The 2025 Trackrod Rally Yorkshire, held from September 26 to 27, lived up to its reputation as one of the UK’s premier forest rallies. Nearly 170 competitors descended on the scenic forest tracks of North Yorkshire for a weekend of high-octane action, showcasing both cutting-edge rally machinery and historic classics in a celebration of motorsport at its finest.
Organised by the Trackrod Motor Club, the rally combined technical challenges with the raw spectacle that fans have come to expect. Friday evening saw the Historic Cup contenders set off from Filey seafront, navigating the iconic Dalby Forest stage under the dramatic cover of darkness. The atmosphere was electric, with crowds gathering along the route to witness the historic cars roaring through the forest trails.
Saturday’s competition ramped up the intensity with the Trackrod Forest Stages. Drivers tackled renowned routes including Cropton, Dalby, Langdale, Staindale, and Gale Rigg, each stage presenting a unique mix of speed, technical corners, and unforgiving forestry terrain. The Evron Centre in Filey acted as the nerve centre for the event, hosting scrutineering, documentation, and service areas, while offering fans a central hub to follow the rally’s progress.
Standout Performances
In the main event, Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear claimed a well-earned victory, demonstrating precision driving, consistency, and teamwork across the challenging forest stages. The Historic Cup and Land Rover Challenge was won by George Lepley and Dafydd Evans, who showcased both the skill and dedication required to compete in classic rallying. Meanwhile, the Trackrod Mini Challenge continued to captivate audiences, with Tom Hynd and Sue Hynd taking top honours, their competitive spirit a highlight of the weekend.
Challenges Met with Resilience
The 2025 rally was not without its hurdles. Fires in Langdale forced organisers to make last-minute re-routes, testing the adaptability of both competitors and officials. Chief Marshal Richard Webster praised the marshals, volunteers, and emergency services, acknowledging their tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and success of the event. Their work exemplified the strong community spirit that underpins the rally scene.
Community and Economic Impact
Beyond the thrilling motorsport action, the Trackrod Rally Yorkshire continues to deliver significant benefits to the local community. Thousands of visitors filled hotels, restaurants, and local attractions, boosting the economy and shining a spotlight on Yorkshire’s natural beauty. The event’s popularity was amplified through extensive online coverage, drawing motorsport enthusiasts from across the globe and highlighting the rally as a key fixture on the UK calendar.
