Located at the entrance to the Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans, M24 is preparing to write the next chapter of a story that began over 60 years ago. In 1961, the then president of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, Jean-Marie Lelièvre, helped create a museum dedicated to motorsport. The facility was overhauled in 1991 under the aegis of the Sarthe Council before the ACO took over the management of the museum 16 years later to showcase its outstanding heritage more effectively.

The M24 project came to life in 2022 when the collaboration between the ACO and Richard Mille resulted in the founding of a dedicated company, MACO. The project’s purpose is clear: to create a resolutely modern, immersive museum to tell the story of motorsport in the broadest sense, with the 24 Hours of Le Mans the natural main theme.

Architecture inspired by aerodynamics and speed

The work of Frédéric Audevard, the M24 project boasts a strong architectural identity directly inspired by the world of motor racing. “M24 is a true architectural work of art that directly resonates with the world of motor racing,” he explains.

Tight lines, smooth volumes, and a sensation of movement, the building evokes the aerodynamics of prototypes racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The visitor traffic flow indoors is designed as an air stream that glides around the car’s body. The architecture becomes a natural extension of automotive performance. The generous natural light is controlled to accompany the visitor throughout their tour, while technology brings an added dimension to the immersive scenography.

An ecoresponsible museum in tune with its environment

M24 has been designed from the outset with sustainability in mind to meet stringent environmental demands. “We opted for a green roof for intelligent rainwater management and in-situ infiltration. We have also chosen sustainable, ecoresponsible materials such as aluminium, which is light, durable and recyclable,” the architect added.

M24 is mindful of its location. The unity between architecture and landscape is evident. A responsible approach that is perfectly aligned with the ambitious CSR strategy followed by the ACO since 2021.

A project with strong local roots that is open to all

For current ACO president Pierre Fillon, M24 goes far beyond the scope of a traditional cultural venue. “M24 is fully part of our global CSR approach. From the outset, the aim has been to create a sober, sustainable, environmentally friendly facility,” he says.

Responsibility extends also to the project’s economic and societal aspects. No fewer than 23 firms have been called upon, with the majority based in Sarthe. A deliberate choice designed to highlight local skills and irrigate the area’s economy. “M24 plays an essential societal role as it’s not just a museum for car buffs,” Fillon continues. “It’s also planned to be a major cultural venue that will be open to all. It will add to the attractiveness of Le Mans while creating a bond. It will allow us to pass on our common legacy to future generations. M24 is a project that harnesses valuable heritage, economic and human elements.”

With an 8,600 m² surface area dedicated to showcasing a unique heritage, M24 – Motorsport Museum is the culmination of more than half a century of museum culture supported by the ACO. Deeply rooted in an iconic territory, M24 promises to feature firmly on the bucket list of many people, especially racing fans, who have already noted the opening date of 28 May 2026 in their diary.

M24 in three key figures

• 6,000 m² of renovated museum
• A 4,000 m² extension
• Around 50,000 m² of excavated soil