The renowned Supercars team, Triple Eight Race Engineering, is gearing up for a significant event in Geelong, Victoria, where it will unveil the 2026 Red Bull Ampol Racing livery. The event, titled ‘Ignition On’, is scheduled for February 7 and promises to be a spectacle with sponsor activations, live demonstrations, and appearances by the team’s drivers: Broc Feeney, Will Brown, Scott Pye, and new enduro signing Nick Percat.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment for Triple Eight as they assume Ford’s Supercars homologation duties, transitioning from their previous alliance with General Motors—a shift that was first announced last January. The choice of Geelong as the launch venue underscores Ford’s historical roots in the area, with the company’s Australian operations having been established there over a century ago.
Significance of Geelong in Ford’s Legacy
Geelong holds a special place in Ford’s history, not only as the birthplace of its Australian operations but also through its longstanding partnership with the Geelong Football Club. This sponsorship is believed to be the longest continuous sports sponsorship in history, highlighting the deep ties between the automaker and the town.
To commemorate this enduring relationship, players from the Geelong Cats will be present at the Triple Eight launch event. The synergy between Ford’s automotive heritage and its sporting affiliations is expected to enhance the impact of the livery reveal.
Triple Eight’s Strategic Shift to Ford
The transition to Ford marks a return to the brand after a 16-year hiatus, a move that has been met with excitement from both the team and its fans. Jamie Whincup, managing director of Triple Eight, expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter. “This is a huge moment for Triple Eight and the Red Bull Ampol Racing team,” Whincup stated.
“We’re back with Ford after 16 years and it’s an exciting time to have the Blue Oval on the car. To be able to take the car to Geelong, Ford heartland, where there’s so much history for that iconic brand and build an event that shows fans who we are, what we do and how we’re racing in 2026 is a great opportunity.”
Whincup emphasized the significance of the new race car, which has been designed and built by Triple Eight and features a Triple Eight powertrain. The collaboration with Ford Racing globally, alongside their valued partners, is set to usher in a new era for the team.
Event Details and Expectations
The ‘Ignition On’ event will take place on the scenic Geelong foreshore, beginning at 9:30 am, with the pre-show for the livery unveil starting at 11 am on Hearne Parade. The event is open to the public, providing fans with a unique opportunity to engage with the team and witness the unveiling of the 2026 livery firsthand.
This development follows a series of strategic moves by Triple Eight to strengthen their position in the Supercars championship. By aligning with Ford, the team aims to leverage the brand’s storied motorsport legacy and technological prowess.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Triple Eight and Ford
The move represents a significant shift in the Supercars landscape, with implications for both Triple Eight and the broader motorsport community. As the team prepares to compete with the backing of Ford Racing, industry experts anticipate a competitive edge that could reshape the dynamics of the championship.
Meanwhile, fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how this partnership will unfold on the racetrack. The unveiling in Geelong is not just a nod to the past but also a bold step towards an exciting future for Triple Eight and Ford in the world of Supercars.
As the countdown to the event continues, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark moment in Australian motorsport history. The ‘Ignition On’ event is set to ignite passion and enthusiasm among fans, setting the stage for the next chapter in the Triple Eight, Red Bull Ampol Racing, and Ford Racing story.
