The 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum has reopened its doors under a new identity: M24, dedicated to the universal history of motorsport. Pierre Fillon, President of the ACO, reveals the story behind this ambitious project, conceived as a comprehensive destination far beyond just the endurance race.
After less than a year of monumental work, M24, the new name for the Le Mans museum, is ready to welcome enthusiasts. Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), doesn’t hide his pride. This long-maturing project required unwavering commitment from the teams, constrained by a schedule as tight as a motor race. The objective? To create ‘the finest motorsport museum’, a vibrant and immersive space that transcends disciplines.
A Technical Challenge with Aerial Constraints
The main obstacle to expanding the museum was its proximity to Le Mans airport, imposing a height restriction. To overcome this, architects had to excavate the adjacent hillside, moving thousands of cubic metres of earth. The construction proved technically complex, with the sandy soil requiring a robust structure featuring deeply embedded pillars. It was a genuine challenge that tested the construction teams, accustomed to the demands of motorsport.
Scenography: The Beating Heart of M24
Beyond the technical feats, the scenography presented another puzzle. The ambition was to offer an immersive experience, blending current technology with a journey through history. The famous dioramas, recreating the atmosphere of bygone paddocks, are one of the venue’s unique features. Pierre Fillon highlights the numerous discussions with the scenographers to ensure they captured the passion and emotion the ACO wished to convey. While moments of doubt existed, everyone’s commitment brought this vision to life.
Le Mans: The World Capital of Motorsport
The name change, from ’24 Hours of Le Mans Museum’ to ‘Motorsport Museum’, signifies a desire to broaden its scope. While endurance racing made the circuit famous, Le Mans also boasts a rich history with other disciplines, as evidenced by the first Grand Prix in 1906. The ACO now intends to position Le Mans as the undisputed capital of motorsport, across all categories.
Richard Mille: A Key Partner in the Adventure
The meeting with Richard Mille was decisive. The renowned watchmaker, a passionate collector, was seeking a showcase for his exceptional cars. The idea of exhibiting them to the public, at the heart of motorsport’s temple, emerged naturally. Together, they shaped M24, sharing a meticulous attention to detail that is evident in every corner of the museum. The dioramas, a concept dear to Richard Mille, are one illustration of this fruitful collaboration, aiming to recreate the unique sensations of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Mechanical Icons and Personal Emotions
Among the collection, certain pieces resonate particularly with Pierre Fillon. The Ford GT40, recalling his first participations in the 24 Hours in 1966, holds a special place. But he also admits a fondness for the Matra, evoking childhood memories, the Ferrari 275 that won twice, and the pure design of the Ferrari P4. These cars are not just machines; they are works of art steeped in history and emotion.
M24: A Destination for the Whole Family
Pierre Fillon addresses families with a clear message: M24 offers a magical, timeless experience where boredom is impossible. It’s an opportunity to discover unique models, understand the passion driving motorsport, and appreciate its contribution to society. The museum aims to be a place of transmission, a living heritage for future generations.
The Circuit: A Destination Site
M24 is part of a broader strategy to make the Le Mans circuit a destination in its own right, active year-round. The abandonment of the overly expensive ‘Le Mans Resort’ project has given way to a more pragmatic approach: developing driving schools, karting, hospitality, and golf to offer enriching stays that combine culture and automotive heritage. The museum thus becomes an essential anchor point in this ecosystem.
The 2026 24 Hours Promises Spectacle
As the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans approaches, Pierre Fillon is confident. Following the particularly hard-fought 2024 and 2025 editions, next year’s race promises further suspense, especially in the Hypercar category. The teams are seasoned, and the rivalry with Ferrari promises a magnificent contest. The ACO continues to improve public facilities, with developments like the new landscaped fanzone, to offer an ever more memorable experience.
- M24 opens to the world, embracing all motorsport disciplines.
- A technical challenge met to build a modern, immersive museum.
- The scenography, with its dioramas, recreates the unique atmosphere of the races.
- Richard Mille played a key role, bringing his attention to detail and passion.
- The museum aims to become an unmissable destination, beyond just the 24 Hours event.
- The 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans is set to be thrilling, with continuous improvements for the public.
