Barry McKenna’s brand new Ford Fiesta WRC has proven to be incredibly fast and stable thanks to its complex aerodynamics package, but it’s not all good news for McKenna Motorsport ahead of the 100 Acre Wood Rally.
The American Rally Association has found that the aero on the car falls into a grey area in the rulebook, and might not be compliant in competition.
Competitors in the event received an email last night outlining that the Fiesta is outside of O4WD class aerodynamics rules, and that McKenna has appealed the decision.
“Prior to the 100 Acre Wood Rally, the ARA ruled the vehicle entered by Barry McKenna is outside of the O4WD rules due to aerodynamic pieces on the vehicle,” it read.
“Mr McKenna has appealed that decision through the USAC member appeal process. While the appeal is ongoing, the vehicle will be permitted by USAC waiver to compete in ARA events, so long it passes all other ARA safety and compliance inspections.
“The appeal board will be selected by the chairman of USAC and will consist of third-party experts with relevant motorsport experience, as agreed upon by the involved parties.
“The appeal will take no longer than 45 days and the results will be communicated upon completion.”
According to the release, the decision may not be made until after Olympus Rally next month.
If McKenna decides to compete with this car it is not yet clear what would happen to any points he may earn for the two ARA presented by DirtFish National events if the car appeals team deems it non-compliant.
DirtFish understands that none of McKenna’s rivals have protested against him using the Fiesta WRC
