Ford Teams Up with Kentucky Derby for Major Sponsorship
Ford starts multiyear term as partner of Kentucky Derby at 146th event on May 2.
Ford Motor Company and Churchill Downs has 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 Van Dyke, 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 featured vehicle of the 146th Kentucky Derby on May 2.
“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.”
As official truck, non-luxury SUV, car and van of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, Ford is hosting on-site activations throughout Derby Week, including special access for FordPass Rewards members plus celebrations for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Each Kentucky Oaks and Derby horse owner will also receive a Ford Explorer to use during the event.
In addition, Derby attendees can experience a wide variety of displays highlighting the Built Ford Proud lineup, including the new 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty that recently began production at Kentucky Truck Plant and the all-new 2020 Ford Escape that’s built at Louisville Assembly Plant.
“Our employees here in Louisville are proud to be building products that play an integral role in our customers’ lives, and now for the great American tradition that is the Kentucky Derby,” said Joe Bobnar, Ford director of manufacturing for Louisville Assembly Plant and Kentucky Truck Plant. “This partnership means something special to our thousands of dedicated employees, retirees and dealers in the Louisville community.”
The company will also host a Ford Day during the 2020 racing season, granting Ford employees and their guests free admission to a race day at Churchill Downs.