Legends of Le Mans: Celebrating Audi’s Enduring Legacy
Between 2000 and 2014, Audi etched its name into motorsport history with a remarkable 13 victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans – the world’s most prestigious endurance race. This iconic event, held annually in France since 1923, is a true test of speed, stamina, and engineering excellence. And for nearly a decade and a half, no name shone brighter at Circuit de la Sarthe than Audi.
A New Era Begins – The Audi R8 Dominance (2000–2002)
In only its second appearance at Le Mans, Audi stunned the motorsport world in 2000. The revolutionary Audi R8 swept to a commanding 1-2-3 finish, with Frank Biela, Tom Kristensen, and Emanuele Pirro taking the top spot. It was the beginning of a golden era.
That momentum continued in 2001, where torrential rain couldn’t stop the same trio from claiming back-to-back victories. What few knew was that their Audi R8s featured Audi’s innovative TFSI technology – improving both fuel efficiency and responsiveness, proving that performance and efficiency could go hand in hand.
In 2002, the same drivers completed a historic hat-trick, once again locking out the podium. According to tradition, a manufacturer that wins Le Mans three years in a row keeps the trophy – and the original Le Mans trophy has remained with Audi ever since.
Battle of the Teams and Privateers (2004–2005)
Audi skipped 2003 as a factory team, but in 2004, the brand returned to the top step with Team Goh defeating Team Veloqx in a nail-biting finish. Just 41 seconds separated first from second after 24 hours of relentless racing.
2005 saw the rise of the customer teams, with ADT Champion Racing’s Kristensen, JJ Lehto, and Marco Werner seizing a two-lap victory. It was Kristensen’s seventh win, cementing his status as Mr. Le Mans.
Diesel Power Revolution – Audi R10 TDI Era (2006–2008)
Audi made history again in 2006 with the Audi R10 TDI – the first diesel-powered car to win at Le Mans. Combining remarkable fuel economy with endurance, the V12 diesel proved not only viable but dominant.
The following years tested Audi’s resolve. In 2007, only one of three Audi R10 TDIs finished after treacherous weather turned the race into what was described as "a boat race." Still, Werner, Biela, and Pirro delivered one last win together before retiring.
In 2008, against diesel-powered Peugeots, Audi played the strategy game to perfection. Wet weather helped, but it was experience and resilience that saw Capello, Kristensen, and McNish take victory once more.
Record Breakers and Innovation (2010–2011)
2010 saw Audi’s R15 TDI rewrite the record books – travelling 75 kilometres further than the previous best and securing another dominant 1-2-3 finish. Fuel efficiency had improved by 20%, showcasing Audi’s relentless pursuit of innovation.
The 2011 R18 TDI introduced a bold new look and a more efficient V6 engine. Despite two cars crashing out, the team of Fässler, Lotterer, and Tréluyer pulled off a narrow 13.854-second win against fierce competition.
The Hybrid Revolution – Audi e-tron quattro (2012–2014)
Audi once again led the way in technological progress with the Audi R18 e-tron quattro, combining a TDI engine with electric motors. In 2012, this cutting-edge hybrid took Audi to yet another first – the first hybrid car to win Le Mans.
Tom Kristensen added his ninth and final Le Mans win in 2013 alongside McNish and Duval, overcoming rule changes and torrential rain thanks to Audi’s advanced Matrix LED headlights.
In 2014, Audi bowed out in style. Fässler, Lotterer, and Tréluyer held off Porsche and Toyota in an epic duel that wasn’t decided until the 23rd hour. It was Audi’s 13th and final win – and the culmination of a legacy that spanned dominance, innovation, and sheer endurance.
A Legacy That Inspires
At Poole Audi, we’re proud to represent a brand that doesn’t just make cars – it makes history. Audi’s reign at Le Mans wasn’t just about trophies; it was about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. From TFSI to TDI to hybrid technology, many of the innovations born on the track now power the Audi models you drive today.
Visit us at Poole Audi to experience the spirit of Le Mans for yourself – whether it's behind the wheel of a precision-engineered Audi Sport model or through the everyday brilliance of quattro and hybrid technology. To receive information on our latest Poole Audi offers, call us on 01202 775050 or click here and a member of our dedicated sales team will be more than happy to assist you.
Vorsprung durch Technik – advancement through technology, proven at Le Mans.
Information accurate at time of publication [June 2025].