Prodrive Racing Australia's statement regarding Ford
Leading V8 Supercars team Prodrive Racing (Australia) has been informed by Ford Australia that from 2016 the car manufacturer will no longer support the team and its racing program.
Prodrive Racing (Australia) (PRA) has raced under the guise of Ford Performance Racing since the team's inception in 2003, acting as Ford Australia's primary manufacturer team throughout this period.
PRA Chief Executive Officer Tim Edwards responded to Ford Australia's decision - detailed here on v8supercars.com.au.
"Ford Australia's decision to not extend its commercial relationship with our team beyond the end of next season is extremely disappointing for our large and loyal fan base, but as a business this decision now allows us to concentrate on our long-term future," Edwards said.
"We have enjoyed a highly-successful relationship with Ford Australia with just shy of 50 race wins, 150 podiums and the last two Bathurst 1000 crowns together.
"This on track success, along with the engineering and commercial strength that underpins our racing activities, provides us with a very viable business and a strong platform for our future in the sport.
"We will run the new FG X Falcon next season as planned with support from Ford, and we'll possibly campaign the car in 2016 ahead of the major regulation changes coming from 2017.
"Now that we know where we stand we can further develop other opportunities. We have a range of options, some existing and some that were awaiting this decision, so we can now begin to explore these further.
"Whatever happens, I know our loyal fans will support our team whatever direction we take."
Team owner Rod Nash also expressed his opinion.
"When [fellow co-owner] Rusty French and I purchased the team two years ago we did so because we saw a strong and diverse business, filled with vibrant people and all with a desire to succeed," Nash said.
"That hasn't changed today and nor will it based on the decision of one of our commercial partners. We have a broad revenue base and this decision does not weaken the viability of our business.
"Our team of people have been working tirelessly, with support from V8 Supercars, to ensure a blue presence in our sport so while we don't agree with today's decision, we have no choice but to accept it.
"While I sympathise with the legions of Ford fans, they are also fans of our team and our drivers, so whatever direction we take we firmly believe that support will continue.
"Our immediate focus is of course this week and finishing off the season strongly in Sydney. We want to secure Mark second in the points and try and top off Chaz's Bathurst-winning year with more success.
"Once we're done in Sydney we can begin working on the future and exploring our range of opportunities."
The team will look to add to its Bathurst triumph and win tally this weekend at the season-ending Sydney NRMA 500 at Sydney Olympic Park.
