24 Hours Truck Race 2026 in Le Mans: weekend guide

The 24 Hours Truck Race in Le Mans is one of the most spectacular and popular events at the Bugatti Circuit. Every year, tens of thousands of spectators come to watch these 5-tonne giants battle it out on the legendary Sarthe track. Family-friendly atmosphere, entertainment village and affordable tickets: here's the complete guide to plan your weekend.

When is the 24 Hours Truck Race 2026?

The 2026 edition takes place on 26 and 27 September 2026 at the Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans. Practice and qualifying are held on Saturday, with the main races on Sunday. Some entertainment starts as early as Friday evening.

Why attend the 24 Hours Truck Race

• A unique spectacle: racing trucks with over 1,000 horsepower reaching 160 km/h on the circuit, with impressive overtakes and spectacular braking.
• Family-friendly atmosphere: unlike the 24 Hours auto race, this event is very accessible. Children love getting close to the trucks in the paddock, and entry is often free for under-15s.
• Affordable tickets: much cheaper than car or motorcycle races, making it a perfect outing for families or groups of friends.
• Entertainment village: fairground rides, decorated truck exhibitions, truck ride-alongs, food stalls, Saturday evening concerts.
• Open paddock access: get close to the teams, see the mechanics at work, and sometimes chat with the drivers.

Typical 24h Truck weekend schedule

• Friday evening: village opens, festive atmosphere, teams setting up.
• Saturday: free practice, qualifying, village entertainment, evening concert.
• Sunday: main races (several heats), prize-giving, final parade.

Where to stay for the 24 Hours Truck Race?

The event attracts a regional and national audience. Hotels near the circuit fill up quickly, but the pressure is lower than for the 24 Hours auto race. Plan for 2 to 3 nights.

Close to the circuit

Arnage, Mulsanne and hotels in the southern Le Mans area are the closest. Book 2-3 months ahead for the best choice.

Le Mans city centre

20 minutes from the circuit off-event (45-60 min on race days due to traffic), the city centre offers a good balance: restaurants, bars, the medieval Plantagenet City for an evening stroll, and TGV access for those coming from afar.

Groups and families

For a weekend with friends or a large family, renting a whole house is more economical and sociable than a hotel. Shared kitchen, space for children, and a real home base.

Our house: ideal for a 24h Truck weekend

Our 9 private suites with en-suite bathrooms accommodate up to 18 guests — perfect for a family group or friends:

• 9 separate bedrooms: everyone has their own space, ideal when mixing families and friends.
• Fully equipped kitchen with central island: breakfasts before the circuit, barbecue in the evening.
• 215 m² total: large common areas to gather after a day at the races.
• Garden: children can play safely while adults debrief the race.
• 20 min from the Bugatti Circuit off-event (45-60 min on race days).
• 10 min walk from the TGV station: Paris in 55 min for those who prefer the train.
• Free street parking on a quiet residential street.
• Smart lock, self check-in from 5 pm — convenient if the group arrives in waves.

Practical tips

1. Ear protection: racing trucks are very loud. Bring earplugs, especially for children.
2. Plan for the weather: sunscreen, cap, rain gear — late September in Le Mans can be unpredictable.
3. Arrive early on Sunday: the best grandstand spots go quickly. Circuit parking is free but fills up.
4. Stay for the village: the entertainment and stalls are worth exploring, especially for children who dream of climbing into a truck.
5. Enjoy Le Mans: on Saturday evening, the medieval Plantagenet City is beautiful for a post-dinner stroll.

Book your 24 Hours Truck stay

Check our availability for the 26-27 September 2026 weekend. Our house is ideal for families and groups of friends who want to experience the 24h Truck race in the best conditions.

See also: What to visit in Le Mans and Sarthe or Local addresses around the house.