ACO and United SportsCar Racing have announced a global strategic agreement to continue a relationship that started between ACO and ALMS 14 years ago to promote endurance racing in North America and the link with the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

This global agreement consists of two parts: The first part is a specific licensing agreement that will allow selected competitors in United SportsCar Racing to have entries in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The agreement also allows the use of the name ‘Petit Le Mans’ for the Road Atlanta event.

The second part is a Strategic Alliance agreement between the ACO and United SportsCar Racing to explore and develop new avenues and horizons for endurance racing together in North America.

"The ACO is delighted through this alliance partnership that goes beyond a simple licensing agreement, to continue our collaboration that started 14 years ago, with Don Panoz and the creation of ALMS, and that has been of great benefit to both partners," said Pierre Fillon, President of the ACO. "This Strategic Alliance will lead to a close collaboration between the ACO and United SportsCar Racing to promote, develop and reinforce endurance racing in North America. Through this global agreement, I am convinced endurance racing will continue to be in safe hands in North America for many years to come."

United SportsCar Racing begins its inaugural season in 2014, and while the ACO is the governing body of Le Mans-style racing, United SportsCar Racing remains independent from the ACO’s group of sanctioned series around the globe.

The opening round of the 2014 United SportsCar Racing season is the 52nd running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona.