Ford Performance creates new program to help discover Mustang race talent

October 8, 2024 by Ford

• Debuting in 2025, Ford Performance will launch a new sportscar driver development initiative called the 'Ford Performance Junior Team'

•Drivers from series including the Mustang Challenge, Mustang Cup and GT4 series where Mustang competes will be eligible

•The Junior Team program is designed to develop and mentor a select group of drivers each year to realize their racing ambitions all the way up to the highest level of sports car racing

Ford Performance is today announcing an exciting and dynamic new program called the Ford Performance Junior Program intended to unearth the next generation of racing talent. The Junior Team program will bring together some of the most exciting new drivers and guide them towards a possible career in sports car racing around the world as part of the extended Ford Performance sports car family.

'At Ford Performance, we are always on the lookout for fresh new racing talent and with the new Ford Performance Junior Team program, we think we have a great solution for the future,' said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsport. 'This program is all about creating opportunities for the next generation of Mustang racing talent. We want to give these drivers the tools and support they need to reach their full potential, and we're excited to see what they can achieve.'

Eligible Drivers

Ford Performance will evaluate participants from series such as Mustang Challenge, Mustang Cup and Mustang GT4 series globally. Key factors in the selection process will include: average stats compared to other leading drivers, current performance, feedback from sanctioning bodies, temperament and year-over-year driving improvement. The program will be open to drivers globally and will be available for a select group of drivers in any one calendar year.

Evaluations for the first Ford Performance Junior Team class is underway and continues through December. Those selected will contacted and contracted prior to the announcement of the inaugural class.

Ford Performance is announcing that the first driver selected for the program is the 2024 Mustang Challenge Dark Horse Class Champion, Robert Noaker.

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Program Overview

To develop the chosen participants, drivers will receive mentoring from factory Mustang GT3 racing drivers, along with coaching during selected race weekends. Ford Performance engineers will support the program with simulator sessions to refine driving skills and provide additional seat time.

Outside of the racecar, Ford Performance will offer regular coaching on the physical and mental demands of being a professional driver, along with training in sponsorship, social media, and participation in Ford-sponsored experiences.

For the 2025 season, the goal is to prepare development drivers for the next level of competition, with support throughout the year. Additionally, the program could include opportunities to test the Mustang GT4 or GT3.

'We have a fantastic team of seasoned drivers, teams, and engineers, who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of racers,' said Kevin Groot, Ford Performance Motorsports Sports Car program manager. 'We're excited to share our knowledge and experience with these young drivers and help them achieve their dreams.'

The ultimate goal of the Ford Performance Junior Team program is to develop the next generation of drivers who could potentially earn a seat in the Mustang GT3 Factory Program, the pinnacle of Mustang racing with Ford Performance.

Inaugural Ford Performance Junior Team

The complete first season's intake of the Ford Performance Junior Team program will be announced at the Ford Performance Season Launch event in January 2025.