Ford Motor Company is reigniting its historic rivalry with Ferrari, announcing its return to the pinnacle of sports car racing, the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC), in 2027. This move signals Ford’s intent to once again conquer the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race that cemented Ford’s racing legacy nearly 60 years ago.
A Legacy of Victory: Ford at Le Mans
Between 1966 and 1969, Ford achieved an unprecedented four consecutive overall victories at Le Mans, etching its name into the annals of motorsports history. This era witnessed the legendary battle between Ford and Ferrari, a rivalry that captivated the world. While Ford has continued to achieve class victories at Le Mans, notably in 2016 with the Ford GT and more recently with the Ford Mustang GT3, the company now sets its sights on reclaiming overall victory..
“Go Like Hell!” Ford’s Return to Le Mans
Bill Ford, Ford Motor Company Executive Chair, expressed the company’s ambition: “We are entering a new era for performance and racing at Ford. When we race, we race to win. And there is no track or race that means more to our history than Le Mans. It is where we took on Ferrari and won in the 1960s. It is where we returned 50 years later and shocked the world and beat Ferrari again. I am thrilled that we’re going back to Le Mans and competing at the highest level of endurance racing. We are ready to once again challenge the world, and ‘go like hell!’” This statement clearly indicates Ford’s intention not just to compete, but to win, and to once again challenge its historic rival, Ferrari.
A Global Stage: The FIA WEC
Ford Performance will lead the charge with a full factory team entering the FIA WEC. This championship provides a global stage for endurance racing, attracting major automotive brands and showcasing cutting-edge technology. Frédéric Lequien, FIA WEC CEO, highlighted the significance of Ford’s return: “Ford has been synonymous with success both on and off-track for decades, and we are delighted that the company has chosen the FIA World Endurance Championship for its latest challenge. To have at least ten major automotive brands committed to the series’ top-tier in 2027 is testament to the championship’s stellar momentum and growth.”
The 24 Hours of Le Mans: A Race for the Ages
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of endurance, a race that pushes drivers and machines to their limits. Pierre Fillon, ACO President, emphasized the historical significance of Ford’s return: “It is wonderful news to welcome Ford back to the top level of the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time in almost 60 years. 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.”
A Golden Age of Endurance Racing: The Rematch
Richard Mille, FIA Endurance Commission President, underscored the perfect fit between Ford and endurance racing: “Ford and endurance racing are a perfect fit, as has been proven time and again. The company’s return to the highest level of the discipline is further validation of the success and appeal of the current Hypercar regulations. Endurance racing’s golden age is right here, and right now!” The stage is set for an epic rematch. The return of Ford to Le Mans in 2027 promises to be a historic moment, a rekindling of the legendary rivalry with Ferrari. The world of motorsports eagerly awaits this clash of titans.
Additional details on Ford’s return, including specifics about their Hypercar entry, will be shared later.
Summary
- Event: Ford’s return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC)
- Year: 2027
- Objective: Compete for overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
- Key Highlight: The renewed rivalry between Ford and Ferrari
- Team: Ford Performance (full factory team)
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific competition or racing team. For more information on Ford’s racing program, you can refer to official Ford Performance channels.
Source: Ford
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
