EWC 24 Heures Motos – 2026

49th Edition of the Legendary 24-Hour Motorcycle Race

From April 16 to 19, 2026, the Circuit Bugatti in Le Mans once again hosts one of the most demanding endurance races in international motorcycle sport. The 49th edition of the 24 Heures Motos simultaneously marks the opening round of the 2026 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), making it one of the most significant dates on the racing calendar.

Since its inaugural edition in 1978, the race has established itself as one of the world’s most prestigious long-distance events. Three-rider teams take turns over the full 24 hours, while their mechanics perform tyre changes, refuelling and repairs under immense time pressure. It is a race that pushes both riders and machines to the absolute limit.

Entry List and Classes

For the first time since 2019, a full grid lines up on the starting grid: 60 motorcycles have been selected by an official committee for the 49th edition. Entries are split across four categories:

• Formula EWC – 19 machines: The prototype class featuring the fastest teams in endurance racing, including defending champions YART Yamaha along with numerous factory and satellite squads.
• Superstock – 29 machines: Production-based motorcycles with limited modifications, traditionally the largest and most fiercely contested class.
• Production – 11 machines: The entry-level category running 1,000cc production motorcycles.
• Experimental – 1 machine: Innovative prototypes and future technologies.

Circuit and Records

The Circuit Bugatti measures 4.185 kilometres and offers a challenging blend of high-speed sections and technical corners. One of its most iconic features is the famous Dunlop Chicane, which demands heavy braking and precise direction changes requiring maximum concentration. The current qualifying lap record stands at 1:34.489, set by Marvin Fritz on a Yamaha in 2025.

Schedule

Wednesday, April 15 – Preview

• 2:00–6:00 PM – 24 Heures Motos Preview: City parade through Le Mans to Place des Jacobins with rider presentations, interviews and autograph sessions

Thursday, April 16

• Free practice and Qualifying 1
• Night practice sessions on the illuminated track
• Fairground and village opening

Friday, April 17

• Qualifying 2 (final grid positions)
• FIM Sidecar World Championship: Qualifying and Race 1
• PMR Bridgestone Cup and Continental Cup

Saturday, April 18

• Morning: FIM Sidecar World Championship Race 2, PMR Bridgestone Cup and Continental Cup Race 2
• 3:00 PM – Start of the 49th 24 Heures Motos
• 8:00 PM – Concert: Les Wampas (Live at the event grounds)

Sunday, April 19

• 3:00 PM – Chequered flag after 24 hours of racing
• Followed by: Victory ceremony and podium celebrations

Tickets and Admission

Tickets for the 49th edition are available through the official website 24h-motos.com and by phone at +33 2 43 40 24 24. The 4-day general admission pass starts from €71 (early bird). Grandstand seating can be added by zone. Children under 16 are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Getting There and Practical Information

The Circuit Bugatti is located south-west of Le Mans and is easily accessible via the A11 and A28 motorways. Le Mans TGV station offers direct connections from Paris (approximately 1 hour). Camping is available on site, though vehicle height restrictions apply in certain areas. Internal shuttle buses connect the village with various spectator zones. Quiet hours are observed from midnight to 8 AM.

Key Facts

Event: 49th 24 Heures Motos
Date: April 16–19, 2026
Circuit: Circuit Bugatti, Le Mans, France
Track length: 4.185 km
Grid: 60 motorcycles across 4 classes
Race start: Saturday, April 18, 3:00 PM (local time)
Finish: Sunday, April 19, 3:00 PM
Championship: FIM Endurance World Championship 2026, Round 1
Timezone: Europe/Paris (CEST, UTC+2)
Website: www.24h-motos.com