Loix called up to test Ireland super special.

Freddy Loix was in action on the Stormont Estate in Belfast on Thursday, running in a Peugeot 206 WRC car to assess its potential as a venue for the Rally Ireland's Super Special Stage.

Speaking after the run, the Belgian, who has driven for Peugeot, Mitsubishi and Hyundai and who provides technical advice to Michelin/BF Goodrich for their WRC teams, was full of praise for the venue.

"I've competed in Super Special Stages in many countries around the world and without doubt, this is the most spectacular one I've seen," said Loix, who has now departed to take in the Dakar Rally. "Parliament Buildings makes a stunning backdrop and the roads are exciting and challenging to drive on. I think it makes a perfect venue for a WRC Super Special Stage."

Secretary of State, Peter Hain M.P also participated in the test event accompanying Loix as his 'co-driver': "It's no secret that I'm a great fan of motorsport which is why I have authorised today's event in the Stormont Estate," he added. "I am also grateful to all the officials who have worked tirelessly to organise this special test run today.

"I have given the Rally Ireland bid my full support since its inception, attending both the inaugural event in October 2005 and the official WRC candidate event in March this year. One of our greatest sporting successes of 2006 has been to secure a round of the World Rally Championship for the island of Ireland in 2007.

"Part of that success was the fact that our bid was an ambitious joint initiative where both Governments, North and South, worked together on this unique project.

"We all hope that today's trial will be a success. If it is it would be a great spectacle for this venue to be used as the ceremonial start and first stage of Rally Ireland 2007. It would provide an opportunity for the residents of Belfast and beyond to experience the thrills of a rally stage on their doorstep as at times the remote location of some rally stages make it difficult for people to access them.

"In the past Stormont Estate has welcomed international artists who have delighted fans with their singing. It will be music to the ears of the motorsport loving public across the island of Ireland if a super special stage of Rally Ireland were to take place in these grounds.

"Such an event in the beautifully maintained grounds coupled with the splendour of Parliament Buildings offer the perfect visual backdrop for spectators and millions of television viewers worldwide."

Rally Ireland CEO, David Marren explained that the decision to test the venue to assess its suitability had been taken for a number of reasons.

"We want to make the first time the World Championships comes to Ireland a real spectacle for everyone," he continued. "Traditionally in rallying, spectators travel to rural areas to watch cars pass along the roadside. Our goal is to bring this event to as many people as we can by concentrating the fast-paced action in a venue where tens of thousands of people can easily access it and get a feel for just how exciting and exhilarating the sport is."

The organisers of the Rally Ireland will now discuss the outcome of the test and hope to confirm the event route in the near future.