WRC Academy events announced

Further details have just been released about the 2011 WRC Academy in which Brendan and Rhianon will compete.  Brendan was one of six drivers from around the world selected at a 'shootout' in Spain last month, his prize a fully-funded drive in six rounds of the World Rally Championship in the new Academy Cup which will replace the existing Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) from next year.

The Academy Cup will consist of 24 places - six of which will be filled by the drivers selected in Spain - and all participants will compete in Ford Fiesta R2s prepared by M-Sport.  The remaining 18 places are available for purchase at a cost of GBP118,000 for the six event series. The entry fee includes the rental and transportation of a centrally supplied, maintained and prepared Fiesta R2, as well as mechanics, rebuild costs, Pirelli control tyres, entry fees, pre-event tests and a tuition programme.

The FIA WRC Academy Cup rounds will take place over two full days of the nominated WRC events - generally Friday and Saturday.  Training and tuition will be in the classroom and on the stages and, like any real academy, there will be lectures, mentors, grades and homework.  Recce at each event will be followed by tuition sessions and a test for every driver. Tuition will cover driving and co-driving performance as well as related topics including technical, health, lifestyle and media skills.

Events which will form part of the WRC Academy Cup in 2011* are

Rally de Portugal (March)

Rally d'Italia Sardegna (May)

Rally Finland (July)

Rally Deutschland (August)

Rallye de France (September)

Wales Rally GB (November). *subject to confirmation by the FIA

Brendan and Rhianon are planning a supporters tour to one of the events in 2011. The event is likely to be either Finland or Germany.  Register your interest by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and we'll keep you informed as more details are announced.