Ford is making a grand return to top-tier sportscar racing with a strategic move set for 2027. The American manufacturer aims to recapture its glory days at the Le Mans 24 Hours from the 1960s, where it dominated the famous event for four consecutive years. This resurgence should be a major headline, prompting many to wonder why it has taken so long for Ford to re-enter this competitive arena.
The decision to rejoin the elite ranks of sportscar racing coincides with the new golden age of the sport, marked by the introduction of the LMDh (Le Mans Daytona hybrid) class. This move aligns with the fifth year of the LMDh ruleset and the seventh year of the Le Mans Hypercar category, showcasing Ford’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation in motorsport. The company was instrumental in shaping the technical regulations for these categories, highlighting its deep-rooted involvement in shaping the future of sportscar racing.
The idea of Ford’s comeback to Le Mans has been brewing for some time, with discussions dating back to 2018 when the manufacturer was exploring options following the conclusion of its campaigns with the Ford GT in various championships. Mark Rushbrook, the global director of Ford Performance, reveals that uncertainties surrounding the convergence process and regulatory changes delayed the decision to re-enter top-flight sportscar racing at that time.
The landscape of sportscar racing was in a state of transition, with questions looming over the alignment of performance between different racing cars built to diverse rulebooks. Despite initial hesitations, Ford continued to monitor the evolving dynamics of the sport, waiting for the opportune moment to reassert its presence. The company’s focus shifted to other projects, including the development of Mustang race cars for various competitions, before finalizing its plans for a triumphant return to top-tier sportscar racing.
Ford’s decision to enter the LMDh category aligns with its broader motorsport strategy, emphasizing the iconic status of the Mustang as a key pillar of its racing programs. The expansion into the top classes of sportscar racing, including Hypercar in WEC and GTP in IMSA, reflects Ford’s commitment to diversifying its motorsport portfolio and engaging with a global audience. The announcement of an extended lifecycle for the LMH and LMDh rules until 2029 provided the impetus for Ford to reevaluate its participation in WEC and IMSA, leading to the unveiling of its ambitious plans for the future.
The emotional resonance of Ford’s storied history at Le Mans, particularly its triumphs over Ferrari in the 1960s, adds a poignant layer to its return to top-tier sportscar racing. The company’s deep-rooted pride in its motorsport heritage, coupled with a desire to compete on the international stage, underscores the significance of its decision to pursue excellence in this arena. While the specifics of Ford’s racing plans beyond 2027 remain undisclosed, the company’s unwavering commitment to sportscar racing signals a long-term vision for success and sustainability in the competitive landscape.
As Ford gears up for its reentry into top-tier sportscar racing, the choice of chassis partner and the development of the hybrid powertrain remain critical aspects of its forthcoming prototype. The decision to design and develop the engine in-house underscores Ford’s dedication to innovation and technological advancement in motorsport. With a clear focus on the future and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Ford’s return to top-tier sportscar racing promises to be a defining chapter in its storied history, setting the stage for a new era of competition and achievement.
