, when a catastrophic accident claimed 82 lives, threatening the sport's future. From the Bentley Boys of the 1920s to modern stars like Allan McNish, the event celebrates the skill, courage, and technical brilliance of those who have contributed to its global fame.