Ford Unveils Secret Plan: In-House Hypercar Program for 2027 WEC Debut
Ford is set to make a dramatic return to top-tier endurance racing! The American automaker has confirmed its entry into the World Endurance Championship’s (WEC) Hypercar class in 2027 with an ambitious, in-house factory program. This move signifies a departure from previous strategies, as Ford will build and run its own Hypercar under the newly rebranded Ford Racing division, aiming to tightly integrate track-to-street performance.
A Serious Push: More Than Just Marketing
“This is not a marketing exercise,” emphasized Will Ford, General Manager of Ford Racing. This program is a serious commitment to shaping Ford’s broader performance and electrification strategies, reflecting a significant cultural shift within the company. It aligns perfectly with Ford’s first global campaign in over a decade, the “Ready Set Ford” initiative, signaling a renewed focus on performance and innovation across its product lines. The program will adhere to LMDh regulations, allowing the Hypercar to compete in both the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA in North America.
Strategic Partnerships and Internal Leadership
While Ford Racing will lead the charge, the Hypercar development will benefit from strategic partnerships. ORECA will supply the chassis, and Venture Engineering will provide technical support. However, Ford insists that the program’s leadership, strategy, and day-to-day operations will remain firmly internal. The appointment of Dan Sayers, former Red Bull Powertrains executive, as Program Manager further underscores Ford’s intent to blend fresh motorsport expertise with its storied racing heritage.
Global Footprint and Road Car Integration
To execute this ambitious program, Ford Racing will leverage resources across its global network, including Dearborn, Charlotte, and a new dedicated base being established in the UK. The core philosophy is to integrate lessons learned on the racetrack directly into future Ford road cars, reinforcing the connection between performance on the track and innovation for the consumer. This approach is already evident in other Ford Racing projects, such as the impressive Ford Transit SuperVan, which recently showcased the brand’s engineering prowess by outpacing a Corvette ZR1X at the Nürburgring.
High Stakes: Challenging the Elite
The decision to run an in-house Hypercar program is a bold one, placing Ford directly against seasoned endurance racing giants like Ferrari, Porsche, and Toyota. With less than two years until the first green flag in 2027, Ford faces an aggressive timeline to design, build, and validate a competitive car. Beyond racing glory, this endeavor is a crucial opportunity for Ford to elevate its global brand identity, using motorsport as a technology proving ground and a powerful storytelling platform in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape.
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