World champion Fulton switches focus to Rally Japan
Josh McErlean’s seventh-place WRC 2 Junior finish on Rally Spain was enough to secure the category’s Co-Drivers’ title for James Fulton.
The pair finished the asphalt event 2.7 seconds ahead of fellow Hyundai i20 Rally2 crew Gregoire Munster and Louis Louka. Louka was the only co-driver who had a chance of snatching the WRC 2 Junior Co-Drivers’ Championship from Fulton’s grasp.
“It feels great obviously,” reflected Fulton. “It is a nice title to have and something special that I will always have to look back on.
“Josh and I both knew a finish in this rally was crucial for both our sakes.
“We drove quite cleanly all weekend so thankfully there weren’t too many nervous moments.”
The level-headed Cavan co-driver had no time for nerves heading into Rally Spain’s final stage. It was no bad thing either with Munster and Louka just behind had the Irishmen run into trouble on Spain’s Power Stage it would have put Fulton’s title into the hands of his Belgian rival.
Fulton knew, however, that his fate was in the safe hands of McErlean who understood a solid result was essential for his own future in the World Rally Championship.
The pair, who managed a technical issue on the rally’s opening day, cruised home to secure their best result since July when they finished third in WRC 2 on Rally Estonia.
It was mission complete for McErlean and Fulton on their final rally together as the latter steps up into Craig Breen’s Ford Puma for Rally Japan.
“Thanks to the whole Motorsport Ireland Rally Acadamy team,” said Fulton, “and everyone at PCRS for all that they have done this year.
“Also to Josh and his family for all the laughs and great memories.
“I must thank my family and friends who always support me and a special mention to my girlfriend for her support through the whole year.”
As for his Rally1 debut in two weeks’ time, well it’s back to work for Fulton.
“I have fully reset now and am focused on Japan. We are busy getting everything prepared for it.
“It is a new challenge for me and but it is also an opportunity that I can’t wait to get started!”
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Photos by Gavin Woods
