Ford has no plans to return to Formula 1 anytime soon
Despite the changes at the head of F1, Ford still has no plans to return to the category. The high cost of racing is a major obstacle for the American manufacturer.
The acquisition of Formula 1 by the Liberty Media group has opened new opportunities for the premier category. Ambitions are even considering and hoping for the arrival of new manufacturers.
Furthermore, the FIA is relying on the current F1 engine manufacturers, namely Mercedes, Renault, Ferrari, and Honda, to implement the next engine regulations planned for 2021. This potential overhaul could attract new manufacturers, which is not the case for Ford, in any event. This is indicated by Davide Pericak, the director of Ford Performance, in an interview with Autosport:
« We are not really looking towards F1. I don’t see us there in the near future. Formula 1 is so expensive. If you look at every series we’re in right now, there is relevance with the goals we have, in the development of our tools, our technology, and our employees and in transferring that to our road cars. Every series we’re in has one of these characteristics. » insists Davide Pericak.
The oval brand withdrew from F1 in 2004 after outfitting the Jordan team. Ford made its return to GT racing last year, as well as in the WEC (World Endurance Championship) and IMSA (American Endurance Championship). The manufacturer also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the GT Pro category upon its return. The Americans also won the 24 Hours of Daytona last weekend.
In addition to the WEC, Ford is present on a semi-official basis in the WRC (World Rally Championship) with Fiestas entrusted to the M-Sport structure, as well as officially in the WRX (World Rallycross Championship) in association with the Hoonigan Team led by Ken Block, who drives one of the Fords.
Regarding the Indy Car championship, the cost issue is the same as in F1, which currently excludes any return of the brand: « We use the track to test and improve our technologies and bring them to our production cars. It works well, not just in GT but on other products. » Concluded Davide Pericak.
