The Dunlop MSA Formula Ford Championship of Great Britain has concluded a deal which will see the series run to the new FIA Formula 4 race regulations from 2015 onwards. The deal with the MSA will see the motor manufacturer’s UK operation run the first step on a simplified ladder to Formula 1 for aspiring British racers.
The move will bring a new and safer car to the championship in the UK with the addition of an FIA tested Formula 3 carbon fibre monocoque to the package of safety features. The successfully race proven EcoBoost 1.6l turbocharged four cylinder engines which have powered the Formula Ford championship will continue to be used when the new car hits the track for competition at the start of next season.
Fears of spiraling costs have been allayed by a target from the FIA that the rolling chassis complete with data logger and a new paddle shifting gearbox should cost no more than €38,000.
The series will also continue to support the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship meaning that racers will get 30 opportunities to race over the course of the season.
Gerard Quinn, Head of Ford Racing in Europe, said: “We are very pleased that many months of work has brought us to the point today where we can announce our plans for the long-term future of Formula Ford. We have worked closely with the MSA and the FIA, and in particular with the FIA’s Single Seat Commission President Gerhard Berger, to bring the project to fruition.
“The FIA has a focused objective – it wishes to see a clearly set-out path leading to Formula 1, and has created regulations aimed at securing consistent organisational standards, technical fairness, sporting relevancy and stability. Ford is delighted to be working with the MSA and the FIA to bring those plans to fruition.
“Over its 47-year history, Formula Ford has made a massive contribution to motorsport and we are delighted that it will continue to be at the forefront of young driver development.”
“This is a really exciting development for UK motor racing,” said Rob Jones, MSA Chief Executive. “The MSA has been committed to the development of British talent for many years and we are delighted to confirm our support of this championship through the involvement of the MSA Academy. We believe that the new Formula Ford will provide a compelling proposition and offer the best possible learning experience for young drivers in this country.”