Rally Finland 2015

[Barreis]

From all this boys only guy from WTCC can challange Ogier in that good vw...

[makinen_fan]

Nobody, I don't see them both being replaced. Although I wouldn't mind seeing Ostberg go, he has reached his top.

Maybe he has reached his peak, but at least he delivers points to the team. He will have double the points of Kris after this one.

[Mirek]

so if Meeke is sacked & being replaced by Lefebvre who will replace Ostberg?

How did You come a to conclusion that Lefebvre will replace anyone? Lefebvre is not ready for works WRC seat and I'm quite sure Matton sees that as well.

[tommeke_B]

If there is a place for Lefebvre in WRC next year, it should be a programme as 3rd driver (like Neuville had in 2012).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

:(

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBYTjWgAAXjQH.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBY3MWoAIMp8I.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBYTOWEAAvVeW.jpg

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLU4YfMWgAAFfd9.jpg

[N.O.T]

If there is a place for Lefebvre in WRC next year, it should be a programme as 3rd driver (like Neuville had in 2012).

Lefebre can only be a very good laundry man for the underwear of real drivers... nothing more.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVDueLUsAAv6RJ.jpg

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/255mTkjVdGg

[dodge33cymru]

Sad to see Meeke out, after again proving he's the only one who can get near the VWs. I hope he'll be able to finish well on one of the tarmac rounds, as he used to be strongest on those and it could make all the difference to his future.

Lefevbre, we don't know about. I can't imagine he's ready, but he has opportunities coming up in WRC cars so he'll have to use them to show what he can do.

Ostberg is having a season like Hirvonen last year, quietly going about it but doing relatively very well in the championship. Another podium here, with Mikkelsen's non-finish and he continues to impress.

Also, in the predictions game, this is the first time I haven't put Lappi down for 8th since the beginning of his WRC2 campaign! That'll teach me...

[dimviii]

Nikkara retired
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLU_e7BWIAAP9eH.jpg

[Nornbugger]

I dont know whether to be disappointed at Meekes retirement, or to be relieved that he has finally ended the suspense of wondering which stage the inevitable would happen on :-(

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier's wheel

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVJW0yWcAAWlue.jpg

[AL14]

I want to be in Finland now, go to Latvala and slap him repeatedly.

[EightGear]

Why?

[Mintexmemory]

I want to be in Finland now, go to Latvala and slap him repeatedly.

Presumably for not performing like this enough all season. If he keeps it together then he's got the win. Can't see Ogier sacrificing a certain second place by going over the limit now.

[AL14]

Why?

Because he is capable of this kind of performance, giving 5 seconds to a nearly perfect driver and at the same time throws points and speed away on other rounds with no reason.
He could have been a great winning driver and gave us so much great battles against Ogier all year long. It's a pity because I admire very much his dedication to improve again and humanly he deserves more.

[Finne]

In Loebs era the rules about starting position changed around 3 times... and i will let you guess the winner after these changes.

back to tennis for you.

Most of the time in Loeb's era it was reversed order for the first rally day according to championship order. In this system the leader cleaned only one day. This system was not perfect but back then road position was neutral for most of the rally.

When they changed the rules around 2010 I remember Loeb being super angry in Greece when Ogier applied tactics against him by letting Loeb to do sweeping in the last day.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier should try this...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVP5BrWoAAg9RY.jpg:large

[AL14]

Most of the time in Loeb's era it was reversed order for the first rally day according to championship order. In this system the leader cleaned only one day. This system was not perfect but back then road position was neutral for most of the rally.

When they changed the rules around 2010 I remember Loeb being super angry in Greece when Ogier applied tactics against him by letting Loeb to do sweeping in the last day.

Here we are again.
It seems you are new. Prepare yourself, this topic has been discussed many times and it has never been a happy ending ;)

[Barreis]

But this is Finland, his country with lot of supporters for his mind. If the whole WR championship would be driven in Finland, Latvala would be the champ... :D

[dimviii]

When they changed the rules around 2010 I remember Loeb being super angry in Greece when Ogier applied tactics against him by letting Loeb to do sweeping in the last day.

