The Mustang Challenge utilizes the Mustang Dark Horse R race car, a factory-built race car developed by Ford Performance. This series is a progression for drivers who have competed in the Mustang Cup or are already seasoned racers. It offers close, competitive racing and is streamed to a global audience. Champions can receive a cash prize or a test in a Mustang GT4 car. The series supports IMSA races and offers driver development programs.
The Mustang Dark Horse R is a turn-key racing car engineered for competition by Ford Performance. It is capable of generating over 500 horsepower from its 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, paired with a TREMEC® 3160 manual transmission and a Torsen limited-slip differential. The car features upgraded cooling systems for the engine, transmission, and differential, along with a Borla racing exhaust system and an upgraded radiator. The chassis includes an FIA-compliant roll cage, Multimatic DSSV dampers, adjustable front camber plates, and select seam welding. For safety, it is equipped with an FIA-compliant fuel cell, Recaro FIA-compliant racing seat, FIA-compliant harness, and FIA-compliant safety nets. Braking is handled by Bosch Motorsport ABS and Brembo® race calipers and rotors. The car rides on Ford Performance parts R1 flow-formed wheels and bespoke Michelin® racing slick tires. The Mustang Dark Horse R is not street legal and is sold through Multimatic.
The Mustang Challenge series includes two championships: the Miles Cup and the Parnelli Cup. The series has a specific race weekend format, typically including practice sessions, qualifying, and two races. For the 2025 season, the series calendar includes events at Sebring International Raceway, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Road America, Virginia International Raceway, Circuit of the Americas, and Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. An invitational meeting is also scheduled at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Ford Performance has established the Ford Performance Junior Team to discover and nurture future stars of sports car racing. This program identifies promising young drivers and provides them with support, including mentoring from factory Mustang GT3 drivers, coaching, simulator access, physical and mental conditioning, and guidance on sponsorship and social media strategies. The first driver selected for the program was Robert Noaker, the 2024 Mustang Challenge Dark Horse Class Champion.
Ford Motor Company has a long racing heritage, with the Mustang model enjoying significant success over the decades. The new Mustang Dark Horse R continues this tradition by offering a race car for the all-new, single-make Mustang Challenge series, sanctioned by IMSA. The series is part of a pathway created by Ford Performance for enthusiasts to progress through various levels of motorsports, from driving experiences to professional racing.
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