Nicolas warns IRC stars to expect tough Circuit test

26th January 2012

By Giles Wade

Former international rally driver Jean-Pierre Nicolas says the Circuit of Ireland will be “incredibly demanding” when it hosts round three of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge from April 6/7.

Nicolas is the IRC’s motorsport development boss and has spent the last few days driving through the stages that will form the IRC qualifier over the Easter weekend.

He said: “Drivers competing in the IRC are always keen for a new challenge and having driven the stages I can assure them a challenge is exactly what they will get. The Tarmac stages through the beautiful Irish countryside are incredibly demanding, with narrow roads, bumpy Tarmac and ever changing conditions.”

Nicolas never rallied in Ireland during his career as a driver but was always aware of the Circuit of Ireland and its significance on the Irish motorsport calendar.

“Ever since the IRC's inception in 2007 it has been our objective to showcase new events and cities but to also join forces with established rallies with a strong reputation, entry list and following,” he said. “We are delighted to welcome the Donnelly Group Circuit of Ireland Rally to the IRC family.”