Pearson wins the Malcolm Wilson Rally, Hirst takes maximum points in BTRDA
The Malcolm Wilson Rally 2025 delivered yet another exhilarating chapter in British rallying, as competitors battled across the picturesque yet demanding stages of the Lake District in Cumbria. Hosted at the legendary M-Sport Complex, this year's event carried added significance as the opening round of the Protyre BTRDA Rally Series, attracting some of the best talents in the sport.
Pearson and McKillop Secure Overall Victory
In a fiercely contested battle, Garry Pearson and co-driver Hannah McKillop piloted their M-Sport Ford Fiesta Rally2 to an impressive overall victory. Their consistent pace and precision throughout the rally earned them the top spot, securing an early-season triumph.
Following only a second behind were Meirion Evans and Dale Furniss, who pushed hard in their Castrol MEM GR Yaris Rally2 to claim second place overall. Meanwhile, rounding off the podium in third place were the experienced duo of Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear, marking a strong performance in a highly competitive field.
BTRDA Gold Star Championship – Hirst/Dear Make Their Mark
For the FUCHS LUBRICANTS BTRDA Gold Star Championship, Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear made a seamless transition to their Skoda Fabia Rally2, proving their pace by taking maximum Protyre Autocare BTRDA Rally Series points in the opening round. The switch from their previous Ford Fiesta to the Fabia last autumn has revitalized their campaign, and their dominance on the Lake District stages was evident.
Defending Gold Star Champions Elliot Payne and Patrick Walsh (Fiesta Rally2) put up a strong challenge, but ultimately finished 11 seconds behind Hirst/Dear, settling for second in the BTRDA Series standings.
Adding further excitement to the championship was the return of Daniel Sigurðarson and Asta Sigurðadóttir, who made a statement in their Skoda Fabia RS, securing a commendable third-place finish in the points standings. They edged out the experienced Russ Thompson and Steve Link in their Lancer EVO9, who delivered a solid performance.
With high-octane action, close competition, and breathtaking rally stages, the 2025 Malcolm Wilson Rally once again set the bar for the season ahead. The Protyre BTRDA Rally Series is shaping up to be an intense battle.
As the championship unfolds, all eyes will be on the emerging title contenders and whether they can maintain their momentum throughout the season. The next round at The Border Counties Rally in May promises yet another thrilling test of skill, speed, and endurance.
Photography provided by Alex Stefan and Gary Fothergill