Sébastien Ogier extends with M-Sport for 2018

Sébastien Ogier had maintained a certain suspense during the last Rally in Australia, admitting that his future in WRC would necessarily go through M-Sport, negotiations with Citroën having failed. The Frenchman will indeed drive the Ford Fiesta WRC well developed by Malcolm Wilson's men and will defend his title in 2018.

The announcement was made this evening by the Dovenby Hall team, after the celebrations of the two Drivers' and Manufacturers' titles, won this year by the Ogier – M-Sport tandem. The five-time world champion will always be supported by Julien Ingrassia.

« It’s great to finally announce our plans for 2018, Ogier specifies. What we've achieved together has been truly incredible, and we want to keep it that way. To perpetuate this fantastic adventure and to defend everything we have won together.

This season has been very exciting with some of the closest rallies in years. As a driver, I definitely want to be part of that. I still feel a lot of emotion in this sport, and this team has so much passion. This made my decision clear, and we will work hard to seek even more success together next year. »

M-Sport also confirmed the presence of Elfyn Evans, winner in Great Britain this season, to drive the team's second Ford Fiesta WRC. After the end of the Dmack car's entry for 2018, Evans replaces Ott Tänak left on the side of Toyota Gazoo Racing.

« Having both Sébastien and Elfyn confirmed is excellent news for the team, admits Malcolm Wilson, who will have drivers experienced in driving the WRC at the blue oval. We have been working towards this goal for some time. So to make it happen is fantastic and means we can now focus our attention on development ahead of next season.

With Sébastien and Elfyn, we have a good chance of defending our titles. It won't be easy. Our rivals certainly won't have been left idle and I expect an even closer battle for the championship, but with these two crews we have a good chance.

They are both very intelligent pilots. There's no doubting their speed, but they also have a masterful approach to strategy that delivers results every time. There's no reason why we shouldn't be confident of adding hits next year. And given the reaction of the team this afternoon, I know that everyone will continue to give 110%."

Note that M-Sport could announce the entry of a third car in the coming weeks.