Petter Solberg, the 2003 World Rally Champion known for his victories across numerous rallies and championships, is gearing up for a brand-new challenge—his first-ever rally in a Land Rover Defender on Irish soil. Solberg will make his much-anticipated debut at the Clare Forestry Rally, the penultimate round of the 2024 Defender Rally Series, set to take place on Saturday, October 5.
The legendary rally driver expressed his excitement ahead of his latest venture: “I competed in Ireland when the WRC was here in 2007, and I remember the incredible fans. I hope some of them will come to Clare—it would be very cool to meet them again.”
Solberg will be piloting a Bowler Motorsport-built Defender, an experience he eagerly anticipates. “I’ve never driven this car before,” Solberg admitted. “I’ve seen them on the road and they look great, but I’m really curious to see how Bowler Motorsport has transformed it into a rally machine.”
The Clare Forestry Rally promises to be a significant challenge for Solberg, featuring six gravel stages and a total of 43 miles of competition. Solberg, known for his passion and adaptability, sees this as a thrilling new chapter: “This is something completely new—a new rally, new roads, and a new car. It’s going to be a big challenge, but I’m ready. Thanks to Castrol for making it happen. Let’s have some fun!”
As Solberg prepares to test the Bowler Defender ahead of the event, rally fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a spectacular debut for the Norwegian icon on Irish gravel.
