Rallying: Rally Ireland FIA World Rally Championships 2007

Current World Record Holder Frenchman Sebastian Loeb steered the Citroen C4 WRC through the Final Stage of Rally Ireland WRC on Sunday without incident to take victory in the inaugural Rally Ireland WRC.

Loeb, who was in command, since championship leader Marcus Gronholm crashed out on Friday, completed his victory over his Citroen teammate Spaniard, Dani Sordo and Finn Fjarri-Matti Latvala, taking his first WRC podium finish in 3rd.

Loeb now takes a six point advantage into the final round of the championship in the Wales Rally, GB in two week’s time. Ford Motorsport clinched its second consecutive WRC Manufacturer’s title with Miko Hirvonen’s 4th place finish.

It was a fantastic weekend of world class rallying. The thousands and thousands of Irish rally enthusiasts who braved the very wet conditions were not disappointed. Irish Rallying was boosted by the performances of some of our leading drivers.

Dubliner, Gareth McHale led this challenge with an excellent overall 8th place. This gained him World Championship points for the second time following his 6th place in the Rally of Mexico 2006. Indeed it was a wonderful weekend for the McHale family, with Brother Aaron finishing 12th and father Austin 25th. 

Also, Fermanagh driver Niall McShea competed the excellent weekend for Irish Rallying when he took victory in the PWRC category. McShea won the PWRC Championship in 2004.

For Further Information: Web: www.rallyireland.org