Ford has to find replacement for Bourdais at LeMans

Ford at LeMans

Ford Performance Global Director Dave Pericak says they will determine their revised lineup for next month's 24 Hours of Le Mans “in the days ahead" following Sebastien Bourdais' serious accident at Indianapolis, which has ruled out the Frenchman for the race and likely the remainder of the season.

Bourdais sustained multiple fractures to his pelvis and a fracture to his right hip following a heavy impact with the SAFER Barrier in qualifying for the Indianapolis 500, and has already undergone surgery Saturday night.

While the 38-year-old open-wheel and sports car ace is expected to make a full recovery, Bourdais will not be able to defend his GTE-Pro class win in this year's race.

"Sebastien has been such an important part of our Ford GT program, helping us win at both Le Mans and Daytona," Pericak said.

"But, like any family member, our first concern is his health and we are relieved that he looks like he will be okay long-term after what was a terrible crash at Indianapolis. We wish him all the best in the days ahead as he starts his recovery.

"We will regroup with our Ganassi team to determine our lineup for Le Mans in the days ahead."