Ford to bring Mustang to 2019 NASCAR Cup Series

[April 18, 2018]    Ford announced Tuesday that it plans to switch body styles from the Fusion to the Mustang for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series in 2019.

The Mustang will be Ford's fourth different Cup Series model since 1972, following the Thunderbird, Taurus and Fusion. Ford has used the Mustang in the NASCAR Xfinity Series since 2011.

The switch comes following similar decisions by Toyota and Chevrolet in recent years. Chevrolet began using the Camaro ZL1 model in the Cup Series this year.

Ford officials say the Mustang is still going through testing and designs will be formally submitted to NASCAR for approval this summer.

"This announcement makes me very happy," said Ford board member Edsel B. Ford II in a press release. "Mustang is a car that is woven into the fabric of our country, and it's only right that we put it on the track in NASCAR's most visible series. I can't wait."

Ford supports six organizations and has 13 teams in its NASCAR lineup, including Wood Brothers Racing, Roush Fenway Racing, Team Penske, Stewart-Haas Racing, Front Row Motorsports and Go Fas Racing. Five of the top six drivers in this year's Cup Series standings -- Joey Logano (2nd), Kevin Harvick (3rd), Clint Bowyer (4th), Brad Keselowski (5th) and Ryan Blaney (6th) -- drive Fords.

--Field Level Media

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