Kris Meeke, one of the most talented rally drivers to come out of Northern Ireland, has made a surprise announcement: he will compete at Rali Ceredigion in Wales on 4-6 September. This isn't just another start; it's Meeke's return to the European Rally Championship after a 20-year hiatus. Yes, two decades.
The 47-year-old will drive a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, with Noel O'Sullivan as his co-driver. Meeke's last ERC round was back in 2006, when he contested Rally Poland in a Citroen C2 R2, finishing tenth overall. Since then, his career has soared, including five wins in the World Rally Championship with Citroen and Toyota.
Meeke's decision to return to the ERC isn't without reason. He admitted he wants to challenge himself in the final two rounds of the season, and his participation in Wales was made possible thanks to support from several local businesses linked to the rally. "I wanted to try to do the last two rounds of the ERC. A big thanks to all my sponsors who have helped me out again. It's very exciting," Meeke said, as reported by Motorsport.com.
In Wales, Meeke will face the ERC's leading drivers, including Finland's Teemu Suninen, whom Meeke specifically singled out when discussing the challenge ahead. "I'm hopeful, but I don't underestimate the challenge with guys like Teemu Suninen, who's been rallying every weekend. But I'm excited for the challenge and a big thanks to everyone that has made it possible. Let's see what happens," he added.
Meeke has never been far from rallying. In recent years, he has been active in the Portuguese national championship, even winning the title in 2024 in a Hyundai i20 N Rally2. Last year, he switched to a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 and finished as runner-up in the same championship, losing out to fellow WRC event winner Dani Sordo.
This season, Meeke has continued competing and showing impressive form. In June, he claimed a stunning victory at the Donegal International Rally, proof that he is still competitive. Meeke's return to the ERC is sure to be a highlight, especially for fans who have missed his antics on the international stage.
With his experience and talent, Meeke could be a dark horse at Rali Ceredigion. But he is well aware that the competition in the ERC is fierce. Can he spring a surprise? We'll have to wait and see in Wales.
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