Even though Ford has downplayed the idea they didn't say they wouldn't. They have downplayed before just for them to enter. I wouldn't be surprised to see Ford enter the top class once again.
I'm probably the odd ball, but it would be nice to see Audi, McLaren, and Hyundai. Chip Gainese (I know I spelled that work) partners with Audi, United Autosport, with McLaren as the factory team with Patff Motorsport with a possible customer entry and Bryan Herta making Weathertech debute with Hyundai
If you guys remember that Corvette C7 prototype that raced in IMSA, Chevrolet may make a Corvette C8 prototype or a newer Corvette GTP. I would also like to see a newer version of the Mazda 787B.
Just seen a video of the Valkyrie testing at Donington. Sounds absolutely heavenly and a f**k off MASSIVE wing for good measure! Can't wait to see it on the grid!
I saw that too. Tbh, idk how I feel about the wing. I know it’s for performance reasons, but from a, aesthetic standpoint, it really throws off the look of the car. A smaller wing like the one in the render suits the design of the car better
@@mrsoisauce9017 I honestly think that it's rather deliberate, LMH/LMDh's have a set down-force number to hit to make it legal. If AMR gets what they need with a dinner table of a wing, so be it. The reason to the Wingless wonder 9X8 has that metric behind it, they were going to have a wing originally but it produced too much down-force... so they went wingless and relied on ground effect for the down-force. Which caused problems, lots of them. Hence the 2024 redesign...
I think Hyundai is a high chance probability. They are trying to increase their profile outside of being a source of low end automobiles. Designating their Prototype car a Genesis, which is their upmarket brand ( just like Lexus for Toyota and Acura for Honda) would definitely raise their profile.
@@KAMiKAZOW Yes? Until relatively recently Hyundai was very much the cheapest end of cars (with an actual dealer network) available (when I am in Canada at least) and it was only really with the last couple generations of their models that they started a push upmarket with things like the Genesis Coupe, Equus or on the KIA side, the Stinger.
@@williamford9564 I wouldn't say Acura was a performance/executive branch of Honda, more just an American name change. I might be wrong, but I get your point.
@@williamford9564 Hyundai and Kia have really stepped up this last decade. In the 2000's they were a joke. (besides the Hyundai coupe... I loved that thing.)
Oh yeah they are huge in the rally world (although it sounds like there are some question marks whether that program will continue) but in terms of sportscar racing I believe it's just TCR that they compete in!
@@offintheesses From what I can gather, WRC is going through a regulation change and you know how much that can be hit or miss. Especially with the FIA involved. What I have heard mirrors IndyCar a bit, they want to go into hybrids but got to keep that weight down. So they have something of a challenge on their end, plus... they want manufacture buyin, which has been hard.
@@offintheesses Absolutely! The variety of engine configurations for 2025 is such a fantastic thing. It would really be great to see one or two other manufacturers join GTP and Hypercar.
At Watkins during the race.., John Doonan and John hindhaugh were on air talking about potential new manufacturers coming aboard... we (and about half the back straight) heard Doonan say that Alpine (Rebadged as a Nissan) may be coming to imsa as well. Doonan almost made it sound like it was a comfirm, but Alpine(nissan) haven't said anything yet. It almost sounded like Doonan dropped the ball eary and wasnt supposed to say it. Lol. It was like a huge miskate he made and They rushed and changed subjects real quick when doonan said that..... Take it how you want. Lol.
If they do plan on bringing a rebadged Alpine into IMSA, I hope they invest in a different engine for both series, because that Mechachrome unit is notoriously garbage. I still find it hilarious that Acura's tiny V6 that's arguably under significantly more stress hasn't had anything like the issues that thing's gone through.
Yeah there has been talk of Nissan coming pretty much ever since that Alpine LMDh was announced. I'm not holding my breath that it happens but they are a possibility!
@@Mario_Ramirez I know, that just makes it even worse. The Mechachrome engine has seen five years of use in a spec series at this point, and it's _still_ less reliable than an engine that's under more stress and hasn't had anywhere near the same amount of run time. I'm trying really hard not to lean into the whole 'French reliability sucks' stereotype, but they're making it really, *really* hard not to.
@@offintheesses I don't think that's a possibility simply because Alpine/Renault and Nissan are in alliance with each other. Meaning that they are two very distinct companies with very distinct ways of going about their business, this isn't like Acura who is a subsidiary of Honda. Sure they have a tendency to share platforms but that is primarily because of the alliance between them, and I would highly suspect that Motorsport would be something that would have to be negotiated between the two of them if they were to do something like that. On top of that you're going to have to convince Nissan that doing endurance racing again would be of benefit, especially after the rather tame LMP1 failure.
The v8 used by road McLaren models is a discarded Nissan designed for racing, and some do not speak very well of how it came out. The other engine they're using is that v10 the Solus mounts, remember vaguely Judd is implied. I do believe this could become a problem for them, especially if they go for the GTP/LMDh route were the chassis is outsorced. But *I DO want an LMP prototype with a Speedmark on it* .
Really good that they extended the rules. This is great news. Now you know why controlled studio is better to record in 😅. Looking forward to the next video. Keep up the good work.
I've heard one of the big problems is that the grid for WEC is reportedly full. A shame if that is the case as we would lose a potential Acura, Hyundai, Vanwall or even McLaren hypercar in the world series. However I do think Hyundai and maybe McLaren (if they can figure out if they actually want to do it or not) would still sign up just for IMSA and a potential Le Mans invite. I do have my doubts about how WEC is likely to treat the manufacturers it deems 'not as worthy' to be on its grid though if the space is a problem. Their track record with the independents and the handling of the BOP system on their end is not exactly bias free in my eyes sadly. But then again I could see Peugeot and maybe even at a push, Toyota walking away in the next 2 years, so perhaps it won't be a problem
I think you're spot on with everything you said here! Grid size is a huge concern especially in the WEC. I do think the McLaren could squeeze on especially if they were able to get into LMGT3,but may be difficult for multiple new manufacturers to get on the grid without losing a manufacturer. I knew I recognized your handle, saw your Valkyrie testing video that thing sounds incredible!
