Modern Tyres Ulster Rally Unveils New One-Day Format for 47th Edition
New One-Day Format to Boost Excitement for Championship Contenders
The Modern Tyres Ulster Rally is set to rev up the excitement on August 17 with its 47th edition, marking a significant shift in its format. For the first time in its history, the iconic event will be condensed into a single day, a change that promises to deliver both thrills and challenges for competitors and spectators alike.
Organized by the Northern Ireland Motor Club, this year’s rally is a crucial fixture as the penultimate round of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship. With the title race intensifying, top contenders Callum Devine, Keith Cronin, and Matt Edwards are poised to make their mark over eight timed tests, covering 83 competitive miles around Newry.
Colin Turkington, Clerk of the Course, emphasizes that despite the one-day schedule, the stages will retain their complexity. “The stages might be familiar, but the reduced timeframe will add a new layer of challenge. Our aim is to ensure that while the competition remains fierce, the event remains enjoyable for spectators,” Turkington explained.
Jonathan Jackson, Head of Rally at Motorsport UK, highlighted the event’s rich history and its ability to test the best in the sport. “Transitioning to a one-day format will not compromise the event’s challenging nature. It’s an opportunity for competitors, officials, and marshals to experience an extraordinary weekend in Newry,” Jackson said.
Entry numbers are steadily increasing as top drivers from the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship sign up for the rally. Leading the standings is Josh Moffett, who has shown impressive form this season with victories at Galway, West Cork, and Donegal. Moffett, driving his Hyundai i20 R5, will face stiff competition from Meirion Evans in a Volkswagen Polo GTI R5, as well as Northern Ireland’s Alastair Fisher and Callum Devine, also in Polos. Former champion Darren Gass will add to the challenge in his Citroen Racing C3 Rally2.
Alastair Fisher, backed by Modern Tyres, is eagerly anticipating the event. “The Ulster Rally is a hallmark of the rally calendar with its challenging stages and excellent organization. The night stage will add an extra element of excitement, and we’re hoping to make a strong showing to keep the Tarmac Championship battle alive,” Fisher said.
Event Director Philip Murray reminds potential entrants that the deadline to register is August 4. “The response has been fantastic, and we’re thrilled with the caliber of competitors who will be heading to Newry. We have a thrilling two-day competition planned, including the return of a night stage, with more details to come soon. We encourage all interested participants to get their entries in before the deadline,” Murray added.
For more information on spectator viewing points, the time and distance schedule, and the seeded entry list, visit the official event website at www.ulsterrally.com in the coming weeks. The Modern Tyres Ulster Rally is set to be a highlight of the motorsport calendar, promising a day of high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.
