The Ford Multimatic Motorsports team is gearing up for a bold new chapter in the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with a radically refreshed driver lineup for its Mustang GT3 program. Only Mike Rockenfeller remains from the 2024 full-season roster, as Christopher Mies, Frederic Vervisch, and Seb Priaulx step into key roles, signaling a dynamic blend of experience and fresh talent.
“The 2025 Mustang GT3 Lineup”
Christopher Mies and Frederic Vervisch, both endurance specialists in 2024, will now take on full-season duties in the No. 64 Mustang GT3, replacing Joey Hand and Dirk Muller. Meanwhile, Seb Priaulx, a rising star with a successful stint in GTD PRO in 2024, joins Rockenfeller in the No. 65 car, taking over from Harry Tincknell.
“Race drivers are the key differentiator in the battle for success on the track,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, in a blog post. “With these lineup changes, we’ve infused fresh talent to accelerate the performance of the Mustang GT3.”
“Drivers Embrace New Roles”
For Mies and Vervisch, stepping into full-time roles with Ford Multimatic Motorsports is the culmination of years of dedication.
“It’s been a dream of mine to be in IMSA full-time,” Mies said. “We know the team and car, so I’m excited to compete in this championship.”
Vervisch echoed the sentiment:
“Ford and Multimatic Motorsports have given so much trust in me, which means a lot. I will do everything I can alongside Christopher to deliver results.”
Priaulx, a familiar face at Multimatic, shared his excitement about rejoining the Mustang GT3 program:
“Multimatic Motorsports has been my home since Larry gave me a chance in the Mustang during the 2019 season. It’s nice to be back where I started in GT racing.”
“Endurance Additions for 2025”
Ford has also confirmed its endurance race lineups, with Dennis Olsen joining Mies and Vervisch in the No. 64 car and Ben Barker teaming up with Rockenfeller and Priaulx for the No. 65.
“Farewell to Veteran Contributors”
Ford paid tribute to the departing drivers, Joey Hand, Dirk Muller, and Harry Tincknell, who played crucial roles in developing the Mustang GT3 during its debut season.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Joey, Dirk, and Harry for their invaluable contribution to the Mustang GT3’s journey,” said Rushbrook. “Their expertise has been essential to our progress. Joey and Dirk will always hold a special place at Ford as Le Mans winners in 2016.”
While these drivers are stepping away from the IMSA program, Rushbrook hinted at future roles for them within the Ford family:
“You haven’t seen the last of them. In fact, you’ll soon hear more about Dirk’s latest endeavors.”
“2024 Struggles Set the Stage for 2025 Growth”
The Mustang GT3’s first season was not without challenges, as the team encountered issues during races that didn’t arise in testing. However, by the latter half of 2024, the car showed significant progress, with the No. 64 Mustang securing multiple podium finishes.
“A lot of work has been done by the team since, and we’re quickly into 2025,” Rockenfeller said. “We’re excited and motivated going into the second season with the Mustang GT3, and we are hopeful to start on the right foot at Daytona.”
“Eyes on Daytona”
Ford Multimatic Motorsports is already preparing for the season’s opening race, participating in the IMSA-sanctioned test at Daytona International Speedway this weekend. With a retooled driver lineup and valuable lessons from 2024, the team aims to make a strong statement in its sophomore year.