LMP1 to become closed tops

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'fact' today. The Automobile Club d'Ouest (ACO), organizers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, has announced the retirement of the "roadster" prototypes that have dominated the race in the past few years as, from 2010 onwards, only coupes will be allowed to compete in the event's top class, LMP1.

"People should be able to identify with the front-running technology of the 24 Hours of Le Mans," said ACO sporting director Daniel Poissenot. "We have discussed this with the manufacturers, and there will be no choice to have an open roof from 2010. Cars will still use the same engines and bottom chassis.

"This will be the spirit of Le Mans for the future."

06/15/06 Daniel Poissenot, the sporting director of the A.C.O., has hinted that there could be an announcement on Friday at LeMans pertaining to the rules and regulations of the LMP1 and/or LMP2 cars. During the Radio LeMans broadcast on Wednesday evening, there was talk that the LMP1 cars could become an all-closed top category in the future – with air conditioning mandatory. We also hear there might be some changes announced for LMP2 as well.