STARD gets backing from Ford Performance to build new Fiesta ST Supercars

The STARD World Rallycross team has secured Ford Performance support to build new Ford Fiesta ST Supercars for 2019.

The Austrian team has previously built and run Fiesta Mk7 Supercars in the series, and has retained Latvian driver Janis Baumanis for this year.

“We took the decision to develop a completely new car, which also gave us the chance to choose a new platform,” said STARD CEO, Michael Sakowicz. Just 10% of the components used in STARD’S previous-generation Fiesta are being carried over onto the new car, including an all-new engine. Sakowicz added: “Based on our experience with the previous Fiesta, and careful investigation we believe that the latest Ford Fiesta ST is perfect base for a rallycross Supercar.”

Ford Performance worked with Swedish team Olsbergsmse in international rallycross from 2009 and won the World RX Teams’ title with the squad in 2014.

After a two-year campaign where Ford supported Ken Block’s Hoonigan Racing Division squad (2016-2017) in the series, Ford Performance gave assistance to OMSE last year. Ford is one of the marques linked with World RX’S electric switch, planned to take place from 2021, while STARD is the producer of the first publicly aired electric RX prototype.

Sakowicz said: “The support from Ford Performance is a game changer for us. We can apply processes in the development and race activity and also support our customers in a way which is only possible if you are working with a manufacturer.”