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GRAND-AM: Details Of ALMS Unification Emerge
John Dagys breaks down some of the potential details of the GRAND-AM and American Le Mans Series merger, to be announced tomorrow (10 a.m. ET, Live! SPEED and SPEED.com)...
John Dagys  |  Posted September 04, 2012   Chicago, IL
After more than ten years as rivals on the American sports car racing scene, GRAND-AM and the American Le Mans Series will announce tomorrow a merger that will see a single championship beginning in 2014.

Ahead of Wednesday’s highly anticipated announcement in Daytona Beach, Fla, (Live! SPEED and SPEED.com 10 a.m. ET) here are some unconfirmed details we’ve heard that may or may not be revealed during the press conference that will unite the two series.

** The Panoz Motor Sports Group (ALMS) has been acquired by GRAND-AM/NASCAR Holdings LLC, reportedly in the eight-figure range, and includes the sale of Road Atlanta and long-term lease of Sebring International Raceway. The assets are reportedly part of a new entity that places it under the NASCAR umbrella.

** GRAND-AM co-founder and NASCAR Vice Chairman/Executive Vice President Jim France is expected to serve as the Chairman of the unified series, with ALMS founder Don Panoz reportedly as Vice Chairman. ALMS President and CEO Scott Atherton could serve on the board of directors.

** Both series are expected to operate separately in 2013 without any major changes, other than the ownership, with the official merger tabbed for 2014. Current television and commercial contracts appear to have prevented a merger for as early as next year.

** Exact details of the class structure is not expected to be announced tomorrow. However, it’s believed both the current Daytona Prototype and Rolex Series GT categories will be included, along with the highly competitive ALMS GT class. P2 could also feature, although possibly equalized with a potentially faster DP class.

** There appears to be a desire to continue a relationship with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, although the current agreement with the ALMS expires in 2013. Many questions still surround this potential arrangement, especially as it could relate to the class structure and international link.

Watch the GRAND-AM/ALMS merger announcement Wednesday at 10 a.m. ET on SPEED and SPEED.com. CLICK HERE to view the stream.

John Dagys is SPEED.com’s Sportscar Racing Reporter, focusing on all major domestic and international championships. You can follow him on Twitter @johndagys or email him at
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