The two drivers who lost their lives in a rally smash in Co Sligo have been named.
Experienced competitors Gene McDonald from Cavan and Daire Maguire from Fermanagh died when the Ford Escort they were racing in went out of control and collided with a wall.
Both men died at the scene of the horror crash at Carrowcushcly, Ballymote.
It’s understood that Mr McDonald was driving.
The Sligo Stages Rally was halted immediately after the incident.
Both drivers have previously competed in Donegal events. Mr Maguire most recently raced in the Donegal Harvest Rally in 2019 and the Donegal International Rally in 2017. Mr McDonald was also in Donegal in 2011 for the Donegal Harvest Rally and the Donegal International Rally.
Motorsport Ireland has begun an investigation into the tragedy.
A statement said: “Motorsport Ireland extends its deepest sympathies to the families and friends of two competitors who were fatally injured during a tragic accident while competing on the sixth stage of the 2023 Sligo Stages Rally.
“Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Connacht Motor Club and everyone involved with organising today’s event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident.
“Motorsport Ireland and its affiliated clubs are recognised internationally for operating to the highest standards of motorsport safety for competitors and spectators in line with the best practice of the FIA.
“Motorsport Ireland has begun a full investigation with the relevant authorities into the events at today’s event to establish how this accident occurred.”
Gardaí have requested that footage of the collision is not shared across social media or messaging applications. Anyone with video footage is asked to make it available to Gardaí.
Gardaí can be contacted at Sligo Garda Station on 071 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
