For the 2027 FIA WEC: This is what Ford’s hypercar looks like

The next race of the 2026 FIA WEC season is scheduled for early September. It will take place at the circuit in Austin, USA. However, Ford will not be competing in the Hypercar class this year. The American manufacturer does not intend to join the top prototype class until 2027. The relevant race car is currently being developed for this purpose. Ford is collaborating with Oreca on the chassis. The engine is being built in-house; it is a 5.4-litre V8.

The first test drive has now taken place. The circuit at Le Castellet in France was used for this. This is no coincidence, as Oreca is based right next door (in Signes). In fact, the first secret shakedown took place earlier this month, as Ford confirmed: “The test phase for the Hypercar began on Wednesday 5 August with several days of functional testing (shakedown), which went smoothly and according to plan. The team methodically worked through an extensive programme to activate and check all the control systems. These are now fully operational and ready for the first track tests, which are scheduled for this week and next.”

During the shakedown, Matt Campbell, Mike Rockenfeller and Tom Blomqvist were at the wheel of the as-yet-unnamed race car. Campbell and Logan Sargeant are on site for the test drives currently taking place at Le Castellet. Blomqvist is also due to join them in the coming days.

Visually, the front end of the Ford hypercar is particularly striking. It differs greatly from the other hypercars developed by Oreca. This is because the Alpine, Acura and Genesis all feature a large opening (reminiscent of a wing) in that area. The Ford, by contrast, has a very clean-cut look at the front.