WOW, what a bummer. At least GT2 is going to be awesome!
It’s been a roller coaster of a week for the American Le Mans Series. Last Friday, Audi served up a curve ball worthy of Sandy Koufax when, seemingly out of the blue, it revealed it would not compete in the 2009 Series after the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida. Coming on the heels of the not-unexpected news that Porsche had elected not to compete in LMP2 next year on a factory level, Audi’s announcement was – if not devastating – worrisome news.
Seven days later, however, Mazda and Dyson Racing confirmed they will join forces in 2009 for a two-car LMP2 effort. While Mazda’s decision to double its effort with one of the Series’ top independent teams hardly balances-out the loss of two manufacturers who regularly fielded six prototypes in recent seasons, it goes a long way to nullify the perception that the Series is hemorrhaging manufacturers. In fact, given that BMW confirmed its plans for a GT2 program a fortnight ago and that Porsche’s commitment to GT2 remains steadfast, the number of auto makers committed to the ’09 schedule remains essentially unchanged from last year. And with a new, two-car LMP1 program and a continuing (if reduced) LMP2 effort, Acura is more committed to the Series then ever.
Looking for more? Have a look below.
- Breaking News: Audi pulls out of American Le Mans Series
- Dirk Werner: Hoping for results in second half of the American Le Mans Series
- Audi to defend title in the American Le Mans Series
- 2008 American Le Mans Series schedule for the iPhone/iPod Touch
- American Le Mans Series: Announces vision for the future
