The UK may soon see the return of top-level international rallying, as Rali Ceredigion enters discussions to join the ERC (European Rally Championship). This exciting news comes as the event gains more recognition and establishes itself as a prominent fixture in the rally calendar. Rali Ceredigion, an asphalt event based near Aberystwyth, has grown in stature since its inception in 2019. The prospect of joining the ERC is gaining momentum, thanks to the collaboration between event organizers, local stakeholders, Ceredigion County Council, and commercial partners in securing the necessary resources and infrastructure.
Building Connections
To solidify Rali Ceredigion’s future as an ERC event, representatives attended the Royal Rally of Scandinavia ERC round in Sweden last month. During the event, they had the opportunity to meet with the championship promoter and discuss the potential inclusion of Rali Ceredigion in the ERC calendar. This proactive approach demonstrates Rali Ceredigion’s commitment to bringing Wales back into the ERC in 2024. The discussions are promising, and it is anticipated that the rally will feature in the 2024 ERC schedule.
A Return to the UK
If successful in securing a slot on the 2024 ERC schedule, Rali Ceredigion will mark the return of international rallying to Britain. The last visit from the World Rally Championship to the UK was in 2019 for Wales Rally GB. The loss of funding resulted in Britain losing its round of the World Rally Championship, leaving the country without an international rally event. Despite efforts to bring the WRC to Northern Ireland, a lack of government funding has posed challenges, leading to the UK missing out on a spot in the 2024 WRC schedule.
ERC’s Growing Presence
As the WRC plans its 13-round 2024 calendar, the ERC continues to elevate its presence and significance in the rallying world. The addition of Latvia’s Rally Liepaja event, promoted from the ERC, to the WRC calendar marks a significant milestone for the Baltic nation. This shift further accentuates the importance of Rali Ceredigion’s potential inclusion in the ERC, as it brings international rallying back to British soil and restores the UK’s presence in top-tier rallying.
The discussions between Rali Ceredigion and the ERC have generated excitement and anticipation for the return of top-level international rallying to the UK. With the event’s growing stature since its establishment in 2019 and the collaborative efforts of event organizers, local stakeholders, and commercial partners, Rali Ceredigion’s inclusion in the 2024 ERC schedule looks promising. This development would mark a significant milestone for the UK, as it brings international rallying back to British shores and revitalizes the country’s presence in the rallying world. The rallying community eagerly awaits the finalization of the ERC calendar and the potential inclusion of Rali Ceredigion, heralding a new era for rallying enthusiasts in the UK.
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