Motorsport Hall of Fame Honors Edsel B. Ford II

In the heart of Daytona Beach, Florida, on March 13, 2024, the motorsport community gathered to pay homage to one of its most distinguished figures: Edsel B. Ford II. Renowned for his pivotal role in Ford Motor Company’s racing endeavors and his unwavering dedication to the sport of auto racing, Ford was bestowed with the prestigious Bob Russo Heritage Award at the 2024 Induction Ceremony for the Motorsport Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA).

The Bob Russo Heritage Award, named in honor of the esteemed motorsports journalist and historian, stands as the MSHFA’s highest accolade, reserved for individuals whose contributions to motorsports are unparalleled. Ford’s legacy in the world of racing is not only marked by his familial ties to the Ford Motor Company but also by his profound impact as an ambassador for the sport on a global scale.

For Ford, the journey into the realm of motorsports began at the tender age of 17, alongside his father, Henry Ford II, as they witnessed the historic 1-2-3 finish by the Ford GT40s at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. This seminal moment ignited a lifelong passion for racing, leading Ford to become a familiar presence on starting grids at major races worldwide.

Reflecting on the honor bestowed upon him by the MSHFA, Ford expressed humility, emphasizing the profound influence of motorsports on his life journey. “Outside of my family, the sport of motor racing has been one of the great passions of my life, and to be honored by the MSHFA in this way is humbling,” remarked Ford. He further acknowledged the sport’s ability to cultivate remarkable individuals and cherished friendships formed within its community.

Ford’s immersion in motorsports extended beyond mere spectatorship, as he actively engaged with legendary figures and iconic races throughout his career. From traveling the SCCA Trans Am circuit with the Bud Moore Engineering race team to forging a lifelong friendship with Carroll Shelby, Ford’s experiences epitomize a profound commitment to the sport’s ethos.

Jim Farley, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company, lauded Ford’s indelible mark on the racing landscape, dubbing him “The Godfather” of Ford’s performance motorsports. Farley highlighted Ford’s instrumental role in fostering Ford Performance Motorsports and his unwavering support for Ford teams worldwide. From pioneering initiatives in NASCAR to catalyzing collaborations between renowned figures like Robert Yates and Jack Roush, Ford’s impact reverberates throughout the racing community.

Beyond his contributions to motorsports, Ford’s illustrious career at Ford Motor Company spanned diverse roles, from product planning to executive leadership. His tenure as president of Ford Australia and head of Lincoln-Mercury Division marketing underscored his multifaceted involvement in the automotive industry, including ventures into the world of Supercars racing.

Ford’s philanthropic endeavors further attest to his commitment to community and heritage preservation. His involvement with organizations such as the Detroit 300 Conservancy and the National Advisory Board of the Salvation Army exemplifies a steadfast dedication to social responsibility and cultural enrichment.

Recognized for his enduring impact on the automotive industry, Ford has received numerous accolades, including the Keith Crain/Automotive News Lifetime Achievement Award and the Landmark Award from the NASCAR Hall of Fame. His recent induction into the North Carolina Motorsport Hall of Fame alongside longtime friend Roger Penske underscores his enduring legacy in the annals of motorsports history.

Today, as the owner and chairman of Pentastar Aviation in Waterford, Michigan, Ford continues to exemplify a commitment to excellence and innovation, traits that have defined his illustrious career in motorsports and beyond. As we celebrate Edsel B. Ford II’s induction into the Motorsport Hall of Fame of America, we honor not only a racing icon but a visionary whose passion has left an indelible mark on the sport we cherish.

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