Ford Racing Marks 125 Years With Mustang Sweepstakes Livery
Ford is 123 years old, but its racing arm is already celebrating 125 years, and a retro Mustang GT3 livery makes the point. The scheme honors the very first race Henry Ford entered, back in 1901, two years before the Ford Motor Company was founded on June 16, 1903.
On October 10, 1901, Ford raced a primitive machine called "Sweepstakes" at a local event at Grosse Pointe, Michigan, approaching speeds close to 60 mph (97 km/h). The engine held together. That durability delivered a surprise win. The result drew fresh investors and, ultimately, led to the company's founding.
To mark those beginnings, Ford Racing has revealed a fresh look for its factory-backed IMSA GTD Pro cars. A pair of Mustang GT3s wearing the retro colors will contest the 10-hour Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, scheduled for October 3.
Ford says it went to great lengths to match the original, replicating the Sweepstakes palette through a "comprehensive color-matching process." Burgundy and gold graphics sit over a black base. The historic Ford Motor Company logo appears in gold, and "racing since 1901" lettering runs across the hood.
The livery also carries a modern element for night running. After sunset, an illuminated pony graphic on the flanks lights up an American flag in black and gold, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The tribute extends to the drivers. Each will wear a special full-body fire suit modeled on the three-piece suit Henry Ford wore back in 1901.
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