This week marks a pivotal moment for Ford's high-performance arm, as Ford Performance officially transitions to its new designation, Ford Racing. This strategic pivot is designed to more accurately reflect the company's escalating commitment and broadened scope within the demanding realm of global motorsport.
In a recent press announcement, Will Ford, the esteemed General Manager of the newly christened Ford Racing, articulated the profound significance behind this transformation. He emphasized that this initiative transcends a mere name change, describing it as a complete reintroduction of their racing brand. This bold move signifies a radically different approach to how the company conceptualizes its business, brand identity, and the cutting-edge products born from its rigorous racing programs.
The global automotive community can anticipate the full unveiling of the reinvigorated Ford Racing identity commencing in January. This will be prominently showcased through their participation in two iconic events: the challenging Dakar Rally and the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona, Florida. These events will serve as the official launchpad for the racing season, highlighting Ford Racing's renewed vigor.
Ford Racing is poised to embark on exciting new ventures, including a highly anticipated entry into Formula 1 in collaboration with Red Bull Powertrains. Additionally, the company is diligently preparing for a grand resurgence in prototype endurance racing with the introduction of an advanced LMDh car in 2027. This ambitious expansion complements their existing significant involvement in various top-tier racing disciplines, such as rally racing, NASCAR, IMSA, WEC GT3, and the Australian Supercars series.
Despite these extensive organizational shifts, the core leadership remains steadfast. Mark Rushbrook will continue to helm the global operations as director, guiding the transition from Ford Performance to Ford Racing. His ongoing role will ensure a cohesive integration of both the racing division and the road car development sectors, leveraging synergies across the enterprise.
While the new name and logo have been revealed, enthusiasts and industry observers alike eagerly await further details. More comprehensive information regarding Ford Racing's overarching strategy and specific plans is expected to be disclosed in the lead-up to the Dakar Rally in January 2026, promising an exciting future for Ford in motorsport.