In the 1967 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Ford GT MK IV, specifically car number 1, emerged victorious. The race took place on June 10-11, 1967, at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France.
Car number 1 was piloted by American drivers Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt. Gurney, who had previously achieved success at Le Mans in 1966, and Foyt, a highly accomplished and versatile American racing driver, formed a formidable team.
The Ford GT MK IV was the latest evolution of Ford's GT40 program, aimed at defeating the dominant Ferrari team in endurance racing. The MK IV featured a powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine, improved aerodynamics, and advanced engineering, making it a strong contender for victory.
The 1967 Le Mans race saw fierce competition between Ford and Ferrari once again. Ford was determined to continue its winning streak from the previous year, while Ferrari sought to reclaim its dominance at the historic event.
Gurney and Foyt's car number 1 performed admirably throughout the race. They faced strong competition from the Ferrari team, as well as other teams fielding powerful sports cars like Chaparral and Porsche.
The race was grueling, with teams facing various challenges, including mechanical issues, unpredictable weather conditions, and intense competition. Gurney and Foyt showcased their driving prowess and steered the Ford GT MK IV to maintain a competitive position throughout the race.
In the final hours of the race, car number 1 emerged as the frontrunner, battling for the lead with other Ford GT40s and a Ferrari 330 P4. Gurney and Foyt's determination, combined with the reliability and performance of the Ford GT MK IV, allowed them to maintain their lead.
As the checkered flag waved, car number 1 crossed the finish line, securing the overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans for Gurney and Foyt. It was a momentous achievement for the Ford team, as it marked their second consecutive win at Le Mans and solidified their dominance in sports car racing.
Gurney and Foyt's victory in the 1967 Le Mans race further established their reputations as accomplished and talented drivers. It also contributed to Ford's legacy in motorsports, cementing their place in racing history with the GT40 program.
The 1967 Ford GT MK IV Le Mans victory not only represented a triumph for Ford but also served as a symbol of American automotive engineering and racing prowess. The success of the GT40 program at Le Mans remains one of the most iconic and significant achievements in motorsport history.