Ford Unveils First Track Tests for 2027 WEC Hypercar at Paul Ricard

Key points

• Ford Racing commenced full track testing for its 2027 WEC Hypercar at Circuit Paul Ricard, located near the ORECA facility where the chassis was built.
• The prototype utilizes a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8 engine developed in-house at Ford's Dearborn facility, mated to an ORECA LMDh chassis.
• Initial shakedown runs began on August 5, 2026, with factory drivers Matt Campbell and Logan Sargeant taking the wheel to verify control systems.
• Additional drivers, including Tom Blomqvist, Mike Rockenfeller, Nick Yelloly, and Seb Priaulx, are scheduled to participate in upcoming test sessions.
• The car features a blue-and-white camouflage livery and lacks the front fin common to other ORECA-based designs, though it retains a bonnet fin similar to the Porsche 963.

Background

Ford's Hypercar program has been in development since 2026, involving a complex global coordination effort. Previous archive reports highlighted the integration of the Dearborn engine team, Concord simulations, and Venture Engineering in the UK, with 15 US engineers joining the UK operation. In early August, Ford successfully simulated a full Le Mans lap on a dyno using the Coyote V8 to assess engine stress and performance, paving the way for the current on-track testing phase.

How outlets are covering it

Both Sportscar365 and Motorsport.com confirm the start of testing at Paul Ricard and the involvement of key drivers. Sportscar365 emphasizes the strategic timing, noting that Ford program manager Dan Sayers is unbothered by McLaren's earlier test schedule. Motorsport.com provides a more detailed technical breakdown of the car's aerodynamic features, such as the low nose and side 'flicks,' while Sportscar365 focuses on the broader program context and driver roster announcements.

Why it matters

This marks a critical milestone in Ford's return to the top tier of endurance racing. Successful testing validates the integration of the American-developed engine with the French-built chassis, setting the stage for a competitive 2027 WEC season and potentially influencing the balance of power in the Hypercar class.

What to watch

Ford is scheduled to continue testing in the coming weeks, with additional drivers joining the program. The next major milestone will be the car's official debut in the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship, with the 24 Hours of Le Mans being a key target for the team.