Intersport ready to raise their game

The second prototype class has been boosted with several strong entries for the new season, after Porsche entered the series with Penske Racing last year.

Former LMP1 runners Dyson Racing will also run a pair of Porsche RS Spyders this year, while Andretti Green Racing and Fernandez Racing will represent Acura in the category.

Intersport battled with Penske for the title last year, although as the German cars got stronger during the season the American team were unable to hold onto their crown.

However, the team will a switch to Kumho tyres in a bid to compete with the manufacturer-supported teams.

Team manager Brian Alder said: "People may have underestimated us a few years ago, but we've earned the respect of everyone.

"We've proved that we are for real. We're one of the best teams in the series and we are coming back stronger than last year."

Commenting on the decision to switch tyre supplier, Alder added: "We're looking forward to having a tyre that can compete with the Michelins.

"We've been keeping an eye on Kumho and watching them grow in the series in the last two years, and working together we can help them develop a tyre that will be better than the competition."