I think their involvement with Red bull and F1 might even play a bigger role in them coming to LMDh or LMH sooner rather than later as they are developing an engine with them that could aid in engine development for IMSA or WEC and with red bull just coming out with that RB17 hyper car im sure they would want to run a version in IMSA or WEC as aston martin is doing with the Valkyrie. think we could be seeing a red bull ford partnership in IMSA or WEC aswell.
I agree that prototype racing is at a wonderful place right now. I mean compared to previous gen LMP1 cars that were too expensive and too complicated, this is a whole new world literally, with the number of manufacturers. I just miss Audi however, they are so iconic, and unfortunately they traded prototypes possibility for F1, which ironically is boring now, like WEC used to be some years ago.
@@Bncxx1275 Actually I don't think it's that. What you are suggesting is a huge money sink, primarily because F1 demands that and the hypercar/gtp regulations are cheaper (they're cheaper than LMP1) but it still asks a lot from manufacturers. Ask Aston Martin, whom paused the LMH program when the spec was initially announced (the changes with the spec set also played a part) mostly to keep the lights on because of other massively financial woes. They shifted their focus to F1 because of it, and didn't revisit this program until about 2 years ago, which we will see next year.
Far as the manufacturers you mentioned in your video, i would like to throw 2, maybe three, on your list. The first one is probably the most likely will be Audi. The second and third one, i think, right now aren't going to happen, but I would love to see are Mazda and Mercedes.
All three of those would be great! Audi probably largely depends on what happens with the F1 program! Mazda/Merc are probably unlikely but hey they have a history in the sport so can't rule them out completely!
Until now, De tomaso with the P900 could very likely enter the LMH category as they have been testing at spa a few weeks ago. And with Hyundai probably aswell, I think the few remaining grid places would be filled. Either way we are living in a new golden era for endurance racing and I'm all here for it
De Tomaso was long time silent, now they are testing? There was a rumor regarding De Tomaso as they unveiled the P900, but ever since silence until maybe now then, would make sense to first launch production of the P900 then do LMH
I could see McLaren, or maybe not. I think it would depend on how AMR does it and if the price/sales of the Valkyrie is good. If the Valkyrie is a huge profit car, I can see McLaren do the same. Build a road legal LMH, and then join WEC. And maybe RedBull in the future, a RD + Ford LHM on the new RB17.
McLaren fundamentally needs an engine to make a go of it. Developing their roadcar V8 into a LMdH might just work. I But in the end, McLaren doesn’t really have a big racing engine development program and aren’t a big enough manufacturer to fully underwrite one per se. Still, I think there is a fair chance that they’ll make a go of it. Hyundai/Genesis seems inevitable at this point. Ford - I think your observation that they might sit out until after the next ruleset comes around seems astute. I think it’s entirely possible that if their collaboration with Red Bull is successful, that they would then tackle endurance racing together as well. Lastly, if there is one brand that (imo) has been very conspicuous by their absence over the last few years, it would be Mercedes. Money really isn’t an issue for them (in fact, I suspect that if MB came in, it would be as a Hypercar and not an LMdH) but I suspect that they too won’t make any new moves until sometime after 2026
I wonder if McLaren would partner with someone like Gibson on an engine just spitballing but definitely seems like they will need to team up with someone on the engine side much like Alpine has done. Mercedes is one that I also see a few others thinking is a possibility, I just wonder how large the catastrophes of past prototypes and Le Mans efforts still haunt them. But at the end of the day we could see the LMH/LMDh categories be the best way to go head to head with the worlds top manufacturers, something that would be difficult to say no to!
Hey Jessie thanks! I actually activated a 20% off discount that runs from tomorrow until the 30th, it isn't much but hopefully it will cover the cost of shipping!
@@mattevans4377 bro ACO are very welcome to Mercedes AMG one to join But Mercedes itself rejected that Says bop is not fair and to race againts such cheap lmdh is unreasonable Now they want to put their AMG gt3 line to lmgt3 with torque sensor agreement But of course ACO rejected them
Mclaren would be an interesting addition but I would like to see another American based entry which would be Ford. They are a big company with a bunch of automotive and racing history, they could have a nice foot print in the LMDH class. But I bet they are waiting to see some success with their mustang GT3 car first before pulling the trigger. Hyundai would be a nice addition too .
Yeah Ford would be a great one to see enter especially being such an iconic manufacturer! They do have a lot of racing on their plate right now, could they take it on? Of course! I just think it's likely that they would be the farthest out of the 3 I discussed to potentially join!
5a,b is looking good! Haven't been there in more than a decade. Hyundai already is testing. I don't know if it's an LHh or LHDh, but they have one. Unfortunately, WEC has told them the grid is already full. Too bad their LMP1 never got approved by the BoD. (I got a guy - nice to make friends in Vancouver in early 2000s) Ford is 5 years away, at best. Mclaren is already over extended. I was on the plane ride back from Imola to London after the WEC race and heard a fair amount of chatter amongst the AMR people about another British Marque coming in soon. It sounded like through the winks and nods that Jaguar is a strong possibility.
Yeah it's a great spot and always well attended by the fans despite the bit of a trek to get out there! Lots of possibilities and not many grid spaces, will be fun to follow who else could join the party!
@@gabrielnicholascaparas9003 That might not be so far fetched, as of late if you want a high-strung, high-performance engine.... You need Cosworth's number. The Valkyrie, that is them. The Tourbillon, that is them too.... Every single thing out of Gordon Murray Automotive. Yep, Cosworth. Interestingly, it's the AMR Valkyrie LMH that will hit the track.
I’m gonna ask this question now, do you think should there be different individual categorical races instead of one single racing series with all categories in one single race? As in GTD/GTD Pro series, LMGT3/GT3 series, LMP2 customer series, LMDh/LMH series all on their own. I’m asking this since there are potential manufacturers coming in to the LMDh/LMH class
I personally don't think there should as the top championships. The Weathertech Championship and WEC should always be multiclass to maintain what sportscar racing has been for so long. Is there room for some single make series in addition to these? Yes, I think so and I wouldn't be surprised to see some pop up in the coming years because of all the interest
Maybe one day I will get it! I swear that I can walk around the house and say it fine but as soon as I need to mention it in a video it's impossible haha
Keep up your good work, it's great to get the news from you. But it's essential they get BOP right. Let's face it, we're stuck with it. I'm already worried that Peugeot aren't getting a fair shake and may leave after 2026 if they don't see results.
