Held every year since 1923, the legendary 24-hour race at Le Mans draws an annual crowd of more than 200,000 spectators to the French region of La Sarthe. Around the world, this long-distance motor racing classic is viewed as one of the greatest challenges for man and machine. 24 hours of peak performance are required from anyone hoping to step up onto the winners’ podium.

One of the special features is the fact that cars in different classes start in the same race. This guarantees edge-of-the-seat racing excitement with plenty of overtaking manoeuvres. Currently, two prototypes classes (“LMP1” and “LMP2”) and two GT classes (“GT1” and “GT2”) are hoping to drive their way to victory.

On the basis of these technical regulations, North America launched its American Le Mans Series (ALMS) back in 1999, and Europe established the Le Mans Series (LMS) in 2004.

Once again in 2009, several Porsche teams will be on the starting grid at the LMS fixtures and the Le Mans 24 Hours. The 911 GT3 RSR and the RS Spyder will be the featured cars. The 911 GT3 RSR in particular has been enhanced in an effort to repeat past successes. It has also been adapted to comply with the changed rules.

Team Essex recorded a solid victory in the LMP2 Class at the 2009 Le Mans 24 Hours, adding another chapter to the success story of the Porsche RS Spyder. The 440 bhp sports prototype also once again won the "Michelin Green X Challenge" environmental competition as the car with the best overall efficiency.