Estonian driver Romet Jürgenson, alongside co-driver Siim Oja, clinched his first British Rally Championship (BRC) victory at the 2025 Carlisle Stages Rally on April 12. Held in the demanding Kielder Forest, the rally featured five gravel stages spanning over 50 miles, providing a true test of skill, precision, and endurance for all competitors.
A Dominant Performance
Jürgenson, the reigning FIA Junior WRC champion, displayed exceptional pace throughout the event. He set the fastest time on all but one of the five stages, ultimately securing victory with a total time of 45 minutes and 43.8 seconds, narrowly edging out second-place finisher William Creighton. This commanding performance marked a significant milestone in Jürgenson's rally career and firmly established him as a rising force in the British Championship.
Close Contenders
Irish driver William Creighton, co-driven by Liam Regan, finished in second place with a time of 45 minutes and 58.2 seconds. Creighton, who had already secured victory in the season opener at the East Riding Stages, demonstrated consistent pace and determination throughout the rally.
Completing the podium was Garry Pearson, with co-driver Hannah McKillop, clocking in at 46 minutes and 49.1 seconds in their Ford Fiesta Rally2. Pearson’s performance highlighted the depth of talent in the field and kept the championship race competitive.
Other notable performances included Keith Cronin and Mikie Galvin in a Citroën C3 Rally2, finishing fourth with 46 minutes and 58.9 seconds, while Callum Black and Jack Morton rounded out the top five in a Ford Fiesta Rally2 with 47 minutes and 5.0 seconds. Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear, in a Škoda Fabia R5, secured sixth place with a time of 47 minutes and 9.7 seconds, underscoring the close margins and competitive nature of the event.
Championship Standings
Following the Carlisle Stages, the BRC championship standings experienced some shifts. Creighton maintained a lead, aided by consistent performances, while Jürgenson’s maiden victory immediately thrust him into contention. Pearson’s podium finish ensured he remained firmly in the hunt, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive season as more challenging rallies lie ahead.
Conclusion
The 2025 Carlisle Stages Rally delivered edge-of-the-seat competition, highlighting the skill, precision, and resilience of the drivers. Jürgenson’s first BRC win adds a thrilling chapter to the season, and with upcoming events promising equally demanding terrains, the British Rally Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