Thanks Paul! I think Peugeot sticks around for now, whenever a manufacturer brings a new car to grid there's a lot of learning they need to go through to optimize the car. It seemed like they were starting to turn the corner and find speed with the wingless car and the introduction of the new car looks to have set them back a good bit!
I agree and I think a lot of people do as well! I think the bodies want to leave the door open to alternative fuel being incorporated (let's face it at the end of the day it's what the manufacturers want!)
Not really. You guys have to stop with this RB baseless talk. They have never shown any interest in diverging from F1. That track car came about because Newey was bored during Covid and wanted to make something else
oof it's tough to say! I think it would be more likely in the Asian Le Mans series than it would be in ELMS. Given the ALMS schedule is so condensed and usually consists of a couple races per weekend I think that would make a lot more sense!
If any manufacturer , who can spend least amount of money to get into WEC will be Buggati, they have a LMH ready but they need to change the engine , that engine even after removing its quad turbo will be too powerful than 700HP limit and efficiency and Reliability of that W16 is not good , W12 from Veyron might work but it would need to be Naturally Aspirated.
I mean over saturated in the top prototype class? Yeah, mainly in WEC, IMSA still has quite a bit of room for now. May not be a market for OEMs in the top prototype class? No. The regulations were created to get manufacturers interested and produce great racing which has succeeded in doing both. I think the one fear I have for the current LMH/LMDh regs is 2029 is still a bit too soon of a stretch to be thinking about changing up those regulations. Unless it’s some tiny tweaks to the regulations like how LMP1 allowed for hybrid motors to be run in 2012 to a regulation that’s been around for like 12 years already. To me with such limited space for a class full of OEMs, I think the class needs a bit more time to bloom. Ya take some OEMs that have said they’re interested in selling cars to privateer teams like Porsche of course being a big one, Cadillac has talked about it with one privateer car being AXR so far, Ferrari currently has a customer car that could run in IMSA if there’s not enough space for the car, just to mention a few that currently already have customer cars and not to mention others that have talked about this possibility. Especially with teams possibly wanting in on Hypercar or GTP. Especially with the rumors that Asian Le Mans Series could have a Hypercar class for privateer only teams which would be huge if manufacturers can build enough cars for this class should it actually become a thing. WEC Hypercar being mainly factory teams, IMSA GTP being a mix of factory and privateer, and AsLMS Hypercar being privateer teams that want to make that step up. It’s why LMH/LMDh gets compared to Group C, once that class boomed ya had everything from privateers running Lola, Courage, Alba, Rondeau, etc with whatever engine they could get their hands on, to manufacturers like Porsche, Lancia, Jaguar, Aston Martin, Mazda, Mercedes with Sauber, Peugeot, etc before and slightly after the 3.5L NA formula in both C1 and C2. If it was extended to 2033 or 2034 with these regulations it’d be fine since it’d give OEMs possibilities if they still want to be committed or not or give time to build more cars for privateers. I’m kinda hoping I’m thinking this all wrong and the new regulations thought up for after 2029 r gonna be similar with just slight modifications.
Yeah I wouldn't expect us to see huge regulation changes when they're up for renewal but I think that the governing bodies would like to leave the door open to bring in alternative fuel (probably hydrogen) into the category. That's my hunch because if things continue to be this strong I think we'll have this basis of a formula for many many years to come!
On McLaren, another factor I see is the possibility that LMP2 will become even more irrelevant in the future. With the additional manufacturers possibly adding to the car counts in 2025 and 2026 plus the two car requirement, paddock space requirements at LeMans may result in as early as 2026 a Prototype and GT3 only grid. The lack of visibility could mean it is more beneficial for United Auto Sports to concentrate its efforts and financial resources on Prototype and GT3s only.
That's a good point! I do think the LMP2 plays a key role in the sportscar racing ecosystem right now and that on a global scale we need to be very careful on how it is treated! Removing it and not having sufficient opportunites could cause some driver development ladder issues in the future
I mean technically they could! However the first thing that comes to mind would be engine durability. F1 engines aren't designed for a 24 hour race so would take significant effort to beef up. Regardless it would be cool!
I really hope they abandon the Hydrogen class, they’ll lose so many OEM’s, just ask everyone to build a new body/chassis in 2030 with Hybrid engines, if they do that more and more OEM’s would love to join. Edit: Also they should just use synthetic fuels if they target sustainability, I’m sure everyone would be very open to do that
I'm convinced that McLaren would enter a basic Oreca LMP2 with no bodywork changes. The only difference is that it will be orange and have a McLaren engine
I think if McLaren commits to it then they go all in. With the LMDh regulations it requires that the car take styling from the manufacturers road cars so it won't simply be a stock oreca body on it!
Hyundai and McLaren? Still my racing heart. I hope both come true and I get to see 2 of my favourite brands scrapping it with the best enfurance racing has to offer
Imo McLaren shouldn’t be joining IMSA or WEC yet, yeah their GT programs and F1 team are doing good, but based on how all their IndyCar teams except Pato’s are doing they might have their hands in too many different series.
That's fair but I guess a counter arguement would simply be how well do things have to be going in order to push forward with the project? Let's face it F1 is their main project and they look to be a contender week in and week out, I think that is the one they would want to ensure it competitive before expanding the sportscar program
I could see mclaren getting in using the senna as the basis for a car and being successful at it while keeping to the budget. Ford has competed in top-level sportscar racing as a factory concern in the early years of group c, and they got burned badly by the experience. So if they do dive into LMH, they'll probably try to defer a lot of the expenses by purchasing a majority share in an already existing team and rebranding it. I could also see mercedes backdooring their way in by doing what they did back in the 80's when they partnered with sauber and then bought a controlling share in the team once they started being successful. Hyundai has already ruled out F1 because of the costs and potential lack of return on investment, and they have said that they want to "do something big" motorsports wise. What this means is obviously open to interpretation, but WEC would be a good choice on the international stage, as would nascar or indycar in america.
