The Dungannon native secured his maiden European Rally Championship victory at Rali Ceredigion as Teemu Suninen wrapped up the European title with a second-place finish.
Driving a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 alongside co-driver Noel O’Sullivan, the former WRC star defeated Suninen by 38.6 seconds on the Welsh asphalt.
He dominated Saturday afternoon, exploiting a mistake from his Skoda rival to establish a decisive margin.
“What a weekend, honestly,” the rally winner said. “Thanks to everyone who got me here. What an incredible job. It is so enjoyable when the package is right. I feel at home again. I enjoy the drive, as everyone knows. When the package is right, I can drive.”
Securing The Welsh Contract
The event marked the conclusion of Rali Ceredigion’s initial three-year agreement with the ERC. Organisers are now negotiating a new contract to keep the fixture on the calendar through 2027.
Event director Charlie Jukes confirmed discussions are progressing well, backed by strong regional support and 1,250 volunteers.
With the World Rally Championship tipped to return to the UK via Rally Scotland, Jukes believes dual events will only boost the sport.
“We’re obviously at the end of our three-year deal and we are in discussions. I’d like to think that we can continue it, but that obviously isn’t sorted yet. That’s where we’re trying to go. That’s basically where we would like to be,” Jukes added.
Suninen heads into the final round as the confirmed champion, while Ceredigion officials await a formal calendar announcement from the promoter.
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