Cologne, July 3, 2008 – All eyes are on the Ford muscle cars competing this weekend in the next round of the FIA GT3 European Championship and the FIA GT4 European Cup racing series at Oschersleben circuit in Germany.
After an excellent start to the season, Ford cars lead both championships and all standings for drivers and teams, despite the torrential rain that dominated the last round in Monza on May 18.
In GT3, the Matech GT Racing team leads the European Teams Championship with 49 points thanks to the success of the Ford GTs driven by Ian Khan/Thomas Mutsch, and Bradley Ellis/Alex Mortimer.
In the GT4 European Cup, the unbeatable Motorsport 98 Ford Mustang FR500C driven by Eric De Doncker will set the pace. The Belgian driver, who ended the season last year by claiming the GT4 championship, is determined to maintain his leadership and double his success.
Although the German circuit - characterised by a tight and twisting track - promises to be spectacular for the racegoing public, it will be challenging for teams and drivers.
While Mortimer and Ellis are new to this track, De Doncker claimed his first win here last year, which gives him an advantage for this season.
"My primary objective is to score as many points as possible in order to retain the title but I know it won't be easy because this is a tough circuit," said De Doncker. The races will be absolutely fantastic to watch because competitiveness is at top levels, and my adversaries are all first class drivers."
"With my team, Insulco Motorsport 98, we are confident that we can once again make a difference. So far in the championship Mustang has handled the rugged weather and challenging conditions superbly – it is a great car, extremely reliable, and with a unique sound!" he concluded.
The FIA GT4 European Cup is developing at record speed. Last June the first Dutch GT4 Championship in Zandvoort was launched, and will have its inaugural season in 2009. Meanwhile additional brands are considering a move into GT4 to compete from next year onwards.
This weekend the Ford GTs and Mustang FR500GT are competing in the 3rd double round of FIA European GT3 championship whereas the Mustang FR500C competes in the 3rd triple round of FIA GT4 European Cup.