Loeb was angry because Ogier closed the gps signal,and citroen manager was in favour of Ogier.
Loeb this year won again the championship,while cleaning the road,and with closed gps signals.
After all these the one who moaning was again Ogier.Nothing new.

[Miika]

Kubica rolled.

[AL14]

...because Ogier closed the gps signal...

It seems he still like doing it. No signal of Ogier on WRC+ maps and on split times.

[DonJippo]

Kubica rolled.

One km before the end of the stage.

[N.O.T]

It seems he keeps like doing it. No signal of Ogier on WRC+ maps and on split times.

no point to do it anymore... no splits allowed incar.

[N.O.T]

Kubica rolled.

i rest my case.

He is going to have a very unique record if he keeps like that... having more retirements than starts...

[AL14]

no point to do it anymore... no splits allowed incar.

I know, was just kidding.

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/mKkIVu_O09M

[Fast Eddie WRC]

JML 1.8s up on Ogier. Lead is now 13.2s... :)

[ProRally]

Presumably for not performing like this enough all season. If he keeps it together then he's got the win. Can't see Ogier sacrificing a certain second place by going over the limit now.

He won't keep it together .... :D

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

I want to be in Finland now, go to Latvala and slap him repeatedly.
That's not enough, you'll need a lot of tools...:D

[N.O.T]

If the result was reversed then the rally would be over, but with Latvala in the lead the rally is never over no matter the difference.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sébastien Ogier ‏
"That's how it is. I had a chance in the second stage this afternoon with the rain and I missed it when I thought I had a puncture"

[Miika]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVfrUpWgAA2Ayj.jpg

Video: https://twitter.com/HarjuKalle/status/627511974025371648

[Aldis S]

Robert, Robert.... why???????

http://s12.postimg.org/macyec9ql/min.jpg

[AL14]

Kubica's crash

https://www.facebook.com/403541329705747/videos/936721889721019/

[Ounin]

Because he is capable of this kind of performance, giving 5 seconds to a nearly perfect driver and at the same time throws points and speed away on other rounds with no reason.
He could have been a great winning driver and gave us so much great battles against Ogier all year long. It's a pity because I admire very much his dedication to improve again and humanly he deserves more.

You're right but like you said : ...could have been...
Hope he keeps it together gives him more confidence for the wine vineyards in Trier!

[skarderud]

Anyone that have trouble with wrc+?

[Mariusz]

Robert, Robert.... why???????
Well, he still not perfect and makes mistakes. Keep calm and support fast drivers :)

[HaCo]

Gutted for Meeke :(

[Mariusz]

Be positive, in 3 weeks he will have another chance to finish a rally. At least you don't have to worry about his speed.

[Allyc85]

:(

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBYTjWgAAXjQH.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBY3MWoAIMp8I.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVBYTOWEAAvVeW.jpg

Even though I sometimes half expect it, it's still gutting to see :(

Ah well, all I ever wanted to see was Kris given a proper chance.

[christy but]

gutted aswell for kris..bring on Germany ..5 rounds to prove he should be in wrc in 2016

[Eli]

gutted aswell for Meeke, but what a stupid & costly mistake, that's 12 points less for Citroen & 15 points less for his points tally...he'll need something special (a.k.a-get to the finish of each rally) to finish in the top 5 at the end of the season

[Mintexmemory]

Even though I sometimes half expect it, it's still gutting to see :(

Ah well, all I ever wanted to see was Kris given a proper chance.

And no one can take Argentina away!!

[Aldis S]

M. Lepehov, M. Wilson and Lukyanuk watching second day review.

http://s10.postimg.org/t87u5915l/luuuk.jpg

[noel157]

And no one can take Argentina away!!

