Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Linas-Montlhéry Autodrome, inaugurated in 1924, was born from the ambition of Alexandre Lamblin, an industrial enthusiast of mechanical sports. Designed by architect Raymond Jamin, this innovative circuit combines a 2.5 km oval speed ring with inclined turns and a 12.5 km road track. Built in six months with 1,000 tonnes of steel and 8,000 m3 of concrete, it uses avant-garde techniques such as prefabricated elements and Cold Asphalt coating. Its opening marks a revolution for motorsports in France, offering a place dedicated to records and competitions.

From its beginnings, the autodrome became a temple of records: in two months, nearly 100 world records were beaten there, thanks in particular to its lighting allowing night trials. Between 1925 and 1939, 86% of the world's car records were set. The circuit hosts prestigious Grand Prix, such as that of the Automobile Club de France (ACF) in 1925, but also motorcyclists and cyclists. However, financial difficulties and costly maintenance led to his bankruptcy in 1926 and his sale to the National Estate in 1939.

During the Second World War, the autodrome was requisitioned as a military training camp, then internment for nomads and gypsies (1940-1942). After 1944, it was managed by UTAC (Union Technique de l'Automobile et du Cycle), which made it a centre for technical testing and competitions. Despite renovations (tribunes, gateways, chicanes), safety standards are changing, and certification for competitions is lost in 2004. Since 2010, a limited certification allows amateur rides and historical events, such as Les Grandes Heures Automobiles.

The autodrome is also marked by drama, with the death of famous drivers like Antonio Ascari (1925) or Louis Rosier (1956). However, it received memorable feats, such as Raymond Sommer's record speed (238 km/h in 1939) or the 1,000 km of Paris, the flagship event of the 1950s-1970s. Today, the site combines industrial heritage (the 20th century heritage label), a testing centre for autonomous vehicles, and a place of memory for mechanical sports.

Beyond the cars, the circuit has hosted cycling records such as Léon Vanderstuyft (107 km/h by bike in 1924) and motorcyclists, with brands like Norton or Peugeot. Legendary competitions, such as the Bol d'or (moto) or the Comenmen Critérium (cyclism), are held. The autodrome also served as a cinematic setting, notably in Un homme et une femme (1966) with Jean-Louis Trintignant. Its legacy continues thanks to safeguard associations and annual events celebrating its history.

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