Probably just about as many people who have heard of the Indianapolis 500 race have also heard of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Although the latter takes place in France, it happens only once per year and the cars that take part have nothing to do with Formula 1 cars. Well, except that many of them are prototypes that are amongst the most technologically advanced cars in the world. Still, they're not as advanced as F1 cars.
Moreover, that race, like its name suggests, runs over a 24-hour period. A Formula 1 Grand Prix race - the name given to all Formula 1 races, like the Grand Prix of Monaco, or the United States Grand Prix - lasts no more than 2 hours, and more often about 1 hour and a half. Formula 1 is not about endurance. It is about sprint racing. That is why the thoroughbred F1 cars break down about as much as thoroughbred race horses.
Also, endurance racing cars like that of the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the American Le Mans Series, do not have exposed wheels, although for the moment some of the drivers are exposed to the open air.