Major international rally secured for Perth and Kinross
Last updated | 14/10/2008
Perth & Kinross Council’s Enterprise and Infrastructure Convener, Councillor John Kellas, has welcomed today's announcement that a major international rally event will come to Perth and Kinross in 2009.
The Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) will hold a round in Scotland in 2009, taking in Perth and Kinross and Stirling. The proposals are for a three-day event with a ceremonial start, three legs with two overnight halts and a finish.
The Council has been working in partnership with Stirling Council and Events Scotland to attract a round of the rally to Scotland. Councillor Kellas said the event would bring major economic benefits to the area and show Perth and Kinross’s natural beauty to a worldwide TV audience.
The IRC is a new category of motor racing endorsed by the FIA. It was created in 2007 with great success. The 2008 series includes rounds in places such as Kenya, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Italy, Switzerland and China.
Councillor Kellas said: “I am delighted that we have been successful in attracting this major international event to our area. Rally organisers says the event could attract up to 115,000 spectators, generate 3,400 bed nights for the economy, generate a spectator spend of around £2.5m and have a total positive impact on the Scottish economy estimated at £10m. Perth and Kinross will benefit significantly.
“It will also generate considerable international media coverage for Perth and Kinross. The local event will receive two hours of promotional coverage on Eurosport Networks across the world and 30 minutes of live coverage, with an estimated audience of 15-20 million people.
"There will be substantial benefits to hosting this event for Perth and Kinross. This rally showcases some of the most beautiful places in the world as a backdrop, and Perth and Kinross surely fits that bill. As well as promoting the area to a worldwide audience this event could give the local economy a real boost. This event is just another reason why Perth and Kinross has become one of the most exciting destinations to visit, and a is great place to stay."
