NEW DEPARTURES FOR 2026 ASSESS IRELAND RALLY OF THE LAKES
The 2026 Killarney Rally of the Lakes is bringing several major changes to the prestigious May Bank Holiday motorsport event.
Under the guidance of new Clerk of the Course Tim Clifford, the rally enters a new era while maintaining the traditional atmosphere that has made Killarney one of the most celebrated events on the Irish rallying calendar.
The weekend kicks off with the ceremonial start ramp in Killarney town centre on Friday evening. This high-energy event remains a fan favourite, drawing thousands of spectators to the town to see the crews and machinery up close before they head to the stages.
Clerk of the Course Tim Clifford said: “Our goal for 2026 was to respect the incredible heritage of the Rally of the Lakes while introducing fresh elements that challenge the crews and excite the fans. We have worked hard to balance classic stages with roads that haven’t been seen in years, ensuring that this year’s rally offers something truly unique for both regulars and the newcomers to the event.”
SATURDAY: MILLSTREET BOUND
The opening day of competition on Saturday features a blend of legendary tarmac and lesser-known territory. The route includes a run over the iconic Moll’s Gap.
However, a significant departure for 2026 sees the rally move towards Millstreet for much of the Saturday loop. This includes the use of newer or lesser-used roads in the vicinity.
The service park for Saturday will be located at the Green Glens Arena in Millstreet, a facility well-equipped to handle the scale of a modern international rally.
SUNDAY: CLASSIC ROADS, NEW DIRECTIONS
Sunday’s action returns to the traditional heartland of South Kerry, featuring staples such as Beallaghbeama Pass. While these roads are familiar to many, the organisers have introduced a twist on the Shanera stage.
The route has been extended by approximately 4km, covering roads that have seen rally action in the past but never in this specific direction or configuration.
JUNIORS TAKE CENTRE STAGE ON SATURDAY
In a major scheduling shift, the Junior contenders will run their full eight-stage event on Saturday. Traditionally, the Junior class has competed on the Sunday of the Rally of the Lakes.
THE RETURN OF THE GIANTS: WRC CLASS INTRODUCED
Following the massive success of the Rally Masters event at Killarney Racecourse last September, the 2026 Rally of the Lakes will feature a dedicated World Rally Car (WRC) only class.
This new class will run exclusively over the Sunday loop. It is specifically designed for the iconic 2.0-litre machines from the early to mid-2000s, cars that are no longer eligible for overall honours in the main Tarmac Championship but remain huge fan favourites. Early interest suggests upwards of 20 machines, including Subaru Imprezas, Ford Focus WRCs, and Toyota Corollas. These cars will follow the main field on Sunday, providing a nostalgic soundtrack to the final day of the rally.
Entries are now officially open for the event, which serves as a counting round for the NAPA Irish Tarmac Rally Championship, the Southern 4 Rally Championship, and the Moriarty’s Central Car Sales Kingdom of Kerry Rally Championship.
Thats the link for 5pm
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Kerry Motorsport News 