Ford has taken its 826 PS Mustang GTD to MADRING, the circuit set to host Spain’s future Formula 1 Grand Prix, with two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz Sr behind the wheel. The company describes the outing as a demonstration lap pairing its most extreme road-legal Mustang with one of Spain’s best-known racing names. It is a promotional showcase rather than a competitive event.

Ford has brought its flagship Mustang GTD to MADRING, the new Madrid circuit earmarked to host Spain’s Formula 1 Grand Prix, for a high-profile demonstration run. At the wheel was Carlos Sainz Sr, the two-time World Rally Champion and Dakar winner, whose son currently races in Formula 1.

According to Ford, the pairing was intended to link the brand’s most focused road-going Mustang with a circuit that is preparing to join the international motorsport calendar. The event was a showcase lap rather than a timed session or race.

The car

The Mustang GTD is Ford’s most track-focused version of the current Mustang, developed with technology drawn from the company’s GT3 racing programme. Ford quotes an output of 826 PS for the model. It sits well above the standard Mustang range and is positioned as a low-volume, halo performance car.

The driver

Carlos Sainz Sr built his reputation in the World Rally Championship, taking two titles, and has since added multiple victories on the Dakar Rally. His involvement gives the demonstration a clear tie to Spanish motorsport heritage at a moment when the country is preparing to expand its grand-prix presence.

What it means

Run-outs like this are as much about marketing as machinery: Ford gets to associate the Mustang GTD with a marquee new venue and a recognised name ahead of the circuit’s grand-prix era. For enthusiasts, it is a chance to see the GTD in action on a track that is still being introduced to the wider racing world.

Ford has not stated any pricing, availability or performance details for the MADRING appearance beyond the car’s power figure.

Facts: Ford Mustang GTD

  • Power: 826 PS (as quoted by Ford)
  • Positioning: track-focused halo Mustang, developed alongside Ford’s GT3 programme
  • Occasion: demonstration lap at MADRING, Madrid
  • Driver: Carlos Sainz Sr, two-time World Rally Champion

Ford has not announced any further details tied to the event.

Source: ford.com