The first automobile race ever held took place in France, captivating audiences and testing the newly invented motor vehicles. Organized by the Parisian newspaper 'Le Petit Journal', the race covered approximately 126 kilometers (about 78 miles) from Paris to Rouen. It attracted numerous participants and marked a notable milestone in the development of the automotive industry. Various automobile manufacturers put their vehicles to the test in this challenging journey, which was not just a race of speed but also a demonstration of endurance and reliability in early automobile engineering.

Comte Jules-Albert de Dion, driving one of the most advanced vehicles, crossed the finish line first; however, his vehicle was powered by a steam engine, which was not compliant with the race's regulations set forth by the organizers. Therefore, the official victory was awarded to Albert Lemaître, who drove a Peugeot with a three-horsepower petrol engine. This recognition underscored the growing acceptance of petrol vehicles over steam-powered alternatives. The choice of Lemaître's vehicle symbolized a shift towards what would become the dominant technology in the automotive sector.

The event highlighted the potential of automobiles beyond mere mean of transportation, promising a future where speed and convenience would soon change society. It served as a catalyst for the burgeoning automotive industry, spurring interest in car production and sales, alongside the establishment of automotive clubs and additional races in the years that followed. The successful completion of this race marked the beginning of a cultural shift towards motorized transport, laying the groundwork for the personal automobile revolution that would follow in the 20th century.