NASCAR driver Austin Cindric has been confirmed as a member of the Ford Multimatic Motorsports team for the 2025 edition of the 24 Hours of Daytona, an event sanctioned by IMSA. Cindric will replace driver Ben Barker, who sustained a collarbone fracture during the holidays. The American will join the trio competing with the Ford Mustang GT3 No. 64, alongside regular drivers Mike Rockenfeller and Sebastian Priaulx.
Cindric's comments on his Daytona participation
“This event has always been special to me,” said Cindric, who will compete in this race for the sixth time. “Although I regret Ben's situation, I’m ready to give my best for the team and represent Ford and Multimatic at the start of the season.” Cindric is no stranger to endurance racing; his experience includes notable performances in the Michelin Pilot Challenge with the Ford Mustang GT4, even achieving a victory with Priaulx at Road Atlanta in 2019.
Backed by his Ford experience
Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, emphasized Cindric's adaptability and proven skills driving a Mustang across various disciplines, from NASCAR to sports cars. "While Ben's injury led us to make this decision unexpectedly, we know Austin is a suitable choice to compete alongside Sebastian and Mike."
Prior to his consolidation in NASCAR, where he won the 2022 Daytona 500, Cindric gained experience in various sports car categories, including his role as a development driver for Ford.
Long-term ties with the team
“This year marks a decade since I debuted at Daytona with Multimatic and Ford in the Michelin Pilot Challenge,” reflected Cindric. “Competing with them again on such a significant date is an honor. I’m excited to start working and contribute to the best possible result.”
Meanwhile, Pascal Zurlinden, executive vice president of Multimatic Engineering & Special Vehicle Operations, expressed confidence in Cindric and the team's potential for the race. He also confirmed that Barker is recovering and will soon return to his activities.
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