Welshpool event returns after cancellation with revamped route and star-studded field
THE GET JERKY RALLY North Wales makes a highly anticipated return this weekend, promising a thrilling 2026 edition with a refreshed format, updated route and one of the strongest entry lists in recent years.
After being cancelled in 2025 due to storm damage, the Welshpool-based rally is back with renewed energy, once again centred around the town’s livestock market service area.
Organised by Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club, the event will also reconnect with the town itself. A mid-day regroup and end-of-event celebrations in Welshpool town centre will give fans a rare chance to get close to the cars and drivers.
The rally continues to be backed by title sponsor Get Jerky, produced locally by Trailhead Fine Foods.
Classic stages and top-class entry
Crews will tackle six stages covering 45 competitive miles, with the iconic Dyfnant Forest and Aberhirnant Forest providing a classic Wales Rally GB-style challenge. Both stages will be run twice, ensuring a full day of demanding action.
A top-quality modern field includes Max McRae, who arrives alongside co-driver Cammy Fair for a key pre-season outing. McRae will be aiming to emulate his father, Alister McRae, who won the event in 1998.
Welsh hopes will be led by Meirion Evans and co-driver Dale Furniss, competing in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 under the Castrol MEM Rally Team banner.
Championship leader Matthew Hirst, with co-driver Jack Bown, will also be among the frontrunners, facing strong competition from Alex Vassallo and Chris Lees, Icelandic pairing Daniel Siguroarson and Asta Siguroarson, plus the in-form Elliot Payne and Patrick Walsh.
Ian Bainbridge and Andrew Roughead are also set to debut their new Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.
Historic battle adds excitement
The Fuchs British Historic Rally Championship field will again be out in force, led in Category 4 by George Lepley and co-driver Dafydd Evans in their Mitsubishi Galant VR4.
A potential appearance from fan favourites Marty McCormack and Barney Mitchell in a BMW E30 M3 could prove a major attraction.
Category 3 is expected to be fiercely contested, with leaders Richard Hill and Patrick Cooper looking to extend their advantage. Former British Rally Championship frontrunner Tom Cave also joins the category alongside Keaton Williams.
Further battles will play out across the ANWCC Forest Rally Championship, West Wales Rally Spares HRCR Stage Masters Challenge, TCS Plant Rally Challenge and Mini Cup Stage Rallying Championship.
Town centre action for fans
Welshpool will once again play a central role, hosting rally HQ and service at the livestock market, while the Seven Stars Car Park becomes a key spectator hub.
From around midday, the town centre will host the mid-rally regroup, alongside family-friendly entertainment including a treasure hunt and even a Guinness World Record attempt.
The ceremonial finish and champagne celebrations are expected from approximately 3:45pm, with free access for spectators.
Fans can also watch the action in both Aberhirnant and Dyfnant South stages, each run twice during the day. The first stage gets underway at 8:30am, with parking available at £10 per car, including a programme.
For more information, visit the official event website.
