Ford is undoubtedly a major in the automotive sector, but they have chosen to not participate in Formula One events. I enjoy everything F1 and own a Ford, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t the least bit curious about how they fit together. So, let’s explore whether Ford is in Formula 1.
Ford is not involved in F1 and has no plans to return to F1 racing. Ford sponsored Cosworth (which supplied F1 engines from 1966 through 2004), but they only participated in 2000 to 2004 under Jaguar, their subsidiary. They withdrew their support for F1 in 2004, citing it as too expensive.
Ford was once part of the F1 scene, though they have since moved on to racing events like the FIA World Endurance Championship, NASCAR, and Australia Supercars Championship because it’s cheaper, they receive better publicity, and make a higher turnover. Let’s explore all of these factors and see how Ford came to be.
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Ford Formula 1: What is Ford’s Role?
Following Ford’s purchase of the Stewart team in 2000, Ford participated in Formula One as a team for the first time under the guise of its subsidiary, Jaguar. Ford’s Jaguar team raced from 2000 to 2004, when they decided to end their participation in Formula One.
Ford sponsored the Cosworth DFV engine, which became one of Formula One’s most successful engines. The engine’s inception had them supplying nearly every Formula One team, barring significant competitors – this went on from the end of the 1960s until the early 1980s.
Ford sponsored Cosworth’s engine suppliers from 1966 through 2004, which had a significant impact on Formula One. Ford withdrew support for Formula One when Cosworth continued to supply engines.
Ford Has Any Plans to Return To Formula 1?
Dave Pericak, Ford Performance Director stated Ford has not included Formula One on their list. He said that the current commitments are a good fit for all their goals and objectives, especially in terms of developing tools technology and working alongside people to turn those ideas into road cars.
Furthermore, Formula One is ludicrously expensive, and it would detract from Ford’s resources and hinder their long-term goals.
Is there any other reason Ford would not return to F1?
Keep in mind, first, that Formula 1 isn’t the only racing championship. The Formula 1 race is a cutting-edge sport, but it doesn’t have the same history as other races. US Grand Prix has had ten different track locations since 1908, it has gone through 44 distinct “editions” (sponsoring companies, rules, etc.).
In comparison, the Indianapolis 500 It is in the same place every day with the same rules since 1911. Alternatively, there’s the Daytona 500It has been remarkable consistent since 1959.
Ford motorsport president Mark Rushbrook believes Although the cost of Formula 1 competition is prohibitive, Rushbrook is closely monitoring developments. Rushbrook concedes that the sport’s hybrid-era technology has piqued his attention, and he’d be interested in learning more if F1 could dramatically reduce the cost of racing.
Despite the 2021 regulations’ budget restriction, the Ford CEO believes there is still a lot of room for expenses to spiral out of control because “cost reduction in F1 is all relative.” Manufacturers will spend in another area to boost their chances of winning if one area reaches its cap.
Ford must consider F1 participation.
Many automotive manufacturers have begun to look for other ways to boost their profits because of the high cost involved in Formula One. Ford’s strategic decision to withdraw from F1 holds other benefits, too. Ford takes into account several factors before entering racing events in order to positively impact sales, customers and reputation.
Improve Sales
Businesses have the opportunity to promote their products through motorsports and increase their brand awareness. A winning race can generate great publicity for their company, which in turn can increase sales.
Technology Developments: Find and Test
Many modern vehicle technologies were developed on racetrack platforms before being made available for daily use on the roads. Ford has the ability to develop new technologies for consumers through racing.
Connect with Customers
It provides an excellent platform for businesses and customers to communicate. Red Bull is one example of a brand that has used such events to grow their brand and increase sales by engaging directly with customers.
For success in the peddle business, you need to build trust and brand recognition
Ford’s success in races and lower costs helps them show their vehicles’ validity and increase their turnover. McLaren and Ferrari are two examples of road vehicle operators that heavily rely on their F1 experience.
Ford Racing: Where Can You Find It Now?
Ford returned to GT racing in 2016 with a new program, the World Endurance Championship, and the IMSA SportsCar Championship. It won the GTE class at the Le Mans 24 Hours its first attempt. M-Sport represents the team in the World Rally Championship. The team also competes at the World Rallycross Championship.
Ford is also a well-known name in the following races:
- NASCAR
- Xfinity Series
- Truck Series
- FIA World Rally Championship
- WeatherTech Sportscar Championship
- FIA World Endurance Championship
- Australia Supercars Championship
Formula Ford: What is it?
After karting, Formula Ford is Ford’s first big step into formula racing. Formula Ford is also known as F1600, Formula F and Formula F. It’s a single-seater open-wheel Formula Racing class for amateurs. Many Formula One hopefuls use these competitions as a stepping stone.
Formula Ford isn’t a one-make series. This allows for engine development and chassis design as well as various technical specifications. This will be of benefit to many chassis manufacturers, large and small.
Conclusion
Ford’s involvement in the F1 scene is not apparent since 2004. They do however sleep with one eye open, in case their prospects change. It is too risky and expensive until then. Therefore, they will choose cheaper racing events with higher yields like NASCAR.