Will the Ford vs. Ferrari 2019 Movie Have a Sequel?

The success of the 2019 film Ford vs. Ferrari has sparked renewed interest in the automotive rivalry that defined the 1960s. While the movie focused on the 1966 race and the thrilling competition between Ford and Ferrari, there is much more to the story than what was depicted in the film. In particular, the 1967 Le Mans race offered a more intense and multifaceted narrative that could make for a compelling sequel in the future.

The 1966 Ford vs. Ferrari Battle

As we explored in the first installment, the 1966 race between Ford and Ferrari was a crucial moment in the history of motorsports. This was the year when Henry Ford II's obsession to best the Italian brand culminated in a stunning victory for the American automaker. Before this, Ford's GT MK I was a damp squib, with disappointing performances in both 1964 and 1965. The launch of the MK II in 1966, after extensive improvements and innovations, marked a turning point in the rivalry. The movie accurately captured the dramatic tension, but there's so much more to the story.

The 1967 Le Mans Race: An Even More Intense Ford vs. Ferrari Battle

1967 was even more exciting than the previous year. The 1967 Le Mans race marked a significant milestone in the Ford vs. Ferrari saga. This edition of the race was one of the most intense and action-packed, featuring a battle of titans between Ford and Ferrari. At the time, the Ford! GT 40s were on a quest for a clean sweep victory, while Ferrari aimed to reclaim their dominance in the high-stakes racing. The competition was not restricted to just one or two iconic Ford and Ferrari rivalries; it was a series of exciting confrontations across the racetrack.

A major highlight of the 1967 race was the dramatic showdown between the GT 40s and Ferrari's-entering real-life heroes Marshall Pruett and Simon Pedraza driving for Ensign Racing. The battle was covered extensively in the movie, but there were other essential and impactful storylines that did not receive the same level of attention. This year, there was a full-scale confrontation between Ford and Ferrari drivers, with the Ford MK IV getting involved in a bitter, on-track battle with the Ferrari 330-P2. This fierce competition would have added depth to the narrative, especially as it showcased the technical and human aspects of the rivalry.

The Inclusion of Ken Miles: A Prequel to the Story

One of the most significant elements missing from the first film was the untold story of Ken Miles, a legendary racing driver who played a pivotal role in the development of the GT 40. Although not a central figure in the Ford vs. Ferrari movie, his contribution was critical to the eventual success of the GT 40 project. Ken's inclusion would have added a prequel layer to the story, providing deeper insights and a more complete picture of the events leading up to the 1966 race. His passion, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice in the quest for racing glory would have resonated with audiences, adding a more human and emotional dimension to the narrative.

The Potential for a Sequel

Given the success of the first Ford vs. Ferrari movie and the rich source material available, there is a strong argument for producing a sequel that delves deeper into the 1967 Le Mans race and the broader narrative leading to that moment. The 1967 race was filled with unexpected twists, legendary drivers, and groundbreaking technology, offering a wealth of untold stories that could captivate a wide audience.

A sequel would not only cover the memorable moments of the 1967 race but also explore the emotional and technical journeys of the key figures involved. It would delve into the untold aspects of the design and development process, showcasing the intricate work behind the scenes that led to the creation of the GT 40. The story of Ken Miles could serve as a powerful narrative thread, highlighting his heroic and tragic saga alongside the larger competitive landscape.

Conclusion

The 1966 race between Ford and Ferrari captured the essence of the rivalry and the spirit of competition, but there is still so much more to the story. The 1967 Le Mans race, with its intense battle between Ford's GT 40s and Ferrari's 330-P2, offers a compelling backdrop for a potential sequel. By expanding on the key themes and adding new perspectives, a sequel could provide a more comprehensive and engaging narrative that complements the original movie. As the automotive legend lives on, a Ford vs. Ferrari sequel is not just a tantalizing idea; it's a narrative waiting to be discovered.