The full story on how Rahill claimed maiden Junior WRC podium with third in Croatia

Cavan’s Craig Rahill has secured his first-ever FIA Junior WRC podium, finishing third overall at the Croatia Rally on only his second start at this level.

The result marks a significant milestone for Rahill, who showcased elite pace throughout the event, including two stage wins on Croatia’s demanding asphalt. His performance allowed him to stay clear of a chasing pack that struggled with the low-grip conditions and heavy road pollution.

They managed their pace over the remaining stages to secure the podium finish, over a minute clear of fourth, to claim a strong tally of points topped up by two stage-winning bonus points.

“We had a brilliant weekend here in Croatia,” reflected Rahill. “We had one goal this weekend – to stay clean, tidy, and get to the finish with points on the board so we are delighted with the result.”

“This is definitely up there with the trickiest rally we have done and to take third in Junior WRC and score two stage wins is unbelievable.”

At the front of the field, Ali Türkkan took the victory, holding off a late charge from Sweden’s Calle Carlberg. Türkkan entered the final day with a 30.5s lead and, despite Carlberg winning three of the final four stages, the Turkish driver maintained a 17.3s cushion to the finish.

Carlberg’s rally was hampered on Saturday during SS11, where a damaged tyre cost him over 90 seconds and the rally lead. However, his recovery to second place, bolstered by 14 stage win bonuses, keeps him at the top of the Junior WRC standings with 68 points. Türkkan moves into second with 43 points.

Behind the podium trio, Gil Membrado finished fourth after recovering from tyre issues, while Kerem Kazaz and Raúl Hernández rounded out the top six.

The Junior WRC championship now shifts back to gravel for round three at Rally de Portugal from May 7–10. Meanwhile, the European Rally Championship action kicks off this weekend in Spain with the Rally Sierra Morena.

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