Supercar spectacle Cannonball returns to Ireland in aid of Jack and Jill Foundation

Ireland’s roads will roar with the thunder of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens and more when the Cannonball supercar rally returns from September 12 to 14, raising vital funds for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.

The high-octane charity road trip, billed as the largest organised supercar event in Europe, is set to bring its trademark carnival atmosphere to towns and cities across the country, drawing huge crowds for what has become one of Ireland’s most spectacular free family events.

Now in its 16th year, Cannonball has already raised over €2 million for Irish charities.

This year’s chosen cause is the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, which provides in-home nursing care, respite support and end-of-life care for children with severe learning difficulties and complex medical needs.

Among the rare machines taking part in 2025 are the Koenigsegg Regera (pictured above) – a megacar that blends hypercar performance with luxury design – and a one-of-a-kind McLaren Senna (pictured below) custom-built by McLaren Special Operations in a livery echoing the brand’s Formula 1 heritage.

The Ford GT Heritage Series, decked out in its legendary Gulf racing colours, also makes a return.

The 2025 route will see drivers and spectators converge on host towns nationwide.

Festivities kick off at Johnstown Estate in Enfield on Thursday, September 11, with a public preview evening as drivers arrive.

The convoy officially departs the next morning, parading through Edenderry, Daingean and Tullamore before heading south to Cork, with lunch at Ballymaloe House and an overnight stop in Killarney.

On Saturday, September 13, the cars travel from Killarney to Limerick and then north to Sligo, where they’ll be on display in the town centre from 6pm.

The final leg on Sunday, September 14, sees the rally depart Sligo for stops in Cavan and Meath before the grand finale in Naas town centre at 6pm.

Organisers promise the biggest finish line yet, with live performances, street entertainers, Brazilian dancers, parades, giant screens, DJs, the Garda Band and children’s entertainment.

Spectators are encouraged to dress up in fancy dress for the occasion, with prizes on offer.

Past Cannonball events have seen participants and fans alike don costumes from superheroes to cartoon characters, adding to the carnival vibe.

Founder Alan Bannon, a Kildare businessman, says the event not only raises money for vital causes but also delivers an estimated €2.5 million boost to local economies each year.

Headline sponsor Circle K is also backing the charity effort with a nationwide campaign titled “When you fill, support Jack and Jill,” pledging one cent from every litre of miles and miles+ fuel sold to the foundation.

Full route details and times are available at www.cannonball.ie.