RALLYING: Rally Ireland have edged closer to becoming a round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2007, following the submission by FIA official observers of positive reports on the successful running of the WRC candidate event in March this year, reports Brian Foley.

The Federation Internationale d'Automobile observers reviewed all organisational aspects of the 700 km event in the North West, reporting on sporting, safety, crowd control and medical elements, plus media facilities and marketing expertise.

However, Rally Ireland officials have cautioned that five other countries are also in contention for a WRC event.

If Rally Ireland becomes a round of the WRC it is estimated it would generate €145 million over a five-year period.