One of the world's largest historic motorsport events, Le Mans Classic 2026 will be held from July 2-5, 2026, at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France.
As part of the event, the Mazda 787B will take part in a special parade session, performing a standalone demonstration run with the support of renowned model car manufacturer Spark. Driving duties will be shared by Yojiro Terada, a veteran driver closely associated with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), the organization behind the Le Mans 24 Hours.
Pierre Fillon said, "It has long been a dream of mine to have the privilege of getting behind the wheel of this iconic car."
Le Mans Classic is one of the world's premier historic racing festivals, bringing together legendary race cars that have competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans across multiple eras. The event gives fans from around the world a rare opportunity to see these iconic machines return to the Circuit de la Sarthe and demonstrate their performance once again.
Mazda's rotary-engine story began with the launch of the Cosmo Sport in 1967. Over the decades, the company has introduced a wide range of rotary-powered production vehicles, but the Mazda 787B remains the only rotary-powered race car ever to claim overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Its triumph in 1991 also marked a historic milestone, making Mazda the first Japanese automaker to win the prestigious endurance race outright.
Over the years, the Mazda 787B has appeared at numerous exhibitions and demonstration events around the world, including several appearances at the Circuit de la Sarthe. As part of the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of its historic victory, fans will once again hear the unmistakable roar of the R26B four-rotor rotary engine echo across the legendary circuit. The demonstration also reflects Mazda's enduring philosophy of "Joy of Driving" and its unwavering "Challenger Spirit."
More than three decades after its Le Mans victory, Mazda continues to develop rotary-engine technology. In 2027, the company's rotary engine will celebrate its 60th anniversary, marking six decades since the technology first entered production.
Mazda says the return of the 787B is more than a celebration of past achievements. The demonstration is intended to inspire future generations while preserving the legacy of innovation, engineering excellence, and an unwavering spirit of challenge. The company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the Joy of Driving and carrying forward its Challenger Spirit, ensuring these values continue to be passed on to the next generation.
Source: Mazda Newsroom
