Motorsport: 'Bold new era' for Ulster International Rally

The event moves forward one week from its traditional date.

Top Part West Coast Rally champion Donegal's Declan Boyle (centre) with his sons Michael (left) and Mathew, who were second and third respectively in the popular series - the first time this feat has been achieved within the principal rally championships in Ireland. Picture: Martin Walsh.

Next season's Ulster International Rally (August 7-9) will include part of what's described as a bold new era within the European Historic Rally Championship following a wide-ranging reorganisation of historic rallying. From 2026, the EHRC will consist of three distinct championships - all under the FIA umbrella - namely, a Pre-1992 Championship, a Pre-2000 Championship and an EHRC Gravel Championship. The Ulster International Rally will showcase the EHRC Pre-2000 Championship that will feature cars built between 1993 and 2000. Iconic cars such as the Subaru Impreza, Toyota Celica GT-Four and the 1999 Ford Focus WRC will appear on the event that is certain to attract extra fans to see the cars of rallying’s modern golden age.

It's fitting insofar as the Northern Ireland Motor Club will also be celebrating 50 years in existence in 2026 as clerk of the course Wayne Turkington commented. “We are extremely proud to be joining the 2026 FIA European Historic Rally Championship. This inclusion recognises the rich rallying heritage of Northern Ireland, the challenging terrain and roads as well as the passionate support from the wider community."