On Wednesday, M-Sport confirmed that Luxembourg’s Gregoire Munster will serve as the team’s lead driver next season.
On Thursday, the team announced a full-season contract with Irishman Josh McErlean, who has never competed in the WRC’s top category before.
While Munster’s continuation with M-Sport was widely anticipated, McErlean’s signing came as a surprise. However, it’s worth noting that M-Sport’s decision was not entirely a typical recruitment move, as both McErlean and Munster bring financial backing to the team.
McErlean, who has competed in WRC2 and the European Rally Championship in recent years, doesn’t yet boast an extensive record of accomplishments. However, the Irishman has shown significant progress over the last few seasons. M-Sport team principal Richard Millener sees potential in the 25-year-old driver.
“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.”
“M-Sport is renowned for giving opportunities to up and coming talents in the sport. With the backing of the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, that is exactly what we will be doing for Josh and Eoin (co-driver Treacy),” Millener said.
Millener believes McErlean’s signing is well-justified in the broader context.
“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.”
M-Sport will clearly have the least experienced driver line-up next season. Toyota and Hyundai each have two world champions in their rosters, while M-Sport’s lead driver, Gregoire Munster, has only completed one full season in the top category.
Last season, Munster achieved his best results with fifth-place finishes in Sardinia, the Central European Rally, and Japan.
“I have really enjoyed working with Gregoire and Louis (co-driver Louka) this year, so to have them back again in 2025 is a big positive for me. They made some great progress over the course of their debut year, and although we must remain realistic with the goals and expectations for them in 2025, it is a great opportunity for them both,” Millener concluded.
