First Look: Ford's Le Mans Prototype Unveiled

Ford Racing's LMDh class prototype, set to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship from 2027, has finally been unveiled to the public. The American manufacturer released footage from track tests conducted today at the Circuit Paul Ricard.

Today's trials follow the new car's test program initiation on Wednesday, August 5th, with several days of initial checks, also believed to have taken place at Paul Ricard. Ford Racing reported that everything proceeded smoothly and according to plan.

The team has completed a comprehensive program to activate and verify each of the control systems. All systems are now fully functional and ready ahead of the initial track tests, which commenced today and are scheduled to continue through this week and next.

Matt Campbell, Mike Rockenfeller, and Tom Blomqvist were present for the initial shakedown phase. Today, Matt Campbell and Logan Sargeant took the wheel for the first track test. Blomqvist is also expected to test the car in the coming days.

The prototype, built on an Oreca chassis and powered by a V8 engine, was shown in a camouflage livery. Its development is part of Ford's ambition to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the fifth time in history and contend for the Hypercar class manufacturers' world title.

The test at Le Castellet, located very close to Oreca's headquarters, follows extensive simulator work, dyno testing, and the successful first firing of the 5.4-liter V8 Coyote-based engine in the test chassis last month.

Ford plans to test the car across Europe before its homologation, which must occur before the start of the 2027 season. All six drivers signed to Ford's Hypercar program will participate in the tests.

Mike Rockenfeller, Seb Priaulx, and Logan Sargeant were the first names announced in January. In June, they were joined by long-time Porsche factory driver Matt Campbell, as well as Tom Blomqvist and Nick Yelloly, both coming from Acura's GTP class program.

Photos: Ford Racing / Drew Gibson Photographers