In WRC's October 16 report, M-Sport Team Principal Richard Millener said the 2027 lineup was undecided. Selection serves long-term building and a target of winning with a new car in 2029. An upgraded Fiesta Rally2 bridges the period, so drivers must cover both stages.
From finding funded entries to building a long-term team
Millener said increased Ford investment supported next season's budget, shifting attention toward team building. Previously, promising drivers who could bring support mattered; he now emphasizes long-term commitment, integration and alignment with Ford's direction.
Young-driver development remains a task, alongside participation in racing, preparation and development.
Two Fiesta transition years before the planned 2029 car
M-Sport's October 1 announcement set three stages: a WRC-kit Fiesta Rally2 in 2027; direct Ford factory participation in 2028 while retaining Fiesta; and a new car planned for 2029. Development runs alongside transition racing, so a factory return does not mean immediate new-car arrival.
Fiesta changes include aero, engine air-restrictor and electrical components. It adapts an existing model to new rules rather than carrying the Puma Rally1 unchanged into another cycle. Drivers must learn the transition car and support future preparations.
FIA rules define the transition endpoint
The FIA's June 23 explanation allows eligible Rally2 cars with Rally2-WRC-Kit to contest the top category alongside WRC27 cars in 2027 and 2028, ending eligibility on December 31, 2028. The kit supports more entries at the new rules' start.
INKA SPORTS analysis: Selection must connect two working stages
The new-car target follows directly after upgraded Rally2 eligibility ends, clarifying 2029's importance. Millener's commitment criterion therefore has a concrete purpose: drivers must complete the next season and carry experience and development feedback into the new car.
Ford's direct factory involvement begins in 2028 and the new car is planned a year later. Stable relationships can carry transition learning into development, but names and contracts remain unannounced.
Conclusion
M-Sport must align next season's drivers with its announced vehicle handover. Two Fiesta years, growing Ford participation and new-car work make long-term capability meaningful. Winning in 2029 remains a target; official lists and competition must establish lineup and performance separately.
