Motorsport Ireland has revealed that Rally Ireland has missed out on a slot on the proposed calendar for the 2011
World Rally Championship season.
Ireland made its debut on the WRC schedule back in 2007 and was given the honour of opening the 2009 campaign – with
Sebastien Loeb winning for
Citroen on both occasions.
Event organisers had hoped that Ireland would have returned to the WRC schedule again next year – having run on alternate years since making its maiden appearance on the calendar.
However, a brief statement from Motorsport Ireland has revealed that series promoters North One Sport has stated that Ireland is not on the proposed calendar to be considered by the
FIA World Motor Sport Council next month.
“Motorsport Ireland had presented North One Sport with a detailed plan for the 2011 event at a meeting in London in September 2009,” the missive read. “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.”
