ORECA, Ligier, Gibson Win LMP2 Tenders

ORECA and Ligier have been named as the two exclusive chassis suppliers for the new-for-2028 LMP2 technical regulations, while current engine provider Gibson Technologies has won the tender process to continue to supply the powertrain for the class.

Back in March, the FIA and ACO launched two separate tender processes as it seeks to shape the next generation of LMP2 machinery, which is set to replace the current set of cars that have been active since 2017.

The chassis tender had already confirmed that the number of chassis manufacturer would be slashed from four under the current ruleset to two in 2028.

Multiple interested parties are understood to have submitted bids, including the likes of Lola and single-seater manufacturer Tatuus.

However, the FIA World Motor Sport Council approved on Tuesday and the ACO announced on Friday that ORECA and Ligier, two firms that form part of the existing set of LMP2 technical regulations, have been selected.

This also came along with the confirmation that the new regulations will run until the end of 2032.

ORECA has been the dominant player in the LMP2 market over the past several years, with this year’s LMP2 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans consisting entirely of cars built by the French company.

“We wish to thank the FIA and ACO for their continued trust,” said ORECA Group President Hugues de Chaunac.

“This new selection recognizes our dedication and the experience we have acquired across more than ten years in LMP2.

“We put all our expertise into preparing this tender with the goals of supporting the evolution of the category and offering a strong and reliable platform adaptable to future challenges.

“We turn now to the regulatory preparations that await us with the FIA ​​and ACO to finalise the outline of this new generation of LMP2.”

Ligier, meanwhile, most recently saw one of its cars prominently active when Sean Creech Motorsport ran a JS P217 Gibson for a partial season in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship last year.

The company has already revealed that its next car will be known as the JS P228.

“We had no choice but to apply,” said Ligier Automotive president Jacques Nicolet.

“It was an obvious decision — a continuation of the story we’ve been writing for over ten years in endurance.

“This new LMP2 generation is a major step forward for the ecosystem we’ve helped build.

“We believe strongly in this category and in the essential role it plays for teams, drivers, and manufacturers alike.

“It’s an immense source of pride — and a great responsibility. Being chosen as one of two suppliers for this new LMP2 era is an honor and a commitment.

“The entire company is fully invested in delivering a chassis that is high-performing, reliable, durable, and meets the expectations of our teams.”

On the engine side, Gibson was named as the supplier for the new-for-2028 powertrain, which will feature forced induction for the first time since 2016.

It means that the British firm will retain its position as the official engine supplier for the category, a position it already holds within the current ruleset.

The next generation of LMP2 machinery is also set to compete in the WeatherTech Championship.