Ford Renews Partnership With Kentucky Derby For 150th Edition

Finally, it is that time of the year when we can start to talk about the Kentucky Derby. Even though it is a few months away, being their anniversary year promises a lot for this year’s race. 

The organizers of the Kentucky Derby already promised some changes, the introduction of new areas on Churchill Downs, and a celebration like no other year.

After all, it is their 150th anniversary which is a big milestone for the Kentucky Derby.

So, get prepared since time flies fast.

When you see the Churchill Downs racetrack, what’s the first thing that comes to mind apart from horses?

For me, I wondered what car could handle the rough terrain and possibly organize a moto race on the dirt surface. Yes, I know it goes against Churchill Down’s tradition, but it is just a thought. 

The dirt surface on the track is tough, and apart from horses, Ford is another option that can storm through the track without any problems. Therefore, it is the perfect partnership with the Kentucky Derby showing their rugged style and performance.

Is there a better vehicle to highlight at the year’s most significant horse race than a pickup truck with best-in-class horsepower?

In today’s article, we will dive deeper into Ford’s and Churchill Downs’ partnership and find out more about what this brings to the table.

Churchill Downs and Ford Partnership

Ford Motor Company and Churchill Downs in 2020 announced the commencement of a multi-year partnership that will see Ford become the legendary racetrack’s and the Kentucky Derby’s proud sponsor. 

Both Derby winners and Ford goods represent the strength, heritage, and horsepower that make each brand proudly American. 

Located just a stone’s throw from Churchill Downs, the Louisville Assembly Plant and Kentucky Truck Plant’s involvement in the Kentucky Derby marks a significant milestone, as observed by Matt Van Dyke, Ford’s marketing director. 

He noted the Derby’s status as the oldest continuous sporting event in the United States and highlighted its position as one of the nation’s most iconic annual celebrations, suggesting that Ford’s engagement with this event is a long-anticipated and fitting tribute to a quintessentially American tradition. 

Ford’s robust trucks are integral to supporting the equine and racing sectors, reflecting the essential role they play in various facets of these industries. Additionally, Ford’s storied sports car, the Mustang, along with the eagerly awaited off-road vehicle, the Bronco, exemplify the essence of freedom that resonates with the dynamic partnership between a triumphant horse and its jockey. 

This analogy underscores Ford’s products as embodying the liberty and spirit associated with the profound connection found in the racing world.

You can see similarities between Ford and the racehorses exactly on these characteristics. Check out who age the ones leading the future wager pool for the event in May here: twinspires.com/kentuckyderby/future-wager-pool/ 

Last Year’s Partnership

Last year’s Saturday at Churchill Downs, hundreds of thousands of people saw more than just the horses.

Ford Motor Company, one of Louisville’s top employers, sponsored the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby to promote the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger, which aired live on NBC. But they’ve also shown all of the new 2024 models that they are coming into production this year.

Ford hopes to communicate with consumers and generate enthusiasm before launching the Michigan-built vehicle, according to Dan Barbossa, a Ford representative.

A 15-second preview trailer of the Ranger truck was broadcast live on NBC. Before and after the race. Additionally, all of their new models were present throughout the week on the Churchill Downs racetrack, and they’ve also organized a catering event and a photo shoot.

Barbossa stated that the 2024 Ford Ranger will be “fully redesigned” and offered in over 180 places across the world.

What Will Ford Promote on the 150^th Kentucky Derby?

But that’s last year’s promo for the race, and for the 150th Kentucky Derby anniversary we still don’t know which cars will Ford promote. One thing is for sure, Fort has a lot of things to showcase this year to make the Derby even more special.

First of all, they have their bestselling Ford F-150 pickup truck, the redesigned 2024 model. This model comes with a lot of improvements on their towing system, making it a perfect showcase for a horse racing event since they tow their horses all around the world.

The exterior is not much different than the previous models, but there are a lot of quality-of-life improvements on the new F-150.

But the one the fans are most excited about is the 2025 Ford Explorer that might be showcased at the 150th Kentucky Derby. This SUV features a new bold styling on the outside, with luxurious insides, as well as hands-free highway driving, a huge 13.2 LCD touchscreen, a special Class III trailer tow package, and much more.

Final Words

This is one of the best partnerships in horse racing history just because both of these brands go well together. We just have to wait and see what will be unveiled on the race day, but one thing is for sure.

It will be a show to remember, so set up reminders just to avoid missing the most important day of the year in the horse racing industry.