ABOUT PROJECT PODIUM
Project Podium is a rally and motorsport foundation dedicated to mentoring and supporting the next generation of rally talent. We provide personalized guidance, financial assistance, and a strong community to help aspiring drivers achieve their goals.
With the Mull Rally as our cornerstone, we’re shaping future champions by teaching the skills, resilience, and determination needed to succeed in motorsport. Whether it’s mastering pacenotes, securing sponsorship, or tackling the world’s toughest rally stages, Project Podium is here to guide the way.
OUR MISSION
EMPOWERING RALLY TALENT
“Project Podium is committed to mentoring and supporting young, emerging rally talents by providing the skills, guidance, and resources needed to succeed in the competitive world of motorsport. With the Mull Rally as our ultimate training ground, we offer personalized mentorship, financial assistance, and a strong community of like-minded individuals. Together, we aim to inspire growth, foster resilience, and prepare the next generation of rally champions while promoting sustainability in motorsport.”
OUR VISION
THE LEADING FOUNDATION
“To be the leading foundation for nurturing aspiring rally talents, empowering them to achieve their potential at every level—from local events like the Mull Rally to global championships. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to carbon-conscious racing, Project Podium envisions a future where motorsport is inclusive, sustainable, and filled with opportunities for all who dare to dream big.”
OUR FOUNDER
FERGUS BARLOW
Fergus Barlow grew up with petrol running through his veins, having been raised on the Isle of Mull, where the rally has always held a special place in his heart.
Fergus’s motorsport journey began at age 12, karting with his father across the UK. This experience taught him a smooth driving style that would later benefit his rallying career. Initially starting as a co-driver for his best friend Stewart, a thrilling jump during an event ignited Fergus’s desire to take the driver’s seat.
His first rally—a family and friends effort in a Citroën Saxo VTS—was the Mull Rally. Despite being new to the sport, Fergus finished an impressive 36th overall. From there, he progressed to a Fiesta R2, competing in the British Rally Championship (BRC), rallies in Ireland, and even the European Junior Championship at the Circuit of Ireland Rally in 2014.
After several years balancing life and work, Fergus made his 4WD debut in a Subaru on the Mull Rally, finishing 4th. In 2023, his commitment to rallying paid off when he won the event in a Fiesta Rally2—fulfilling a boyhood dream.
Since achieving this milestone, Fergus has found a new passion: sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of rally drivers. With this mission in mind, Project Podium was born.
WHY MULL RALLY?
The Mull Rally has given Fergus a huge sense of purpose and community. It’s where he learned the fundamentals of rallying—how to write pacenotes from scratch, organize a rally team, and develop the communication and character skills needed to promote his career and gain sponsorship over the years.
For the last 20 years, he has worked and breathed rallying, culminating in the dream of winning the coveted Mull Rally in 2023, with his brother Craig Barlow alongside him. This rally is 2/3 at night, with unforgiving roads and a level of challenge unlike any other. There’s a unique aura about the island and the event itself, which is why it’s the best rally in the world.
OUR SUCCESS SO FAR
In 2024, Project Podium had four members competing in the Mull Rally: three drivers and one co-driver. Each member caught the rallying bug and is committed to returning for the next challenge. Stay tuned for more stories and updates from our incredible members.
FUTURE PROOFING WITH
CARBON
POSITIVE MOTORSPORT
We are proud to partner Carbon Positive Motorsport in our commitment to ensuring a sustainable future for rallying.
By collaborating with them, we aim to raise the awareness of carbon offsetting and how it can future proof our beloved sport.
