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RLL Set for BMW M6 GTLM Delivery, Set to Test in November

BMW Team RLL full speed ahead with M6 GTLM planning…

Photo: IMSA

Photo: IMSA

With its IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship program already announced and finalized for 2016, BMW Team RLL is moving ahead and focusing forward on next month’s two-day test at Daytona International Speedway.

Team principal Bobby Rahal confirmed at least one car will be at the test, as the team is due to receive its first BMW M6 GTLM in the next week or two.

“We will be there at the November test in Daytona,” Rahal told Sportscar365. “The M6s, we haven’t got yet. But we should get the first one by the middle of next week.”

The BMW Team RLL crew has already seen the development of the car in action, prior to its formal arrival in North America.

“Our guys were over there, managing the last test; (technical director) Jay O’Connell was there. But they’re back now. The car will be with us sometime in next week or two.”

Rahal didn’t confirm a driver lineup for the November test, and while it’s anticipated most if not all full-season drivers would return to the GTLM program, the decision on that front will come from BMW.

While BMW, Ford, Corvette, Porsche and Ferrari (via Risi Competizione) have all confirmed their 2016 GT Le Mans class programs, only Corvette has revealed a full-season driver lineup.

Still, in Rahal’s case, having a program already settled as of October has marked a welcome change of pace, allowing for proper preparation earlier in the offseason.

“It’s great to continue our relationship with BMW,” Rahal said. “We feel very strongly about the relationship.

“I’m glad that it got confirmed as early as it did. It’s usually a bit later than this. So it’s pretty seamless from one year to the next.

“There’s no period of time wondering what’ll happen next. It’s nice having that comfort level.”

Tony DiZinno (@tonydizinno) is Sportscar365's North American Editor, focusing on coverage of the IMSA-sanctioned championships as well as Pirelli World Challenge. DiZinno also contributes to NBCSports.com and other motorsports outlets. Contact Tony

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