A number of changes have already occurred in preparations for what experts are calling an amazing 2011 WRC season. More changes have been released today involving the Stobart team this time. The satellite Ford team has made slight changes and added a driver for Sweden to up its chances for a great points haul in the opening round.
First, the team that was known as the Stobart M-Sport Ford World Rally Team has changed its name to the M-Sport Stobart Ford Rally Team. Not a huge difference in a name right? I believe the reasoning for this comes down to the fact that M-Sport owns these cars. We will not see teams like Monster M-Sport, but because Stobart is the proper satellite team for the manufacturer, they will take the M-Sport name first.
The interesting news that followed was the fact that Mads Ostberg has been added as a third driver. Originally slated to join with Adapt, Ostberg will now be a third entry for M-Sport Stobart and will be eligible for points in Sweden. He will team with Henning Solberg to form an all Norwegian points scoring lineup. Matthew Wilson will remain with the team and will be switched out whenever he is at the best place to earn most points.
“What can be better than starting my Ford career, and my first rally as a nominated team driver, in Sweden? I am delighted to be a part of the M-Sport Stobart Ford World Rally Team, and very happy to have Henning and Matthew as our team-mates.”
-Mads Ostberg on joining M-Sport Stobart
I think this is a great signing for not only Ostberg but M-Sport Stobart as well. Mads is a great talent that has put together solid results in a number of different cars. He has proven he can go quick on stage and will offer the satellite team a great chance to score points.
Ostberg will test the new Fiesta RS WRC and will also perform in a number of Norwegian based events ahead of Sweden. Testing will also be done in the S2000 model as well according to Crash.net. It will be very exciting to see Ostberg perform for a manufacturer as well as score points for one. He has never been in this position, but his performance in Sweden for various other events has been fantastic.