After a monumental renovation, Le Mans’ new M24 museum has reopened its doors, aiming to redefine global motorsport history far beyond the legendary 24-hour race that made it famous.
Le Mans Aims for Global Motorsport Capital Status
Following nearly a year of closure and a colossal construction project, the M24 – Musée du Sport automobile – has finally reopened its doors adjacent to the iconic Sarthe circuit. This isn’t merely a refresh; it’s a complete reinvention. The former 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum has been transformed into a space embracing the entirety of motorsport, with a clear ambition: to become the world’s definitive reference point.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), expressed his pride and the palpable excitement of the ‘grand day’. “This is the culmination of a long project,” he confided. “This museum presented a real challenge. Its completion in nine months was a daily battle for the teams.” The objective was straightforward: have the museum ready on time, much like a racing car setting off at 4 PM on a Saturday.
The new name, M24, and its broadened scope reflect this drive for inclusivity. “We truly felt Le Mans was the rightful place to create something that doesn’t currently exist: the motorsport museum,” explained Fabrice Bourrigaud, the museum’s director. “We are in Le Mans, famous for the 24 Hours, on one of the three most celebrated circuits globally. The first modern motorsport race was conceived here in 1906, so Le Mans was the ideal location.” The gamble was bold: reopening before the 2026 edition, after a closure post-2025, to avoid missing the major motorsport gathering.
Doubled Surface Area for Total Immersion
Perhaps the most striking transformation is the doubling of the exhibition space, expanding from 5,000 m² to 10,000 m². This redesigned area facilitates a resolutely modern and immersive approach. Visitors are guided through the chronology of a 24 Hours of Le Mans race week, from the thrill of the start to the challenges of the night, before exploring other premier disciplines like Formula 1, IndyCar, rallying, and even motorcycle racing.
“Previously, we had barely a hundred cars, and now we have around 130 in total,” noted Fabrice Bourrigaud. “The aim was to showcase them better, to tell stories. A museum must tell stories, so we’re more immersive. The idea was to evoke emotions and sensations.” The work of scenographer Raphaël Daguet, along with the emphasis on lighting, elevates the displayed cars into genuine works of art poised on the tarmac.
Legends United: Schumacher and Pescarolo Side-by-Side
The new M24 is packed with treasures promising an unforgettable experience. The attention to detail is striking, right down to the flooring that faithfully replicates the Le Mans track surface. Each section holds its share of surprises, featuring life-size dioramas and an impressive ‘material library’.
Thanks to the investment from Richard Mille, who shared key pieces from his collection, and the ACO’s vast archive of millions of photographs, authenticity is paramount. The ‘Allée des Héros’ (Heroes’ Alley) notably highlights two iconic figures: Michael Schumacher and Henri Pescarolo, brought together under one roof. Schumacher’s dominant Ferrari F2002 is displayed alongside rare artefacts such as the victorious 1924 Bentley.
Fabrice Bourrigaud finds it hard to pick a favourite exhibit: “To choose is to renounce!” He readily mentions the Rondeau, a symbol of local pride that beat Porsche and Jacky Ickx, Jacky Ickx’s 1970 Ferrari, and Sébastien Loeb’s rallying exploits. The collection, which could eventually house 400 cars, is set to evolve, with planned rotations of exhibits and temporary displays starting in 2027.
The M24 now aims to swiftly surpass the 300,000 annual visitor mark, establishing itself as an unmissable destination for all motorsport enthusiasts, whether they are local or travelling from across the globe.
The New M24 in Pictures
- Global Ambition: The M24 positions itself as the international benchmark for motorsport museums.
- Express Construction: Completed in under a year, the museum has undergone a complete redesign.
- Doubled Space: The area has increased from 5,000 to 10,000 m² for improved exhibition design.
- Discipline Diversity: Beyond endurance racing, F1, IndyCar, rallying, and motorcycle sports are featured.
- Enriched Collection: Over 130 vehicles are on display, featuring rare items and compelling stories.
- Guaranteed Immersion: The visitor journey is designed to evoke the emotions of racing.
