Ford Performance will be showcasing its single-make Mustang Challenge series internationally at the inaugural Le Mans Invitational in support of this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. The event will feature all six of Ford Performance’s Junior Team Drivers, who have been competing in Ford machinery across various race programs worldwide. This marks the first time the Blue Oval’s Junior Driver Team will share the grid since the official announcement of Ford’s driver development lineup in January.
During the Le Mans race week, Sportscar365 caught up with five of the six drivers to discuss their thoughts on the significance of driving at the Circuit de la Sarthe and the impact it will have on their careers moving forward. Marco Signoretti expressed his excitement about the opportunity to race at Le Mans, highlighting the value of gaining experience at such a prestigious track. Robert Noaker emphasized the importance of driving at iconic circuits like Le Mans and the benefits it brings to his racing career.
For these drivers, getting behind the wheel of a race car they are not as familiar with has been a valuable learning experience. Erik Evans shared his enthusiasm for testing different Ford models, including the GT3, Dark Horse, and GT4, while Nathan Vanspringel appreciated the opportunity to drive the Dark Horse R for the first time at Le Mans. Each driver acknowledged the unique challenges and rewards of adapting to different types of Ford machinery.
Being selected to represent the Ford Performance brand was a significant honor for these drivers. Vanspringel expressed his pride in representing a brand that his father has a strong connection to, while Jenson Altzman highlighted the role they play in inspiring aspiring drivers within the Ford Performance ladder. Altzman emphasized the sense of hope they provide to other drivers looking to follow a similar path in the world of motorsport.
Competing on track with their fellow Ford Performance Junior Driver Team members for the first time brought a sense of camaraderie and competition. Altzman described the experience as a riot, emphasizing the fun and friendly rivalry among the drivers. Evans highlighted the unique opportunity to race against teammates who typically compete in different series and continents, underscoring the camaraderie that has developed among the Junior Driver Team members.
Overall, the Le Mans Invitational provided these young drivers with a platform to showcase their talents on a global stage and further their development within the Ford Performance program. The event not only offered them valuable racing experience but also strengthened the bonds within the Junior Driver Team as they pursued success together at one of the most iconic racing circuits in the world.
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