The Motor Sports Association, the governing body of UK motor sport, has congratulated the British based BP-Ford World Rally Team after it won the 2006 FIA WRC manufacturers' championship on Sunday in NZ.

With its two drivers Marcus Gronholm and Mikko Hirvonen finishing first and second, the Ford team has established an unassailable 25-point lead in the championship even though there is still one final round remaining on this year's calendar – namely the Wales Rally GB, which gets underway in less than two weeks time.

"The triumphant Focus RS WRC 06 was developed from concept to reality in record time by M-Sport and its title winning performances once again emphasis the leading role Britain plays in international motor sport,” said Colin Hilton, the MSA's chief executive.

“It's no coincidence that this country is home to two of the three major teams currently contesting the FIA World Rally Championship as well as the vast majority of Formula 1 teams, including, of course, the championship-winning Renault F1 Team.

“British engineers are renowned the world over and M-Sport's success further highlights their remarkable expertise and proficiency."

It is the first time that Ford has won the manufacturers' championship in 27 years - and it represents the pinnacle of achievement for Malcolm Wilson and his Cumbrian-based M-Sport operation, which masterminds the BP-Ford World Rally Team.