This weekend will see the 53^rd running of the Beatson’s Building Supplies Mull Rally return for three days of unrelenting closed-road competition set to light up the Hebridean island.

Organised by Mull Car Club, one of the UK’s most highly-regarded stage rallies will host around 130 cars competing over 140 miles of high-speed action on the island, split across fourteen special stages and three long, challenging legs.

A brand-new route is in store for crews this year, with the enforced changes brought about by the major rockfall on the B8035 at Gribun Rocks, a significant part of the initial route planned by rally organisers. Working in close partnership with local authorities and the Mull community, a brand new route was created in the North of the island, ensuring the event retains its marker for being one of the toughest in the country.

Sponsored for the eighth consecutive year by Beatson’s Building Supplies, the rally has run since 1969 and continues to be a community-wide celebration, drawing fans and competitors alike from far and wide.

Leading the field away with the coveted number one on the doors is 2023 rally winner and Tobermory resident Fergus Barlow. Whilst his choice of car for this year’s title tilt is still under wraps, Barlow is likely to be at the sharp end of the leaderboard all weekend, having taken victory by a minute in a Ford Fiesta Rally2 two years ago. He will be joined by islander Heather MacCrone in the co-driver’s seat.

Making it a Mull one-two, Paul MacKinnon returns with co-driver Paul Beaton and, in a change from 2024, they will pilot a Skoda Fabia Rally2. Having secured four rally victories on Mull, MacKinnon is equally a top tip for victory, but he will need to adapt to his new machine quickly if he is to replicate his 50th Anniversary Mull Rally win.

Taking third spot in 2023, Neil Roskell makes the trip once again from Lancashire in his Fiesta Rally2, but ensures some local knowledge is embedded in the car, recruiting Mull-man Daniel Barritt alongside. Roskell has been enjoying a season in the British Rally Championship and heads back to Mull for the ultimate challenge.

In a talented list of entries, the two-wheel drive ranks see Oban’s Stewart Morrison with Jonny Baird alongside heading up the Ford Escort MK2 charge, whilst Ross Hunter/Chris Dodds bring their rapid Peugeot 208 Rally4 back for another attempt in 2025 and round out the top ten.

“It’s fair to say this year has tested us more than most,” admits clerk of the course Colin Harkness.

“What matters most is that the rally lives on in the way Mull deserves. I’m delighted that, despite the challenges, we’ve crafted a new route that keeps every ounce of the Mull magic alive. Those who make the trip year after year will still feel that unique buzz the island generates during rally week, and I hope those watching from home will be inspired to come and experience it for themselves in future.”

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