Jaguar Eyes Formula One Return in 2001 as Part of Ford's Marketing Strategy

Ford's luxury car division, Jaguar, is being considered to make a return to the Formula One racing scene in 2001, sources close to the company have revealed. This move would be part of an ambitious marketing exercise by Ford to maintain its presence in the high-profile sport, where its key rivals, Mercedes and BMW, are already making their mark. The speculation suggests that Ford may attempt to acquire Stewart Grand Prix, with which it has an exclusive contract to supply engines, and rebrand it as a bespoke Jaguar F1 operation. However, the Stewart family has denied any plans to sell, and the deal remains uncertain.

Key Takeaways:

• Ford is considering a return to Formula One with the Jaguar brand as part of a marketing exercise, potentially starting in the 2001 season.
• The move would aim to maintain Ford's presence in the high-profile sport, where rival brands Mercedes and BMW are already competing.
• The speculation suggests that Ford may acquire Stewart Grand Prix and rebrand it as a bespoke Jaguar F1 operation.
• The Stewart family has denied any plans to sell the team, despite Ford's contractual obligation to terminate the engine supply deal by the end of 2000 unless extended for the 2001 season.
• Jaguar's competitive past in F1 was spearheaded by the TWR operation of Tom Walkinshaw, which achieved success with the 1992 Jaguar XJR-14.
• The TWR operation's 1992 Jaguar XJR-14 used a detuned and badged Cosworth Ford F1 engine.

Statistics:

• Jaguar has achieved seven victories since World War II in the grueling Le Mans 24-hour sports car race.
• Mika Hakkinen won the 1998 F1 world championship in a Mercedes-powered McLaren.
• BMW is set to begin its partnership with Williams in F1 in the 2000 season.
• Jaguar's TWR-operated XJR-14 won the 1992 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Sources:

• "Byline: ALAN HENRY JAGUAR" article, unknown publication date, provided in the original text.