Ford has made a significant announcement regarding its plans to introduce a one-make series to Australia in 2026. The revelation was made by Ford Performance general manager Will Ford in Melbourne as part of the manufacturer’s centenary anniversary celebrations in the country.
The series, officially named the Mustang Cup, will revolve around the Dark Horse R model. Ford emphasized that the Dark Horse R is a track-focused, race-ready vehicle that is set to make its way to Australia for the Mustang Challenge one-make series next year.
Currently, Ford is in the process of securing approvals from Motorsport Australia to kick off this new racing category and is finalizing the management team for the series. Ben Nightingale, Ford Australia product communications manager, expressed the company’s intention to introduce the Mustang Dark Horse R to the Australian market and highlighted the excitement surrounding this new venture.
At a recent Formula 1 event at Albert Park, Australia’s first Dark Horse R was showcased, with the prospect of participating in races like Le Mans being promoted. The vehicles will be made available through Australian Multimatic distributors Miedecke Motorsport, allowing customers to prepare their cars for the upcoming series.
While the exact number of participants for the inaugural grid is still being determined, Ford is optimistic about achieving a 20-car field. Nightingale stressed that there is a viable market for this new series, especially for junior drivers seeking a cost-effective racing option that provides valuable experience and skill development.
According to Ford, the Mustang Cup will offer participants a compelling alternative to existing racing competitions like the Toyota GR Cup and Carrera Cup, which are becoming increasingly expensive for aspiring drivers. The series aims to provide drivers with a platform to hone their racing skills with features like slick tires, a 500-horsepower V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and more.
Furthermore, Ford also used the occasion to unveil the Ford Ranger Super Duty on a global scale, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and advancement in the automotive industry.
With the Mustang Cup set to debut in Australia, it signifies a new chapter in the country’s motorsport landscape, offering enthusiasts and aspiring racers an exciting platform to showcase their talent and passion for racing.
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