In 1999, BMW took on Toyota, Mercedes, Audi, Nissan and Panoz at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with its V12 LMR, securing the German constructor's first overall win at the race.

Born on April 23, 1961, Pierluigi Martini gave BMW its only victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1999.

Born on 24 October 1960, Joachim Winkelhock came to the Sarthe only twice, but it was enough to allow him to enter his name in the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Although Germany can claim a third of all victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, La Sarthe is also a "promised land" for Japanese sports cars, drivers and manufacturers. Here are eight examples.