Motorsport Ireland signs insurance deal

After signing a new insurance deal, events in Ireland will be able to go ahead for the rest of the year, albeit with a fee rise.

The rise in insurance costs comes in the face of the sport’s governing body in Ireland – Motorsport Ireland – attempting to keep the premiums down for motorsport in the country. Although last year featured few major accidents, the country has suffered major incidents in recent years which has forced insurers to charge more.

The levy for events means competitors for International multi stage events will face a extra cost of £332, while Forestry events feature a hike of £66.

The Galway International Rally – the opening round of the Irish Tarmac Championship – will be able to go ahead and will feature an entry fee of £1057.

MI have been praised for finalising a deal, despite the fee rises. The last time the sport featured an insurance crisis as critical as this year was 30 years ago, when there was a six-month period without rallying in the country. The Donegal International rally in 1987 opened the season.