Stewart points to Ford folly

Formula One legend Jackie Stewart believes Ford have made a mistake by selling the Jaguar team and leaving the sport.

Stewart, who ended a 40-year ambassadorial role with the American car manufacturer last month, labelled the company’s decision “an oversight.”

“One of the great things about Ford is that the company was a global thinker,” the Scot said.

“I believe not having a presence in Formula One will have long-term implications for the company.

“Even if it is not the case in America, grand prix racing still draws the biggest (global) TV audience.”

The 65-year-old admitted to feeling “total shock” when he discovered that Ford would not fund Jaguar or engine manufacturers Cosworth Racing beyond 2004.