Asian Le Mans Series Update: Key Developments in LMP3 and GT Classes
As the 2025/2026 Asian Le Mans Series approaches, significant updates are emerging across the LMP3 and GT classes. This season marks the debut of Gen 3 LMP3 vehicles, powered by Toyota’s turbocharged V6 engines, following their introduction in the European Le Mans Series and Michelin Le Mans Cup.
LMP3 Class Highlights
The Asian Le Mans Series features a robust 10-car LMP3 entry, equaling the second-highest total in its history. Notably, four teams are making their debuts:
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Team Virage launches its own two-car Ligier team featuring Tamil actor Ajith Kumar alongside ex-F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan in the #1 Ligier, branded as Racing Team India. The second car will be piloted by Yohann Segala and Danny Buntschu.
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23 Events Racing, a newcomer from the Michelin Le Mans Cup, fields two Ligier JS P325s driven by Louis Stern and Silverstone Le Mans Cup victor Terrence Woodward.
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Forestier Racing by VPS enters with a single Ligier, while R-Ace GP, the reigning Michelin Le Mans Cup Champions, brings a Duqueine D09 to contest in Asia, with Hugo Schwarze eyeing a double championship.
Returning contenders include defending champion Bretton Racing and previous class champions like Inter Europol Competition.
GT Class Dynamics
The GT class sees a competitive grid of 22 entries, significantly highlighting the inaugural presence of Corvette in the series, with four Z06 GT3.Rs submitted.
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TF Sport fields a pair, including one under the revived Racing Team Turkey brand, with Salih Yoluc already confirmed for the #34 car. The sister #33 entry lists Blake McDonald, a contender in the 2025 GT World Challenge America.
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JMR, representing Malaysia, also fields two Corvettes with a driver lineup that includes Prince Abu Bakar Ibrahim and factory Corvette driver Alexander Sims.
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The Porsche contingent includes Manthey Racing, which returns with two cars, along with notable solo efforts from Proton and debutants like Phantom Global Racing.
Ferrari is prominently represented with six entries, three from AF Corse, including a notable #54 car with WEC race winner Thomas Flöhr.
Manufacturer Representation and Future Prospects
Seven different GT3 marques are set to compete, representing 14 teams from nine nations. The current demand for entries might see an uptick as teams like Dragon Racing express interest in joining the February UAE rounds.
In summary, the upcoming Asian Le Mans Series season promises an exciting array of entries across both LMP3 and GT classes, with established teams showcasing new partnerships and significant manufacturer representation.
