Detroit (US), January 20, 2026 – During the Ford Racing Season Launch in Detroit, 22-year-old Michiel Haverans was officially introduced as a new member of the Ford Racing Driver Development Team. The Belgian GT4 driver stood out during an intensive selection process in the United States, competing against racing talents from around the world. His performance earned him a highly sought-after place as one of eight newly selected drivers within Ford’s 14-driver development program.
That TeamFloral once again sees one of its drivers progress into the Ford development structure underlines the continuity of the team’s presence in international circuit racing. The Belgian outfit continues to position itself as an environment where drivers are given the space and support to develop both sportingly and professionally. Receiving renewed recognition from Ford Racing is the icing on the cake. TeamFloral is extremely proud of Haverans, and this achievement provides additional motivation to take significant steps forward together in 2026.
A Unique Long-Term Development Program
The Ford Racing Driver Development Team (formerly known as the Ford Performance Junior Team) was created to progressively prepare promising young drivers for a potential step up to higher levels of competition. The program adds an additional layer of support alongside each driver’s own race team, with a comprehensive focus on driving technique, technical feedback, communication, mental and physical development, and professional integration within a team structure.
The program is further strengthened by the involvement of mentors such as Mike Rockenfeller, winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2010 and current Ford GT3 factory driver, and Andy Priaulx, a three-time World Touring Car Championship title winner. Together, they support drivers in their development both on and off the circuit.
A Clear Choice for Haverans
Driving the TeamFloral Ford Mustang S650 GT4, Michiel Haverans made an immediate impression last season during his debut campaign in the GT4 European Series, delivering strong lap times and claiming the Rookie Award at his home round of the 24 Hours of Spa. From that point onward, it became increasingly clear that he was competing at the front of the field among the championship’s leading Ford drivers.
That combination of a rapid learning curve and immediate competitiveness sent a strong signal to both the team and Ford Racing. As a result, Haverans received an invitation at the end of the season to measure himself against other international racing talents within Ford Racing’s evaluation process. Unlike the initial intake of six drivers already part of the Ford Racing Driver Development Team, candidates were this time subjected to a broad and intensive series of evaluations, leading to the careful selection of eight new drivers. Haverans stood out across all criteria and successfully secured his place within the program.
A Distinctive Approach to Progress in Motorsport
Haverans’ personal results over the past season reflect a trajectory built systematically on consistency and understanding. “For me, a race doesn’t end when I step out of the car,” Haverans explains. “Every session provides information you can use to come back better prepared.”
That mindset continues well beyond the race weekend, long after the roar of the Mustang’s engine has faded. In the simulator, Haverans works closely with TeamFloral’s race engineer on data analysis, driving scenarios, and set-up variations. Virtual mileage is not merely repetition or preparation, but a valuable analytical tool. This approach results in precise, well-founded technical feedback that delivers immediate added value within the team.
TeamFloral’s philosophy aligns seamlessly with Haverans’ own view on development in motorsport. “Michiel has autism, but within TeamFloral we do not see that as a limitation,” explains team manager Jean-Marc Valckenaere. “His way of thinking and working is a clear asset to the team. Progress, for us, is not defined by lap times alone, but built through reflection, open dialogue between drivers and engineers, and mutual respect.” Observations are systematically translated into concrete action points, allowing individual insights to contribute directly to collective progress. Haverans’ selection for the Ford Racing Driver Development Team therefore fits naturally within this broader development pathway.
Looking Ahead
In 2026, Haverans will continue his journey in the GT4 European Series with TeamFloral. The season will get underway from April 10 to 12 at the Circuit Paul Ricard. In preparation for this opening round, he continues to invest in sim racing and technical development together with the team, with the aim of maximizing his progression both on and off the circuit.
Michiel Haverans in Action – GT4 European Series
- Round 1 | April 10-12: Circuit Paul Ricard (FR)
- Round 2 | May 29-31: Monza (IT)
- Round 3 | June 25-27: Spa-Francorchamps (BE)
- Round 4 | July 17-19: Misano (IT)
- Round 5 | September 18 - 20: Zandvoort (NL)
- Round 6 | October 16 - 18: Portimao (PT)