Since Rolls-Royce make good engines and has a pool of great talent with the reputation to easily snag other talent. I reckon they could take a pot at Le Mans 24 Hours. Sure it would take years before they have something ready. But when it comes to racing stranger things have happened. Lastly what other two manufacturers do I want to see return to Le Mans alongside McLaren. Lotus and Jaguar. Jaguar mainly, so they are forced to make a new beastly engine. And if Rolls-Royce were like. Time to surprise people chaps. It might give Bentley a reason to compete against Rolls-Royce.
Not too late for 2026 yet! If they were going to build a program it would likely be underway already behind the scenes! Cadillac announced their LMDh program in August (about a year and a half before race debut) so it's possible!
I agree , its tilting heavily already this season. If things goes with the trend,Peugeot may leave after this season. Because they already spent 3 seasons resources but the results are not convincing. I made a crazy guess, maybe Toyota will also leave .The agenda is not hidden anymore. Staying in a series which you have low chance to win is not good. I have smile it,but I hope I made a wrong guess.
Which manufacturer do you think is most likely to build an LMDh/LMH?
Considering that the grid is almost full: Nobody who isn't already confirmed.
Even though Ford has downplayed the idea they didn't say they wouldn't. They have downplayed before just for them to enter. I wouldn't be surprised to see Ford enter the top class once again.
Mercedes (and maybe get Sauber to run the entry again, since Audi will be running 100% of the F1 team by that point).
I'm probably the odd ball, but it would be nice to see Audi, McLaren, and Hyundai. Chip Gainese (I know I spelled that work) partners with Audi, United Autosport, with McLaren as the factory team with Patff Motorsport with a possible customer entry and Bryan Herta making Weathertech debute with Hyundai
If you guys remember that Corvette C7 prototype that raced in IMSA, Chevrolet may make a Corvette C8 prototype or a newer Corvette GTP. I would also like to see a newer version of the Mazda 787B.
I’m so grateful to see the growth of IMSA and WEC
Manufacturer growth and fan growth, it's been great to watch! Not over yet either!
Thats why IMSA and WEC are top two best motorsports of all time in terms of racing spectacle. F1 is not even close since 2022.
THIS IS THE BEST PLAN FIA ACO IMSA WEC MAKE
Period
Just seen a video of the Valkyrie testing at Donington. Sounds absolutely heavenly and a f**k off MASSIVE wing for good measure! Can't wait to see it on the grid!
I saw that too. Tbh, idk how I feel about the wing. I know it’s for performance reasons, but from a, aesthetic standpoint, it really throws off the look of the car. A smaller wing like the one in the render suits the design of the car better
Yeah that car is going to be incredible to see and hear on the track next year!
Nah it's good,499P Is massive too and the car looks lovely@@mrsoisauce9017
@@mrsoisauce9017
I honestly think that it's rather deliberate, LMH/LMDh's have a set down-force number to hit to make it legal. If AMR gets what they need with a dinner table of a wing, so be it.
The reason to the Wingless wonder 9X8 has that metric behind it, they were going to have a wing originally but it produced too much down-force... so they went wingless and relied on ground effect for the down-force. Which caused problems, lots of them. Hence the 2024 redesign...
@@DuvJones that makes sense. Still can’t help but believe it’s a major aesthetic downgrade tho
Bring 'em on...love to see these series grow!
Couldn't agree more!
I just wish Mazda came back, but its quiet unlikely
Same man
@@toro4271 I know it's a typo but...
Mazda was anything but quiet. 😅
WANKEL WANKEL WANKEL WANKEL WANKEL WANKEL
@@FurryestX Rotaries are not allowed, it has to be a 4 stroke piston engine on FIA rules
They have been pretty firm saying they wont, and that their priority is mx-5 cup.
I think Hyundai is a high chance probability. They are trying to increase their profile outside of being a source of low end automobiles. Designating their Prototype car a Genesis, which is their upmarket brand ( just like Lexus for Toyota and Acura for Honda) would definitely raise their profile.
Hyundai a source of low end automobiles? WTF?
@@KAMiKAZOW Yes? Until relatively recently Hyundai was very much the cheapest end of cars (with an actual dealer network) available (when I am in Canada at least) and it was only really with the last couple generations of their models that they started a push upmarket with things like the Genesis Coupe, Equus or on the KIA side, the Stinger.
@@julianturberfield7101 Just because you don't know the Hyundai N sports brand, does it mean that it's a low end brand. 🤷♂️
@@williamford9564 I wouldn't say Acura was a performance/executive branch of Honda, more just an American name change. I might be wrong, but I get your point.
@@williamford9564 Hyundai and Kia have really stepped up this last decade. In the 2000's they were a joke. (besides the Hyundai coupe... I loved that thing.)
7:40 TCR and they are a HUGE name in the Rally world. Regularly doing against the likes of Toyota GR.
It's my pals jam, so I here them alot....
Oh yeah they are huge in the rally world (although it sounds like there are some question marks whether that program will continue) but in terms of sportscar racing I believe it's just TCR that they compete in!
@@offintheesses
From what I can gather, WRC is going through a regulation change and you know how much that can be hit or miss.
Especially with the FIA involved.
What I have heard mirrors IndyCar a bit, they want to go into hybrids but got to keep that weight down. So they have something of a challenge on their end, plus... they want manufacture buyin, which has been hard.
@@DuvJones Strong rumours that Hyundai will leave WRC by 2026. Possibly due to this
@@offintheesses also worth noting that they have a BTCC entry, which is still Touring Cars, but a totally different set of regs
@@arwynbrock7591 Ohhhhh I had no idea about that! Thanks for letting me know!!
There's some great footage of the Aston Martin Valkyrie LMH testing at Donington Park Circuit a couple days ago.
