One-of-two Matech Ford GT Prototype to Be Shown for the First Time

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Rare and historic Ford GT racer joins an amazing Blue Oval lineup at Carlisle Ford Nationals May 31-June 2.

As if we needed another reason to attend this year’s Carlisle Ford Nationals, now we’ve got a really good one. For the first time ever, the public will get to lay eyes on the 2009 Matech Ford GT Prototype GT1 race car, one of just two built by the Swiss racing team. This particular car is historically significant, as it marked the Ford GT‘s return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time since 1969, when it capped off four historic wins. And now, attendees will get to see it in the flesh this May 31-June 2.

This special Ford GT competed in several races during the 2009 FIA GT Championship Series, playing a large role in helping Matech develop their aerodynamics efficiency. They were then able to roll out a full blown GT1 racer in 2010 with Ford’s factory support. Those follow up racers, built from 2010-2012, will join the prototype at Carlisle. That includes the #60 car, which was contending for the lead at LeMans before a crash ended its night prematurely.

2009 Matech Ford GT Prototype

And that’s just part the special Ford GT display planned for the Carlisle Ford Nationals. A host of other special rides will join Matech’s lineup. And a handful of them will even hit the track for some hot laps on the Gateway Classic Mustang Autocross course starting at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 1.

2009 Matech Ford GT Prototype

As if that wasn’t enough, Ford is also bringing a slew of new, old, and future products to Pennsylvania. That includes the new GT, GT500, High Performance Package Mustang, Stage 3 Roush Mustang, and Roush F-150. For fans of the Blue Oval, it doesn’t get much better than that. You can find a full schedule of events and purchase your tickets by heading over here.

Photos: Carlisle Events

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Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.


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