Ford did stage a 1-2-3 photo finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. It was a strategic move orchestrated by Leo Beebe, the head of Ford’s racing division, in order to create a powerful and memorable image for the company.
As the race progressed, it became clear that the Ford GT40 MkIIIs were dominating the competition, particularly Ferrari. The GT40 MkIIIs were specially designed by Ford to be faster, more reliable, and more fuel-efficient than their competitors. With their powerful engines and aerodynamic designs, they were able to leave Ferrari far behind.
Leo Beebe saw an opportunity to not only secure a victory for Ford but also to generate significant positive publicity. He realized that if he could arrange for all three GT40 MkIIIs to cross the finish line together, it would create a powerful visual symbol of Ford’s dominance in the race.
Beebe worked closely with the drivers and pit crews to coordinate their efforts. He instructed them to maintain a close formation during the final laps of the race, ensuring that all three cars would be side by side as they crossed the finish line.
This was not an easy task, as the race was extremely demanding, and maintaining such a close formation for an extended period of time required precise driving and coordination. However, the drivers and pit crews were determined to execute Beebe’s plan and secure a historic 1-2-3 finish for Ford.
In the final moments of the race, the three GT40 MkIIIs, driven by Bruce McLaren, Chris Amon, and Ken Miles, crossed the finish line in the desired formation. The photo of their triumphant finish became an iconic image, symbolizing Ford’s victory and showcasing the company’s engineering prowess.
However, it is worth noting that there was some controversy surrounding the finish. Ken Miles, who was leading the race in the final lap, was instructed by Beebe to slow down and allow Bruce McLaren to take the checkered flag first. This decision was made in order to give McLaren, who was Ford’s preferred driver, the glory of the victory.
Miles reluctantly obeyed the team orders, and McLaren was declared the winner of the race. Many argue that Miles deserved to win, as he had played a crucial role in developing the GT40 and had been leading the race for most of its duration.
Ford did indeed stage a 1-2-3 photo finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. It was a strategic move orchestrated by Leo Beebe to create a powerful and memorable image for Ford. While the finish generated controversy due to team orders, it remains a significant moment in racing history and a testament to Ford’s dominance in the race.