Triple Eight announces shock switch to Ford from 2026
2025-02-01 12:00:00
This marks a major shift in the Supercars landscape, as Triple Eight and Ford reunite after a 15-year split. The team originally raced under the Blue Oval before moving to General Motors, but will now make its return to Ford machinery.
The announcement was made on Friday, just weeks before the 2026 Repco Supercars Championship kicks off. Triple Eight will continue competing under the Red Bull Ampol Racing name.
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Fans have already been treated to a first look at the new era, with digital renders and an actual livery of the Red Bull Ampol Ford Mustang Supercar now unveiled ahead of the 2026 season.
Additionally, Triple Eight has been nominated as Ford’s official homologation team in Supercars, though this is still subject to a majority vote from Ford-affiliated teams.
Check out the announcement and get your first real look at the Red Bull Ampol Racing Ford Mustang! Triple Eight Team Manager Mark Dutton and Ford Australia boss Andrew Birkic discuss the big news from Ford Australia’s home in Broadmeadows, Victoria.
Watch the video below!
Jamie Whincup, Team Principal of Triple Eight Race Engineering
"The future with Ford is something special," Whincup said.
“Triple Eight’s success is first and foremost down to our people and a relentless, shared desire to win that has set us up for this partnership.”
“Our return to the Blue Oval isn’t just about winning; it’s about that feeling of shared purpose and determination that’s backed up by an exciting road car portfolio.
“What excites me most about our future together is the commitment Ford is demonstrating to our sport, to Triple Eight and to all Supercars fans through this long-term partnership. This is a huge strategic commitment that we are very proud to share.
“We’re very excited to be a part of the Ford Performance ecosystem and the potential opportunities this partnership will present.”
Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance
“We’ve always admired Triple Eight’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Their engineering prowess and tireless pursuit of victory are almost incomparable. But more than that, there’s a shared history, a bond forged in the fires of competition, that makes this partnership feel so right.”
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“This is about looking forward, about building a future together, and conquering new challenges,” Rushbrook emphasized
Andrew Birkic, President and CEO of Ford Australia
"This partnership is about delivering an unforgettable experience for our fans, and is a statement of our commitment to Australian motorsport. This is also a demonstration of Ford’s motorsport ambition, which is stronger than ever,” added Birkic.
With the 2026 Repco Supercars Championship season start just around the corner, this was certainly an unexpected surprise for Triple Eight fans!
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