Four-time Welsh Rally Champion Matthew Hirst will step up to the British Rally Championship (BRC) in 2025. The Doncaster-based driver has earned an impressive reputation on the national gravel scene, becoming a multiple event winner and regular BTRDA front-runner.
Now, Hirst will make the biggest leap of his career by tackling the BRC and stepping into the top-flight BRC1 category in his Skoda Fabia Rally2 and will be partnered by long-time co-driver Declan Dear.
“Contesting the BRC is something we’ve always aspired to,” Hirst said. “After success in the Welsh and BTRDA championships, I feel ready to make the next step.”
The British Rally Championship is widely regarded as the pinnacle of rallying in the UK, attracting top talent and demanding an incredible level of competition. For Hirst, the step up will mean adapting to new events, tougher competition, and both gravel and asphalt surfaces.
“With the first two rounds aligning with our other championship commitments, nothing is standing in our way. This is a chance to finally measure ourselves against the best, and we’re ready to give it everything we’ve got”.
“A massive thank you to our incredible partners—Delta Salvage Ltd, Witham Motorsport, Pirelli Motorsport, and Speedline Corse UK. Their support makes this journey possible, and we’re proud to carry their names as we step up to this exciting challenge.
Now it’s time to hit the ground running, seize this opportunity, and see how we stack up against the big hitters. Here’s to the season ahead”.
Image courtesy of Andrew Scott Photography & Xlerate
