Circuit des Remparts d'Angoulême

The Circuit des Remparts d'Angoulême is a historic car event held on the streets of Angoulême’s old town, following an urban route that runs along the city walls. Established in 1939, it has become one of France’s most iconic events dedicated to classic cars and historic racing, attracting enthusiasts from France and abroad every year.

A Unique Course

The course winds through the historic streets of downtown Angoulême, featuring a 1,279-meter circuit with tight turns and elevation changes that offer a spectacle particularly appreciated by motorsports fans. Its layout has remained remarkably faithful to the one used during the first edition, making it one of the few historic street circuits still used for classic car competitions.

A Classic Car Festival

Beyond the races, the event features a variety of activities celebrating automotive heritage: a concours d’élégance, tourist rallies in Charente, exhibitions of historic vehicles, and restoration competitions. For three days, the entire city is transformed into a showcase for classic cars, with several hundred vehicles on display and tens of thousands of visitors.

History and Reputation

After its inaugural edition in 1939, the races were interrupted by World War II before resuming until the mid-1950s. The event was revived in 1978 in its current form, dedicated to historic vehicles, while continuing the legacy of prestige established by legendary drivers such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Maurice Trintignant, and Raymond Sommer.

Category: Auto
Racing Date of inception: 1939
Usual start month: 10 (September)
Frequency: Annual