P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown (main image) has been consistent in his response when asked – with increasing frequency in recent years – if the storied British marque will join the dozen-plus auto ma…
Recent reports reveal that McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has confirmed the brand’s intention to enter international prototype racing, with plans in progress for a factory program. McLaren has enlisted Dallara to construct cars following the LMDh formula used by several prominent auto manufacturers in top-tier racing competitions. The primary focus for McLaren now is securing an engine supplier for its hybrid GTP/Hypercar entries, aligning with the brand’s legacy of collaborating with manufacturers for racing endeavors. The United Autosports LMP2 team, co-owned by Brown and Richard Dean, is expected to play a crucial role in supporting McLaren’s prototype racing program. McLaren’s anticipated entry into GTP/LMDh, mirroring Hyundai’s Genesis GMR-001 program, is projected to commence testing in 2026 with a competitive debut in 2027, potentially expanding to IMSA’s GTP class by 2028 or 2029. With an increasing number of manufacturers joining IMSA’s top class, adjustments within the racing series may be necessary to accommodate the rising participation of major prototype manufacturers like McLaren and Ford in the coming years.
