Rallycross is essentially a combination of rallying and circuit racing with events take place on circuits over a combination of tarmac and loose surfaces. Most competitions involve a series of heats leading to qualification for finals and ultimately, the super final race for the fastest competitors on the day.

There would normally be between five and eight cars competing together on the track at any one time, with races lasting on average just 4 minutes.

TYPES OF VEHICLES

Modified saloon cars with various engine, chassis, and suspension modifications. Cars can be 2 or 4-wheel drive with special competition tyres fitted. Cars are segregated into various classes depending on engine capacity and whether they are 2 or 4-wheel drive and there are separate classes for juniors and rally cars. Full details on Rallycross classes can be found in Appendix 82 of the Motorsport Ireland Yearbook.

WHERE AND WHEN

Rallycross events take place from March to November and are typically held at Mondello Park near Naas, Co. Kildare. However, in recent years, upgrades made to the Pallas Karting facility in Tynagh in County Galway have seen it host Rallycross events.

View Events Calendar

LICENCE REQUIREMENTS AND STARTING AGE

A Speed category "National B" grade licence is required as a minimum. The minimum age limit for this licence is 16 years of age. A doctor’s certificate is required for a first time licence and annually after 49 years of age this form to bring to the doctor can be downloaded from the website. A Road Traffic Act driving licence is not required. Competitors under 18 years of age require written permission from their parents or guardians. There is a special junior class for 14-16-year olds, with special licence requirements and vehicles as per Motorsport Ireland Yearbook. All “Junior” licenced drivers must be accompanied by a valid Competitor Entrant (parent/guardian) Licence.  A first time licence costs as little as €50 if you are a member of a Motorsport Ireland affiliated Motor Club.

Apply for a Competition Licence

HOW TO GET STARTED

If you are interested in getting started in Rallycross, the first step is to contact Motorsport Ireland by phone on (+353) 0 1 677 5628 or email [email protected]. Motorsport Ireland annually publishes a Yearbook containing all the rules and regulations for Irish Motorsport with Appendices 82-83 catering for Rallycross. The full Yearbook is available to view on this website as is the calendar of events. 

View Yearbook

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

Competition cars must have a full roll cage fitted. The windscreen must be laminated or rigid plastic type. Two extra high mounted brake lights, towing eyes for breakdown, a dual circuit brake system, integrated seat and headrest, electric cut off switch, mud-flaps on all driven wheels, fire extinguisher and a full safety harness are all required. All cars and equipment must comply with Appendix 2 of the Motorsport Ireland Yearbook. All vehicles must pass scrutiny each time to compete in an event. All vehicles must have an MI logbook obtainable from the Motorsport Ireland Technical Commission at [email protected] 

SPECIAL CLOTHING

You will require a helmet, fireproof overalls, boots, gloves, socks, and underclothing. Details of helmet and clothing standards are published in Appendix 2 of the Motorsport Ireland Yearbook.

Learn about the Irish Rallycross Championship