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03 Apr 2026
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03 Apr 2026
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Killian McArdle, Monaghan (left) and Casey Jay Coleman (right) on the podium in Rome last weekend
Motor racing duo Casey Jay Coleman from Clonmel and Killian McArdle from Monaghan secured a great result when finishing third in the European Rally Championship Rally3 category and second in the M-Sport Trophy on the Rally di Roma Capitale in Italy, in round four of the FIA European Rally Championship.
Based in Fiuggi, near Rome, the high-profile rally opened with a short and super special stage next to the spectacular and historic Colosseum in Rome, where Coleman posted a time of third quickest, only 1.2 seconds off the leader, and clearly showing his intent for the remaining 12 stages being run over Saturday and Sunday.
Killian McArdle and Casey Jay Coleman beside the M-Sport Ford Fiesta Rally 3 car they drove in the rally
One of world’s most prestigious rallies
22-year-old Coleman and his co-driver 25-year-old McArdle are contesting the hugely competitive international series in an M-Sport Ford Fiesta Rally3 prepared by RLA Autosport.
The ERC is one of the most competitive and prestigious rally championships in the world.
Returning to asphalt, Casey Jay was thrilled with the strong result and, as ever, the team did a fantastic job.
Conditions extremely challenging
It was a very demanding rally for all involved, with temperatures reaching 43 degrees and total competitive stages of 207.82 kilometres, with the most demanding being two passes of the 34.57 kilometres Torre di Cicerone stage.
It was extremely challenging.
The weekend went exceptionally well for the crew, other than a puncture on the first stage of the final loop on Sunday afternoon, which cost some time and certainly got the crew’s attention, as they had two more competitive stages to the finish to complete without a spare wheel.
This being Coleman’s first year competing at this level, he is delighted with his progress to date, having Spain (asphalt), Hungary and Poland (gravel) and now Italy under his belt.
Next round
The experience is clearly showing in his increased pace and results.
Casey Jay Coleman and Killian McArdle are supported by Suirway Forklifts, Keltech Waterford, Kilsheelan Limestone Quarries, Murray Motorsport, Coastal Classics French Riveria Yacht Charters.
The next round of the FIA European Rally Championship takes place on August 15-17. It is the Barum Czech Rally Zlin in the Czech Republic.
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