Ford demands parity action

Ford is still seething over Supercars’ refusal to allow a parity adjustment for the Mustang for the Repco Bathurst 1000, issuing a veiled threat of withdrawal if race performance against the Chevrolet Camaro isn’t equalised by next season.

Mustangs finished third through sixth with strong strategic finishes, but were never in contention to win as the lead Camaros romped to an easy one-two despite niggling late-race concerns.

Aero updates to improve the Mustangs’ straight-line speed and cornering balance were rejected just hours before first practice for the 60th anniversary Great Race.

In the latest Speedcafe Newscast, Ford Australia chief Andrew Birkic and key Ford team bosses express their deep concerns about the on-going disparity. Listen here:

Broadmeadows boss Birkic notably backs away from his Sandown 500 commitment to continuing factory support in 2024 at least, demanding immediate and long-term action from Supercars.

Since his post-race comments, it’s been confirmed – unofficially – that the lap times difference between the Mustangs and Camaros during the Bathurst 1000 triggered an official parity review.

That is happening this week, with Ford hoping the proposed aero adjustments – reducing air drag and shifting downforce to the rear – will be approved in time for the Gold Coast 500 at the end of the month.

As well as Birkic, Speedcafe Newscast hears from DJR chief David Noble, WAU Mustang star Chaz Mostert and Tickford Racing boss Tim Edwards on Ford’s parity plight.

It’s all in the latest episode, debriefing Bathurst amid the revived parity debate, with host Mark Fogarty probing the outcome as Shane van Gisbergen silenced critics with his Mountain mastery.