Ford Australia has announced the appointment of Christopher Styring to lead the company’s motorsport program.

Styring will be responsible for all areas of Ford’s motorsport involvement and developing an ongoing strategy of success for the Blue Oval in Australian racing.

It’s the first time that Ford has had a motorsport representative after Ray Price left the position in mid-2008.

At the moment, Ford Performance Racing and Stone Brothers Racing have ongoing deals with the Ford Motor Company, however a restructure and additions to those deals are expected to be announced this week.

Styring joins Ford Australia following 16 months as Head of Sponsorship and Business Development at Tennis Australia. His prior experience includes the position of General Manager of Relationship Marketing at the Richmond Football Club and more than nine years with the WilliamsF1 team.

In addition to motorsport, Styring will also be responsible for Ford’s other sponsorship and major events activities.

“I am excited and pleased to be joining Ford to lead its motorsport and other sponsorship activities,” said Styring.

“Marin (Burela – Ford Australia President and CEO) has been very clear in his brief to me – he wants a strong and formidable Ford presence and success both on and off the track.

“I look forward to working collaboratively with all the teams that Ford supports to ensure we maintain our leadership position.”

Burela is delighted to introduce Styring to the Ford family.

“Chris comes highly recommended and has extensive sports management experience across a number of different categories, from Formula 1, to Australian Rules Football and tennis,” he said.

“His background and experience in motorsport, particularly at the highest level in F1, was key to him joining us at Ford following an extensive search and recruitment process.

“I am delighted that he will be working very closely with the Ford race teams, our marketing and sales team and directly with me to ensure we have a winning strategy going forward.”

“Chris has three main priorities – to win races, build strong and productive relationships with the Ford teams and to develop our longer term motorsport strategy. He will ensure that the broader strength of Ford Motor Company is brought to bear to ensure our ongoing success.”