Riley Motorsports Reintroduces Mustang GT3 in Historic IMSA GTD Program
Riley Motorsports has announced the revival of its historical alliance with Ford by launching a 2026 IMSA GTD program featuring the new Mustang GT3. The team recently received the vehicle at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. The car’s striking livery, with a white base and red stripes, pays homage to the Motorcraft-sponsored 1985 Roush/Protofab Mustang GTO, which clinched an IMSA class championship that year.
The Riley family’s legacy with Ford dates back further, as Bill Riley’s father, Bob Riley—who passed away last year—contributed to the design of the Ford GT Mk IV and served as the lead designer of the 1983 front-engined Mustang GTP.
“Having Bill Riley and his team on-board with Ford Racing is an exciting development as we aim to broaden our competitive customer base,” stated Alex Allmandinger, Ford Racing’s global sports car manager. “The Mustang GT3 is equipped for success in top-level GT races worldwide.”
Bill Riley reflected on the significance of the occasion: “It feels like ‘coming home,’ having grown up in Detroit. Receiving this Ford Mustang GT3 at The Henry Ford was special. With the capabilities offered by Ford Racing and Multimatic Motorsports, it’s now up to us to deliver.”
As the announcement unfolds, Riley Motorsports is poised for its final outings with its current IMSA programs at the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season-ending Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. This race marks the conclusion of Gar Robinson’s full-season LMP2 effort, following his transition to Rally Raid. Additionally, the team will conclude its service for Lamborghini’s GTP campaign with the SC63 after a single season, coinciding with a program pause.
Riley Motorsports’ integration into the Mustang GT3 program not only underscores the historical bond with Ford but also sets the stage for a competitive 2026 season.