No they can't but I'm sure he doesn't want it to be the pinnacle of his career. I don't know if he is the most unluckiest driver out there are he does indeed have a concentration problem, maybe a note preparation issue or something. Whatever it is he ain't doing his career any good.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Says it all...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWULvIWEAAuCTx.jpg:large

[nafpaktos]

I like kris but he took his chances.how much more wants?its like jari,he never reached high levels of concentration during his drive.jari stayed to wrc because of good management or i dont know why i dont think kris wiil continue to have endless opportunities like jari.we have already seen kris and what he is capable of citroen should give chances to the young blood and i dont mean lefebvre.

[Eli]

Says it all...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWULvIWEAAuCTx.jpg:large

maybe he should start looking for a different driver...

[stefanvv]

may be Citroen still suffer missing Loeb. they should just get away with it and not burden their leading driver beating VWs:confused: I'm only presuming this is the reason for Matton's comment heading to NORF....

[skory]

Guys don't forget who was giving rally lessons to Kris and Robert also has mentioned some time back that he played CMR ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Could be worse...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWd5wYXAAAeZCX.jpg:large

[danon]

maybe he should start looking for a different driver...

That's what women do when things go wrong...

Typical female thinking.

[dimviii]

incar Meeke crash
https://youtu.be/OnlIedzczwU



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWRKVyWcAAtXk4.jpg

[skory]

Could be worse...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWd5wYXAAAeZCX.jpg:large

Just saw this from camera inside car, he sudenly got water on the windscreen and then went off. But that's rally, you have to be prepared for everything.

[dimviii]

nice photo

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVbMskWsAAUkC_.jpg

http://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/19126_clvlk1queaaw18n.jpg

https://youtu.be/U8_ZXMwMhhY

[JoostSchouten]

Some awesome shots of friday and saturday, too bad we only have one day to go.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wxd08kVmGc

http://i58.tinypic.com/5kk5k4.jpg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wxd08kVmGc)

[stefanvv]

nice photo

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLVbMskWsAAUkC_.jpg


yes this is quite NEF

[dimviii]

Ogier jumping 57 meters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrRFy6zmFjw&feature=youtu.be

[stefanvv]

Ogier jumping 57 meters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrRFy6zmFjw&feature=youtu.be

is it a record he tries to break?

[SubaruNorway]

Just posted a short clip of Elvyn at the Jukojärvi jump at 4.9km today :)
https://www.facebook.com/motorsportfilmer

[AL14]

About Meeke. I saw today several onboards. I watched Ogier, Latvala, Tanak, and Meeke. Plus just one of Ostberg. Just to compare another driver with the same car.

I'm not the best driving analyzer but it is clear this guy has a too much risky driving style. It is not the same as Tanak. Tanak looks aggressive but not that crazy. Meeke is really crazy sometimes. Ogier and Latvala took perfect lines, they were very clean and fast. Meeke was fast but the cleaness is nowhere.
Tanak, was trying to break as late as he could and sometimes he went very much sideways but you could see he was in perfect control of the car. Meeke not, it seemed, on a lot of corners, he just went for it. I've counted at least 5 or 6 moments per stage. Ok, not big ones but still, they are too much.

Also, you can hear clearly Paul Nagle adding his own comment to their normal notes. For example he said "3 right over crest", and then "whatch this" or "be careful here", and it's clear that they are not pace notes but just his own advices. I don't think it is too much common on WRC level, but this one is just my supposition.

[Allyc85]

Says it all...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLWULvIWEAAuCTx.jpg:large

makes me feel sick. But as people say, who is available that would do a better job? Most youngsters would probably visit the scenery as much as Kris...

[nafpaktos]

I dont think that a driver( except for latvala) took so many chances as kris.he was doing consecutive mistakes without any consequences to his career.it is very logical that this situation cannot continue forever.nice guy but he drives over his limits so he has a lot of exits,the speed he shows its not his real speed since he cant stay on the road,so for me he is not that fast.IMHO the real speed is the speed that allow you to finish lets say 80%(i dont count superally) of the rallies you participate.

[Eli]

Well just one stage repeated twice today let's hope it all goes well

[Eli]

That's what women do when things go wrong...
Typical female thinking.
A I'm a man not a woman as you might have thought
B F*** you
C I was just saying maybe Paul shouldn't co-drive for a driver who can't keep it on the road.

