The driver who died in the Killarney Forestry Rally on Sunday evening was named last night as 22-year-old Eoin McCarthy from Dunmanway, Co Cork, a member of the Skibbereen and District Car Club.
In a statement, Motorsport Ireland said it was “deeply saddened” to confirm the news. It said McCarthy’s co-driver remains in Cork University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
“As the governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in Ireland, Mororsport Ireland together with the event organisers and the relevant authorities, has begun a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident,” the organisation said.
The 63kms rally with six technical stages took place in Mount Eagle area of Castleisland. The event was intended to raise funds for the air ambulance.
The accident took place on Stage 4 of the event at around 3pm and McCarthy was airlifted to Cork University Hospital. The event was halted to deal with the incident.
In a subsequent statement, Motorsport Ireland said it and its affiliated clubs “are recognised internationally for operating to the highest standards of motorsport safety for competitors and spectators in line with the best practice of the FIA”.
“The entire motorsport community extends its fullest sympathy to the family and friends of the bereaved. Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Killarney and District Motor Club and everyone involved with organising yesterday’s event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident.”