Has Chevy ever won at Le Mans?
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world, testing the limits of both drivers and their vehicles. Over the years, many manufacturers have competed for glory at this iconic event. Chevrolet, a brand synonymous with American automotive engineering, has also made its mark at Le Mans. But has Chevy ever claimed victory at this legendary race? Let’s dive into the history and achievements of Chevrolet at Le Mans.
Chevrolet's Legacy at Le Mans
Chevrolet has participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans primarily through its Corvette Racing program. The Corvette, an iconic American sports car, has been a staple in endurance racing and has achieved significant success in its class at Le Mans. While Chevrolet has not won the overall race, which is typically dominated by prototype cars, it has secured multiple class victories in the GTE (formerly GT) categories.
Key Achievements of Chevrolet at Le Mans
Here are some of the most notable accomplishments of Chevrolet at the 24 Hours of Le Mans:
- First Class Victory: Chevrolet's Corvette Racing team achieved its first class win at Le Mans in 2001, competing in the GTS class.
- Multiple Class Wins: Since 2001, Corvette Racing has gone on to secure several additional class victories, including wins in 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2011, and 2015.
- Consistency and Reliability: The Corvette Racing team has been a consistent presence at Le Mans, showcasing the durability and performance of Chevrolet's engineering.
Why Chevrolet's Success Matters
Chevrolet's achievements at Le Mans are a testament to the brand's commitment to performance and innovation. Competing against some of the best manufacturers in the world, such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Aston Martin, Chevrolet has proven that American engineering can hold its own on the global stage. These victories also highlight the Corvette's evolution as a world-class sports car, capable of competing at the highest levels of motorsport.
Conclusion
While Chevrolet has not won the overall 24 Hours of Le Mans, its Corvette Racing program has achieved remarkable success in the GT classes, earning multiple class victories over the years. These accomplishments solidify Chevrolet's place in the history of endurance racing and continue to inspire fans of the brand worldwide. For enthusiasts and racers alike, the Corvette remains a symbol of American performance and resilience on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Ken Miles win Le Mans for Ford?
British-born Ken Miles was a gifted race car engineer and driver. Through his work for Carroll Shelby, Miles got involved in Ford's GT racing program. Miles won the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1966, and he placed second at Le Mans. Miles died in a crash while testing Ford's J-Car later that year.
Has any American car won Le Mans?
Dan Gurney and A. J. Foyt, driving a Ford Mk IV, won the race after leading from the second hour, becoming the first and as of 2025 the only all-American victors (car, team, and drivers) of the race.
What car brand has won the most Le Mans?
Porsche
Porsche have won the most races as a manufacturer with 19 since their first in 1970. Audi are second with 13 wins and Ferrari are third with 11 victories. Porsche also achieved the most consecutive wins with seven victories in succession from 1981 to 1987.
How many Le Mans wins does Chevy have?
nine times
Officially debuting in 2000, Corvette Racing has won the 24 Hours of Le Mans nine times. From 2024, Corvette Racing supports customer team TF Sport for Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Did Corvette ever win Le Mans?
Most of those successes came in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), where Corvette led in all-time victories and 1-2 finishes, along with 10 team championships and 10 manufacturer titles – both ALMS records – for Chevrolet. Corvette Racing and Chevrolet also have won in class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans seven times.
What is the only American car to win Le Mans?
In the 1967 Le Mans, the GT40 Mk IV car became the only car developed and assembled entirely (both chassis and engine) in the United States to achieve the overall win at Le Mans.
Who has more Le Mans wins, Ford or Chevy?
Corvette Racing has won Le Mans eight times in 16 years, more than any class competitor. Although Ford first revived the GT nameplate in 2005, it never went racing. As the 50th anniversary of Ford's historic win at the 1966 race approached, though, the company decided to go all-in.
Who has won more races Ford or Chevy?
Championship winners (totals)
| Manufacturer | Total wins | Truck Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | 81 | 12 |
| Ford | 23 | 2 |
| Toyota | 18 | 14 |
| Dodge | 5 | 3 |
What is the only American built car to win Le Mans?
In the 1966 Le Mans, the GT40 Mk II car broke Ferrari's winning streak, making Ford the first American manufacturer to win a major European race since Jimmy Murphy's Duesenberg in the 1921 French Grand Prix.
How did the Chevy do at Le Mans?
The Chevy Camaro ZL1 crossed the finish line in 39th place. Jim France: "It was incredible." The project was inspired by his father, NASCAR founder Bill France Sr., who brought two stock cars to the 1976 24 Hours of Le Mans. "It took thousands of hours of work to make this happen.
