Created in 1922, the Bol d'Or is an international endurance competition for motorcyclists, and is held once a year in September. Since its inception, the race has taken place on many legendary racetracks such as Fontainebleau, Montlhéry and Le Mans. It was on the Paul Ricard racetrack at Le Castellet in Var that the race really made a name for itself.
In 2015, the Bol d'Or returned to the Le Castellet racetrack after over fifteen years' absence. The race traditionally lasts for twenty-four hours with teams of three riders who take turns throughout the event, relay-style. Several races take place alongside the Bol d'Or like the Bol d'Argent, a three-hour race open to medium engine size motorbikes, and the Bol d'Or Classic, which features the greatest vintage motorbikes.
As the last round of the FIM EWC (Endurance World Championship), the Bol d'Or is also a big motorbike-themed gathering with many events: broadcasts of the race on a giant screen, rock concerts, funfair, paintball, freestyle demonstrations and mini-bike workshops for children.
The Bol d'Or Village is also an opportunity for leading manufacturers like Yamaha, BMW and Suzuki, and also the official shops and equipment suppliers, to showcase their products and accessories.