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Team Sky and Ford announce new two-year partnership

  • Ron 

Team Sky is excited to announce a new two-year partnership with Ford Motor Company, our exclusive supplier of cars and vans through 2019.

To celebrate, Ford have developed a special version of the new Focus RS Option Pack for the 2017 Tour de France. Sporting a striking new white livery that matches Team Sky’s special edition Tour de France jerseys, the Focus RS Option Pack will act as a time trial and recon vehicle for the Tour, which starts on July 1 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

The stunning new Focus RS features a mechanical limited-slip differential, a custom‑made bicycle rack and Recaro seats that were specially developed for the team. The seats are flatter and enable the driver and support team more freedom to move inside the car. These non-shell seats also make it easier to quickly get in and out of the car in race situations.

The performance and handling of the Focus RS will be essential for following the riders, who achieve speeds of up to 70 km/h as they negotiate the 14-kilometre time trial course. During race stages, it will be the daily recon car, scouting in front of the riders to recce the road ahead.

As with the Mondeo wagons used by Team Sky’s Sport Directors, the Focus RS has been modified to handle ever-changing race scenarios, road conditions and weather. They are also prepared to cope with more than 350 kilograms of added weight, including spare bikes and wheels, drink bottles, tools, and even a large coolbox. Team carers and VIPs use AWD‑equipped Ford S‑MAX sports activity vehicles and Edge sports utility vehicles.

“We’re delighted to be extending our partnership with Ford – a company with the same principles of tackling challenges that we at Team Sky have,” said Team Principal Sir David Brailsford. “Ford vehicles play a vital role for Team Sky and their knowledge and support makes them an integral part of our team.”

“Racing on two wheels is increasingly capturing the imagination of sports fans across Europe – and is underpinned by the best possible support on four wheels. We are excited to continue to support Team Sky in their pursuit of further cycling success,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

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