[janvanvurpa]

Holding the thumbs for Latvala.....don't screw up and its yours.. Come on, just 2 SS, keep cool.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

1 down 1 to go !

[dimviii]

Christoph Treier
‏@ChristophTreier
The last preparations done before the final day at @RallyFinland. Visualization of the powerstage for @JariMattiWRC


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLYjYMqUkAAreOJ.jpg

[dimviii]

Kubica onboard.Maybe this time was unlucky.
http://www.ccma.cat/tv3/alacarta/324/espectacular-bolcada-de-robert-kubica-a-300-metres-del-final-de-letapa/video/5542995/

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfA0mMiNqEM&feature=youtu.be

[Finne]

About Citroen's situation I would rather keep Meeke than Östberg because you have better chance to turn a fast driver as reliable than a slow driver as fast. But that's matter of taste. Meeke is also coming from Great Britain which very large market which should be important to Citroen. IMO Meeke reminds Latvala as a driver. He can still impove and have some good seasons in the future but there will be inconsistent seasons also.

What is interesting to see is that even very experienced drivers like Meeke and Östberg needs many years in world rally car to reach their level. I believe that both drivers will still get better but IMO they will not get better than Hirvonen or Latvala have been (probably not even as good but nearly). But Meeke's and Östberg's limitation is well known and I wonder what Citroen has imagined to achieve with them. For instance Juho Hänninen won Meeke over a season with 2000 cars. I wonder what they thought when they let Neuville go Ford because he was showing real top-class potential in Citroen. I have not changed my mind about Neuville's potential despite his current crisis.

[Simmi]

Looks like it's all over now barring any mistakes. Really wish leg 3 wasn't such a throwaway prospect or else you wouldn't have Ogier throwing the towel in.

I thought Sordo might have at least tried to go get that final point from Bertelli. Instead he's also jacked it in. Nice for Lorenzo though if he can take that.

EDIT: Best fight is for JWRC victory. Haapamaki has absolutely torn into Gilbert's lead since he had that puncture. He's pulled back 2mins and now is just +12.4sec back.

[marcosg]

Kubica onboard.Maybe this time was unlucky.
http://www.ccma.cat/tv3/alacarta/324/espectacular-bolcada-de-robert-kubica-a-300-metres-del-final-de-letapa/video/5542995/
I'm an hardcore fan of Robert, but I think he just braked too late... the water didn't help and there is also a bump... but for me it looks like driver error...

[dodge33cymru]

Somewhere Sepp Weigand is sat at home thinking "see, I wasn't that bad"

[skarderud]

About Citroen's situation I would rather keep Meeke than Östberg because you have better chance to turn a fast driver as reliable than a slow driver as fast. But that's matter of taste. Meeke is also coming from Great Britain which very large market which should be important to Citroen. IMO Meeke reminds Latvala as a driver. He can still impove and have some good seasons in the future but there will be inconsistent seasons also.

What is interesting to see is that even very experienced drivers like Meeke and Östberg needs many years in world rally car to reach their level. I believe that both drivers will still get better but IMO they will not get better than Hirvonen or Latvala have been (probably not even as good but nearly). But Meeke's and Östberg's limitation is well known and I wonder what Citroen has imagined to achieve with them. For instance Juho Hänninen won Meeke over a season with 2000 cars. I wonder what they thought when they let Neuville go Ford because he was showing real top-class potential in Citroen. I have not changed my mind about Neuville's potential despite his current crisis.
Ostberg has a order to bring in points to the team, drive safe enough to score good points.
In the pre-finland intervju with matton, he pointed out that he was happy with ostberg and he did his job as he was asked for.
He also said that he going to let him drive "free" later in the season.
If he is fast enough to be a worldchamp, noone of us know.
Could be interesting to see him in a polo, but that will never happens, thought.

[AL14]

Ostberg has a order to bring in points to the team, drive safe enough to score good points.
In the pre-finland intervju with matton, he pointed out that he was happy with ostberg and he did his job as he was asked for.
He also said that he going to let him drive "free" later in the season.
If he is fast enough to be a worldchamp, noone of us know.
Could be interesting to see him in a polo, but that will never happens, thought.

