Ford to return to WRC as full factory team in 2028

Ford has announced its return to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) as a full factory team starting in 2028. The manufacturer will work in close partnership with M-Sport Ltd, which has managed Ford’s rally presence for approximately 30 years.

The return is part of a multi-stage strategy. Ford will increase its support to M-Sport in 2027, transition to a full factory program in 2028, and debut a completely new Rally1 competition car in 2029. This new vehicle will be developed under the FIA’s WRC27 technical regulations and will be inspired by Ford’s upcoming European passenger vehicle portfolio, which includes five new electric and hybrid models.

Ford aims to use the technical expertise gained from WRC competition to enhance the handling, responsiveness, and driving dynamics of its consumer vehicles. The announcement has been welcomed by motorsport figures, including Carlos Sainz, who noted that the return of a major brand provides a significant boost to the championship.