Rally Ireland was the most watched World Rally Championship event in 2007 according to global TV figures released this week.
A staggering 62 million viewers in over 180 countries watched the WRC's inaugural visit to the island of Ireland, well above the average of 51 million viewers per rally.
The total WRC global annual viewing figures grew from 807 million in 2006 to 816 million in 2007.
Simon Long chief executive of WRC TV rights holders ISC was full of praise for the event: ‘Rally Ireland was a tremendous addition to the WRC calendar and clearly demonstrated the value of introducing new locations to the championship.
‘With 62 million viewers tuning in to watch from all over the world, Rally Ireland was undoubtedly a major success – both at home and abroad.
‘From a TV perspective, the jewels in the crown of Rally Ireland were the spectacular two live stages in Stormont Castle, Belfast and Mullaghmore, Sligo.’
Rally Ireland deputy chairman Trevor Ringland was delighted with the results: ‘The value of all these viewers cannot be underestimated and I believe everyone should be proud of what Rally Ireland achieved in its first year in the world championship.’
This unique cross-border event, sponsored by Fáilte Ireland and Sport NI, travelled through eight counties. The four-day event attracted more than 250,000 spectators in 2007 and generated more than €48 million for the economy. The next Rally Ireland takes place from 29 January - 1 February 2009.
