Racing machines pushed to the limits, danger around every corner, visible tension, last-minute drama - all these aspects are portrayed in this magnificent collection that covers the last five 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The large formats are ideally suited to the work of the two local photographers: their shots reveal the very soul of the legendary race. Together, Denis Lambert and Hervé Petitbon have covered fifty Le Mans 24 Hours and their exhibition tells a story, like a deftly crafted graphic novel. At a glance, passers-by are captivated by the beauty, the emotion and the racing lineage in these pictures. Both photographers are members of the editorial team at local newspaper Le Maine Libre and their journalistic training is evident in the way they set a scene. Their black-and-white photographs cut straight to the heart of the matter with a poetic rawness that magnifies the intensity of the moment. Only a race like the 24 Hours of Le Mans can produce such a surge of emotion.

The free open-air exhibition organised by Sarthe council in conjunction with SNCF is on display until 9 July. Take a look while you’re in the city centre for the scrutineering or for the Drivers Parade. We guarantee you won’t regret it.