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M-Sport faces a pivotal decision for its future in the World Rally Championship, weighing options between partnering with a manufacturer or building a brand-new car for 2028. This decision is crucial as the team navigates the uncertain landscape of WRC beyond 2026, where it is expected to compete with its Ford Fiesta Rally2 next year.
Under the FIA’s new regulations, Rally2 cars will compete against the WRC27 models starting in 2027, but M-Sport has expressed doubts about developing a new car due to tight timelines and ongoing changes in the championship's commercial rights. The sale of these rights is nearing completion, with French company Cosmobilis, led by Eric Boullier, positioned to take over, impacting manufacturers' commitments.
Team principal Richard Millener confirms that M-Sport is exploring all avenues while awaiting clarity from the sale process. Preliminary work on a new car has commenced, focusing on fundamental aspects like chassis design. Millener emphasizes that discussions with Ford are ongoing, as they maintain a vested interest in the WRC. M-Sport’s long history with Ford adds another layer of complexity to their decision-making process. All options remain on the table as the team prepares for the future of rallying.
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