A man has sadly died while competing in the Killarney Forestry Rally yesterday (Sunday).

The accident happened on the fourth stage of the event near Cordal.

The rally’s comprehensive emergency plan was immediately launched and the man was airlifted to Cork University Hospital (CUH) where he later passed away.

The remainder of the event was halted.

Organisers, Killarney and District Motor Club, issued a statement last night (Sunday).

"The Killarney and District Motor Club regrets to inform that following an accident on Stage Four of the Killarney Forestry Rally, a competitor succumbed to his injuries and passed away in Cork University Hospital. May he Rest In Peace. We extend our sympathies to his family and friends.”

Motorsport Ireland, the sport’s governing body issued a statement this morning (Monday) and is conducting a full investigation into the circumstances behind the tragedy.

“Motorsport Ireland is deeply saddened to confirm the death of a competitor, who succumbed to his injuries in Cork University Hospital following an incident while competing on Stage Four of yesterday's Killarney Forestry Rally. The remainder of the event was halted. Killarney and District Motor Club are liaising with the family of the competitor involved.

“Motorsport Ireland has begun a full investigation into this tragic incident. Motorsport Ireland and its affiliated clubs are recognised internationally for operating to the highest standards of motorsport safety for competitors and spectators in line with the best practice of the FIA.

“The entire motorsport community extends its fullest sympathy to the family and friends of the bereaved. Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Killarney and District Motor Club and everyone involved with organising yesterday’s event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident.”