McCarthy looks ahead after tough Flanders International Rally Challenge debut in Belgium
Kerry Motor Club member Keith McCarthy is already looking forward to his next overseas rally after a tough start to his Flanders International Rally Challenge (FIRC) campaign in Belgium in mid-April.
McCarthy was co-driving for Cork driver Neil Phelan at Rallye Salamandre, the opening round of the 2025 FIRC.
It was the pair’s first time in the FORC but unfortunately, their rally ended in disappointment.
After a steady run through the opening stages, their Ford Escort suffered a broken axle on the start line of Stage 11, forcing them into retirement just two stages from the finish.
“It was a tough way to end the rally, especially being so close to the finish,” McCarthy said. “We were absolutely gutted, but at the same time, it was a brilliant learning experience.”
Despite the setback, McCarthy and Phelan are taking plenty of positives from their Belgian debut and are already focused on the next round — the ORC Rallye Canal on May 25.
“Rallying in Belgium is mega,” added McCarthy. “The atmosphere, the stages, and the organisation were top class. Huge thanks to Rallye Salamandre for having us, and to the lads on the spanners for all the hard work.
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