WRC: Rally Australia funding dispute resolved

A funding dispute that could have cost the World Rally Championship season finale in Australia its Coffs Harbour base has been averted.

The local city council had decided last week to withdraw its backing of the event. But in a council debate that lasted a little over an hour on Thursday, the 4-2 vote against funding the final round of this year's WRC was overturned.

Councillor Sally Townley sparked the debate earlier this month. Townley was unhappy at council general manager Steve McGrath also sitting on the board of Rally Australia.

During the debate, Townley was reported as saying she was not against the rally being based in Coffs Harbour, only calling for a change of its governance framework.

WRC manager Jarmo Mahonen and WRC Promoter chief Oliver Ciesla had always been confident the dispute would not put the event itself in jeopardy.

"We are told the amount of money is minimal in regard to the whole budget for the event," said Mahonen. "This is an election year and it seems there is some politics going on.

"I can confirm that the rally takes place. It is not in danger, it will happen."

Rally Australia runs from Nov. 17-20, returning to the season finale slot this year.

Originally on Autosport.com