WRC: Rally Ireland to miss out in 2011

Rally Ireland will not form part of the World Rally Championship schedule in 2011, according to Motorsport Ireland.

The event made a successful debut on the WRC calendar in 2007 and returned last year as the season opening event, with Sebastien Loeb winning both editions. It was left off the 2010 calendar due to the FIA’s rotation policy, but was expected to be back next year.

However, Motorsport Ireland released a statement over the weekend revealing that WRC promoters, North One Sport, have informed the Rally Ireland organisers that it has missed out on a spot on the new 2011 schedule.

‘Motorsport Ireland have been advised by North One Sport, the global promoters of the WRC, that Rally Ireland has not been included on their 2011 calendar proposal to the FIA,’ read the statement. ‘The proposal will be considered by the FIA World Council at their meeting in March. Motorsport Ireland had presented North One Sport with a detailed plan for the 2011 event at a meeting in London in September 2009.

‘FIA president, Jean Todt, has made it clear that the FIA will control the calendar for each Championship but a strong geographical spread is necessary for world championships. Rally Ireland will continue to participate as a partner in the World Rally Organisers Group with a view to capitalising on any opportunities that may arise.’

North One Sport’s calendar proposal is believed to include 14 rallies, including a new event in Abu Dhabi.

Watch the WRC on Motors TV (Sky Channel 413, Virgin Media 545) in 2010.


Andy Wilkinson