The American Le Mans series was founded in 1999 by the businessman Don Panoz. It is a championship made up of races that draw their inspiration from the famous Le Mans 24 Hour. Some of the most prestigious official and private teams take part in the events. The races attract the best drivers in the sport category.

There will be ten races in the 2005 ALMS calendar. Most of these will be ‘sprint’ races, lasting 2h45'. The longest event of the season is the 12 Hours of Sebring, the championship’s opening race and oldest in the history of US motor-racing. The season’s other prestigious meet is the Petit Le Mans, held at Road Atlanta. This draining 1,000 mile race is disputed in the fall and plays a fundamental role in determining the final classification.

ALMS championship races are run according to ACO regulations and the events sanctioned and managed by the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). The teams that regularly compete in ALMS races are given special consideration when selection is made for the 48 cars that compete in the Le Mans 24 Hours.

Maserati Corse will field one car under the IMSA rules and will receive the backing of its partners Pirelli and Team Risi.