Massive viewing figures for COI

The IFM Sports Group, an independent research consultancy group, has published the viewing figures for the Circuit of Ireland Rally held in April, Round 3 of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

The world second-oldest rally saw 8.9 million people tune in to watch the spectacular battle between Skoda pairing Juho Hanninen and Andreas Mikkelsen, making it one of the most watched rounds of the IRC.

Rally Director, Bobby Willis, said: “Since taking over the rally in 2010, our main aim has been to bring the rally to the people and widen its appeal across Ireland. The 2012 event certainly realised this dream – not only across Ireland, but also, around the world.”

One of Eurosport's
helicopter-mounted cameras

“The event attracted thousands of spectators but to think a further 8.9 million people across the world tuned in to watch the Circuit is incredible. According to the statistics provided by IFM Sports Group, the rally was widely viewed across Europe and Asia, with viewers in Australia, Mexico and Russia also tuning in to see our beautiful landscapes come to life.” he added.

This year saw the Circuit of Ireland host a round of the IRC for the very first time, and it was a huge success. A massive battle throughout the rally between Mikkelsen and Hanninen only ended after Mikkelsen's mistake sent him into a bale, but it was more than enough to hold the interest of the world of rallying throughout the rally's 2 days. The rally has been included on a provisional list of rallies for next years European Rally Championship, the new name for the IRC from 2013 onwards.

“This was a decision made by FIA and Eurosport Events to strengthen the ERC as future World Rally Championship events are likely to be less-Euro centric. Eurosport will be the new promoter and broadcaster of the FIA European Rally Championship from 2013, for the next 10 years. At this stage the Circuit of Ireland has been included in the provisional calendar of events." Willis said of the decision to bring the IRC and ERC together in 2013.

“The 2012 IRC featured a number of events in breathtaking locations including San Marino, Sicily, and Gran Canaria and I am delighted that the thrilling action from the Northern Ireland countryside, and indeed Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, attracted such a significant audience for Eurosport.” said Francois Riberio, Eurosport Events' Motorsport Director.