Motors: WRC return to Ireland at risk due to funding doubts

MI has always maintained that hosting rounds of the WRC all hinges on securing the funding, otherwise, it will not go ahead and they will move on.

MOTORSPORT: Local driver Josh Moffett (Citroen C3 Rally2) is the top seed for Sunday’s Monaghan Rally, the second round of the Triton National Rally Championship where he is seeking a fourth win on his home event. Picture: Martin Walsh.

A World Rally Championship return to Ireland, possibly as soon as next year, is still in a state of flux with some stakeholders becoming somewhat frustrated by the lack of information. Motorsport Ireland’s bid to host three rounds of the WRC (2025-2027) is predicated on the success of a funding application to the Irish government to the tune of €15m spread equally over the three years.

However, since the announcement of a decision that resulted in three locations - Limerick Racecourse, Tralee MTU and the Waterford Quays being identified to host the service park and media zone - there’s been little information from Motorsport Ireland, especially over the last three weeks. MI intimated an announcement on the application was expected prior to the West Cork Rally (March 15/17). Efforts then and again this week to seek information from Motorsport Ireland president Aiden Harper have proved unsuccessful.