M‑Sport has previewed a Rally2 kit car that will be eligible for the WRC’s top class next year.
Earlier this year, the FIA unveiled a plan permitting Rally2 manufacturers to homologate an upgrade package priced at €7,500, aiming to bring greater aerodynamic parity between Rally2 cars and the forthcoming WRC27 machines that will sit atop the WRC hierarchy from next season. Although the WRC27 and the Rally2 kit cars are governed by distinct technical regulations, their performance levels are expected to be comparable.
The kit includes newly homologated front fenders, a front bumper, and a rear aerodynamic device, while the vehicle will also shed 10 kg from its current minimum weight. It has additionally been confirmed that the car will employ a 33 mm turbo restrictor.
M‑Sport is the first team to commit to developing a kit to upgrade its Ford Fiesta Rally2 machine. This week the squad is conducting an extended asphalt test of its revised 2027 challenger in Spain.
Photos and video from the test have surfaced online, showing an all‑white Fiesta Rally2 with visibly revised front bumper and rear wing. Former WRC driver Matthew Wilson was at the wheel during Tuesday’s session.
M‑Sport intends to field three Rally2 kit cars next year across the championship’s newly expanded 15‑round calendar. The team has just announced a new factory partnership with Ford set to commence in 2028, although Ford will increase its support to M‑Sport starting next year.
As previously reported, M‑Sport has not yet confirmed its driver lineup for the upcoming season.
“There has been no discussion, no decision regarding drivers,” said team principal Richard Millener when asked about the squad’s 2027 line‑up at the WRC season finale in Sardinia. “Up to now we have chosen drivers we believe possess sufficient talent to develop and who can bring additional backing. We are now in a somewhat different position, but that does not mean we will overhaul everything overnight.”
“Our aim is to win in 2029 with the new car. We have two years to put ourselves in a strong position. We want individuals who fit within our existing structure, gel with the team environment, and help build the team around them while also delivering what Ford expects.”
“We still need to nurture junior talent, but we must maintain a clear vision and a winning focus. That may require us to adjust certain aspects of how we operate.”
“We also need to consider people for the long term. This is already a multi‑year programme, and if we get it right and it works, and Ford Europe’s plan aligns well, then the potential is vast. Therefore we must approach this thoughtfully and sensibly. We will take our time.”