I would like to agree with you but I can't. Ostberg has reached his top since 3 years from now. He hardly can improve more. He can continue as long as there is a manufacturer looking for a point scorer but not for a world champion.

[tommeke_B]

Ostberg is a perfect 2nd driver. He's not quick enough to beat the top drivers (apart from Sweden maybe), but he is delivering points to the manufacturer in almost every event. That can't be said from Meeke. For next year the best line-up for Citroën could be Paddon or Tanak in combination with Ostberg, in case they can't get Loeb back to WRC, and in case they are still a works-team... ;)

[Mintexmemory]

. For instance Juho Hänninen won Meeke over a season with 2000 cars.
Yes when the Skoda had evolved to a superior machine over the 207. In an equal year, 2009, Meeke was superior in speed to Juho. I don't recall Hanninen beating Loix and Ucci in their own backyards in a straight fight.

[dimviii]

imho Meeke deserves a seat at wrc,still after all his crashes.
prefere to watch him vs Hanninen,Sordo,Neuville,Ostberg etc.
Meeke,Tanak,and Paddon are the drivers they worth to have a seat nowadays.
these are the drivers with potential.



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLZKE9iUEAIfvQw.png

[Aldis S]

Powerstage live! ;)

http://bgrallyhd.com/en/%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%B6%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%BE/

[Coach 2]

For those who have Swedish television channels. Latest SS directly on SVT1 now.

[skarderud]

In Norway it is live at tv2 sportskanalen, Molly pettit (wrc2 driver grøndals girlfriend, and a racedriver i dtc, and reporter at worldrx tv) and ex-codriver Cato Menkerud brings the comentary

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great stage and on-boards ruined by the commentator..

[dimviii]

M-Sport ‏@MSportLtd
How cute, @E_Brynildsen showing Mia Tänak her Dad's onboard on #WRCplus #WRC @OfficialWRC @Becsywecsy @OttTanak


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLZTJQzVEAAF3hw.jpg

[AL14]

Bertelli puts italian flag reversed on his roof. LOL.

[RS]

Why are they showing Prokop? Should be Tidemand next, no?

[Mirek]

Yes when the Skoda had evolved to a superior machine over the 207. In an equal year, 2009, Meeke was superior in speed to Juho. I don't recall Hanninen beating Loix and Ucci in their own backyards in a straight fight.

IRC was mostly asphalt series and 2009 was first asphalt season for Juho. I remember him at his first proper asphalt rally in March 2009 here in CZ and he was really slow. He was learning fast though.

[jarauto2]

Unofficial pickem results:

1 (1) Rally Power 27 21 32 14 24 19 27 - - - - 164+25=189
2 (3) mousti 23 27 24 6 31 19 27 - - - - - - 157+28=185
3 (4) Henkie H. 31 23 23 5 31 20 23 - - - - - - 156+23=179
4 (2) ik1911 31 20 28 12 20 28 18 - - - - - - 157+22=179
5 (6) T.Maanteiden kuningas 25 24 21 6 31 20 23 - 150+28=178
6 (7) harriswrc 25 21 17 7 35 25 19 - - - - - - 149+28=177
7 (9) Vaggelis27 29 21 20 9 22 19 28 - - - - - - 148+29=177
8 (5) Doon 20 26 22 6 27 23 27 - - - - - - 151+26=177
9 (8) pantealex 24 17 21 5 36 17 29 - - - - - - 149+25=174
10 (11) jarauto2 23 24 27 3 29 16 21 - - - - - - 143+31=174
11 (10) sollitt 26 10 23 5 24 25 31 - - - - - - 144+29=173
12 (17) hllohugo 35 19 17 4 24 20 21 - - - - - - 140+31=171
13 (13) pettersolberg29 22 24 14 6 27 25 25 - - - -143+28=171
14 (25) Vincemon1285 19 18 19 8 26 16 32 - - - - - 138+32=170

Highest NORF score - user MTA (38 points).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC RECORD BREAKER 1 - Jari-Matti Latvala wins the fastest WRC rally in history. His 125.44 kph overall average speed exceeds the previous best (2012 Rally Finland) of 122.89 kph.

