Peugeot is marking a century since its first appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans as the French manufacturer prepares for another Hypercar campaign while celebrating one of motorsport’s longest-running relationships between a car brand and endurance racing.
One hundred years after two Peugeot 174S cars lined up for the endurance race in 1926, Team Peugeot TotalEnergies returns to Le Mans with ambitions of continuing the brand’s racing legacy while challenging an increasingly competitive Hypercar field.
The centenary celebration arrives as Peugeot seeks to strengthen its position following several seasons of development since returning to top-level endurance competition.
A Century Of Le Mans History Shapes Peugeot’s Identity
Since first competing at Le Mans in 1926, Peugeot has participated 44 times either as a works team or engine supplier.
Across its history, the manufacturer secured three landmark victories, including success in 1992, a dominant one-two-three finish in 1993 with the Peugeot 905 and another victory in 2009 with the Peugeot 908 HDi FAP.
The current Peugeot 9X8 Hypercar programme continues that heritage, with both race cars carrying a special centenary badge created specifically for this year’s event.
Team Peugeot TotalEnergies Targets Continued Progress
The upcoming edition marks Peugeot’s fourth consecutive Le Mans appearance since returning to endurance racing.
Preparations have included extensive testing programmes, analysis of previous races and additional development work following recent World Endurance Championship events.
The team says improvements in qualifying speed and race pace during recent events provide encouragement ahead of one of motorsport’s most demanding races.
Competition remains intense, however, with an 18-car Hypercar field expected to produce one of the most competitive races in recent years.
Fans Will See Major Peugeot Celebrations Throughout Race Week
Peugeot plans multiple activities during race week as part of celebrations marking 100 years since its first participation.
Displays will include the new E-208 GTi alongside the Peugeot 9X8 race car and concept vehicles, while visitors will also have opportunities to experience new technologies and interactive exhibits.
A series of motorsport-themed films will be screened during the week, while a special parade featuring historic competition and production vehicles is planned as part of the celebrations.
Le Mans Week Builds Toward Another 24-Hour Challenge
Race preparations begin with traditional scrutineering before test sessions allow teams to return to the Circuit des 24 Heures.
The race itself begins on Saturday afternoon, continuing the endurance tradition that has connected Peugeot and Le Mans for a century.
Exactly one hundred years and one day after the first Peugeot entries appeared at Le Mans, the latest generation of Peugeot race cars will once again attempt one of motorsport’s most difficult challenges.
