A new docu-series is going BTS at the M-Sport rally team

Calling all rally fans: a six-part docu-series going behind the scenes at M-Sport’s Rally1 operation is coming to YouTube, with the first of six episodes dropping next week.

You can watch the trailer for it below, but honestly? It doesn’t do it justice. TG caught a screening of Episode 1 at Rally Finland earlier this month and it’s an absorbing half-hour watch, complete with all the gripping rally footage you’d expect plus insight from the people who actually make the team tick.

Keep an eye out for Adrien Fourmaux’s lovely old restored hatch, and the physiotherapist tasked with dishing out the drivers’ fireproof overalls… and undies. Now you don’t get that on Drive to Survive.

Entitled ‘More than Machine’, it’s the work of independent company Superlative Films and is funded by M-Sport partner SafetyCulture. The series dives straight into the action at Rally Kenya back in March, with the team chasing an unlikely podium against the big manufacturer outfits of Toyota and Hyundai.

“We’re very lucky to have this opportunity to tell all the incredible stories behind our fantastic team,” said Richard Millener, M-Sport team principal. “On rallies there’s so much that happens behind-the-scenes in the service park that the fans don’t get to see, and I believe this series will do a lot to bring people even closer to the sport.

“We’re only really scratching the surface, but by telling these stories and getting to know the people who run the cars and make the rally happen, we’re opening ourselves up to an even bigger fan base. There are real, human stories to tell here, and I’m so pleased we’re now able to document them.”

And MD Malcolm Wilson OBE added: “I’m very proud to see the creation of this insightful series about what it takes to be a World Rally Team. Showcasing the hard work and tenacity of the team, as well as introducing some of the characters we have is a pleasure to watch.

“Up until now the WRC has not delved into the backstories of the people who make the operation work, so having the chance to show this to a global audience is something very special. I hope everyone enjoys watching our journeys in WRC as much as we have enjoyed working with the production team on it.”

The series will be hosted on the WRC’s YouTube channel, with Episode 1 set to premiere on 22 August. If you’re a rally fan, definitely give it a go.