Automobile Club de l'Ouest
The Automobile Club de l' Ouest (English: Automobile Club of the West - refers to the western region of France ), sometimes abbreviated to ACO, is the largest automobile club in France. It was founded in 1906 by automotive manufacturers and enthusiasts, and is known for hosting the 24 -hour race of Le Mans. The ACO supported as a representative of the French motorists the construction and maintenance of roads and organized safety training. The members are entitled to one organized by the Club roadside assistance.
History
The history of the ACO began with the Automobile Club de la Sarthe, the forerunner of today's clubs, which was at Le Mans in 1906 with the support of the larger Automobile Club de France. It was organized a race that has evolved into the French Grand Prix. After the First World War, the focus of interest was the development of a smaller circuit. The Secretary General of the Club, Georges Durand, developed together with the editor Charles Faroux and the tire manufacturer Emile Coquille the idea of a 24 - hour race. The first race was held in 1923 in Le Mans.
Race
The ACO is responsible for the implementation or the support of the following races:
- 24 - hour race at Le Mans
- 24 -hour motorcycle race at Le Mans
- Le Mans Classic
- French Grand Prix for motorcycles
- 1000 km race at Le Mans
- European Le Mans Series (formerly Le Mans Endurance Series and Le Mans Series )
- Asian Le Mans Series
- FIA World Endurance Championship ( on behalf of the FIA)