The 69th running of the famous French endurance classic heralded the much hyped and hugely exciting return of two of the sport’s greatest marques to the la Sarthe circuit. The ‘Bentley Boys’ were back at their spiritual home and MG also made a welcome comeback with the Lola EX257.
Eight manufacturers, including the defending Audi Sport Team Joest, plus a host of top-flight privateer GTs were on the grid for the start of what promised to be an exciting race.
Torrential rain just four laps in to the race caused havoc with cars still running on dry or intermediate tyres and a six car pile-up and the changeable conditions kept teams on their toes throughout the following 23 hours.
Despite the downpours, the atmosphere was as lively as ever and the thrills just kept on coming.
In the end the immaculately prepared Joest Audis proved to be the class of the field and rising Danish star Tom Kristensen, along with co-drivers Biela and Pirro, was able to add another trophy to his growing collection.
British fans were able to join in the celebrations as Andy Wallace, Butch Leitzinger and Eric van de Poele steered their Bentley to a solid and well-deserved third place – not a bad effort after 71 years away!
Relive all of the excitement with this comprehensive review. Featuring all the main highlights of the race in multiple camera angle coverage accompanied by Radio Le Mans commentary, you’ll feel almost as if you were there.
Even better, you get to see some of the build up from race week and Le Mans Legend Race highlights showing pre-1965 Ferrari, Lotus, Maserati and Jaguar cars in action on the Circuit de la Sarthe.
Get ready for the speed and passion of the 69th 24 Hours of Le Mans.