The Network Q Rally of Great Britain will be based in Cardiff City in the year 2000, the first year of a three-year contract.
The move to the Welsh capital city was explained by MSA Chief Executive, John Quenby: "The Motor Sports Association is an enthusiastic supporter of the FIA's efforts to improve World Championship rallies, making them more attractive for competitors, spectators and television.
"With new manufacturer teams reflecting the increasing popularity of the sport and FIA regulations demanding a more compact route, Cardiff was an obvious choice. All things considered, the time is right to move to a larger venue, which is also much closer to the Forestry Commission roads in Wales, which make up the bulk of our competitive mileage."
Steve Freshwater, Director of Network Q, said: "This is the seventh year of our sponsorship of the Network Q Rally and as Europe's leading used car brand, we are proud of our association with a world class, World Championship event. Network Q are always looking to raise the standards in our industry and we welcome the efforts of the MSA to build a bigger and better event on the threshold of the new millennium."
The move to Cardiff ends a period during which Cheltenham hosted the Rally for three years. Said Mr Quenby: "We shall be very sad to leave Cheltenham, which has been a marvellous base for the event. Both the town and the Racecourse have made us very welcome and we are still looking forward to working together on this year's Rally."
Next year's Rally Headquarters will enjoy exclusive use of Cardiff City Hall, where the surrounding Cathays Park will host the overnight parc fermes. The 2000 Network Q Rally of Great Britain starts from Cardiff City Hall on Thursday 23 November and finishes at the same venue on Sunday 26 November. With four days of competition, the new schedule promises to be very different from any previous event.
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