Ford created a bit of history on the Rally of Turkey last weekend, when it became the first manufacturer since the launch of the World Rally Championship to notch up one hundred consecutive points' finishes.
The 'Blue Oval' did it in style as well as
Mikko Hirvonen took the victory on the Kemer-based round, while
Jari-Matti Latvala was second to give the M-Sport-run outfit its first one-two finish of the season.
Ford has now won 27 events - and gained 85 podium places - during the 100 rallies with the Focus RS WRC, with the run beginning back in 2002 on the Rallye Monte Carlo when Carlos Sainz finished third and the late
Colin McRae claimed fourth.
"The consistency required in achieving 100 consecutive points finishes is remarkable as the WRC is the toughest competition in motorsport for production-based cars," said Ford of Europe motorsport director Mark Deans.
"It demanded an outstanding blend of speed, strength and reliability from the Focus RS World Rally Car as well as some sterling performances from the drivers behind the wheel.
"It's also a tribute to Malcolm Wilson and his team at M-Sport that has prepared and run the Focus RS WRC for all 100 rallies.
"I look forward to starting the second century in Finland in August."
In addition meanwhile, Ford's record breaking achievement was also recognised when it received the Abu Dhabi 'Spirit of the Rally Award', which goes to parties demonstrating the 'same values that the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, stands for; respect, innovation, integrity and teamwork'.
"For the Ford Focus RS World Rally Car to reach the unprecedented milestone of 100 consecutive points scoring finishes is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with the team. Since January 2002, various driver, co-driver, crew and mechanic line-ups have all played their part in reaching this remarkable century," added
BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally team director and M-Sport boss Malcolm Wilson.
"I would like to thank Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority for recognising the hard work and commitment of everyone at both Ford and M-Sport who have endeavoured to make the '100 not out' feat reachable."
