The Asian Le Mans Series will receive a significant boost for the 2026-27 season when Hypercar entries will be eligible for Asia’s premier endurance series following requests received by some manufacturers.
The Hypercar entries will be for Pro-Am crews consisting of at least one bronze driver and the additional high-profile category will allow the ALMS to further develop its increasing profile and standing in the important Asian motor sport market.
The Asian Le Mans Series has been steadily growing in popularity amongst teams and drivers over the past few seasons, with grids of over 40 cars across the LMP2, LMP3 and GT categories.
The three event, six race format from December to February is popular with the competitors as it fits well with the European and North American race calendars, and also the FIA World Endurance Championship.
There has also been a surge of interest from teams based in South East Asia and China, with more teams looking to take their first steps on the ACO endurance racing ladder, with an eye on the ultimate prize, a place on the grid at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest: “The ACO is very pleased to reveal the inclusion of the Pro/Am Hypercar category in the Asian Le Mans Series for the 2026/27 season, to further increase the appeal of Endurance Racing in Asia.
“The interest in the ALMS has grown exponentially over the past few years, as seen by the large grids last season, with more Chinese and Asian teams joining the series for the first time.
“The Asian motor sport market is booming and there is strong interest from manufacturers and teams to race the cars that take centre stage at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in front of the fans nearer to home. The ACO is supporting that interest by including the Hypercar category in the ALMS.”
Frédéric Lequien, ALMEM and LMEM CEO: “After receiving several requests from manufacturers, we are pleased to announce that Hypercar is coming to the Asian Le Mans Series next year.
“While Hypercar will remain as the premier class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and FIA WEC, reserved for the top endurance drivers in the world, it is important for the development of endurance racing in Asia to be able to allow teams to run the same cars in the Asian Le Mans Series.
“We look forward to seeing the Hypercar category racing in the Asian Le Mans Series from December 2026, further extending the strong appeal of this expanding championship.”
Stéphane Ratel, SRO Motorsports Group Founder & CEO: “SRO is primarily known for its GT activities but has had numerous involvements in the wider world of endurance racing, and always with a focus on customer racing. Naturally, I am therefore delighted to see Hypercar further embracing this environment in 2026.
“The ACO and FIA have created an era-defining manufacturer-supported category that will further expand by being opened up to Pro-Am pairings. The fact this is exclusively reserved for Asian Le Mans represents a fantastic opportunity for the series, giving it a new headline and a stronger appeal for teams, drivers, viewers, media and event promoters across the continent and beyond.”
Hypercars set for Asian Le Mans Series bow