That thing sounds incredible!!
@@offintheesses Absolutely! The variety of engine configurations for 2025 is such a fantastic thing. It would really be great to see one or two other manufacturers join GTP and Hypercar.
At Watkins during the race.., John Doonan and John hindhaugh were on air talking about potential new manufacturers coming aboard... we (and about half the back straight) heard Doonan say that Alpine (Rebadged as a Nissan) may be coming to imsa as well. Doonan almost made it sound like it was a comfirm, but Alpine(nissan) haven't said anything yet. It almost sounded like Doonan dropped the ball eary and wasnt supposed to say it. Lol. It was like a huge miskate he made and
They rushed and changed subjects real quick when doonan said that.....
Take it how you want. Lol.
If they do plan on bringing a rebadged Alpine into IMSA, I hope they invest in a different engine for both series, because that Mechachrome unit is notoriously garbage. I still find it hilarious that Acura's tiny V6 that's arguably under significantly more stress hasn't had anything like the issues that thing's gone through.
Yeah there has been talk of Nissan coming pretty much ever since that Alpine LMDh was announced. I'm not holding my breath that it happens but they are a possibility!
@griffinfaulkner3514 Acura's V6s are the engines Honda was developing for Indycar, but that plan was scrapped.
@@Mario_Ramirez I know, that just makes it even worse. The Mechachrome engine has seen five years of use in a spec series at this point, and it's _still_ less reliable than an engine that's under more stress and hasn't had anywhere near the same amount of run time.
I'm trying really hard not to lean into the whole 'French reliability sucks' stereotype, but they're making it really, *really* hard not to.
@@offintheesses
I don't think that's a possibility simply because Alpine/Renault and Nissan are in alliance with each other. Meaning that they are two very distinct companies with very distinct ways of going about their business, this isn't like Acura who is a subsidiary of Honda.
Sure they have a tendency to share platforms but that is primarily because of the alliance between them, and I would highly suspect that Motorsport would be something that would have to be negotiated between the two of them if they were to do something like that.
On top of that you're going to have to convince Nissan that doing endurance racing again would be of benefit, especially after the rather tame LMP1 failure.
The v8 used by road McLaren models is a discarded Nissan designed for racing, and some do not speak very well of how it came out. The other engine they're using is that v10 the Solus mounts, remember vaguely Judd is implied.
I do believe this could become a problem for them, especially if they go for the GTP/LMDh route were the chassis is outsorced.
But *I DO want an LMP prototype with a Speedmark on it*
.
Very happy, very grateful to see more manufacturers coming to IMSA and WEC.
As of 2024, WEC has about 12 manufacturers joining in.
Really good that they extended the rules. This is great news. Now you know why controlled studio is better to record in 😅. Looking forward to the next video. Keep up the good work.
Haha yup the studio doesn't have all the vehicles to contend with but it's always fun to get out and record at the track!
Honestly a ford hypercar that looks like the GT40 (at least from the front) would be amazing
Although the rear would look different for aero reasons
I've heard one of the big problems is that the grid for WEC is reportedly full. A shame if that is the case as we would lose a potential Acura, Hyundai, Vanwall or even McLaren hypercar in the world series. However I do think Hyundai and maybe McLaren (if they can figure out if they actually want to do it or not) would still sign up just for IMSA and a potential Le Mans invite. I do have my doubts about how WEC is likely to treat the manufacturers it deems 'not as worthy' to be on its grid though if the space is a problem. Their track record with the independents and the handling of the BOP system on their end is not exactly bias free in my eyes sadly. But then again I could see Peugeot and maybe even at a push, Toyota walking away in the next 2 years, so perhaps it won't be a problem
I think you're spot on with everything you said here! Grid size is a huge concern especially in the WEC. I do think the McLaren could squeeze on especially if they were able to get into LMGT3,but may be difficult for multiple new manufacturers to get on the grid without losing a manufacturer.
I knew I recognized your handle, saw your Valkyrie testing video that thing sounds incredible!
I think their involvement with Red bull and F1 might even play a bigger role in them coming to LMDh or LMH sooner rather than later as they are developing an engine with them that could aid in engine development for IMSA or WEC and with red bull just coming out with that RB17 hyper car im sure they would want to run a version in IMSA or WEC as aston martin is doing with the Valkyrie. think we could be seeing a red bull ford partnership in IMSA or WEC aswell.
They have to
If not that Mustang need to get out from WEC
I saw a concept of a speedtail GTR. It looks stunning
I agree that prototype racing is at a wonderful place right now. I mean compared to previous gen LMP1 cars that were too expensive and too complicated, this is a whole new world literally, with the number of manufacturers. I just miss Audi however, they are so iconic, and unfortunately they traded prototypes possibility for F1, which ironically is boring now, like WEC used to be some years ago.
Unfortunate that Audi isn't around but great for the sport overall, don't know if anyone could have seen the LMH/LMDh formula take off like this!
@@offintheesses also very ironic that Lambo is RWD and Ferrari is AWD now lol
They could run both F1 and multimatic lmdh actually
They just unwilling to do it
@@Bncxx1275
Actually I don't think it's that. What you are suggesting is a huge money sink, primarily because F1 demands that and the hypercar/gtp regulations are cheaper (they're cheaper than LMP1) but it still asks a lot from manufacturers. Ask Aston Martin, whom paused the LMH program when the spec was initially announced (the changes with the spec set also played a part) mostly to keep the lights on because of other massively financial woes.
They shifted their focus to F1 because of it, and didn't revisit this program until about 2 years ago, which we will see next year.
I agree with you and the Ford suits. I don't think they are going to put that iron in their fire.
I actually like seeing the support vehicles behind ya.
Yeah it's nice to get out and film at the track, they were much louder than the mic picked up which was a nice suprise when I went to edit haha
Far as the manufacturers you mentioned in your video, i would like to throw 2, maybe three, on your list. The first one is probably the most likely will be Audi. The second and third one, i think, right now aren't going to happen, but I would love to see are Mazda and Mercedes.
