Ford GT Mk IV Makes Nürburgring History with Third Fastest Lap Ever

Apr 02, 2026

COLOGNE, Germany - The Ford GT Mk IV has set the record as the fastest American OEM around the Nürburgring, and the third fastest overall car to ever lap the Nordschleife including race cars and prototype electric vehicles.

Its 6:15.977 time means that the GT Mk IV – as a track-only vehicle classified in the prototype
category – is the fastest car currently available for purchase to lap the Nürburgring
Nordschleife. It also is the fastest Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) car around the Ring

Click the video link to watch in-car footage of the record-breaking run.

The incredible GT Mk IV is one of only 67 examples scheduled for production, marking the culmination of the third generation of the Ford GT. Each of these rare beasts is powered by a specially engineered twin-turbo Ford EcoBoost® engine producing over 800 horsepower, and features Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) race suspension from engineering partner, Multimatic, a longer wheelbase, and a bespoke racing gearbox.

Its carbon fibre "long tail" body is a functional work of art, designed for maximum downforce and relentless speed.

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The track-only Ford GT Mk IV is one of only 67 examples scheduled for production, marking the culmination of the third generation of the Ford GT
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Ford GT Mk IV
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Ford GT Mk IV
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Ford GT Mk IV
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Ford GT Mk IV
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Ford GT Mk IV

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To tame the Green Hell and extract every ounce of performance from the GT Mk IV, you need a driver of exceptional talent and intimate knowledge of the track. Enter Frédéric Vervisch, a factory driver for Ford Racing.

Frédéric is no stranger to the Nürburgring's challenges, having twice conquered the gruelling Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2019 and 2022. He also made history as one of the first winners in the new Mustang GT3 at the 2025 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, a testament to his versatility and winning pedigree.

"Driving the Ford GT Mk IV at the Nürburgring is an experience unlike any other," Frédéric shared after his monumental laps. "The car is an absolute weapon, a true extension of your will. Every input is met with an immediate, precise response. Through the Kesselchen, over the Flugplatz, it just inspires confidence, allowing you to push harder and harder. You feel the history of the track, and you feel the immense capability of the Ford Racing engineers who poured their hearts into this machine. To set these records is a dream come true, a testament to what's possible when passion meets precision."

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Ford Racing’s Scott Bartlett: “Our assault on the Nürburgring with the GT Mk IV was a team effort"
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Ford Racing’s Scott Bartlett: “Our assault on the Nürburgring with the GT Mk IV was a team effort"
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The Ford GT Mk IV lapped the Nordschleife in 6:15.977
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The Ford GT Mk IV lapped the Nordschleife in 6:15.977
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The Ford GT Mk IV lapped the Nordschleife in 6:15.977
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The Ford GT Mk IV lapped the Nordschleife in 6:15.977

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Ford Racing’s Scott Bartlett said: “Our assault on the Nürburgring with the GT Mk IV was a team effort, with the support of our partners at Multimatic and Michelin. This moment also underscores the incredible diversity of performance vehicles within the Ford Racing stable.”

He adds: “We've brought everything from purpose-built electric demonstrators to track-focused production cars to this iconic circuit, each pushing the boundaries of technology and showcasing our commitment to innovation. What we learn from these extreme challenges directly translates into making better road cars for our customers worldwide.”

Here's a look at some of the incredible performances Ford vehicles have delivered at the Nürburgring:

For four days, from Good Friday to Easter Monday, both the Nordschleife and the Grand Prix circuit will be open all day for the popular tourist runs. Those who want to experience the legendary asphalt for themselves pay 35 euros per lap.

This year, the driving fun is complemented by a special theme: With a new campaign, the Nürburgring, together with local municipalities and the police, is promoting respectful coexistence throughout the region. At the heart of it is a clear message: “Your home for a weekend. Our home for a lifetime.”