Devine vs. Cronin: Irish Tarmac Rally Championship to Be Decided at Cork 20
Ardee News and Sport — This Sunday, all eyes will be on the Cork 20 International Rally, as the final round of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship promises an epic showdown between two of the sport’s titans—Callum Devine and Keith Cronin. With just eight stages standing between them and glory, both drivers are vying for their second Irish Tarmac Rally title.
Reigning champion Devine will be looking to repeat his success from last year’s Cork 20, while four-time British rally champion Cronin, with co-driver Mikie Galvin, leads the current standings by 15 points. After a season-long battle, Cronin’s edge over Devine narrows to just five points when dropped scores are factored in, leaving the title hanging in the balance.
Cronin kicked off his campaign with victories at the Galway International Rally and West Cork Rally, while Devine surged back with consecutive wins at the Rally of the Lakes in Killarney and the prestigious Donegal International Rally. However, Cronin regained momentum with a crucial win at the Ulster Rally in August.
Heading into Cork, Devine needs to win outright to secure the championship, while second place would be enough for Cronin to claim the title. However, a slip from Cronin could open the door for Devine to take both the rally and the championship.
Adding to the drama, former champions Josh Moffett and Matt Edwards, as well as Josh McErlean and Meirion Evans, will also be competing, aiming to finish their seasons on a high and potentially influencing the title fight.
With the stakes sky-high and the Cork 20 offering one final test, the stage is set for an unforgettable conclusion to this year’s Irish Tarmac Rally Championship. Will Devine defend his crown, or will Cronin take home the glory for the second time? We’ll find out on Sunday!