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The RKings Down Rally hits top gear this weekend as Rathfriland Motor Club hosts the final round of the Brown & Brown Northern Ireland Rally Championship and round 5 of the Protyre UK Asphalt Championship.
Set in the scenic backdrop of County Down it all kicks off with a vibrant Friday night fanzone (July 18) hosted at The Boulevard, Banbridge.
It opens from 7:00pm and runs until 9:00pm, giving visitors two full hours to explore the display of rally cars, meet the drivers, grab photos, and soak in the atmosphere before the real action starts on Saturday morning.
Over 100 cars from across the province are expected to tackle the county down tarmac in which the drivers will face eight challenging and gruesome stages, including the famous Hamiltons Folly stage.
Amongst the leading contenders we have 2023 Down Rally winner Cathan McCourt. He’ll be partnered with Barry McNulty in the Skoda Fabia RS Rally 2 car.
Of course, there are also local and former rally champions in the mix.
Two-time Down Rally Winner and four-time NI Rally Champion Jonny Greer despite having mixed fortunes during his 2025 campaign, will be wanting to stamp his authority in his Toyota Yaris 2 as Niall Burns will be calling the notes in the Japanese car.
Additionally the newly crowned Northern Ireland Rally Champions, Aaron McLaughlin and Darren Curran will be looking to end their fantastic season on a high in their Volkswagon Polo Rally2 after taking the title at Loughgall Rally nearly two weeks ago.
Keep an eye on local home favourites Emma McKinstry and co-driver Ben Teggart (Ford Fiesta Rally 2), John Devlin (Ford Escort MK2) to name but a few of homegrown-based drivers competing in the event.
It all kicks off this Saturday, July 19 with the service held at Eagle Overseas near The Boulevard, Banbridge with the first car due to approach the opening stage just after 9am.
