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Video offers inside look at 24 Hours of Le Mans: Scrutineering is a public affair, held in a public square

June 10, 2012

Teams push their cars to the inspection stands before large crowds at Le Mans. Photo by ALMS

At most races, technical inspection is something that happens under a discreet tent in the paddock. But this isn't most races.

This is Le Mans.

Tech inspection, or scrutineering as it's called in France, for the 24 Hours of Le Mans is traditionally held in the center of Le Mans in France on the Sunday and Monday prior to the race and is open to the public. For 2012, the location was the picturesque Place de la République.

Cars roll over cobblestone from one checkpoint to the next while a church bell rings in the background, pigeons fly overhead and locals sip coffee at outdoor cafés. Fans hoping for an autograph or glimpse of their favorite car must arrive early and scout a spot--the square fills quickly. Those arriving late will often bring ladders.

Teams are held to a strict schedule, with a car presenting for inspection every 15 minutes. At the first checkpoint, the car is scanned with lasers to verify dimensions and is weighed (le pesage literally means “the weighing”). The second checkpoint is for officials to check underneath the car and examine the diffusers and ground clearance. The final checkpoint is reviewing safety equipment, lights and data-acquisition devices. While the car is going through its checks, the drivers' paperwork, safety equipment, transponder and weight are checked. Finally, the car is reunited with the crew and drivers for an official team photo after which the media descend for interviews and fans for autographs. The entire process takes about an hour per car.