Prime Video has announced the release date for its feature-length documentary about NASCAR's Garage 56 project and the attempt to complete the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
According to the streamer, "American Thunder: NASCAR to Le Mans" will premiere on June 12. It will be available to Amazon Prime subscribers in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
NASCAR Studios and Griffin Van Malssen produced the Prime Video documentary, which Brad Lockhart directed. The list of executive producers includes Jeff Gordon, as well as NASCAR's Tim Clark, John Dahl, Amy Anderson, Tally Hair, and Matt Summers.
The Garage 56 project was the result of more than a year of work. NASCAR CEO Jim France wanted to see one of his cars compete in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, so he worked with Hendrick Motorsports to bring this dream to life.
The winningest team in the Cup Series took multiple Gen 7 Chevrolet Camaros and worked extensively to ensure that they could last longer than the standard three-hour race. HMS made numerous modifications, including adding headlights so that the car could race in the middle of the night.
France and Hendrick Motorsports turned to a veteran group of drivers to compete in the 2023 endurance race. Jimmie Johnson, Jenson Button, and Mike Rockenfeller were the primary drivers for the endurance race. IMSA veteran Jordan Taylor joined as the backup.
The documentary about this 24 Hours of Le Mans entry has been in the works for multiple years. Prime Video first announced it back in June 2023, mere days before the Garage 56 car kicked off the endurance race.
NASCAR Communications also stated at the time that camera crews had followed NASCAR and Hendrick Motorsports throughout the process while capturing hundreds of hours of footage. This also included numerous test sessions as HMS put the car through its paces.
"We're proud to partner with our friends at NASCAR Studios to bring this incredible story of innovation and determination to our Prime Video customers," said Matt Newman, head of Prime Video Original sports content, in a 2023 statement.
"The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most exciting and grueling competitions in sports, and the work that goes into preparing for a moment like this is something we think audiences will find equal parts entertaining and inspiring."