Ford Mustang completes first Supercar test ahead of Adelaide 500 debut in 2019
The Ford Mustang has completed its first Supercar test ahead of its first race at the Adelaide 500 in February.
The Ford Mustang will join the Supercar circuit in 2019 and it has just completed its inaugural test at Queensland Raceway ahead of official homologation for the 2019 season. Ford announced earlier in the year that it would be returning to Supercar racing in 2019 in a partnership with DJR Team Penske, Ford Performance, Ford Australia and Tickford Racing.
DJR Team Penske driver, and current Supercars Championship leader, Scott McLaughlin got to take the Mustang for its first few laps, saying “What an honour to be the guy to drive the very first laps of the new Mustang,” said McLaughlin following the test. “Not only does it just look right, and sound awesome, but it feels right too – in terms of balance, settings – we’re starting off a great base as we develop the car for next year.”
“It’s been a very productive day for us,” said DJR Team Penske manager, Ryan Story. “While the Mustang tugs at your emotions, the reality for us is that we have a job to do, and we have to get this right for the teams, the championship,” he added.
Tickford Racing team principal, Tim Edwards, said the signs were positive. “It’s very early stages, but the car is shaping up extremely well, and we’re keen for the next test,” he said. “The Mustang resonates with fans, and we know that circulating won’t be enough – Mustang has to be gunning for race wins, championships and of course Bathurst, and everyone involved is working tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a great team effort.”
Ford Performance Supercars Lead Aerodynamicist, Sriram Pakkam, echoed the collaborative effort that has led to Mustang’s first test. “There’s nothing quite like having the Mustang – an actual race car on an actual track – to see the effectiveness of what we’ve done, and where we need to work on the car. It’s great to be part of such a significant model, and at a great time for Mustang in racing programs across the globe.”
