Ford Performance has officially begun preparations for its Hypercar program debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship, scheduled for 2027. Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance, provided key insights into the program's development strategy.

The timing of Ford's entry aligns with the maturation of the Hypercar/GTP era and follows the completion of several major racing initiatives, including the global Mustang racing program and off-road racing developments.

Key Program Details:

• Platform Choice: Ford selected LMDh over LMH after careful evaluation
• Engine Specification: Confirmed V8 engine (final configuration still under consideration)
• Development Timeline: Virtual design work in 2025, track testing begins 2026
• Team Structure: Will partner with an external race team, likely European-based
• Program Duration: Committed through 2029 regulation cycle

Initial Focus on WEC:

• Primary target is World Endurance Championship participation
• Le Mans 24 Hours is a key objective
• Potential for future IMSA expansion, but not confirmed

The program will run alongside existing GT3 commitments, with Ford maintaining its current GTD PRO factory effort with the Mustang GT3. The company views this expansion into Hypercar competition as a long-term commitment, particularly anticipating renewed rivalries with manufacturers like Ferrari at Le Mans.

Rushbrook emphasized that while chassis and team partners are still being finalized, key decisions have been made internally. The program represents Ford's ambitious return to top-level prototype racing, as they aim for their fifth overall Le Mans victory.

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