Latvian rally sensation Mārtiņš Sesks and co-driver Renārs Francis are set to compete in six rounds of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) behind the wheel of an M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 hybrid car. The announcement comes after a breakthrough 2024 season for Sesks, who stunned the rallying world with his impressive performances in the WRC’s top-tier category.
Sesks’ 2025 WRC Calendar
Sesks’ six-race program includes:
- Rally Sweden (February)
- Rally Portugal
- Rally Sardinia
- Rally Greece
- Rally Estonia
- Rally Finland
The Latvian driver also expressed his ambition to add Rally Saudi Arabia to his schedule, contingent on securing additional financial support.
A Rising Star in Rally1
Sesks burst onto the Rally1 scene in 2024, debuting with a fifth-place finish in Rally Poland despite driving a non-hybrid Puma. His full-hybrid debut in Rally Latvia further showcased his talent, as he claimed his first stage win and battled for a podium position before a late technical issue ended his hopes.
Sesks’ performances have drawn widespread attention, with M-Sport, personal sponsors, and team partner SafetyCulture rallying to secure his seat for 2025.
Team and Sponsor Reactions
Richard Millener, M-Sport Team Principal, highlighted Sesks’ rapid rise:
“Martins made a lot of new fans in a very short space of time last season. To think that those performances have led to a six-event program this year is fantastic. His speed, determination, and character make him an exciting addition to our 2025 line-up.”
Luke Anear, founder of SafetyCulture, praised Sesks’ talent:
“Martins is a natural talent. He has an X-factor in his driving and approach. It’s going to be exciting to see him compete at the top level again in 2025.”
Sesks: “Motivated and Ready for the Challenge”
Sesks expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season:
“We feel truly honored by the trust from M-Sport, SafetyCulture, and our sponsors. This opportunity motivates us to face new challenges and bring joy to our fans. Competing in half of the 2025 WRC season is an invaluable chance to gain experience for the future.”
Future Aspirations
The Latvian star is eyeing further opportunities in the WRC, with Saudi Arabia as a potential seventh rally in 2025. His commitment to securing additional funding reflects his determination to expand his schedule and continue building momentum in the Rally1 category.
What to Expect in 2025
With his remarkable debut season as a foundation, Sesks’ 2025 campaign promises exciting performances and further development. The six-event program will allow him to gain critical experience in diverse terrains, from the icy roads of Sweden to the rugged gravel stages of Greece and Sardinia. Fans and experts alike will be eager to see how this young talent evolves in his sophomore year at the sport’s highest level.
