Upcoming Change in European Le Mans Series LMP2 Class
The European Le Mans Series (ELMS) is bracing for significant changes as the 2027 season marks the farewell of the current LMP2 cars, including the ORECA 09 and Ligier JS P228, which will transition to new specifications featuring Gibson-Nismo V6 turbo engines in 2028.
As current teams prepare for this shift, all existing two-car LMP2 squads have expressed intent to return in 2027, although a reshuffling between LMP2 and LMP2 Pro-Am classes is likely. Historical trends suggest that regulatory changes often attract new competitors; when the current LMP2 regulations debuted in 2017, six teams made their inaugural appearances in the series.
Eurointernational, a current LMP3 competitor, has announced plans to apply for LMP2 competition with a new Ligier in 2028. Other Michelin Le Mans Cup teams, such as Brutal Fish Campos Racing and Trajectus Motorsport, are also positioning themselves for a step up to LMP2.
The grid, typically maxed out at 47 entries, presents organizational challenges. Possible adjustments could include limiting some teams to one car, reducing LMP3 entries, or constricting the already competitive LMGT3 class. Current LMP3 teams, including Trajectus and Brutal Fish Campos, are eager to transition into the ELMS arena. Forestier Racing by VPS has secured an ELMS spot, serving as the support team for Panis Racing’s LMP2 operations starting in 2028.
In the LMGT3 class, nearly all 2026 entrants intend to reapply for 2027, with AF Corse confirming plans to replace the outgoing #55 Ferrari. Lamborghini has also signaled a desire to return with its Temerario GT3, with expected participation from Leipert Motorsport and DFYNE in the Asian LMS this winter potentially leading to an ELMS entry.
Additionally, teams such as WRT and Heart of Racing are exploring opportunities for expansion into the ELMS, with WRT specifically considering a BMW M4 GT3 Evo.
As the landscape of endurance racing evolves, both 2027 and 2028 are set to introduce pivotal developments in the ELMS series.
