Finn Suninen, who was runner-up to fellow countryman Esapekka Lappi in WRC2 last season, will compete in at least five rallies in a Ford Fiesta R5, starting with next month’s Rally Sweden.

M-Sport team boss Malcolm Wilson has long been a fan of Suninen’s, and the Cumbrian said he is delighted to welcome the latest in a long line of fast Finns to his team.

Wilson said: "Teemu gained a lot of attention last year and there were a lot of people watching him in the WRC2 championship. He’s a young guy with a lot of talent, and it’s great to have him behind the wheel of the Fiesta R5.

“We’ve had great success with Finns in the past, and Teemu could well form another chapter of that story. He’s ambitious, and determined, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can deliver.”

Suninen added: “My goal for this season is to improve on last year when I finished second in WRC2. I know that it will be a big challenge, but with more experience under my belt I feel ready and in a good position.”

Camilli demotion no reflection of M-Sport's "faith"

Camilli, who was demoted from the main M-Sport WRC squad to make way for Sebastien Ogier, will tackle a full seven-round WRC2 programme, and is expected to compete in a World Rally Car again later in the year.

Wilson said the move, which was confirmed by the Rally Monte Carlo entry list, did not reflect a lessening commitment to the Frenchman.

“Eric might be taking a step back this year, but it by no means undermines our faith in his potential," said Wilson.

"This year, Eric will be able to gain experience of as many events as possible without the pressures that come from competing at the highest level.

“Experience counts for a lot in this game and, if he can perform as we expect, it shouldn’t be too long before we see him back behind the wheel of a World Rally Car.”

Camilli underlined his need for more seat time at rallying’s highest level, as last year was his first full season in the series.

“The important thing for me this year is to continue to gain as much experience of as many FIA WRC events as possible,” said Camilli.

“In rallying, experience is everything and it will be really important for me to continue this progression.”