ERC
ERC Take Five with Chris Ingram
Chris Ingram, the 2019 European champion, still has ERC plans, with a three-event campaign the target during the second half of the upcoming season alongside co-driver Alex Kihurani.
The 30-year-old ace, who claimed the 2024 British title with Kihurani, took time out of his busy schedule to answer FIAERC.com’s five key questions.
You elected not to defend your British title this season. What’s the plan instead?
“I’ve recently become a father, which has been an incredible experience and given me a whole new perspective. It’s made me more focused than ever on building something meaningful – both in my career and for my family’s future. Living in Monaco has also opened new doors, allowing me to grow my network in both motorsport and business.
“As well as competing, I’m launching a new business in partnership with my sponsor Suisscourtage Insurance. With this venture, we’re creating something tailored to truly understand what drivers and teams need.
Chris Ingram and Alex Kihurani won the British championship in 2024
© Chris Ingram
“While the British title was a great opportunity to stay sharp last year, and we enjoyed competing back in the UK, our focus has always been on the international stage. Without backing from British sponsors, continuing there wasn’t realistic. So, the plan is to restart in the summer and build towards a full WRC2 campaign next year. I’m working to secure the right team and car for some ERC rounds later this year, which will be key preparation for that step.”
The summer in the FIA European Rally Championship means Barum Czech Rally Zlín, an event you’ve always excelled on and enjoyed. Could that be part of the schedule if everything comes together?
“Yes, possibly Roma, Barum, Rali Ceredigion, and potentially Croatia would all be great to do. They are world-class events. The key is securing the right budget to make it happen properly. The main target is to be ready for a big attack next year.”
Ingram in action on Barum Czech Rally Zlín in 2023
© ERC
You’ve done the ERC and won it, so what’s the motivation behind your possible return?
“You’ve got 40 Rally2 cars entered on some events, everyone with the same chance in equal machinery – it’s a lot more enticing when you can fight for the overall win. Rallies like Zlín are so iconic, absolute classics. You face the fastest local drivers on each round, and the competition is always strong. That’s why I've always absolutely loved it.”
Barum Czech Rally Zlín is one of Ingram's favourite events
© Chris Ingram
Of course, you made a one-off return to the ERC last year on JDS Machinery Rali Ceredigion, part of both the British and European championships. How good was it to prove your pace against a very tough entry?
“It’s pretty fair to say we’d done zero testing or development with the Yaris on Tarmac, so to be running second despite that was surprising. But I know we have much more to show with a fully dialled-in car. At this level, it’s all about seat time and being at one with the car beneath you.”
The ERC is a great place to show yourself as a driver
Chris Ingram
© Chris Ingram
The 2025 ERC season begins in less than two weeks. How excited will the drivers be about the prospect of taking part in this championship and the battle they’ll face?
“I remember when I had the chance to do the ERC in a top car for the first time, then winning it the year after in my first and only full season – it was an unbelievable opportunity. Apart from some of the Spanish drivers, I guess it is a new rally for everyone, so it’s going to be a big challenge. It’s all about balancing pace with consistency. I’d have loved another shot at the full championship, as I’m a different person and driver now.
Ingram on ERC duty in 2019
© ERC
“Ultimately, our goal is to build up to doing a full season of WRC2 finally next year, which aligns with the new regulations coming in from 2027. But the ERC has played a big part in my career and is a great place to show yourself as a driver. If we can put the right package together, returning for some rounds later this year would be perfect.”
The 42nd Rally Sierra Morena - Córdoba Patrimonio de la Humanidad in Spain opens the 72nd ERC season from 3 - 6 April.
