Ford plans radical F1 restructure

Following weeks of high profile meetings among Ford's top brass, the world's third largest manufacturer seems poised to completely revamp its global sporting portfolio. Investment in Jaguar's F1 programme has not reaped significant reward in the US market and a final meeting next week will determine whether a restructured 'Ford GP' will take its place on the grid in 2005.

Any 'Ford GP' programme is unlikely to be funded entirely by the car maker however and sources indicate that it is on the verge of securing investment from the Far East, which could extend to part ownership of the team.

Tony Purnell, the CEO of Ford's Premier Performance Division (which includes Jaguar Racing), hinted in Autosport's sister magazine F1 Racing that the team's potential is likely to be enhanced next year. "If other teams had the opportunities that are on my plate at the moment, they'd be envious," he said.

No decision is thought to have been made on the fate of Ford's WRC programme. Malcolm Wilson, the team boss of M-Sport, the squad that operates the works WRC attack, flew back from last weekend's Rally Japan for emergency meetings with Ford's management and it is thought he was told there are not funds available for a full campaign in 2005.

Wilson however is known to be campaigning for at least a selected event programme and the chance to develop a new car for following seasons, based on the new Focus model.

Ford is also evaluating its potential involvement in other areas of motorsport. As well as boosting its support for its long-running junior Formula Ford category, an assault on next year's inaugural FIA World Touring Car Championship has not been ruled out.