All three of those would be great! Audi probably largely depends on what happens with the F1 program! Mazda/Merc are probably unlikely but hey they have a history in the sport so can't rule them out completely!
Holy crap you were at my home race!!! I was there too, my first in person race
Heck yeah I go every year! That's awesome, did you enjoy the weekend? We got to see some good racing and the fan turnout was fantastic!
Until now, De tomaso with the P900 could very likely enter the LMH category as they have been testing at spa a few weeks ago. And with Hyundai probably aswell, I think the few remaining grid places would be filled. Either way we are living in a new golden era for endurance racing and I'm all here for it
De Tomaso was long time silent, now they are testing? There was a rumor regarding De Tomaso as they unveiled the P900, but ever since silence until maybe now then, would make sense to first launch production of the P900 then do LMH
McLaren and Alfa Romeo are looking to enter as well
I could see McLaren, or maybe not. I think it would depend on how AMR does it and if the price/sales of the Valkyrie is good. If the Valkyrie is a huge profit car, I can see McLaren do the same. Build a road legal LMH, and then join WEC. And maybe RedBull in the future, a RD + Ford LHM on the new RB17.
one solucion could be to extente the LMH/LMdh regulation to Asia and European Lemans Series runned by private teams
McLaren fundamentally needs an engine to make a go of it. Developing their roadcar V8 into a LMdH might just work. I
But in the end, McLaren doesn’t really have a big racing engine development program and aren’t a big enough manufacturer to fully underwrite one per se. Still, I think there is a fair chance that they’ll make a go of it.
Hyundai/Genesis seems inevitable at this point.
Ford - I think your observation that they might sit out until after the next ruleset comes around seems astute. I think it’s entirely possible that if their collaboration with Red Bull is successful, that they would then tackle endurance racing together as well.
Lastly, if there is one brand that (imo) has been very conspicuous by their absence over the last few years, it would be Mercedes. Money really isn’t an issue for them (in fact, I suspect that if MB came in, it would be as a Hypercar and not an LMdH) but I suspect that they too won’t make any new moves until sometime after 2026
I wonder if McLaren would partner with someone like Gibson on an engine just spitballing but definitely seems like they will need to team up with someone on the engine side much like Alpine has done. Mercedes is one that I also see a few others thinking is a possibility, I just wonder how large the catastrophes of past prototypes and Le Mans efforts still haunt them. But at the end of the day we could see the LMH/LMDh categories be the best way to go head to head with the worlds top manufacturers, something that would be difficult to say no to!
your doing a great job, buying merch to support
Hey Jessie thanks! I actually activated a 20% off discount that runs from tomorrow until the 30th, it isn't much but hopefully it will cover the cost of shipping!
Every once in a while, Mercedes will come at the very end to release a beast. Hoping this happens, but that is a pipe dream
And don't forget Audi 👀.
It would be interesting if they could somehow convert their road going AMG One into a track machine
@@mattevans4377 bro
ACO are very welcome to Mercedes AMG one to join
But Mercedes itself rejected that
Says bop is not fair and to race againts such cheap lmdh is unreasonable
Now they want to put their AMG gt3 line to lmgt3 with torque sensor agreement
But of course ACO rejected them
@@davidxg1092as weird as it is to see no Audis on the grid, I think they’ve shifted their focus to F1 and every other type of racing is a distraction.
Great backdrop for the video!
I love when I get the opportunity to film there, great track and a great spot to watch a race from!
Mclaren would be an interesting addition but I would like to see another American based entry which would be Ford. They are a big company with a bunch of automotive and racing history, they could have a nice foot print in the LMDH class. But I bet they are waiting to see some success with their mustang GT3 car first before pulling the trigger. Hyundai would be a nice addition too .
Yeah Ford would be a great one to see enter especially being such an iconic manufacturer! They do have a lot of racing on their plate right now, could they take it on? Of course! I just think it's likely that they would be the farthest out of the 3 I discussed to potentially join!
5a,b is looking good! Haven't been there in more than a decade.
Hyundai already is testing. I don't know if it's an LHh or LHDh, but they have one. Unfortunately, WEC has told them the grid is already full. Too bad their LMP1 never got approved by the BoD. (I got a guy - nice to make friends in Vancouver in early 2000s)
Ford is 5 years away, at best.
Mclaren is already over extended.
I was on the plane ride back from Imola to London after the WEC race and heard a fair amount of chatter amongst the AMR people about another British Marque coming in soon. It sounded like through the winks and nods that Jaguar is a strong possibility.
Yeah it's a great spot and always well attended by the fans despite the bit of a trek to get out there! Lots of possibilities and not many grid spaces, will be fun to follow who else could join the party!
I hope Ford is one of them!
Hope they can also revive their legendary partnership with Cosworth (maybe Shelby, but it's ok if they choose to manufacture the engine themselves).
@@gabrielnicholascaparas9003
That might not be so far fetched, as of late if you want a high-strung, high-performance engine.... You need Cosworth's number.
The Valkyrie, that is them. The Tourbillon, that is them too.... Every single thing out of Gordon Murray Automotive. Yep, Cosworth.
Interestingly, it's the AMR Valkyrie LMH that will hit the track.
Of course
If not then says good bye to Mustang from le mans
Its an exciting class and the rules seem to allow them to actually race
The racing has been great, it's been a lot of fun to watch!
I want to see a Lotus Hypercar
I’m gonna ask this question now, do you think should there be different individual categorical races instead of one single racing series with all categories in one single race? As in GTD/GTD Pro series, LMGT3/GT3 series, LMP2 customer series, LMDh/LMH series all on their own. I’m asking this since there are potential manufacturers coming in to the LMDh/LMH class
I personally don't think there should as the top championships. The Weathertech Championship and WEC should always be multiclass to maintain what sportscar racing has been for so long. Is there room for some single make series in addition to these? Yes, I think so and I wouldn't be surprised to see some pop up in the coming years because of all the interest
It depends on IEC 🎉🎉🎉
That Aston Martin with that V 12 Cosworth! 🔥
It sounds so good! Can't wait to hear it echo off the banking at Daytona!
