Ford Performance is shaking up the motorsport world today with the introduction of the new 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Mustang, based on the awe-inspiring Mustang Dark Horse. This exciting release is the culmination of a year filled with Mustang racing news and marks a significant addition to the extensive family of high-performance Mustang cars.
Derived from the seventh-generation Mustang, the Dark Horse version adds another dynamic dimension to the already impressive lineup of racing Mustangs. With this addition, starting in 2024, the Mustang will be eligible to participate in races on six continents, underlining its global appeal.
Mark Rushbrook, the global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, expressed his enthusiasm for the new Mustang Dark Horse Cup car, reflecting on the positive response from fans worldwide. He acknowledged the dedication of the Ford Performance team and NASCAR race teams, who worked tirelessly in the wind tunnel to craft this racing masterpiece, eagerly anticipating its debut on the track in the upcoming season.
The all-new Mustang Dark Horse, unveiled just over a year ago, marked the first introduction of a new performance nameplate for the Mustang since 2001. With a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, it is the most track-capable street-legal Mustang ever created. This exceptional machine has set the stage for the current roster of Mustang cars that took part in the Repco Supercars Championship in Australia and the Formula Drift series this year.
In the coming months, racing variants of the Mustang Dark Horse will become eligible for competition in GT3 and GT4 classes worldwide. Additionally, the Dark Horse R model will participate in the Mustang Challenge Series and various grassroots racing events, further expanding its presence in the racing world.
NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski, co-owner of Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing, expressed his excitement and pride in driving this iconic American car. He emphasized the harmonious evolution of the Mustang and NASCAR, believing that they are two brands that are perfectly matched. The Mustang’s history in NASCAR, including its success in the Xfinity Series, championships, and manufacturer’s titles, is a testament to its excellence in the racing world.
Ryan Blaney of Team Penske shared his anticipation for the new Mustang Dark Horse’s debut and hoped to be the first to secure a win in this impressive machine. He commended Ford Performance for its ability to blend racing performance with the sleek look of the street car.
Chase Briscoe from Stewart-Haas Racing echoed the sentiment, highlighting the aesthetic appeal of the Mustang and its performance capabilities. Ford Performance has consistently delivered a car that not only excels on the racetrack but also pays homage to the street car’s design.
Since its entry into the NASCAR Cup Series in 2019, the Mustang has achieved remarkable success, including a manufacturer’s championship, a driver’s championship with Joey Logano in 2022, and numerous victories in marquee events like the Daytona 500 and the Brickyard 400.
The anticipation for the NASCAR Cup Series Mustang Dark Horse is palpable, and fans are eagerly awaiting its debut on February 4, 2024, as part of the Clash at the Coliseum exhibition race inside the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. As Joey Logano aptly put it, this mean and mighty Mustang promises to look even better in Victory Lane, solidifying its status as an enduring racing legend.
