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Mondello keen to claim ‘permanent place on international rallycross calendar’

Rallycross action at Mondello Park (3)

It has been 30 years since Mondello Park last reverberated to the raucous sounds of international rallycross. Next summer, Irish fans will once again be able to enjoy the raw, unadulterated power and awe-inspiring sight of the dual-surface discipline’s leading lights duelling doorhandle-to-doorhandle for every inch of asphalt and gravel – a sensational show is guaranteed.

As the Republic of Ireland’s only FIA-licensed motor racing venue, Mondello is no stranger to hosting major events. From 1987 to 1996, the popular County Kildare circuit was a staple of the FIA European Rallycross Championship schedule, and over the intervening three decades, it has welcomed series of the calibre of the British Touring Car Championship, British Superbike Championship and FIA Sportscar Championship.

Since Mondello was last visited by Euro RX, the thriving domestic series has kept the discipline alive and well-supported as a central pillar of Irish motorsport culture and the heartbeat of the circuit’s off-road activities. The announcement earlier this month that top-tier international rallycross is set for a comeback in the country created a palpable buzz and sent a wave of excitement and pride coursing through the paddock.

Following such a long hiatus, Euro RX’s eagerly-anticipated return on 18-19 July, 2026 marks a significant milestone, offering an opportunity to reconnect with the venue’s rich heritage while showcasing Ireland’s passionate rallycross community on the international stage and restoring the track’s status as a premier destination for European motorsport. 

Much has changed since the championship last set foot on the ‘Emerald Isle’. The Mondello Park that will greet competitors next summer is virtually unrecognisable from the one that hosted the series in the past.

Mondello Park in Ireland

While the circuit itself retains the technical nature and ‘old-school’ soul that has made it such a favourite amongst drivers and fans alike, it has benefitted from a significant extension to create the International Loop, transforming what was a shorter, tighter layout into a longer, more complex and faster challenge. The overall facility has also undergone a complete transformation aimed at modernising every aspect of the competitor and spectator experience.

Further feverish work is going on behind-the-scenes in preparation for Euro RX’s return, involving the team at Mondello Park, the FIA, Motorsport Ireland and the local rallycross community. From infrastructure upgrades to operations and logistical planning, everything is aimed at delivering a truly world-class event – the ultimate showcase of speed, sound and spectacular action all wrapped up in Ireland’s signature festival flavour.

“We’ve waited 30 years for this,” explained Managing Director, Roddy Greene. “We need the massive crowds that Ireland is famous for to prove that Mondello Park should have a permanent place on the international calendar.

“It’s a chance to be part of Irish motorsport history and witness motorsport at its most explosive, where every single race is a final and the noise of a pack of Supercars on the start line is an experience that will stay with attendees forever!”

Multiple British Rallycross Champion Patrick O'Donovan in action at Mondello Park in Ireland