If Hyundai is joining the LMDh category, they’re likely to enter under the Genesis badge to promote their new Magma Performance division
Yes that's what I have seen as well!
Come on new manufacturers hopefully it will get some more into other Motorsport like WRC then we just need more UK events for WEC and WRC
LMDh will never be complete until Jaguar joins in!
I can't wait to see top level prototypes back return to CTMP.
Not bad on that Peugeot pronunciation! Getting better haha
Maybe one day I will get it! I swear that I can walk around the house and say it fine but as soon as I need to mention it in a video it's impossible haha
Ao meu ver, Hyundai (Genesis), McLaren e Ford são as favoritas para entrar. Eu adicionaria também uma possível entrada da Nissan e Mercedes no futuro.
awww we are so back baby
So back!
Anyone else wanna see bugatti in motorsports?
i cant wait for hyundai (if they come into wec and imsa)
Keep up your good work, it's great to get the news from you. But it's essential they get BOP right. Let's face it, we're stuck with it. I'm already worried that Peugeot aren't getting a fair shake and may leave after 2026 if they don't see results.
Thanks Paul! I think Peugeot sticks around for now, whenever a manufacturer brings a new car to grid there's a lot of learning they need to go through to optimize the car. It seemed like they were starting to turn the corner and find speed with the wingless car and the introduction of the new car looks to have set them back a good bit!
I´d love to see some kind of Ford GT lmh car
Hopefully!!
Ford vs Ferrari at Daytona 2026,Sebring and LeMans yes please!!!!!
Alfa Romeo is possibility, they will make decisions 2025, likely by Le Mans in June
Yup that's definitely another one to keep a close eye on!
Imagine if Honda built "HONDA CIVIC LMDh" for IMSA 2026?
At some point we might have to end up making a brand new championship for Hypercars only with how many are joining 😆🤣🤣
Yeah, LMGT3 looks useless
Or force race track management to build another pit stop
I see no reason to put an expiry date on LMH/LMDh
It deserves the longevity of GT3.
I agree and I think a lot of people do as well! I think the bodies want to leave the door open to alternative fuel being incorporated (let's face it at the end of the day it's what the manufacturers want!)
@@offintheesses very true
Kind of surprised you didn't mention Red Bull considering they just unveiled what looks like a homologation special for a Le Mans hypercar.
Not really. You guys have to stop with this RB baseless talk. They have never shown any interest in diverging from F1. That track car came about because Newey was bored during Covid and wanted to make something else
Could it join the grid? I suppose but it doesn't seem likely right now. Although with how the class is growing I guess we shouldn't rule anything out!
If we get enough manufacturers, do you think Hypercar/GTP will become the top class in European/Asian Le Mans Series by 2030 regulations?
oof it's tough to say! I think it would be more likely in the Asian Le Mans series than it would be in ELMS. Given the ALMS schedule is so condensed and usually consists of a couple races per weekend I think that would make a lot more sense!
ELMS is big no, everyone are against it. For AsLMS though, it's highly likely
Wish Bugatti joined as well, it would've been cool to see the Bugatti Bolide race with the new Aston Martin Valkyrie.
If any manufacturer , who can spend least amount of money to get into WEC will be Buggati, they have a LMH ready but they need to change the engine , that engine even after removing its quad turbo will be too powerful than 700HP limit and efficiency and Reliability of that W16 is not good , W12 from Veyron might work but it would need to be Naturally Aspirated.
@@cascito Yeah, Bugatti is still working on how to put the Bolide into WEC without making it destroy the competition
@@Sir_FerrariDaytonaSp3 Next year Valkyrie V12 LMH is confirmed to be racing with The Heart of Racing team , can't wait 💪
@@Sir_FerrariDaytonaSp3 ACO are very welcome as long they agree with spec
I mean over saturated in the top prototype class? Yeah, mainly in WEC, IMSA still has quite a bit of room for now. May not be a market for OEMs in the top prototype class? No. The regulations were created to get manufacturers interested and produce great racing which has succeeded in doing both.
I think the one fear I have for the current LMH/LMDh regs is 2029 is still a bit too soon of a stretch to be thinking about changing up those regulations. Unless it’s some tiny tweaks to the regulations like how LMP1 allowed for hybrid motors to be run in 2012 to a regulation that’s been around for like 12 years already. To me with such limited space for a class full of OEMs, I think the class needs a bit more time to bloom. Ya take some OEMs that have said they’re interested in selling cars to privateer teams like Porsche of course being a big one, Cadillac has talked about it with one privateer car being AXR so far, Ferrari currently has a customer car that could run in IMSA if there’s not enough space for the car, just to mention a few that currently already have customer cars and not to mention others that have talked about this possibility. Especially with teams possibly wanting in on Hypercar or GTP. Especially with the rumors that Asian Le Mans Series could have a Hypercar class for privateer only teams which would be huge if manufacturers can build enough cars for this class should it actually become a thing. WEC Hypercar being mainly factory teams, IMSA GTP being a mix of factory and privateer, and AsLMS Hypercar being privateer teams that want to make that step up. It’s why LMH/LMDh gets compared to Group C, once that class boomed ya had everything from privateers running Lola, Courage, Alba, Rondeau, etc with whatever engine they could get their hands on, to manufacturers like Porsche, Lancia, Jaguar, Aston Martin, Mazda, Mercedes with Sauber, Peugeot, etc before and slightly after the 3.5L NA formula in both C1 and C2. If it was extended to 2033 or 2034 with these regulations it’d be fine since it’d give OEMs possibilities if they still want to be committed or not or give time to build more cars for privateers. I’m kinda hoping I’m thinking this all wrong and the new regulations thought up for after 2029 r gonna be similar with just slight modifications.
Yeah I wouldn't expect us to see huge regulation changes when they're up for renewal but I think that the governing bodies would like to leave the door open to bring in alternative fuel (probably hydrogen) into the category. That's my hunch because if things continue to be this strong I think we'll have this basis of a formula for many many years to come!
TVR should come back for this
Hi, sorry for the stupid question... what track is the one behind you?thanks
CTMP
@@JeffIroncrown thank you!!!
