M-Sport Ford have received a boost after announcing that Frenchman Adrien Fourmaux will drive for their WRC 2 team in the upcoming FIA World Rally Championship season.

Like Evans and Greensmith before him, Fourmaux is a perfect example of Ford’s ‘Ladder of Opportunity’ in action, and his career also highlights the close links between M-Sport and the FFSA (Fédération Française du Sport Automobile) – both ardent supporters of young talent.

After winning the renowned Rallye Jeunes series in his native France, he progressed behind the wheel of the Ford Fiesta R2T National as part of the French Junior Championship – finishing third in his debut year before going on to claim the title with five victories in 2018.

Stepping up to the world stage in 2019, the 24-year-old contested three rallies with the Fiesta R2T19.

But his standout performances came when tackling five WRC 2 events at the wheel of the Ford Fiesta R5 – securing second place on his debut at Rallye Monte-Carlo and third at Wales Rally GB.

Having caught the eye of many, Fourmaux is now ready to continue his development and M-Sport Ford are keen to encourage the talent and potential of another ambitious youngster.

Partnered by Belgian co-driver Renaud Jamoul, the Frenchman will get his season underway at the season opener in Monte-Carlo; and details of a second M-Sport Ford Fiesta R5 MkII will be revealed at next week’s Autosport International Show at Birmingham’s NEC.

The team’s managing director, Malcolm Wilson, clearly has high hopes for Formaux.

“We’ve been working closely with the FFSA for the past three years, and Adrien’s progress really does embody that collaboration,” said Wilson.

“Since winning Rallye Jeunes he has quickly progressed – almost exclusively with the Fiesta – and it’s great to see him fully integrated into the team this year.

“This is only his second season at this level, but I fully expect him to keep on impressing!”

Team principal, Richard Millener was equally thrilled to have the Frenchman in his car.

“I’ve not worked with Adrien before, but I have been following his progress and there’s no doubting his speed and potential behind the wheel,” enthused Millener.

“This will be an important season for him with much still to learn.

“But I look forward to working with him and think we could see him challenging for the top results on a number of events.

“He’s ready to make his mark, and we plan to give him everything he needs to do that.”