In a thrilling announcement, Ford has unveiled its intent to compete in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours race once again, aiming for overall victory with a new LMDh prototype in 2027. This ambitious goal marks Ford’s first full-factory commitment to the legendary endurance race since the early 1980s when the company last entered the C100 Group C car. With a storied legacy stemming from its iconic victories in the 1960s, including the legendary MkII and the GT40, Ford is set to reignite its competitive spirit at Le Mans, a track deeply embedded in its automotive DNA.
The announcement was made by Bill Ford, the executive chair of the Ford Motor Company, during a motorsport event held in Charlotte, North Carolina. His remarks harkened back to a golden era when Ford famously challenged Ferrari, emerging victorious against fierce competition. The emotional weight behind his words—“There is no track or race that means more to our history than Le Mans”—reflects a commitment to reviving a cherished legacy. Bill Ford emphasized that this return is not merely about participation, but rather a determined push to reclaim glory in endurance racing, stating, “When we race, we race to win.”
Expanding the Competitive Horizon
This return to Le Mans with an LMDh prototype is significant as it underscores Ford’s strategic expansion within the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Currently, Ford has a presence in the WEC with Mustang GT3s, but the LMDh program elevates this involvement to the highest tier of endurance racing—Hypercar class. This diversified approach aligns with Ford’s broader strategy to make a strong statement in multiple FIA world championships, including Formula 1, a partnership with Red Bull Racing that is set to commence in the same timeframe.
The timing of Ford’s resurgence in endurance racing comes on the heels of its GTE Pro victory in 2016 with the Ford GT. Such achievements have laid a sturdy foundation for this new foray into LMDh class. It illustrates an adaptive strategy, leveraging past accomplishments while strategically re-entering the fray as a major contender.
While specific details around the LMDh prototype remain sparse, it is crucial to note that Ford is focused on a full-factory effort. This commitment ensures that the project will be orchestrated by Ford Performance, the brand’s dedicated division for high-performance initiatives. The decision to diverge from Hypercar specifications to an LMDh framework seems prudent, allowing Ford to optimize its involvement within the established Ecosystem of endurance racing.
Although Ford has not confirmed its plans for the IMSA SportsCar Championship, speculation suggests that the LMDh’s design will be relevant there as well, potentially expanding Ford’s competitive reach in North America. The company has previously thrived in prototype racing, particularly in the 1980s GTP classes, and this knowledge could prove invaluable as it recalibrates itself for modern endurance challenges.
However, the journey back to the top of endurance racing will not be without its challenges. With increased competition and technological advancements, Ford’s commitment to creating a world-class LMDh prototype will require cutting-edge innovation and significant investment. Furthermore, the necessity to synchronize its multiple championship endeavors—Formula 1, WEC, World Rally Championship, and the World Rally-Raid Championship—could pose logistical hurdles.
Ultimately, Ford’s return to Le Mans in 2027 heralds an exciting new chapter, one that strives not just for nostalgia but for a potent resurgence in the world of motorsport. The enthusiasm circulating around Bill Ford’s statement reaffirms that this effort is rooted in ambition and commitment to excellence. As the countdown to 2027 begins, the automotive world will watch intently to see if Ford can once again “go like hell” and reclaim its rightful place among the legends of Le Mans.