Ford vs Ferrari - gearsstreet.com

Ford's Aspiration:

In the early 1960s, Henry Ford II, the CEO of Ford Motor Company, sought to boost the company’s image and presence in the high-performance sports car market. He believed that winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a grueling race held annually in France, would achieve this goal.

Ferrari's Dominance:

At the time, Ferrari was the undisputed champion of endurance racing, having won Le Mans six times in a row. Enzo Ferrari, the founder of Scuderia Ferrari, was known for his dedication to racing and his high-performance cars.

Failed Acquisition:

Ford attempted to buy Ferrari in 1963, aiming to acquire the Italian automaker’s racing expertise and brand prestige. However, the deal fell apart due to disagreements, leaving Ford humiliated and determined to beat Ferrari at Le Mans.

Formation of Ford GT Program:

Ford initiated a program known as the Ford GT, led by engineer Carroll Shelby and featuring the development of the Ford GT40 race car. Shelby’s experience and vision were instrumental in creating a competitive machine.

1966 Triumph:

In 1966, Ford made its first significant mark at Le Mans when the Ford GT40, driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, won the race. This victory marked a historic moment for American racing and Ford’s resurgence.

Legacy and Impact:

Ford’s victory at Le Mans in 1966 and subsequent wins in the following years cemented the Ford GT40’s status as an icon in motorsports history. The rivalry between Ford and Ferrari remains a legendary chapter in racing lore and has been immortalized in books, documentaries, and the 2019 film “Ford v Ferrari.”