P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ireland’s bid to rejoin the WRC in 2025 halted
Ireland bid to host the WRC for a three-year contract starting in 2025 and planned to rotate the rally through Waterford, Kerry, and Limerick. The bid hinged on securing €15 million in funding from the Irish government, with expectations of generating €300 million for the local economy. Despite hopes, the funding grant did not come through within the required timeframe, leading Motorsport Ireland to confirm that Ireland is no longer in consideration. The Department of Sport requested an additional six months for economic assessments, causing frustration for Motorsport Ireland that had been proactive in its approach. The operational deadline set by the WRC promoter was March 2024 for funding confirmation, but the delay from the government led to Ireland missing out on hosting the FIA World Rally Championship in 2025.
