American automaker Ford has announced that it’s returning to Le Mans with its new GT race car. Based on the all-new Ford GT that goes on sale globally next year, the firm will be seen competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, referred to by many as the Grand Prix of endurance and efficiency, starting next year.
Ford recently revealed its race car at the circuit that will compete in the GT Endurance class for professional teams and drivers (LM GTE Pro). It is based on the GT that was first unveiled in January this year.
Both the production car and the race car will arrive in 2016 to mark the 50th anniversary of Ford GT40 race cars finishing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. Rather amazingly Ford went on to repeat its victory at Le Mans in 1967, 1968 and 1969.
The new GT race car will run the full 2016 schedule of the FIA World Endurance Championship and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. It will make its competition debut in January 2016 in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, Florida.
