- Ford starts a multiyear term as a proud partner of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby® at the 146th running of the most exciting two minutes in sports
- Louisville, Ky., is home to two Ford factories; Kentucky Truck Plant builds the featured vehicle of this year’s race, the new 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty, as well as the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator, while Louisville Assembly Plant builds the all-new 2020 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair
- Kentucky Derby attendees will enjoy engaging on-site experiences highlighting Ford products at the racetrack during Derby Week; television and web activations are designed to complement and extend the reach of race day excitement across the country
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 9, 2020 – Ford Motor Company and Churchill Downs today announced the start of a multiyear relationship establishing Ford as the proud partner of the iconic racetrack and the Kentucky Derby®. Both Derby champions and Ford products embody the strength, tradition and horsepower that make each brand proudly American.
“With Louisville Assembly Plant and Kentucky Truck Plant practically in the backyard of Churchill Downs, Ford’s participation in this uniquely American tradition is long overdue,” said Matt VanDyke, Ford marketing director. “The Kentucky Derby is the longest-running sporting event in the United States, and one of the most iconic celebrations of the year.
“While our workhorse trucks naturally play a huge role supporting the many aspects of the equine and racing industries, our legendary sports car is named Mustang and our much-anticipated off-roading icon is Bronco. Ford products capture the freedom synonymous with the relationship between a winning horse and jockey.”
The new 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty will serve as the featured vehicle of the 146th Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2020.
“Ford is such a big part of the Louisville community that this new partnership is a natural fit,” said Kevin Flanery, Churchill Downs Racetrack president. “Ford vehicles power so much of our operations at Churchill Downs and many of our breeders rely on Ford Super Duty trucks to transport their precious cargo.”