Ford Commits to Four-Year WRC Plan

By: Richard Noble | Ford Communications Network

An all-new Focus RS WRC rally car will make its debut in the 2006 World Rally Championship (WRC) season.

WARLEY, England, Nov. 10, 2004 -- Ford has pledged its long-term support to the World Rally Championship (WRC) after agreeing to a new four-year deal with Malcolm Wilson's M-Sport company.

The announcement follows a comprehensive review of the Blue Oval's motorsport activities and ends months of speculation about Ford's rallying future.

Under the terms of the agreement the existing Focus RS WRC will be the Company's challenger in the 2005 championship. An all-new Focus RS WRC rally car, based on the new Focus will make its debut in the 2006 season.

"We have carried out a long and comprehensive review of the motorsport scene and Ford's involvement in it," said Lewis Booth, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. "As part of our review we have developed a motorsport strategy which builds on our rallying heritage and is integrated into our core business. I am delighted to announce that the headline news in that strategy is that Ford will enter into a long-term commitment to the World Rally Championship. We have further strengthened our long-running partnership with Malcolm Wilson's M-Sport Company."

M-Sport Chief Malcolm Wilson said: "This agreement is wonderful news for both Ford and M-Sport. A four-year program allows us the opportunity to develop the new Ford Focus into a challenger for WRC success. Development of the new car will begin immediately and will run alongside out existing commitment throughout the 2005 season."

Ford Team RS Director Jost Capito said the company's long-term commitment to the WRC will provide a great boost to the sport.

"Ford has been involved in rallying since before the World Rally Championship was conceived," Capito said. "Our continuation in WRC is excellent news for the championship and emphasizes just how much the sport has developed in recent years.

"Our review showed there is a strong business case for Ford's continued involvement. The proposals from the FIA to reduce the costs of competing in the WRC, via revisions to the regulations, convinced us to continue long-term," added Capito.

Details of Ford's driver lineup for the 2005 season have yet to be confirmed. The company is talking to several drivers and will make an announcement when negotiations have been finalized.