Organisers of the Wales Rally GB say Newtown and north Powys has benefited economically from the international event, with more than £10million pumped into the Mid and North Wales economy during the 2019 event.
It comes as organisers say they are disappointed the event will not take place this year due to the coronavirus situation, but said they were working with the Welsh Government and Motorsport UK to bring it back to Newtown and local forests in 2021.
“A number of factors will determine next year’s WRC calendar but, for all the positive reasons outlined in these audited figures, both Motorsport UK and the Welsh Government, our principal funding partner, are optimistic that we will see the WRC back in the Welsh forests in 2021," said Hugh Chambers, Chief Executive of Motorsport UK, organiser of Wales Rally GB.
“This major event has a enormous economic benefit and drives people’s livelihoods. Its presence will not only generate a lot of excitement but will also play a significant role in the country’s post-pandemic recovery.”
The rally, which has been based in North Wales since 2013 but uses forests around Newtown, Llanidloes and other parts of Mid Wales, has brought nearly £10 million into the regional economy last year, along with 100,000 visitors.
The rally uses Broad Street in Newtown as well as the Hafren and Back Lane car park for servicing in recent years.