Rod Nash & ‘Rusty’ French Complete Ford Performance Racing Takeover

Ford Performance Racing has completed a change of ownership with Rod Nash and “Rusty” French taking over the team from Prodrive. 

“Rusty and I are pleased we’ve been able to acquire a business as strong as FPR which is not only an icon of Australian sport, but one of this country’s leading specialist engineering firms,” said Nash.

Tim Edwards is going to remain Team Manager and the Australian is confident that the change of ownership will strengthen the team.

“We welcome Rod and Rusty with open arms as they are two men very committed to ensuring our team continues to be successful. They are not only extremely passionate about racing but both are very successful businessmen in their own right so I look forward to the fresh approach they can provide us across all facets of the team,” said Edwards.

While changing owners, Prodrive will still remain a strong technical and strategical partner.

“We are delighted to pass our ownership of Ford Performance Racing to Rod Nash and Rusty French. Rod has been a tremendous partner to the team over many years,” said Prodrive chairman and chief executive, David Richards.

“Last season was the most successful in the 10 year history of FPR and we are pleased to be handing it over in such good competitive and commercial health, reinforced at the end of last year by the announcement of a major new partnership with Pepsi.

“Over the last decade, I have really enjoyed being part of the Australian V8 scene and developing FPR to the competitive status it enjoys today. The races are always close and the passion the Australian fans have for the FPR team and the series itself is something I have rarely seen in any other form of motorsport.

“FPR continues to be part of the Prodrive family and we retain our close technical and commercial relationship going forwards and I will personally continue to follow the team’s progress with great interest.

“I would like to pass on Prodrive’s appreciation and thanks to the FPR team members, Ford Australia, all of FPR’s current and past commercial partners and, of course, to the FPR fans, who make V8 Supercars one of the finest racing series in the world.”