Yup as Jeff said it's CTMP and I'm at turn 5 (moss corner)!
2:29 Ford Red Bull RB17 hypercar? 👀👀👀👀👀
They have to
Otherwise ACO kick Mustang out of WEC
I am manufacture too.
On McLaren, another factor I see is the possibility that LMP2 will become even more irrelevant in the future. With the additional manufacturers possibly adding to the car counts in 2025 and 2026 plus the two car requirement, paddock space requirements at LeMans may result in as early as 2026 a Prototype and GT3 only grid. The lack of visibility could mean it is more beneficial for United Auto Sports to concentrate its efforts and financial resources on Prototype and GT3s only.
That's a good point! I do think the LMP2 plays a key role in the sportscar racing ecosystem right now and that on a global scale we need to be very careful on how it is treated! Removing it and not having sufficient opportunites could cause some driver development ladder issues in the future
would ford be able to run a prototype with a detuned 2026 formula one engine? after all, alpine are using an f2 engine- how cool would that be
I mean technically they could! However the first thing that comes to mind would be engine durability. F1 engines aren't designed for a 24 hour race so would take significant effort to beef up. Regardless it would be cool!
enjoy wec and imsa while it lasts guys, these streaming prices gonna be so high they'll reach Mars before Space-X
we're in a golden age of endurance racing and nobody can convince me otherwise
Couldn't agree more!
I wish we’d see Nissan.
And Nissan and Mazda??
I really hope they abandon the Hydrogen class, they’ll lose so many OEM’s, just ask everyone to build a new body/chassis in 2030 with Hybrid engines, if they do that more and more OEM’s would love to join.
Edit: Also they should just use synthetic fuels if they target sustainability, I’m sure everyone would be very open to do that
They ALREADY use synthetic fuel. Made from grapes
@@kidpagronprimsank05 oh, didn’t know that, sorry 😅
I'm convinced that McLaren would enter a basic Oreca LMP2 with no bodywork changes. The only difference is that it will be orange and have a McLaren engine
I think if McLaren commits to it then they go all in. With the LMDh regulations it requires that the car take styling from the manufacturers road cars so it won't simply be a stock oreca body on it!
Is not allow thought every LMDH entry need at least some road cars design on they racer cars headlights or at least some bodywork shapes
@@offintheessesall in means LMH not LMDH for me
How about a Red Bull hypercar powered by Ford?
I'd say it's unlikely but I suppose it's possible!
Hyundai has a lot of experience in WRC how you don’t know that?
I am very well aware of their success in rally. That is not sportscar racing though which is what I was referring to!
Hyundai and McLaren? Still my racing heart. I hope both come true and I get to see 2 of my favourite brands scrapping it with the best enfurance racing has to offer
They would certainly be very welcomed additions in whatever championship they compete in!
Ford doesn't even sell cars anymore, other than the mustang......what would be the point?
Can't win the top class of Le Mans unless you race in the top class of Le Mans!
Huyndai was kinda succesful in wrc
They definitely have! I was referring to their sportscar racing experience not general racing experience!
Imo McLaren shouldn’t be joining IMSA or WEC yet, yeah their GT programs and F1 team are doing good, but based on how all their IndyCar teams except Pato’s are doing they might have their hands in too many different series.
That's fair but I guess a counter arguement would simply be how well do things have to be going in order to push forward with the project? Let's face it F1 is their main project and they look to be a contender week in and week out, I think that is the one they would want to ensure it competitive before expanding the sportscar program
Ford should build an LMH/LMDh just so they can beat ferrari again for old times sake.
Ford v ferarri part 2?
I could see mclaren getting in using the senna as the basis for a car and being successful at it while keeping to the budget.
Ford has competed in top-level sportscar racing as a factory concern in the early years of group c, and they got burned badly by the experience.
So if they do dive into LMH, they'll probably try to defer a lot of the expenses by purchasing a majority share in an already existing team and rebranding it.
I could also see mercedes backdooring their way in by doing what they did back in the 80's when they partnered with sauber and then bought a controlling share in the team once they started being successful.
Hyundai has already ruled out F1 because of the costs and potential lack of return on investment, and they have said that they want to "do something big" motorsports wise.
What this means is obviously open to interpretation, but WEC would be a good choice on the international stage, as would nascar or indycar in america.
WEC and IMSA boutta beat F1 ass (maybe lol, but WEC is doing great)
Ford aint joining the LMH/LMDH ranks
yeah it's probably unlikely
Since Rolls-Royce make good engines and has a pool of great talent with the reputation to easily snag other talent. I reckon they could take a pot at Le Mans 24 Hours. Sure it would take years before they have something ready. But when it comes to racing stranger things have happened.
Lastly what other two manufacturers do I want to see return to Le Mans alongside McLaren. Lotus and Jaguar. Jaguar mainly, so they are forced to make a new beastly engine. And if Rolls-Royce were like. Time to surprise people chaps. It might give Bentley a reason to compete against Rolls-Royce.
MCLAREN SOLUS IS IDEAL ISTILE FOR LMH OR LMDH
I love seeing the GTP/Hyper car series grow keep them coming
I think Mclaren have left it too late.
Not too late for 2026 yet! If they were going to build a program it would likely be underway already behind the scenes! Cadillac announced their LMDh program in August (about a year and a half before race debut) so it's possible!
We have more Manufacturers than F1...
Just Saying 😂😂😂
You're absolutely right!
Is beacuse the rules they alwaays Change the rules
A hemi powered hyper P1. Imagine that
McLaren would be cool but Ford and Hyundai? Meh😐
I agree , its tilting heavily already this season.
If things goes with the trend,Peugeot may leave after this season.
Because they already spent 3 seasons resources but the results are not convincing.
I made a crazy guess, maybe Toyota will also leave .The agenda is not hidden anymore. Staying in a series which you have low chance to win is not good. I have smile it,but I hope I made a wrong guess.
They had a strong race in Brazil, so hopefully they stay. Car is still very new and they still seem to be getting the hang of setups and stuff.
good news f1 is boring
I think red bull are working on a car that could convert to wec