What ever happened to WRC Ireland?

Mint Sauce

Have the odd passing interest in The WRC, and watching highlights of Rally Sweeden here, and wondering what ever happened to the Irish Round of it.

I thought at the time there was going to be a number of countries getting it on alternative years, Ireland being one of them, but then only after two hostings, it was gone. Was it lack of interest, costs, arguements over where the stages would be, or what?

flazio

All the surrounding accommodation people got too greedy and it became one of the most expensive rallies to attend.

JPF82

Costs. Accommodation prices for the teams were huge and I recall reading in Autosport that while the event was enjoyable, the prices of food and drink were extortionate also.

Grim.

pretty much what happened

ianobrien

As others have said, greedy locals drove the event away. Talking to some in the Ford team, staying in Sligo for the week was more expensive than Monte Carlo!

wobbles

It was such a shame that greed took over and ruined what could have been something great. Rally Ireland offered something that couldnt be found anywhere else. Classed as an asphalt round, but nothing like the smooth tarmac found in Europe, Changing weather conditions and fans lining the ditches. Should never have been based in Sligo anyway in my opinion. Donegal should have been upgraded to bring in the cross border thing they are selling the event as or Kilarney used solely for an Irish event

Circuit of Ireland part of the ERC will be as good as it gets for major championships coming to Ireland any time soon