Mullen claims Stellantis Cup hat-trick at Galway Summer Rally

Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy co-driver Darragh Mullen claimed his third consecutive Stellantis Cup victory alongside Oran England at the Galway Summer Rally, finishing second in Class 2 just 6.2 seconds behind winner Ben McFall.

The Peugeot 208 Rally4 overcame the challenging event, leading Class 2 at one point and swapping fastest times with McFall across the competitive Ballinasloe-based stages.

“After the disappointment of our last two rallies, we were really looking forward to getting back at it in Galway,” said Mullen. “We got off to an okay start, probably a little cautious in places, but we were in the mix and that was the main thing."

“It was a tight battle all day across Class 2 and the Stellantis Cup, with Danny [Brady] never far behind, keeping us on our toes. It made for some fantastic racing and kept us pushing throughout the day.”

“We're delighted to come away with second in Class 2 and first in the Stellantis Cup, making it three Stellantis wins in a row. That puts us in a really strong position heading into the remaining rounds.”

Watch:

The Academy crew of Ross Ryan and James Deane enjoyed a close battle with Aaron Browne to claim fourth in Class 2, marking the occasion with their first ever Rally4 stage win on stage four.

“Really happy with how the day went,” reflected Ryan. “It was nice to be up battling with the top lads. I felt really confident in the car all day so happy to finish fourth in the end. Also it was nice to come away with my first Rally4 stage win.” 

Academy co-driver Dylan Harrington rounded out Class 2’s top ten with Jack Kennedy as they continue to get up to speed in Rally4 machinery.

“It was hard to get into a rhythm throughout the day with reduced mileage,” said Harrington. “The times will come with seat time but it was a good day of learning. Thanks to all the lads in service and the Academy for everything.”

Jack Harris and Aaron O'Regan showed early promise, setting the second-fastest Class 2 time on stage two to move into third before being forced into retirement after a mechanical failure coming into a chicane.