Is Ford still in rally?
Yes, Ford is still actively participating in rally racing competitions around the world. The iconic American automaker has a long and storied history in the sport of rally, dating back to the 1960s, and continues to be a major player in the global rally scene today.
Ford's Rally Racing History
Ford's involvement in rally racing began in the 1960s, with the company's iconic Ford Escort model becoming a dominant force in the sport. Over the decades, Ford has won numerous rally championships and events, including multiple victories in the World Rally Championship (WRC), one of the most prestigious rally racing series in the world.
Some of Ford's most notable rally racing achievements include:
- Multiple WRC manufacturer's and driver's championships, including wins with legendary drivers such as Ari Vatanen, Hannu Mikkola, and Stig Blomqvist.
- Victories in iconic rally events like the Monte Carlo Rally, the Safari Rally, and the Rally of Great Britain.
- Successful campaigns with iconic Ford models like the Escort, the Sierra, and the Focus, which have all played a significant role in the company's rally racing legacy.
Ford's commitment to rally racing has remained strong, even as the sport has evolved over the years. The company continues to invest in the development of high-performance rally cars and supports various rally racing teams and drivers around the world.
Ford's Current Rally Racing Involvement
Today, Ford's primary rally racing program is centered around the Ford Fiesta, a compact hatchback that has proven to be a capable and competitive rally car. The Fiesta has been the foundation of Ford's WRC efforts in recent years, with the company's factory-backed team, M-Sport Ford World Rally Team, achieving several victories and podium finishes in the championship.
In addition to its WRC involvement, Ford also supports rally racing efforts in other parts of the world, including the European Rally Championship, the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship, and various national rally championships. The company's commitment to the sport remains strong, as it continues to invest in the development of new rally cars and the support of talented drivers and teams.
Overall, Ford's legacy in rally racing is a testament to the company's passion for motorsports and its ability to adapt and succeed in the ever-changing world of rally competition. As the sport continues to evolve, Ford remains a key player, committed to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in the pursuit of rally racing glory.
Does Ford still have a racing division?
Today, Ford is not only a household name in the motor industry; Ford Performance is a leader in Motorsports with a remarkable legacy in racing—road to track—as one of the world's largest organizations.
Will Ford ever return to F1?
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2023 – After more than two decades, Ford is returning to Formula 1. The iconic American automaker and Red Bull Powertrains are entering into a longterm strategic technical partnership for the development of a next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onward.
Is Ford at Le Mans in 2024?
A podium finish for the Ford Mustang GT3 on its debut at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans. Everyone was eagerly awaiting the first outing of Proton Competition's new Ford Mustang GT3s in the LMGT3 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
What is Ford's most successful rally car?
Ford Escort RS1800
Ford had a long and successful history in rallying, winning the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 1979 with the Ford Escort RS1800 and drivers Hannu Mikkola, Björn Waldegård and Ari Vatanen.
Why did Ford pull out of Le Mans?
There were new rules imposed in an attempt to reduce the number of people killed in motorsports. Though these ideas were mostly good, they did cause several manufacturers, including Ford, to pull their prototypes out of the lineup.
Did Ford leave NASCAR?
All you need to know. Ford has participated in NASCAR, the country's premier stock car racing circuit, since the sanctioning body officially began in 1949. In that time, the manufacturer has won more than 1,200 races combined in the sanctioning bodies top three series -- Cup, Xfinity and Truck.
Does Ford still compete in racing?
Ford continues to test the limits at major circuits and events worldwide, which includes major 24-hour endurance races like the Rolex 24 at DAYTONA, Le Mans, Spa and Nürburgring.
What car is Ford discontinuing?
Ford Edge: This midsize SUV will no longer be part of Ford's lineup as the company shifts focus towards other segments and models.
Does Ford still rally?
Today, Ford Performance competes as part of the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team, scoring over 300 consecutive points finishes. The team races in a single WRC class, with drivers piloting the Ford Puma Rally1, a modified hybrid version of the Puma.
What sports teams do the Fords own?
Sports ownership
A minority of the Detroit Lions since 1956 and team president since 1961, Ford took advantage of a power struggle between Edwin J. Anderson and D. Lyle Fife to acquire total control of the franchise by buying out the other 144 shareholders for $4.5 million, equivalent to $46.2 million in 2024.
