Representatives of the Modern Tyres Ulster Rally recently travelled to Spain to promote the upcoming August event, and engage directly with potential competitors during the opening round of the FIA European Historic Rally Championship at Rally Costa Brava.
David Gray and Michael Johnston attended the event on behalf of the Northern Ireland Motor Club and Ulster Rally, and on their travels met with competitors registered in the FIA EHRC Pre-2000 category. Over the course of the rally weekend, they spoke with over 25 crews, including 15 registered competitors, as well as several additional teams who were interested in learning more about the Ballymena-based event.
Among those crews they met was multiple world rally championship event winner and now Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team boss Jari-Matti Latvala, who went on to win the rally. Each crew received Ulster Rally promotional material, and many were keen to learn more about the event, its stages and the wider rally experience in Northern Ireland. The reception from teams was extremely positive, with a considerable number expressing strong interest in adding the Modern Tyres Ulster Rally to their 2026 competition calendar.
David Gray said the trip was an important opportunity to speak directly with competitors at an early stage in the championship season.
“Attending Rally Costa Brava allowed us to introduce the Ulster Rally to crews at the perfect time in the year, when many are still finalising their full plans for the season. The response we received was extremely encouraging and there was genuine interest from a number of teams in coming to Northern Ireland to compete.”
Gray added that meeting drivers and teams in person helps build confidence and awareness about the event.
“Many of the crews were very interested in the challenge of the stages and the reputation the Ulster Rally has built over the years. Being able to discuss the event face-to-face and provide information directly to teams is hugely valuable.”
Michael Johnston also highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships within the championship and working collaboratively with other event organisers.
“It was great to meet so many competitors and also to spend time with the organisers of Rally Costa Brava. There is a strong sense of cooperation across the championship events and that benefits everyone involved.
“The feedback we received from teams was very positive. A number of crews told us they would love to experience the Ulster Rally, and we would be delighted to see several of them on the entry list in August.”
During the visit, the Ulster Rally representatives also met with Rally Costa Brava event staff, who were highly supportive of the initiative. These discussions provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and review several aspects of event organisation, helping to ensure a consistent and high-quality experience across rallies within the championship.
