Le Mans Yesterday and Today: Ford

In sixth place among the most successful manufacturers at the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the American giant Ford, which in the early 1960s attempted to purchase Ferrari, intending to make it its racing division. Henry Ford II was frustrated that Ferrari dominated global headlines every Monday for its victories, while Ford had to spend a fortune on advertising for similar recognition. The deal seemed set, but Enzo Ferrari, wanting full control over racing decisions, broke off negotiations in 1963. In truth, Ferrari was also negotiating with Alfa Romeo and Fiat, ultimately agreeing with the latter to remain an Italian brand. Ford, feeling slighted, immediately sought revenge: Henry Ford decided to build Ford-branded race cars, developed in-house. The result was the Ford GT40, designed specifically for Le Mans.