Great win over Ogier on pure pace.

"An amazing battle with Jari-Matti and this weekend has been fantastic. I loved it. Jari-Matti was so strong - well done to him. I have no problem to be beaten by Jari-Matti at home this weekend." :)

[Finne]

If I was a team-boss I would pick up Esa-Pekka Lappi to drive my team. Lappi has been phenomenally fast here and in Poland. His closest rival team-mate Tidemand is not a slouch either.

Already in 2012 Tidemand came out of nowhere to rally of Sweden to outpaced many establshed wrc drivers in his first wrc-outing (being like fifth before a retirement)

Already in 2012 in Finland Lappi matched Ogier's pace.

[AL14]

Very good rally. Enjoyed very much the battle at the top. But overall I've seen some glinches of rally at its best this weekend: crazy average speeds, scaring onboards, no middle services and drivers doing the best they could to fix their issues without help (see Evans suspension).

Amazing performance by Latvala, as I said before my will is still to go there and beat him badly because he has the skill to beat Ogier but he get lost too often during the year.

One thing is certain, once in life Rally Finland must be seen. I'm pretty sure next year I will go there.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLZioQ7UAAIDbHY.jpg:large

[dimviii]

Beate T Østberg ‏@beatetorjussen
A huge congrats to @MadsOstberg on the podium in @RallyFinland My no 1!
Still 3rd in the Championship :-D


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLZpuGSVAAAhNT6.jpg

[Micke_VOC]

Why are they showing Prokop? Should be Tidemand next, no?

Bad decision from WRC_TV, had been mush better to see Lappi and TIdemand then Al-Qasimmi and the other slow drivers..
Was it maybe because Meeke was 20th overall and they wanted to show his run on Powertage ?

[irish_tiger]

If I was a team-boss I would pick up Esa-Pekka Lappi to drive my team. Lappi has been phenomenally fast here and in Poland. His closest rival team-mate Tidemand is not a slouch either.

Already in 2012 Tidemand came out of nowhere to rally of Sweden to outpaced many establshed wrc drivers in his first wrc-outing (being like fifth before a retirement)

Already in 2012 in Finland Lappi matched Ogier's pace.

I dont know about that - he's hot and cold from what i can see , In Ypres last year he was brutal after winning in Ireland + there has been a few more place , he's driving for a works team with plenty of testing and hes after winning WRC 2 in his home rally which is no more then i would expect . I dont see why there should be so much hype

[RS]

Bad decision from WRC_TV, had been mush better to see Lappi and TIdemand then Al-Qasimmi and the other slow drivers..
Was it maybe because Meeke was 20th overall and they wanted to show his run on Powertage ?

I would be pretty pissed off if i was a Skoda boss and I had two cars in the top ten and still got ignored.

[dimviii]

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/34/43/Rallye_Finnland_2015_CH_080_344329_55bcaea75.jpg

[RS]

I dont know about that - he's hot and cold from what i can see , In Ypres last year he was brutal after winning in Ireland + there has been a few more place , he's driving for a works team with plenty of testing and hes after winning WRC 2 in his home rally which is no more then i would expect . I dont see why there should be so much hype

Of course he was favourite for the win in Finland but it was more the dominance which was impressive. Cruise mode after day one.

He made too many mistakes last year in ERC but let's see how he does the rest of this year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Skoda should have realised how little attention WRC2 gets and had the new R5 Fabia ready in time for the start of the 2015 ERC ...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Top 3 drivers beat former record.. :eek:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLZfXUyUYAAag9w.jpg

[AL14]

I dont know about that - he's hot and cold from what i can see , In Ypres last year he was brutal after winning in Ireland + there has been a few more place , he's driving for a works team with plenty of testing and hes after winning WRC 2 in his home rally which is no more then i would expect . I dont see why there should be so much hype

Agree. I think we should wait at least the end of the year, both for us to judge and for him to be calm and progress step by step. It won't be the first time that the hast ruined a promising driver. I remember a thread here where most of the people were hesitant about him even with an ERC title on his back, and for good reasons. This year he is more convincing and for sure he is in the right path,, I hope he continues like this but with the right patience.

