Streaming Stars Break Records at GP Explorer Race in Le Mans

A thrilling race featuring 24 prominent streamers in Formula 4 cars took place in Le Mans, France, attracting a staggering 1.4 million viewers on the Twitch platform. The event, known as the GP Explorer, also garnered significant television attention, with 1.2 million viewers tuning in on the public broadcaster France 2, according to audience measurement firm Mediametrie. This remarkable turnout marks a new record for live events in France, surpassing the viewership of the previous year’s race.

Record-Breaking Viewership and Attendance

On-site, an impressive crowd of approximately 200,000 spectators gathered at the iconic racetrack, renowned for hosting the legendary Le Mans 24-hour endurance event. Spanish streamer Karchez triumphed in the 16-lap contest, securing first place amidst a competitive field. The GP Explorer has rapidly evolved since its inception, which began as an online challenge launched by French influencer Lucas Hauchard, widely known as Squeezie, in 2022.

This year, the GP Explorer featured teams from both Spain and the United States, adding an international flair to the competition. The event has captured the attention of a younger audience, predominantly those under 30 years old, reflecting the growing influence of digital creators in the sports arena. The lineup for the 2025 race included numerous internet celebrities, with Squeezie standing out as a major figure, boasting over 20 million YouTube subscribers.

Community Engagement and Future Prospects

Twitch’s chief executive, Dan Clancy, was present at the event and praised the “passion” exhibited by the French community on the platform. He acknowledged the significance of such events in fostering a sense of community among fans and viewers alike. Following the race, Squeezie suggested that the GP Explorer could return in a new format, hinting at the possibility of “several races a year,” as he shared in an interview with the sports publication L’Equipe.

The GP Explorer has successfully merged the worlds of gaming and motorsport, exemplifying the potential for innovative entertainment formats in the digital age. As streaming continues to redefine how audiences engage with sports, events like the GP Explorer highlight the evolving landscape of competitive entertainment.