Michael Dunlop set for Ulster Rally bow

Michael Dunlop will make his debut in the John Mulholland Motors Ulster Rally later this month.

The 13-time Isle of Man TT winner has been confirmed among a quality line-up and will compete in a Ford Escort MkII 2-litre (class B6) with co-driver Rob Fagg.

DEN Motorsport’s Barry McKenna, who supplied the 27-year-old with the car, has been working with Dunlop to prepare it for the popular rally, which takes place in its new venue in Londonderry this year from August 19-20. The Ballymoney rider will test the car this weekend at the Dogleap Rally.

McKenna said: “Michael will have his first chance to get a real feel for the car when he competes at the MJM Dogleap Rally in Ballykelly on Saturday.

“It’ll give him a chance to really test the car out, get a feel for the handling and give us a chance to do some more prep before the Ulster. ”

Gary Milligan, Clerk of the Course at the Ulster Rally, said Dunlop’s entry has added extra spice to the event.

“Michael is a great motorcycle racer and it will be spectacular to watch him in the two wheel drive Ford Escort. Spectators will be in for a real treat and it’ll make for some stiff competition amongst the top drivers.”

August will be a busy month for Dunlop, who is gunning for more two-wheel glory at the Ulster Grand Prix (August 10-13) and the Classic TT Races on the Isle of Man (August 27-29).

To listen to all the action live, tune into Rally Radio. This free and easy to use news service will be available through any of the following websites: Ulsterrally.com, Johnmulhollandmotors.com, msabrc.com and irishtarmac.com.