The NGK-sponsored M-Sport Ford World Rally Team secured a double podium success at the Vodafone Rally de Portugal with Elfyn Evans and Teemu Suninen claiming second and third places respectively.

Both drivers proved their ability to fight for the top positions, Evans with his first top-three result of the year and Suninen taking his maiden podium less than 12 months after first taking to the wheel of the top-specification Fiesta.

However, there was disappointment for Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia who were forced to retire the number one Fiesta at the final service.

Ignition specialist NGK Spark Plugs is a partner of the team whose EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRC cars are fitted with NGK spark plugs and NTK Lambda sensors.

Ogier is now in second place in the drivers’ championship standings with Evans in seventh position and Suninen 11th, while the team is in second place in the manufacturers’ championship, just 15 points behind leaders Hyundai Motorsport.

Mark Hallam, Marketing Manager, NGK Spark Plugs said,  "It was a fine achievement by the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team to record a double podium finish. Although it was a disappointing rally for Sébastien and Julien, I’m sure they will soon be fighting to get back to the top of the leaders’ board.”