What Is 2019 Road to Le Mans

Overview

The 2019 Road to Le Mans was a special support series held in conjunction with the 87th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans at the Circuit de la Sarthe in France. Taking place on June 15 and 16, 2019, it provided a competitive platform for amateur and semi-professional teams in LMP3 and GT3 categories.

Unlike the endurance-focused main event, the Road to Le Mans consisted of two sprint-format races, each lasting 55 minutes. The event attracted 42 entries, showcasing a mix of prototype and grand touring machinery, with teams aiming to gain experience on one of motorsport’s most iconic circuits.

• LMP3 and GT3 classes competed separately but shared track time, with performance balancing ensuring close racing across both categories.
• Each 55-minute race included mandatory pit stops and driver changes, simulating endurance conditions despite the shorter duration.
• The Circuit de la Sarthe layout used was the full 13.626-kilometer (8.467-mile) Grand Prix circuit, including the famous Mulsanne Straight.
• Entries were primarily from privateer teams, with Ligier, Ginetta, and Duqueine fielding LMP3 prototypes and Porsche, Ferrari, and Mercedes-AMG represented in GT3.
• The event served as a feeder series for young drivers and aspiring teams aiming to progress into the European Le Mans Series or even the main 24H Le Mans race.

How It Works

The Road to Le Mans operates as a sprint racing format during the Le Mans 24 Hours week, offering track time and exposure to teams not competing in the main endurance race.

• Format: Two separate 55-minute races are held over the weekend, one on Saturday and one on Sunday, allowing teams two opportunities to score results.
• Eligibility: Entry is open to LMP3 and GT3 cars registered under the ACO’s sporting regulations, with most drivers holding Bronze or Silver FIA ratings.
• Driver Pairings: Each car must have at least one Bronze-rated driver, promoting amateur participation and balanced competition across entries.
• Grid Allocation: Starting positions are determined by combined practice times, with no qualifying session, emphasizing consistency over single-lap speed.
• Scoring: While not part of a championship, results are recorded and used by teams for marketing, sponsor reporting, and future entry applications.
• Safety Protocols: Full FIA safety standards apply, including HANS devices, FIA-approved roll structures, and on-site medical response teams at all times.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2019 Road to Le Mans with the main 24 Hours of Le Mans event:

Despite occurring simultaneously, the Road to Le Mans functions as a developmental platform rather than a premier endurance test. The shorter races emphasize driver consistency and team coordination under condensed timelines, offering valuable experience without the full logistical demands of a 24-hour race.

Why It Matters

The 2019 Road to Le Mans played a crucial role in democratizing access to the Le Mans paddock, giving emerging teams and drivers a chance to compete on a world stage. Its structure supports talent development and provides visibility for sponsors and manufacturers in a high-profile setting.

• Pathway for young drivers: Many participants used the event as a stepping stone to the European Le Mans Series or Asian Le Mans Series.
• Cost-effective exposure: Teams gain media coverage and track time at a fraction of the cost of entering the full 24H race.
• Manufacturer testing: Brands like Porsche and Ligier used the races to evaluate new setups and driver lineups in real-world conditions.
• Global participation: Entries came from 12 countries, highlighting the event’s international appeal and inclusivity.
• Endurance preparation: Drivers acclimated to night racing, pit coordination, and traffic management before the main event.
• Legacy building: The Road to Le Mans continues to grow in prestige, enhancing the overall Le Mans week experience.

By blending accessibility with elite motorsport infrastructure, the 2019 Road to Le Mans reinforced its importance as a vital component of the Le Mans ecosystem.