The roads around Le Mans have seen motor racing since 1906, but today's circuit dates back to 1923 when the 24 Hour race was first run over a 17 km course which ran almost into the city of Le Mans. A magnificent race control tower, permanent offices and pit complex were unveiled in 1991, together with the short GP Bugatti track. Spectators are mostly confined to the section bewteen the Ford Curves and Tetre Rouge.

Le Mans is a circuit made up of a number of second gear hairpins linked together by a series of long straights, with only the occasional chicane breaking up the run to the next hairpin. A design of the past, the French circuit causes little concern for engineers regarding set-up. Turns three and five are the most likely passing points and all efforts will be focused towards finding stability under brakes in these areas.