Over the weekend, the Le Mans Invitational hosted the Mustang Challenge races, overseen by the ACO/FFSA and supported by ORECA Events. Ford’s single-make championship cars in North America fall under IMSA and USAC sanctioning. Ford Performance’s Chris Ward mentioned that IMSA personnel were on-site, providing technical support and overseeing scrutineering.
For the Invitational, Ford introduced onboard marshaling systems akin to those in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The 40 drivers had to adapt to Slow Zones and specific race procedures at the 8.467-mile Circuit de la Sarthe. Ford Performance executed a full field calibration during practice under red flag conditions, ensuring a smooth qualifying session with minimal issues.
All 39 cars in the field implemented technical updates, surpassing 150 mph on the Mulsanne Straight. Spare Dark Horse Rs and essential parts were readily available on-site, including a spare chassis for Adam Balon after a crash. Other teams like TechSport and LAP Motorsports made quick repairs to their cars post-qualifying incidents.
Junior Driver Erik Evans faced a gearbox failure but managed to secure a qualifying time. Notably, Robert Noaker’s disqualification elevated Evans’ starting position. The event also featured Dark Horse Legends like Bruce Myrehn, generating media interest with a France Channel 3 segment.
Fans had the opportunity to meet the drivers during an autograph session, with special appearances by celebrities like Frankie Munoz and Tanner Foust. Doug Peterson allowed fans to sign his car’s hood, a unique experience during the event. The races were live-streamed on Ford Performance’s YouTube channel with commentary on Radio Le Mans.
The Le Mans Invitational marked a significant milestone for the Mustang Challenge, with drivers showcasing their skills on the iconic track. The event’s success highlighted the growing popularity and competitiveness of Ford Performance’s racing series, setting the stage for future endeavors in the world of motorsports.
As the weekend concluded, drivers reflected on their experiences at Le Mans, with a sense of accomplishment and excitement for what lies ahead in their racing careers. The Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational served as a platform for drivers to showcase their talent and passion for motorsport, leaving a lasting impression on fans and enthusiasts alike.
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