The Nürburgring Nordschleife remains the ultimate proving ground for high-performance machines. Stretching over 20 kilometers with relentless elevation changes and an unforgiving sequence of corners, the “Green Hell” is where engineering and human skill are pushed to their absolute limits. It is here that the Ford GT Mk IV has written a new chapter in the brand’s history.
With a lap time of 6:15.977, the Ford GT Mk IV became the fastest American OEM ever to lap the Nordschleife, while also securing the third fastest time ever recorded on the circuit. This achievement places the car among the most capable machines ever to tackle the Nürburgring, across both prototype and high-performance categories.
Behind the wheel was Frédéric Vervisch, a Ford factory driver and Nürburgring specialist with victories in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. His deep knowledge of the circuit was crucial in unlocking the full potential of a car designed exclusively for track performance.
The GT Mk IV represents the final evolution of the current Ford GT generation, limited to just 67 units. It is a purpose-built track machine, powered by a twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 producing over 800 horsepower, paired with race-spec suspension developed by Multimatic and a dedicated racing gearbox. Its extended chassis and carbon fiber long-tail bodywork are engineered for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and extreme downforce.
Engineering without compromise
More than just a lap time, this record reflects a no-compromise engineering philosophy. Every component of the GT Mk IV is designed to operate at the limit, delivering immediate response and precision. According to Vervisch, the car feels like “an extension of your will,” offering a direct and intuitive connection between driver and machine.
The performance achieved at the Nürburgring also highlights the effectiveness of Ford’s collaboration with Multimatic and partners such as Michelin. This technical ecosystem enabled the development of a car capable of maintaining consistency throughout one of the most demanding laps in motorsport.
A legacy that continues
This achievement carries significant historical weight for Ford. It comes ten years after the Ford GT’s class victory at Le Mans and six decades after the GT40 era that defined the brand’s endurance legacy. The GT Mk IV stands as a bridge between past and future, honoring that heritage while pushing performance boundaries even further.
More than a record, this result reinforces Ford Racing’s philosophy: compete, learn and translate that knowledge into road cars. Once again, the Nürburgring proves its role not just as a circuit, but as the ultimate laboratory where the future of performance is shaped.
