McErlean lands dream WRC Rally1 graduation with M-Sport

Josh McErlean will graduate to the World Rally Championship’s top tier in 2025 after securing a deal to join M-Sport-Ford.

The 25-year-old will pilot M-Sport’s second Ford Puma Rally1 in a full 14-round WRC campaign next year, joining Gregoire Munster, who was announced as the British squad’s team leader on Wednesday.

McErlean will be joined by fellow Irish co-driver Eoin Treacy next season and will continue to be supported by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy.

McErlean’s rise to Rally1 comes after making the step up to WRC2 in 2022.

This year he claimed a maiden podium finish in the category with a run to second in Portugal, en route to finishing ninth in the championship standings.

“Joining M-Sport Ford next year to drive the Puma Rally1 in the World Rally Championship is truly a dream come true,” said McErlean.

“I’ve always aspired to compete at the highest level of motorsport, and now that opportunity is becoming a reality.

“I’m incredibly excited to be working with such a professional and dedicated team, and Eoin and I are ready to give it everything.

Joshua McErlean, James Fulton, Toksport WRT 2 Skoda Fabia Evo Rally2 (Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool)

“This is a massive step in my career, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved— Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, John Coyne, supporters, family, and the team—for making this possible. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel.”

M-Sport team principal Richard Millener says McErlean’s targets and expectations will be sensible in 2025, but is proud to see the team offer another opportunity to a rising star.

“M-Sport is renowned for giving opportunities to up and coming talents in the sport,” said Millener.

“With the backing of the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, that is exactly what we will be doing for Josh and Eoin.

“2025 will be a huge challenge for them both, but a once in a lifetime chance to show the world that they have what it takes to forge a career at the pinnacle of the sport.

“We need to continue to invest in new and emerging talent in the WRC, I am proud to be able to give another two guys the chance to do this.

“The targets and expectations for the year will be very sensible, but I know that the team and all the Irish fans will be behind the pairing and this opportunity for them.

“I am really looking forward to working with them, and the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, to make this a positive season for us all.”

McErlean will make his full Rally1 debut at the 2025 season opener in Monte Carlo from 23-26 January.