Founded in 1906, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) organised the first ever Grand Prix in 1906 and introduced the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1923. A staunch defender of endurance racing, the ACO contributes to the organisation and promotion of the FIA World Endurance Championship and instigated the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in the USA, the European Le Mans Series and Asian Le Mans Series.
Aside from the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours, ACO circuits host the 24-hour motorcycle race (24H Motos), the French motorcycle Grand Prix, the 24-hour go-karting event and the 24-hour truck race (24 Heures Camions).
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a test bed for innovations in automotive technology, the ACO’s main focus in terms of development. The ACO’s commitment to sustainable mobility currently takes the shape of the MissionH24 project to introduce a hydrogen class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The ACO defends the interests of everyday motorists and takes pleasure in offering excellent hospitality to members at motor sports events organised by the club.
Driving skills being an important part of the safety and the pleasure of motoring, the club has a driving school, Le Mans Driver, as well as a go-kart complex with simulators and an international standard track. The club’s trackside facilities are a sought-after event venue, often coupled with multi-lingual tours of the circuit. Merchandise and tickets are on sale in outlets in Le Mans, Tours, Rouen, Paris.
