Ulster Rally’s return to MEA ‘fantastic endorsement of borough’
Wednesday 29 April 2026
Ballymena Showgrounds will be the backdrop for the ceremonial start and finish ramp celebrations of the 2026 Modern Tyres Ulster Rally.
The two-day, closed-road event is moving to Ballymena for what will be the rally’s golden anniversary. It had previously been in Newry for seven years.
As the main event hub, the showgrounds’ state-of-the-art stadium will provide the base for the rally headquarters, scrutiny, service park, media centre and fan zone.
A stellar entry is expected, with teams from the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship (ITRC) being joined by crews from the prestigious FIA European Historic Rally Championship (EHRC) for the first time.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said the arrival of the Ulster Rally promised an unforgettable weekend of high-speed action for crews and spectators, while also helping to showcase Northern Ireland’s natural beauty.
“The return of the Modern Tyres Ulster Rally to Mid and East Antrim is a fantastic endorsement of our borough and the opportunities we offer,” he said.
“We are proud to once again host this iconic event, which showcases not only world-class motorsport, but also the very best of our local communities and award-winning hospitality.”
Clerk of Course Wayne Turkington said: “This summer’s Ulster Rally will head to Ballymena, with the support of our partners at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and title sponsor Modern Tyres.
“The itinerary has been extensively developed so that it visits many historical areas and special stages, to ensure it meets the high standards we aspire to and provides an exhilarating challenge for domestic and international crews.”
The Modern Tyres Ulster Rally will be held across Friday 7 and Saturday 8 August 2026.