Asian LMS Gets Condensed Four-Race January Schedule

Photo: Asian Le Mans Series

The 2020-21 Asian Le Mans Series season will run to a condensed schedule lasting just three weeks in January 2021, but keeping its four-race format.

Series organizers confirmed on Monday morning that the championship will “significantly shorten” its calendar due to continued uncertainty around the return to racing and the easing of travel restrictions.

All four races, which will each be four hours in length, will take place within a 2.5 week period in January 2021.

It will consist of two rounds at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit in Buriram, including the season opener on the event’s traditional Children’s Day date, followed by a pair of races at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.

The revised schedule allows for teams to transport their cars by sea, rather than air freight, to and from Asia, while keeping in mind possible travel restrictions and cost implications.

The new-look calendar means the ACO-run series will not visit Shanghai or make its first appearance at Suzuka this season.

“Whilst it was our ambition to keep our 2020-21 calendar as close to what we have done previously, it is becoming increasingly apparent that this may not be possible,” commented series manager Cyrille Taesch Wahlen.

“Instead, rather than delaying any further, we have formulated a plan to deliver a series that offers exciting and enjoyable racing in a cost effective manner, without compromising the quality of our organization.

“This is particularly important for those teams who are struggling at the moment due to the shutdown. The new condensed season has received resounding support, and I am optimistic that we can deliver another great Asian Le Mans Series season.”

Revised 2020-21 Asian Le Mans Series Schedule

Jan. 9 – Buriram
Jan. 11 – Buriram
Jan. 23 – Sepang
Jan. 26 – Sepang

Jake Kilshaw

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.