Saulnier Racing has confirmed that it will run a two-car LMP2 programme in the 2009 Le Mans Series, with both cars running under Mazda power.

The team, which ran a single car in both LMP1 and LMP2 last year, will field a brace of Pescarolo chassis' powered by the AER-developed Mazda MZR-R engine.

The entry into the Le Mans Series and – entry permitting – to the Le Mans 24 Hours, will come under partnership with Mazda France, with president Thierry Guillemot saying he was delighted with the deal.

“We consider endurance racing to be a fantastic opportunity to develop the reputation of our brand and showcase the sporty and modern characteristics of our range in a competitive sporting environment,” he said. “We were attracted to Saulnier Racing by the passion which runs throughout the team as well as by their results in 2008 and by the enterprising spirit of Jacques Nicolet.”

Team boss Nicolet was also thrilled to be able to confirm the new partnership.

“Our alliance with Mazda is crucial for the development of our team in the LMP2 category,” he said. “We are very proud to be working alongside the only Japanese constructor to have triumphed at the Le Mans 24 Hours and we are confident that this partnership will be very beneficial to the future of our team.

“We have already been won over by the determination of everyone at Mazda France, and their president Thierry Guillemot, to ensure everything is in place to make this new collaboration a huge success in 2009.”