The United SportsCar Racing championship may kick off next year but despite the American Le Mans Series name going away, the link to France will continue.

Agreements have been signed between the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) and the new series organizers to continue the partnership started by Don Panoz 13 years ago.

Under the new arrangement, the name “Petit Le Mans” for the season closing event will remain and competitors in the new championship will be able to earn a spot on the grid for the French endurance classic as in previous years.

“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 which has been of great benefit to both partners,” said ACO President Pierre Fillon.

“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.”

Going forward, United SportsCar Racing and the ACO will work together to craft compatible technical regulations for the top sports car categories from each side.

“A key component in the unification of the GRAND-AM Rolex Series and the American Le Mans Series was the ability to continue a relationship with Le Mans and the ACO,” said Jim France, GRAND-AM founder and United SportsCar Racing board member.

“My family has admired the 24 Hours of Le Mans for decades, and we hold it in the same high regard as the Rolex 24 At Daytona. The opportunity to maintain a link to Le Mans is as important to me as it is to all United SportsCar Racing manufacturers, teams and drivers.”