The American manufacturer is developing the prototype for a planned FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans debut in 2027. After months of development behind closed doors, the programme has now moved from simulation and workshop preparation into real-world track testing.

From Shakedown to Track Development

Ford began the car’s initial shakedown programme on 5 August, completing several days of controlled running to validate the core systems. At this stage, the focus is not on headline lap times. Engineers first need to confirm that the powertrain, electronics, cooling, braking, controls and safety systems all work together reliably under track conditions.

That first phase has progressed according to plan, allowing Ford Racing to begin a more detailed test programme.

Matt Campbell and Logan Sargeant took the wheel for the first proper track running, giving motorsport fans their first look at Ford’s future Hypercar in action. Tom Blomqvist, who was involved during the early development process, is also expected to join the testing programme shortly.

The trio forms part of Ford’s six-driver line-up for its 2027 Hypercar campaign, alongside Mike Rockenfeller, Nick Yelloly and Sebastian Priaulx.

More Than a Prototype Test

The images represent more than a routine test session. They are the first visible proof that Ford’s latest endurance-racing project is becoming a reality.

Until now, the new Hypercar existed largely through engineering work, simulation and private development. Now it is accumulating real track mileage, generating the data Ford Racing will use to improve performance, reliability and durability ahead of its competitive debut.

Every lap will help the team refine the car’s behaviour, understand its systems and prepare for the extreme demands of modern endurance racing.

Ford’s Return to the Top Class at Le Mans

Ford’s 2027 return carries considerable historical weight. The brand’s legacy at the 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most memorable in motorsport, led by the Ford GT40’s four consecutive overall victories from 1966 to 1969.

Five decades after its first overall win, Ford also returned to Le Mans success in 2016, when the Ford GT won the LMGTE Pro class.

The 2027 programme signals a new and more ambitious chapter. Ford is preparing to compete in the Hypercar class, the highest level of the FIA World Endurance Championship, against a growing field of major manufacturers.

Ford Racing is not simply returning to participate. Its goal is to fight at the front of one of the world’s most competitive endurance-racing categories.

The Road to 2027 Begins Now

The Hypercar’s first on-track appearance is only the beginning of a long development journey. Testing will continue over the coming months as Ford works to turn the prototype into a competitive and dependable Le Mans challenger.

But one important step has already been completed: Ford’s new Hypercar has left the screens and the workshop behind. It is now running, learning and building toward its biggest target yet—the 2027 24 Hours of Le Mans.