Formula Le Mans becomes LMPC in 2012

Formula Le Mans will be renamed LMPC for the 2012 season as part of continuing changes to the Le Mans Series’ structure.

The LMS is already set to undergo a number of alterations for 2012, most notably the departure of LMP1 machinery from the championship. Organisers ACO have now confirmed that support class Formula Le Mans will take on a new name and have a stronger focus on developing top-level drivers and teams of the future as of next season.

“The ACO wanted to create a true ladder series for endurance, like that which exists in open wheel racing. That is a reality today: Karting, Proto-School ACO, Formula Le Mans, LMP2 and LMP1,” explained ACO vice president Pierre Fillon.

The winning team in next year’s LMPC class will receive an invitation to run in LMP2 at the 2013 Le Mans 24 Hours. The winning drivers will scoop a €45,000 prize, duns LMP1 or LMP2 drives in the 24 Hours. The first three finishers from each race will also receive prizes in the form of spare parts or Michelin tyres.

ORECA boss Hugues de Chaunac has spoken positively about the changes, saying: “Before, there were LMP1 and LMP2. Now the LMPC, Le Mans Prototype Challenge will be running alongside [each other]. It makes sense and solidifies the class both in Europe and in America, where the name has been used for several years.”

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James Weeks