Endurance races usually take place on closed tracks with closed wheel cars (unlike formula cars, which have open wheels -- that is, wheels outside of the car body). The typical event involves teams of two to four drivers attempting to cover a set distance the fastest or to go the farthest in a specified time.

Since 1923, the city has hosted the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world's oldest active endurance sports car race. The event is among the most attended and prestigious motor sports events in the world.

In automobile endurance racing, three events have come to form a Triple Crown. They are considered three of the most challenging endurance races over the decades: the 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, and 24 Hours of Le Mans.