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.

 

So much for ALMS.

 

I am crushed............

 

damn it.

 

EXACTLY. Bye bye

 

Glad I got to Petit LeMans in Oct. Hopefully it isn't the last one.

 

I don't think this will spell the end for ALMS, I liked watching the GT classes a lot also if not more...

 

Subaru just pulled out of WRC.

What is happening to our world?!

 

I think they made a good decision, since they already have the GT2 class racing, I don't see Porsche competing with so many different Classes, Remember its hard to keep track of what car, and what Class are these cars...!!!! LMP1 looks like LMP2.....GT2 looks like GT1...and so on....