Welshpool-based Get Jerky Rally North Wales, originally set for March 29, has been cancelled due to access restrictions in the Welsh forests in the aftermath of Storm Darragh.
Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club, the event organisers, received confirmation from Motorsport UK and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) that significant storm damage caused by the December storm has left many rally stages inaccessible.
Consequently, forest stage rallies in the region are no longer permitted at this time.
Given the packed stage rally calendar and ongoing uncertainty about securing alternative locations later in the year, organisers decide to cancel the 2025 event and focus on returning next year.
It’s a huge blow to the Welshpool area which receives an economic injection from the event with hundreds of people staying in and visiting the area for the weekend.
“Speaking personally and on behalf of the organising team, we are extremely saddened and disappointed that we are in this situation,”, said club chairman Guy Weaver.
“We were very much looking forward to a bumper year of Rally North Wales with some classic stages and the inclusion of many top-line championships which was set to elevate the event once again.
“Our thanks go to all involved for their efforts in creating the 2025 event and to our loyal sponsor Get Jerky for their unrivalled support. Thanks also must go to all the championships who have promised to return for 2026.
“We are very sorry that this situation has arisen and wish Natural Resources Wales all the best in terms of sorting out the devastation in the forests. We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday, March 28, 2026.”
Arwyn Watkins, OBE, managing director of Get Jerky, said: “Clearly we are disappointed to receive the news that Get Jerky Rally North Wales has been cancelled after so much work and planning by the organisers.
“However, we also acknowledge that the safety of crews and spectators must be maintained and we look forward to seeing regular updates from Natural Resources Wales, Motorsport UK and Rally 4 Wales so that we can utilise the plans for 2026 and bring the rally back to Welshpool and the forests in the region.”
PICTURE: Get Jerky Rally North Wales is another casualty of Storm Darragh.
Image credit: Russ Otway / 90Right