The British Rally Championship: A Resilient Comeback
The British Rally Championship (BRC) has experienced a rollercoaster of fortunes in recent times. Initially struggling to regain momentum in the post-COVID era, the championship has made a remarkable comeback in just two years. By 2023, the BRC had solidified its position with a robust lineup of events and a surge of interest from top-tier competitors. This resurgence reached new heights in 2024 when mainstream television returned, and a quartet of formidable drivers, including former European champion Chris Ingram, battled for the title. Ingram emerged victorious in a tightly contested four-way race. As the 2025 season approaches, the BRC is poised to maintain this upward trajectory, with a lineup brimming with talent and excitement.
A Season of Promise
The 2025 BRC season promises to be just as thrilling, with a blend of established names and rising stars competing in Rally2 cars. These vehicles, which are also used in the second tier of world rallying, add a layer of prestige and competitiveness to the championship. Notably, four different manufacturers are represented in the Rally2 ranks, underscoring the diversity and depth of the field. The season kicks off with the East Riding Stages Rally, a closed-road event in East Yorkshire, which sets the stage for a year of intense competition. With three asphalt and three gravel events, the championship offers a balanced mix of challenging surfaces, testing the versatility and skill of the drivers.
Keith Cronin: Chasing History
Leading the charge in the 2025 BRC is Irish rally ace Keith Cronin, who is on a mission to secure his fifth BRC title, a feat that would equal the legendary Jimmy McRae’s record from the 1980s. Cronin has made a strategic change, swapping his Ford Fiesta Rally2 for a Citroen C3 Rally2. While the Citroen is a well-proven machine on asphalt, its performance on gravel is a point of keen interest. Cronin is acutely aware of the importance of a strong start, especially given his difficult beginning to the 2024 season, from which he never fully recovered. "I’m not setting any specific targets, but a good result this weekend is crucial if we’re to have a chance of landing the British title," Cronin stated. The East Riding Stages Rally will be his first opportunity to showcase the capabilities of his new ride.
William Creighton: A New Chapter
Right behind Cronin is William Creighton, another seasoned competitor with high ambitions for the 2025 season. Creighton has also made a change, joining the MEM Castrol team to pilot the Toyota Yaris Rally2, previously driven by Chris Ingram. Creighton’s decision to switch teams and cars is a testament to his desire to push for the championship. "The first event of the season is always crucial, and with this rally being so short and intense, there’s no room for error," Creighton noted. He acknowledges the challenging nature of the East Riding Stages Rally, a new event for him, which is characterized by slippery and tricky conditions. Creighton’s familiarity with the MEM Castrol team, alongside fellow driver Meirion Evans, could provide a significant advantage as he navigates the early stages of the season.
Rising Stars and International Talent
Adding to the competitive lineup are several rising stars and international talents who bring fresh dynamics to the 2025 BRC. James Williams, piloting the lone Hyundai, is a serious title contender due to his proven pace on both asphalt and gravel. James Ford and national champion Callum Black, stepping up to the BRC with his Ford Fiesta, further bolster the growing Citroen challenge. The presence of reigning Junior world champion Romet Jurgenson from Estonia introduces another layer of international flair. Despite being new to UK rallying, Jurgenson’s exceptional ability and experience in the M-Sport Fiesta squad make him a force to be reckoned with. Additionally, Max McRae, the fourth member of the esteemed McRae family to compete for the BRC crown, adds to the Citroen contingent, bringing a heritage of rallying excellence.
A Bright Future for the BRC
The 2025 British Rally Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and exciting seasons in recent memory. The return of mainstream television coverage, combined with a strong and diverse field of drivers, signals a championship in good health. The six-round series, featuring a mix of asphalt and gravel events, will test the mettle of the competitors and provide fans with a thrilling spectacle. As the season kicks off with the East Riding Stages Rally, all eyes will be on Keith Cronin and a host of other talented drivers who are eager to leave their mark on the championship. The 2025 BRC is not just a competition; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of British rallying.
