The Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) celebrates this year its 120th anniversary, a moment that coincides with its influence in the motorsport world. Founded in 1906, the club has been a fundamental motorsporting force, from the early days of grand prix racing to the creation of the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans.
2026 has been a year of commemoration for the ACO, which has seized this opportunity to highlight its contribution to endurance sports, turning it into a global phenomenon. For fans, being a member of the ACO not only means being part of a rich heritage but also enjoying exclusive events and experiencing the passion for the world of racing.
1. A revolution in racing
Originally known as the Automobile Club de la Sarthe, the ACO was born at a time when vehicles were new technology and often unstable. The club organized the first Grand Prix of the Automobile Club de France (ACF) in 1906, establishing the Sarthe region as a key point for competitive motorsport. This initial event took place on a circuit formed by approximately 103 km of closed public roads.
2. Creating a legend
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is now a name synonymous with speed and endurance, but its origins were simpler: to allow manufacturers to demonstrate the reliability of their vehicles over long distances. After World War I, the ACO resumed its sporting activities and began to establish the circuit that would shape the Circuit de la Sarthe.
3. Shaping innovation
In addition to being a sporting spectacle, the 24 Hours of Le Mans has served as a testing ground for new technologies. Manufacturers have used the race to explore solutions to engineering challenges and, throughout its history, has showcased advances in aerodynamics, lighting, four-wheel drive transmissions, and disc brakes.
4. Building a community
The ACO is not limited to the Le Mans race; around it, a community has been created that often goes unnoticed by casual spectators. In addition to the main event, the ACO hosts other major races such as the 24 Heures Motos and the 24 Heures Camions, as well as MotoGP in France.
5. A gateway to endurance racing
Endurance races extend beyond the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with the FIA World Endurance Championship bringing the excitement to circuits around the world. Membership in the ACO offers benefits such as exclusive access to tickets and discounts for major events.
With different membership levels to choose from, fans can tailor their benefits to their interests. From the Essential entry to the Endurance membership, the ACO provides multiple opportunities to connect with the sport and secure a place in the future of endurance racing.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
