Successful first test for Mustang
The 2019 Ford Mustang Supercar completed its first laps at Australia's Queensland Raceway, ahead of its official homologation for the 2019 season of the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.
“Today is a significant step towards an exciting 2019 for the Ford Mustang,” said Kay Hart, president and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand.
“Mustang belongs on the racetrack, and today showed a glimpse of the 2019 car ahead of its first season. The teams are doing a fantastic job in ensuring the Mustang not only makes the grid, but is a competitive, high-performance package.”
A partnership between DJR Team Penske, Ford Performance, Ford Australia and Tickford Racing, the 2019 Mustang was driven by DJR Team Penske driver, and current Supercars Championship leader, Scott McLaughlin.
“What an honour to be the guy to drive the very first laps of the new Mustang,” said McLaughlin following the test. “Not only does it just look right, and sound awesome, but it feels right too – in terms of balance, settings – we’re starting off a great base as we develop the car for next year.”
McLaughlin and fellow DJR Team Penske driver, Fabian Coulthard, shared driving responsibilities during a rigorous day of testing around the 3.1-kilometre layout.
“It’s been a very productive day for us,” said DJR Team Penske manager, Ryan Story. “While the Mustang tugs at your emotions, the reality for us is that we have a job to do, and we have to get this right for the teams, the championship.”
Tickford Racing team principal, Tim Edwards, said the signs were positive. “It’s very early stages, but the car is shaping up extremely well, and we’re keen for the next test,” he said. “The Mustang resonates with fans, and we know that circulating won’t be enough – Mustang has to be gunning for race wins, championships and of course Bathurst, and everyone involved is working tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a great team effort.”
The 2019 Ford Mustang Supercar will make its competition debut at the 2019 Adelaide 500, which takes place from February 29 – March 3, 2019.
