M-Sport Ford World Rally Team Ford Puma Rally1 (motorsport.com)
Fourmaux and Munster to Lead the Charge with Puma Rally1 Cars
M-Sport has revealed its dynamic driver line-up for the upcoming 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) season, opting for a youthful approach after the departure of 2019 world champion Ott Tanak. French driver Adrien Fourmaux, who showcased his skills in the Puma Rally1 at the Japan season finale, secured a full-time position alongside co-driver Alex Coria. Fourmaux, fresh from clinching the British Rally Championship title, expressed his excitement for the upcoming season and gratitude to M-Sport, Ford, and Red Bull for the opportunity.
“I’m very happy to be back in Rally1 for 2024. Achieving this drive was the main goal of the 2023 season, and I’m thrilled to return for a full season in the Puma next year,” said Fourmaux. He emphasized the importance of his involvement in the development of the Fiesta Rally2 in 2023, stating that it will contribute to his performance in the Rally1 car. With a clear plan in place, Fourmaux aims to deliver top-notch results, supporting the team and showcasing his capabilities as the sole French driver in the top tier of WRC.
Joining Fourmaux is 24-year-old Sami Munster, who made his Rally1 debut with M-Sport this season. Munster expressed his eagerness to compete in the Rally1 series, emphasizing the valuable experience gained during his almost full season in WRC2 in 2023. He highlighted the seamless transition within the M-Sport team structure, providing a familiar and supportive environment. Munster’s goal for 2024 is to steadily improve his performance rally after rally, acknowledging the challenges of competing against world champions.
M-Sport team principal Richard Millener is optimistic about the potential of his young drivers and their ability to secure solid results in the upcoming season. He sees the unique opportunity to capitalize on the absence of some top drivers in the full championship, paving the way for M-Sport’s emerging talents to make a mark. While several notable names were considered, including WRC2 champion Andreas Mikkelsen, the team is set to unveil its 2024 Puma Rally1 at the Autosport International show on January 12. The season kicks off in Monte Carlo from January 25-28, promising an exciting start for M-Sport’s young and ambitious lineup.