Ford Returns to the World Rally Championship in 2028: A New Era of Performance, Passion and Driving Fun

There is something magical about watching a rally car fly across a gravel road, slide through a tight corner and disappear into the dust. It is not just about speed. It is about courage, control, engineering and the pure joy of driving.

Now, Ford is bringing that excitement back to the centre of its motorsport ambitions. The American automaker has officially announced its return to the FIA World Rally Championship as a full factory-backed team from 2028, renewing its long-standing relationship with M-Sport.

The announcement is more than a racing decision. Ford wants to bring the spirit of rally competition into its next generation of road cars, making everyday driving feel more engaging and adventurous.

Ford’s WRC Comeback: What Makes It Special?

A Factory Return After More Than a Decade

Ford’s last full factory World Rally Championship programme ended in 2012. Although the company continued supporting M-Sport, the 2028 announcement marks its return as a full works manufacturer.

Under the renewed partnership, Ford Racing will become directly involved in M-Sport’s WRC programme from 2028. An all-new rally car is scheduled to make its competitive debut in 2029 under the championship’s new technical regulations.

This comeback also connects with Ford’s wider motorsport involvement, including Formula 1, endurance racing and rally-raid competition.

Ford and M-Sport: A Partnership Built on Rally Heritage

Two Names United by Motorsport

Ford and M-Sport share a long history in international rallying. M-Sport has operated Ford’s WRC programme for years, helping the brand remain visible at the highest level of rally competition.

Their renewed factory partnership will combine Ford’s engineering resources with M-Sport’s rally experience to develop the next-generation competition car.

Ford’s rally history includes 94 WRC rally victories and three manufacturers’ championships, giving the comeback a strong connection to its motorsport past.

2028 Ford WRC Return: Key Details

New WRC27 Regulations: A Fresh Start for Rally Racing

Lower Costs and New Engineering Opportunities

Ford’s return comes as the WRC prepares for a new technical era. The WRC27 regulations are designed to make top-level rally competition more accessible by reducing development and participation costs.

The FIA has announced a €345,000 price cap for a ready-to-compete car in asphalt specification.

These regulations will allow manufacturers to develop new competition vehicles while maintaining a focus on safety, performance and engineering flexibility. Ford’s new rally car is scheduled to compete under this framework from 2029.

From Rally Stages to Everyday Ford Cars

Why This Comeback Matters Beyond Racing

Ford’s WRC programme is not only about collecting trophies. The company says rally engineering will help shape its next generation of European passenger vehicles, including five planned multi-energy electric and hybrid models.

Rally competition pushes vehicles through constantly changing surfaces, difficult weather and demanding driving conditions. Lessons in responsiveness, chassis control and durability can inform the development of future road cars.

Ford Europe president Jim Baumbick has described rallying as a way to bring a more engaging driving character to future vehicles.

Ford’s Expanding Motorsport Ambitions

Ford is expanding its involvement across several major motorsport categories. Alongside its WRC return, the company is involved in Formula 1 through its Red Bull partnership and plans to enter the World Endurance Championship in 2027.

The manufacturer is also active in the World Rally-Raid Championship, which includes the famous Dakar Rally.

This wider programme reflects Ford’s intention to connect racing technology, brand identity and future vehicle development.

Conclusion: Ford’s Rally Return Is About More Than Winning

Ford’s return to the World Rally Championship is a meaningful moment for motorsport fans. The partnership with M-Sport, the upcoming WRC27 regulations and the development of an all-new rally car create a fresh chapter in the company’s racing story.

But the most interesting part may be what happens away from the stages. Ford wants to bring rally-inspired excitement into its future electric and hybrid road cars.

For enthusiasts who believe driving should be more than simply reaching a destination, Ford’s comeback represents a renewed focus on emotion, performance and the joy of being behind the wheel.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for automotive news and informational purposes. Ford’s factory WRC programme is scheduled to begin in 2028, while its new competition car is planned for 2029. Future vehicle specifications, racing line-ups, technical details and programme timelines may change.