| The rally represents the first time that a global event in Ireland has had cross-border collaboration between the North and South, its tourist boards and politicians. It is also the biggest sporting event ever held in Ireland, with over 150,000 spectators and live television coverage in front of hundreds of millions of rally fans worldwide.
Mosley was present at Stormont Castle, Belfast, home of the Northern Ireland Assembly, at the start of Rally Ireland on Thursday, 15 November. Earlier on in the day, he was across the border in Dublin to meet a number of prominent politicians including Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Martin McGuinness. At the opening ceremony at Stormont, he joined The Princess Royal and First Minister Ian Paisley to flag off the field of 90 competing crews.
Mosley, who spent part of his childhood growing up in Ireland, commented: “I’m delighted to play a part in this significant occasion. As well as all of the symbolism that comes with this special place, Ireland offers a unique cross-border course and stunning scenery, confirming it as an ideal location to host an event at the top level of rallying.”
Rally Ireland’s unique cross border event is symbolised by the winner’s trophy, entitled “Hands across the Divide”, a copy of a lifesize sculpture located in the city of Derry, which embodies co-operation, understanding and hope for the future.
Rally Ireland’s successful WRC candidacy was confirmed on 5 July 2006, a year and a day after the bid was launched. The Irish and Northern Irish governments commissioned research on the economic impact of hosting a round of the WRC, which showed that the Championship event could be worth €46 million to the economy on the island.
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