McLaren Could Return To Le Mans Under New LMP1 Regulations

McLaren has expressed interest in running a Le Mans 24 Hours program after discussions about next-generation LMP1 regulations.

Motorsport reports that the British automaker is one of many manufacturers shaping the regulations concerning the racers that will replace the current LMP1 class from 2020/21.

According to McLaren boss Zak Brown, they are seriously thinking about entering the top tier of the World Endurance Championship.

“We would definitely consider it. We are considering it. McLaren has a long history in additional forms of motorsport, whether that was CanAm, IndyCar, we’ve won Le Mans [in 1995, pictured top].

“And with the new regulations coming up for [the] World Endurance [Championship], we are participating in those meetings, and reviewing what that looks like. We’re a fan of the Le Mans brand. We would consider running the new, whatever they’re going to call it, GTP, silhouette, LMP1 – I’ve heard various phrases,” Brown said.

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Brown added that key McLaren shareholders are fond of the idea, as long as the brand can be competitive.

The new regulations are expected to favor a more road car-based design than the current LMP1 rules. Previous reports have indicated that, if the rules allow it, McLaren could eventually race the Senna at Le Mans, but so far Woking has neither confirmed or denied it.