McErlean said securing a second season with M-Sport “means everything” after a solid rookie campaign.
After a late deal to drive in the WRC, McErlean finished seventh on his debut in Monte Carlo and equalled that result in Finland and the Central European Rally.
“I’m incredibly grateful to M-Sport and the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy for continuing to believe in me and giving me the chance to build properly,” McErlean said.
“To have another season at this level means a lot. I’m in a completely different place mentally compared to this time last year, stronger, clearer, and ready to enjoy the challenge ahead.
“2025 was all about learning, learning the car, the championship, the rhythm of Rally1, and what it really takes, mentally and physically, to operate at this level week in, week out.
“We made real progress across the season, and I could feel things starting to click more and more as the year went on.”
Millener said McErlean’s progression in his first season was “very clear to see”.
“It’s great to be able to give them the opportunity to continue this upward trajectory.
“Away from the events, they have both become much-valued members of the team and I’m really looking forward to working with them again.”
The deals for McErlean and Armstrong strengthen the links between M-Sport and Motorsport Ireland, and the remainder of the Cumbrian’s outfit’s line-up will be announced in due course.