Welcome to the start of a new Le Mans era
Hypercars are finally here.
LMP1 machines provided a fine spectacle, were technologically advanced and incredibly fast. But they were also expensive and it became clear long ago that something new was needed.
After much back and forth, Hypercars – which will come in LMH and, from next year, LMDH forms – is the answer. As Gary Watkins shows on page 16 of our 2021 Le Mans guide, a different ethos underpins the new regulations. The cars will be slower and (crucially) cheaper, which is why Ferrari, Porsche, Audi, Peugeot, BMW and Acura could be battling it out at the top of sportscar racing within the next two years.
It's a mouthwatering prospect, particularly as the Le Mans 24 Hours heads towards its centenary in 2023, but we're not there yet. For now, we have Toyota heading to the French classic as the favourite once again, to see if it can make it four Le Mans wins on the bounce. It's not a done deal, though. The GR010 is a new car – gremlins could creep in – and, as Jim Glickenhaus tells us on p4, his challenger wouldn't be on the grid if he didn't feel it had a chance of success.
LMP2 could be the hardest-fought class this year, and we talk to the 11 ex-formula 1 drivers involved in the battle (p18), while James Newbold also hears from the Hubauto Porsche team that is taking on the factory squads in GTE Pro (p26).
The big names might not be back in the top class just yet, but Le Mans always provides fascinating storylines throughout the field. Here's our guide to help you follow them in the 89th edition.