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IMSA Confirms Next-Gen LMP2 Will Join WeatherTech Championship in 2029

The delayed U.S. introduction gives teams extra runway to plan equipment purchases while aiming to keep costs manageable for privateer entrants.

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Overview

  • IMSA confirmed Thursday that the ACO-designed next-generation LMP2 cars will race in ACO/LMEM series, including Le Mans, in 2028 and will enter the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship at the 2029 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
  • The new package centers on a Gibson-supplied turbocharged V6 rated at 460 kW (about 616 hp) and will use homologated chassis from two ACO-approved constructors, ORECA and Ligier.
  • IMSA and the ACO framed the staggered rollout and chassis limit as deliberate cost-control measures meant to protect privateer teams and give suppliers and competitors time to prepare.
  • Several teams have already started committing to the incoming platform, with reports naming United Autosports and Duqueine among those aligning with ORECA’s forthcoming chassis.
  • The change focuses on engine architecture while keeping aerodynamic concepts similar to the 2017-generation cars so teams can manage budgets and maintain on-track parity during the transition.