Major Shift: Haupt Racing Team Partners with Ford for Exciting New Era in Motorsport

In a groundbreaking move, Haupt Racing Team (HRT) has announced its strategic partnership with Ford Motor Company, set to revolutionize their racing endeavors across Europe. This collaboration will see HRT fielding the powerful Ford Mustang GT3 in top-tier competitions including the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, DTM, and the iconic Nürburgring 24 Hours.

After a fruitful partnership with Mercedes-AMG since its inception in 2020, HRT's switch to Ford marks a significant leap forward, showcasing their ambition to elevate their performance in the racing circuit. The team, based in Meuspath, Germany, is not only changing automotive brands but also embracing a multi-faceted campaign under the Ford banner, which includes extensive technical development alongside their new partner, lubricant powerhouse Ravenol.

The upcoming season will be particularly noteworthy as it will see Ford make its return to the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft) series for the first time since the 1990s. HRT’s entry with the Mustang GT3 reflects the vehicle’s status as a modern racing machine, ready to compete fiercely in the high-stakes world of motorsport.

As part of their new strategy, HRT will also engage in "factory-supported" races within the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) and the Nürburgring 24, taking over from Proton Competition, which previously operated the Mustang in the Endurance Cup.

Team CEO Ulrich Fritz expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter, stating, “HRT has continuously developed itself over the past few years. The fact that Ford has chosen HRT as its spearhead in Europe is a great honor. Together, I believe we can elevate the Ford Mustang GT3 even further.”

Moreover, HRT has ambitious plans for the future, including a regular customer racing program and the launch of a junior development initiative aimed at nurturing upcoming talent in GT4 racing, thereby expanding their competitive footprint.

Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports, echoed this excitement, highlighting HRT's successful track record in various racing series as a testament to the capabilities of the Mustang GT3. This partnership is expected to solidify Ford's standing in GT3 racing and create new opportunities across a variety of iconic racing circuits, including prestigious 24-hour races at Le Mans, Daytona, and Spa.

As HRT gears up for the 2025 season and beyond, this collaboration with Ford and Ravenol positions them to make significant strides in the world of motorsports, harnessing the legacies of both the Mustang and its dedicated team. The motorsport community is buzzing with anticipation to see how this formidable alliance will unfold in the coming seasons.