Asian Le Mans Calendar

The Asian Le Mans Series is an international endurance racing championship organized by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), featuring multi-class competition across LMP2, LMP3, and GT categories. The series operates on a winter schedule to complement European racing calendars and serves as a direct pathway to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with class champions earning automatic invitations to the legendary French endurance race.

Championship Format

The 2025/2026 season comprises six 4-hour endurance races organized as double-headers across three circuits. Each round hosts two races, creating three distinct events throughout the championship. The series emphasizes a Pro-Am philosophy, requiring at least one Bronze-rated driver per entry across all classes. Minimum driving times for Bronze drivers and maximum driving times for Platinum and Gold drivers are strictly enforced to maintain the amateur-professional balance that defines the championship.

Weekend Structure

Each race weekend includes multiple free practice sessions with dedicated Bronze driver participation requirements, followed by class-specific qualifying. The qualifying format features separate 15-minute sessions for GT, LMP3, and LMP2 cars. In the GT category, a Bronze driver must complete the qualifying session. Each driver's fastest lap sets the grid for the first race, while their second-fastest lap determines the starting positions for the second race. The two 4-hour races form the centerpiece of each weekend, with driver changes and pit strategy playing crucial roles in determining results.

Technical Categories

LMP2 represents the top prototype class, featuring carbon-fiber monocoque chassis from manufacturers like Oreca and Ligier, powered by Gibson GK428 V8 engines. LMP3 serves as the entry-level prototype category, with the 2025/2026 season introducing third-generation cars from suppliers including Ligier and Duqueine. These new prototypes utilize Toyota V35A-FTS 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engines, marking a significant technical evolution for the class. The GT category exclusively features FIA GT3-specification cars derived from production vehicles, with a Balance of Performance system ensuring competitive racing among manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin, McLaren, Mercedes, and BMW. Michelin serves as the designated tire supplier across all three categories.

Calendar and Venues

The 2025/2026 calendar spans three months, beginning with Rounds 1 and 2 at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on December 12-14, 2025. The championship moves to the Middle East for Rounds 3 and 4 at Dubai Autodrome from January 29 to February 1, 2026, before concluding with Rounds 5 and 6 at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on February 6-8, 2026. This winter schedule positions the series strategically between major racing seasons while taking advantage of favorable weather conditions in the region.

Path to Le Mans

The series functions as a critical stepping stone for teams and drivers targeting the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Class champions receive automatic invitations to compete at the Circuit de la Sarthe, making the Asian Le Mans Series an essential qualification route for endurance racing's most prestigious event. This direct connection to Le Mans attracts professional teams and drivers seeking proven performance records alongside amateur racers developing their endurance racing credentials.

Future Development

The 2026/2027 season will introduce a significant expansion with the addition of a privateer-focused Hypercar class featuring both LMDh and LMH machinery. This new top-tier category will maintain the Pro-Am structure with Bronze driver requirements, further elevating the championship's technical scope and competitive appeal.