Josh McErlean Joins M-Sport in 2025

Josh McErlean, a 25-year-old driver from Kilrea, is set to make his debut in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2025, driving a Ford Puma Rally1 with co-driver Eoin Treacy. This opportunity comes after McErlean's successful tenure in the WRC2 series, where he demonstrated his talent with multiple podium finishes. Supported by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy and philanthropist John Coyne, McErlean expressed his excitement about joining the M-Sport Ford team, known for nurturing top rallying talent. His debut will take place at the prestigious Rallye Monte-Carlo, marking him as the first Irish driver in the top tier since Craig Breen's passing in 2023. McErlean has built a solid foundation over nearly a decade in the sport, including victories in junior championships and significant performances in European rallies. He aims to rise through the ranks, acknowledging that this new challenge in the WRC will be a significant step in his career.