Ford Racing is set to embark on another ambitious campaign in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC), continuing its partnership with Proton Competition. From 17-19 April, the team will field two upgraded Ford Mustang GT3s for the season-opening 6 Hours of Imola building on the foundation of last season.
The 6 Hours of Imola presents a unique and gruelling test for the upgraded Mustangs being an historic, "old-school" track that runs in an anti-clockwise direction.
Spanning 4.909 km, the circuit is notoriously narrow and technical, leaving little room for error. Drivers will have to master the aggressive kerbs of the Variante Alta and navigate high-speed sections like Piratella and Acque Minerali. The circuit’s undulating nature and heavy braking zones will put the Mustang GT3’s revised aerodynamics, braking and suspension upgrades to the ultimate test in the Italian spring heat.
The Line-up
Ford Racing has curated a diverse and high-caliber roster of drivers to pilot the two-car entry:
Ford Mustang GT3 No. 88: Leading the charge is former Formula 1 driver Logan Sargeant, whose transition to GT racing is one of the most anticipated storylines of the season. He is paired with a formidable Italian duo: experienced Stefano Gattuso and rising GT talent, Giammarco Levorato. Their local knowledge of Imola’s nuances will be a vital asset for the team’s strategy.
Ford Mustang GT3 No. 77: The second entry features a trio built on consistency and endurance racing pedigree. Sebastien Priaulx brings a wealth of experience with the Ford Mustang platform, joined by the fast and reliable Ben Tuck and veteran racer, Eric Powell.
A New Era for Ford Racing
The shift to the Ford Racing name signifies a focused commitment to the brand’s competitive DNA. These upgraded Ford Mustang GT3s benefit from offseason developments aimed at improving drivability and aerodynamic efficiency, ensuring that the 5.0L V8 roar is backed by podium-contending performance.
WEC 6 HOURS OF IMOLA SCHEDULE
*All Times Local
Friday, 17 April
10:15 - Free Practice 1
15:15 - Free Practice 2
Saturday, 18 April
10:30 - Free Practice 3
14:30 - LMGT3 Qualifying
15:10 - LMGT3 Hyperpole
Sunday, July 13:
13:00 - 6 Hours of Imola
DRIVER QUOTES:
No. 88 Ford Mustang GT3
Logan Sargeant: “Entering the WEC, my priority is to quickly master the championship’s unique rules and traits while pushing for top results. I completed a productive test at Spa; despite the rain, it was a valuable opportunity to experience the Ford Racing Mustang’s impressive wet-weather drivability, particularly its strong straight-line braking and traction. While I am familiar with most of the circuits on the WEC calendar, I am especially looking forward to racing at Fuji for the first time. It’s a track I’ve spent a lot of time on in the simulator, and I can't wait to finally experience its challenges in person.”
Stefano Gattuso: “It is a great honor to represent Ford Racing and Proton for a second consecutive year in the WEC. We have worked incredibly hard over the winter, and I am confident that we have an amazing car capable of fighting at the front of the GT field. This season is particularly special as it marks my 25th year of racing, and I feel more motivated than ever -especially starting at my home race in Imola. After the misfortune of an early exit last year, we are determined to secure a strong result. With the experience we've gained and a very fast lineup alongside Giammarco and Logan, I’m excited to show what we can achieve this year.”
Giammarco Levorato: “I am incredibly excited to begin the FIA WEC season at my home race in Imola. While the calendar shifted from Qatar, starting the year at one of my favorite and most technical circuits in the world makes this debut truly special. Imola played a vital role in my early career, and racing here on a global stage is a moment of great pride. Our expectations are high following a competitive debut season, and I am confident in our potential with such a strong lineup, including Logan Sargeant. Ford Racing and Multimatic have done a fantastic job with the new EVO package for the Mustang GT3, and with the experience I gained last year, I know we are ready to fight for top results from the very first lap.”
No. 77 Ford Mustang GT3
Sebastian Priaulx: “I’m really looking forward to returning to the WEC paddock for my first full season in several years. It will also be my first time at Imola, a historic 'driver’s track' that I’m incredibly excited to experience. Getting back behind the wheel of the Mustang in Europe is going to be a lot of fun. While it’s early to judge our ultimate pace, I believe Ford Racing has a strong chance. Imola is challenging; our straight-line speed should be an advantage, though we’ll need to execute perfectly as a team to manage the technical corners. I can’t wait to finally get back on track and start turning laps.”
Ben Tuck: “Out of all the circuits on the calendar, Imola is easily my favorite. Having raced here previously in both WEC and ELMS, I have a deep appreciation for its unique challenges. Last year, our car showed impressive pace, though unfortunate safety car timing masked our true potential. This year, I am very hopeful for a standout result because we already know how competitive the car can be on this track. Imola is a true 'old-school' circuit - technical, undulating, and possessing a rewarding flow that is rare to find elsewhere. Navigating the chicanes and using the kerbs to your advantage requires a perfect rhythm that is incredibly satisfying when you get it right.”
Eric Powell: “I’m incredibly excited to kick off the WEC season at Imola. The wait has been long, but it’s given me even more time to prepare my fitness and log extra miles on the sim. Transitioning to new tracks is always a challenge, but having access to Ford’s simulator in Charlotte has given me a massive head start. You can really feel the progress we’ve made with the EVO package - the car feels much more refined and driveable. I’d describe my outlook as cautiously optimistic; there’s always a learning curve in real life, but the tools are all there. Huge thanks to Ford Racing and Proton for the seat. I’m ready to make the most of every lap!"
