Britain's round of the World Rally Championship will go ahead, after its organisers agreed to underwrite the event following the withdrawal of a major sponsor.
The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) had signed a long-term deal worth in excess of £2 million a year to sponsor the rally, but announced this year it was terminating the contract.
This led to speculation the event would be cancelled, and the rally promoter, IMS, is now in a legal dispute with WAG.
However, the event's organiser, the Motor Sport Association, has now agreed to pay the running costs of the event, which will be renamed Rally of Great Britain and run in Wales from 22-25 October.
“In recent years, the MSA has exercised prudent management of its finances to create a surplus in order to protect the sport against unforeseen circumstances,” said Alan Gow, chairman of both MSA and IMS.
“Consequently, we have decided to underwrite this important and prestigious international event for the good of the sport, while continuing to pursue our extremely robust case against the Welsh Assembly Government for its breach of contract.
“IMS and everyone involved in Rally GB now have a very challenging period ahead to turn the event around in just four months. However, we are confident that the experience and professionalism of our people and clubs will make sure that this year’s event is a great success.”
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