By Eve 
The next evolution of the Mustang GT3 is set to make its competitive debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona, marking the culmination of a development process that began as soon as the car first entered global competition.
Rather than a full redesign, the updated Mustang GT3 represents a targeted refinement of an already proven platform. Ford Racing and its partners spent the past two years analyzing data and performance feedback from Mustang GT3 programs around the world, using those insights to improve competitiveness while preserving the car’s identity and long-standing racing heritage.
Engineers identified three core areas for optimization: aerodynamics, kinematics, and braking. Together, the updates aim to deliver stronger performance across a wide range of circuits and race formats, from tight technical tracks to high-speed endurance venues.
Aerodynamic changes are the most visible. The revised package focuses on increasing overall downforce while improving efficiency and consistency. New double dive planes, along with updates to the front splitter and rear diffuser, help stabilize aerodynamic performance and reduce sensitivity to ride height changes. The goal is to provide a more predictable car that drivers of all experience levels can confidently push, regardless of track conditions.
The aerodynamic package has been refined through extensive wind tunnel testing and track development since 2023. Testing took place at circuits including Portimão, Laguna Seca, and Watkins Glen, with each session contributing to incremental gains ahead of the Daytona launch.
To complement the aerodynamic improvements, Ford Racing also updated the Mustang GT3’s kinematics. Adjustments to both the front and rear suspension geometry were made to improve stability and maximize tire performance across multiple compounds. Revisions to characteristics such as anti-dive and camber gain allow the chassis to better support the increased aerodynamic load while improving consistency over long stints.
Braking was the third area of focus. Brembo hardware, already used across multiple Mustang racing platforms, was further integrated into the GT3 program. Testing showed improvements in durability, efficiency, and peak deceleration, all critical factors in endurance events and sprint races alike.
Recent test sessions at Sebring and Daytona served as the final validation of the updated package. The Mustang GT3’s initial 2024 season was treated as a learning phase, which helped fuel success in 2025, including 14 global victories at major events.
As development continues into the off-season, the Mustang GT3 enters its next chapter sharpened by data, experience, and proven results, positioning it for another competitive year on the world stage.
Source
Shawn Henry