Circuit of Ireland Rally

The Circuit of Ireland International Rally is an annual automobile rally, which was first held in 1931 making it the third oldest rally in the world. The most recent event was held in 2012 and after a year's rest the 2014 event rejoined the European Rally Championship for the first time since 1991. The event is also a round of the Northern Ireland Rally Championship and the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship.

The Circuit, as it is colloquially known, is organised by the Ulster Automobile Club and is traditionally held over the Easter holiday weekend. It normally starts and finishes in Northern Ireland, although over time the lengthy route of the event has typically included large segments in the Republic of Ireland as well. Most of the event's special stages are laid out on paved public roads that are closed to other traffic. In 2010, the event was awarded Intercontinental Rally Challenge Supporter Event status. For 2012 the event will become round three of the 2012 Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

The rally originated in 1931 as the Ulster Motor Rally. It was run from multiple starting points, in a manner similar to the Monte Carlo Rally. After several years in this format, it transitioned into a 1089-mile circuit, essentially following the Irish coastline and starting and finishing in Bangor, County Down. The Circuit was suspended during World War II (1939–1945), and again in 1948 due to fuel shortages. Further cancellations occurred in 1957, 1972, 2001 and 2007.

The 2007 Circuit of Ireland was cancelled as a result of continuing disputes between the organisers, the event operating company, and the sponsors. It was replaced by a series of smaller Easter holiday events arranged by the Ulster Automobile Club. These included the Easter International Rally, which was run over 12 special stages in DublinDerry, Tyrone, and Donegal. In December 2012, it was announced the 2013 rally would be cancelled due to a lack of funds, but was subsequently reinstated at a reduced scale.

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