Ford has officially announced its return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2027, unveiling plans for a brand-new prototype race car that will compete at the highest level of global sports car racing. The move marks Ford’s most ambitious foray into endurance racing in years and reinforces the brand’s deep commitment to motorsports innovation.
A New Era for Ford in Endurance Racing
Ford’s upcoming prototype will compete in the Hypercar class, which has seen a surge in manufacturer participation in recent years. While specific details about the car’s design and powertrain have yet to be revealed, Ford has hinted at leveraging hybrid technology as part of its push toward sustainable performance.
Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance, expressed the company’s enthusiasm about the project:
“Endurance racing has always been a proving ground for Ford, dating back to our historic Le Mans victories in the 1960s. With this new prototype, we aim to challenge the best teams in the world while pushing the limits of technology and efficiency.”
Ford’s History in Endurance Racing
Ford’s legacy in endurance racing is legendary. The brand famously dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1960s with the GT40, ending Ferrari’s reign and securing four consecutive victories from 1966 to 1969. More recently, Ford returned to Le Mans in 2016 with the Ford GT, winning the GTE-Pro class exactly 50 years after its historic first triumph.
The 2027 entry marks Ford’s first return to prototype racing in WEC since its participation in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) with the Ford-powered Riley DP cars.
A Growing WEC Grid
Ford’s entry into the Hypercar class will add another major manufacturer to an already competitive field. The category has attracted a wave of manufacturers, including Ferrari, Porsche, Toyota, Peugeot, BMW, Lamborghini, and Cadillac. The Blue Oval’s arrival in 2027 will further intensify the battle for overall victories at legendary circuits like Le Mans, Spa-Francorchamps, and Sebring.
What’s Next?
Ford is expected to reveal more details about its WEC prototype program in the coming months, including technical specifications, team partnerships, and a possible entry into the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. With its rich history, cutting-edge technology, and a strong desire to reclaim endurance racing glory, Ford’s return to WEC in 2027 is set to be one of the most exciting storylines in motorsports.
