Donegal co-driver Shane Byrne and Fermanagh driver Jon Armstrong have parted ways ahead of the 2027 rally season.
The MIRally Academy duo had been together for two years and during that time finished runner up in the ERC and moved up to compete in a full 13 round season in the World Rally Championship with MSport in the Rally1 Puma.
Their career highlights were victories on the Rali Ceredigion and Rally Croatia in a Ford Fiesta Rally2.
Jon paid tribute to Byrne for his commitment and contribution while Byrne thanked the Academy and MSport for the opportunity to develop his career over the past few years.
MSport and the MIRally Academy are expected to confirm their next move soon and will that include a WRC drive for Armstrong and his new co-driver while Byrne will also be weighing up his next move with a CV that has been stacked up after two years with Armstrong.
Both released statements on their social channels this morning confirming the separation.
Jon Armstrong Statement:
“Hi everyone,
With the dust now settled on the WRC season, and after taking some time to reflect on everything we’ve achieved together, Shane and I have agreed that the time is right for us both to move forward with different plans for the 2027 rally season.
While it was a difficult decision, we both feel it presents an opportunity to explore new challenges going forward.
I’d like to thank Shane for all his hard work, commitment and effort over the past two years.
Taking victory at Rali Ceredigion and Rally Croatia together will always be particularly special memories, as will the incredible opportunity to step up to Rally1 in the WRC this season.
We’ve shared some fantastic moments along the way, and I wish Shane all the very best for the future.”
Shane Byrne Statement:
“Hi all,
As you may have seen, Jon and I have mutually agreed to go our separate ways and bring our partnership to an end to better our futures going forward.
We’ve both enjoyed two brilliant seasons together, 2025 in the ERC where we shared two outright wins, and second overall in the championship, then stepping up in 2026 into the M-Sport Ford WRT Puma Rally1, competing in all 13 rounds in the WRC.
It’s been an amazing journey together, generating memories and experiences I will always cherish.
I want to wish Jon and his new co driver every success going forward.
I’d also like to thank the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy and M-Sport for the opportunity to develop my career over the last few years.
Thanks for your support.”
