Ford will make its big comeback in the premier class of 24 Hours of Le Mans. Having won the overall standings of the event four times between 1966 and 1969, the oval-shaped firm confirmed last night, a few days after the first victory of its Mustang GT3 at the 24 Hours of Daytona, that it will once again race as a prototype in La Sarthe from 2027. It will be with an LMDh, but the American manufacturer has not communicated on its future chassis supplier, nor on its future drivers.
« We are entering a new era for performance and racing at Ford, says Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company. It shows in what we do on and off the road. When we race, we do it to win. And there is no track or race that has more significance in our history than Le Mans. That's where we've faced Ferrari and won in the 1960s. That’s where we came back 50 years later and shocked the world by beating Ferrari again. I’m thrilled that we’re returning to Le Mans and competing at the highest level of endurance racing. We’re ready to challenge the world once again and go all out! »
« Ford has been synonymous with success on and off the track for decades, and we are delighted that the company has chosen the FIA World Endurance Championship for its latest challenge., adds Frédéric Lequien, General Manager of the World Championship ofEndurance. The fact that at least ten major automotive brands are committed to the top series in 2027 is testament to the championship's remarkable momentum and growth. »
« It is great news to see Ford return to the top level of the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time in nearly 60 years., rejoices Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO). It is a brand that has always had a close affinity with this very special race, and history shows that Ford does not compete to finish second. The renewal of its famous rivalry with Ferrari is truly an exciting prospect. »
« Ford and endurance racing are a perfect match, as has been proven time and time again, says Richard Mille, President of the FIA Endurance Commission. It’s a brand with a long and proud heritage in motorsport, and a passion for competition instilled by Henry Ford himself. The company’s return to the top tier of the sport is further validation of the success and appeal of today’s hypercar regulations. The golden age of endurance racing is here, and it’s now. »
More details on Ford's arrival in the Hypercar category of the WEC will be known later.
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