Ford to increase support for M-Sport in 2018 WRC season

Ford has announced it will increase its support M-Sport in the 2018 WRC season.

The technical and financial assistance will allow the current Manufacturer and Driver title holder to retain its hero driver, Sebastien Ogier, as well as ‘upcoming talent’ Elfyn Evans who steps up to take Ott Tanak’s place in a leading driver role.

Even without full manufacturer backing as its opponents have, M-Sport has been a dominating force in the last few years.

M-Sport managing director Malcolm Wilson OBE says the increase in support will help the team keep ahead of the competition.

“We’ve enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Ford over the years and it’s great to see that support increase as we look to defend our FIA World Rally Championship titles in 2018,” says Wilson.

“In Sébastien and Elfyn we have another strong line up and the added technical support will allow us to progress the development of the Ford Fiesta WRC.

“The competition will be closer than ever but I’m confident that, together with the support of our partners, we can produce the same high levels of performance and reliability that delivered so much success in 2017.”

Ford global director of Motorsport Mark Rushbrook says Ford wants to “ensure the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team remains competitive through the 2018 WRC season and beyond.”

“Ford’s 20-year relationship with M-Sport has delivered unparalleled success at all levels of rallying, something we’re very proud of, and has also established Fiesta as the standard for rally competitors around the globe,” Rushbrook says.

“Last year we supported M-Sport with the development of the all-new Fiesta that went on to campaign to an FIA championship win.

“For 2018, we’re excited to be able to provide even greater support.”

The 2018 WRC season begins in a couple of weeks, with the first round beginning in Monte Carlo on January 25. Shakedowns will commence on January 24.