He continued: “We have an agreement moving forward that sees the world’s spotlight very much on Wales. As from the outset of our agreement with WAG, we continue to deliver on our promises of a landmark event that brings significant investment into the country, estimated to be at least £10 million per annum from public funding of £2 million. By any measure this investment represents good value for money and supports many businesses and jobs in Wales. 

“Wales is committed to delivering internationally-significant events to raise its profile on the international stage. We understand this and have worked consistently to make WRGB a world leader.  The significance of the event is widely recognised by the Welsh public, the Welsh business community as well as the many local communities and charitable institutions who benefit annually from this event.

“We have a five year contract to deliver WRGB and we are committed, passionately, to making it happen. Everything is now in place to see that successful partnership continue.”

Peter Hain, MP for Neath and former Secretary of State for Wales, noted: “Wales Rally GB is a landmark event, not only for the World Rally Championship but for Welsh sport. The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors from elsewhere in Britain and across the world, as well as global TV coverage, and brings over £10 million extra spending on hundreds of local businesses from hotels to restaurants to garages.  It would be a terrible blow, not just to rally enthusiasts but to Wales as a whole, if it were lost due to withdrawal of Welsh Assembly Government funding.”

This year’s WRGB is scheduled to start in Cardiff on Thursday 22nd October and finish in the Welsh capital on Sunday 25th October. It is the 12th and final round of the 2009 WRC.

Ends. For more information, please call John Horton on 0121 378 2828, or Richard Postins on 01926 77600.