Ford announces its biggest challenge in nearly 60 years: the most iconic rivalry in automotive history is about to be revived

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Ford has just surprised everyone: the most famous American brand is announcing its big return to the top endurance category in 2027.

The blue oval brand, currently absent in Hypercar, aims to make a strong impression with a prototype entered in the WEC and a clear goal: to return to the top of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, just like in the past. While details are still vague, this announcement shakes up an already highly competitive championship. What can we expect from this arrival? What challenges will Ford face? And most importantly, why now?

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A strategic return to WEC full of history

It’s impossible to talk about Ford and Le Mans without mentioning the legendary rivalry with Ferrari in the 1960s. The duel, immortalized in film, remains etched in memory, and Ford doesn’t plan to return as a mere spectator. The history between the American manufacturer and the world’s greatest endurance race dates back to 1937, but it was between 1966 and 1969 that the GT40 made history with four consecutive victories. More recently, the Ford GT shone in GTE Pro in 2016, confirming the brand’s attachment to this iconic race. With the official commitment of Ford Performance in Hypercar, the goal is clear: to reach the highest step of the podium again.

Official commitment of Ford Performance in Hypercar in the World Endurance Championship
Official commitment of Ford Performance in Hypercar in the World Endurance Championship

An LMDh Hypercar in the works

Unlike other manufacturers who have chosen an LMH prototype, Ford will return with a car complying with the LMDh regulations. This means it will use a chassis designed by an approved supplier, and according to several sources, it will be Oreca responsible for the development. The French brand is already working with Acura, Alpine, and Genesis, and seeing Ford join this circle further strengthens its influence in endurance racing. While the car is expected in the WEC, no official announcement mentions an entry in IMSA, which might be surprising for an American manufacturer. But with more and more manufacturers entering Hypercar, the competition will be tough, and Ford will need to quickly find its place among Toyota, Ferrari, Porsche, and others… One thing is certain: more manufacturers are entering the race, and that’s sure to delight fans!

A challenge fit for its ambitions

However, Ford’s return to the World Endurance Championship won’t come without obstacles. Entering Hypercar represents a huge investment, both in development and operation. With a grid already packed, every detail will count if they want to fight for victory. But Ford isn’t just here to participate. Bill Ford, the company’s executive chairman, has made it clear: “When we enter a competition, it’s to win.” This ambition is supported by Ford Performance, which will directly manage the program. It remains to be seen how the brand will structure its team and who the chosen drivers will be for this major project. Meanwhile, the Mustang GT3 continues its involvement, showing Ford’s determination to become a key player in endurance and motorsport in general, as a Formula 1 engine supplier is already planned for 2026.

The most famous French automaker is aiming for a major record and unveils its weapon: an extraordinary Supercar

This article explores Ford’s return to the WEC in 2027, its legacy at Le Mans, and the challenges it will face with its LMDh prototype. Between ambition and strategy, the American manufacturer aims for a prime spot in an Hypercar category more competitive than ever.

Source: Ford

Adrien Conges
Adrien Conges
I grew up near Magny-Cours, an old Formula 1 circuit in France so I've been passionate about motorsport and automobiles since childhood. I currently live in Bordeaux, France and I'm still waiting for Ferrari to win a 17th F1 constructors' title.

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