P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Christmas came early for Jon Armstrong and co-driver Shane Byrne when the pair was announced as teammates to Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy in the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team 2026 lineup. Both McErlean, who enters his sophomore year in the WRC’s top flight, and Armstrong enjoy the backing of Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy. After […]
Jon Armstrong and co-driver Shane Byrne received an early Christmas gift by being announced as teammates to Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy in the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team 2026 lineup. Armstrong and McErlean, backed by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, are set to compete in Rally1 machinery. Armstrong, after winning the ERC3 title in 2023, had a strong season in the European Rally Championship, securing podiums and victories in Wales and Croatia. M-Sport Ford hinted at more lineup announcements soon, potentially involving funding to run Martins Sesks.
Richard Millener, the M-Sport Ford team principal, expressed excitement about the new signings and the progress expected in the 2026 season. McErlean is grateful for the team’s support and eager to build on the progress made in 2025, aiming to showcase improvements in the upcoming year. Armstrong described the opportunity to drive a Rally1 car as a dream come true, emphasizing gratitude to M-Sport and the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy for their crucial roles in this journey. Looking ahead, Armstrong is optimistic about facing challenges and building on their potential in the World Rally Championship.