[Simmi]

Agree. I think we should wait at least the end of the year, both for us to judge and for him to be calm and progress step by step. It won't be the first time that the hast ruined a promising driver. I remember a thread here where most of the people were hesitant about him even with an ERC title on his back, and for good reasons. This year he is more convincing and for sure he is in the right path,, I hope he continues like this but with the right patience.

I think his Skoda contract has allowed him to develop but the ERC focus has meant that he doesn't really have experience of the WRC events that are going to be his future. Only 10 starts! If he is able to take the WRC2 title this year then there doesn't seem a lot of sense in having him defend it, despite what his contract apparently says. He needs to be in a WRC car next year on select rounds, plus testing/gaining experience and doing reccys like you see with Abbring.

[Luijbregts]

is it a record he tries to break?

No, Latvala just jumps far always: here in Sweden, almost 60 mtrs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39eTgprd0Nc

[RS]

I think his Skoda contract has allowed him to develop but the ERC focus has meant that he doesn't really have experience of the WRC events that are going to be his future. Only 10 starts! If he is able to take the WRC2 title this year then there doesn't seem a lot of sense in having him defend it, despite what his contract apparently says. He needs to be in a WRC car next year on select rounds, plus testing/gaining experience and doing reccys like you see with Abbring.

Maybe VW will run a fourth car on European events only for example.

[Mirek]

No, Latvala just jumps far always: here in Sweden, almost 60 mtrs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39eTgprd0Nc

Unofficially Loeb jumped 80 meters in Turkey some years a go (based on telemetry data), officially Schwarz on Fafe 2000 jumped 73 meters but that jump doesn't look that long in the video.

[Mirek]

Great video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfA0mMiNqEM

[AL14]

I think his Skoda contract has allowed him to develop but the ERC focus has meant that he doesn't really have experience of the WRC events that are going to be his future. Only 10 starts! If he is able to take the WRC2 title this year then there doesn't seem a lot of sense in having him defend it, despite what his contract apparently says. He needs to be in a WRC car next year on select rounds, plus testing/gaining experience and doing reccys like you see with Abbring.

Of course if he continues like this until the end of the season, his 2016 should be as you predict. Let's see where he will be at the end of the year.

[JUF]

I was at NORF for the first time and it was just awesome! I can recommend everyone a visit, because it's really easy as a spectator to get to good spots, although you don't know the region. Well organized event! Events like Rallye Deutschland e.g. are not bad of course, but NORF is nearly unbeatable. You have to love it....

[hype]

It was also my first visit to norf, what a hell of a rally!
Very well organized, just sometimes the parking was a bit chaotic. On Saturday they wanted us to pay 10€ for parking, this is just too expensive.
Everything else was perfect, friendly security guys and all the other spectators we met were also always in a good mood, we had lots of laughs. The Finns are cool!

Rally radio was also awesome, they should do this at more rallies! This was the first rally where we were always informed about what's going on. Every second guy had a radio with them, so cool :-)

We will definitely come back.

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qyl6fXWK5fs&feature=youtu.be

[N.O.T]

Lake pictures anyone ? need my Lake fix... or at least some flowers or big rocks.

Good Job by Latvala.

[JoostSchouten]

All the highlights of the greatest rally in the world in my Finland 2015 video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTbEua-kwrM

http://i60.tinypic.com/350qsua.jpg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTbEua-kwrM)

[mousti]

OUCH PSA...

http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/2405/stewards_decision_no_4.pdf

Lefebvre excluded

[nafpaktos]

@juf
@hype
you can sit everywhere you want or only to spectator areas?the marshals were strict?

[SubaruNorway]

My video from an awesome Neste Oil Rally Finland as always! Opening clip from the legendary Ouninpohja stage, enjoy! :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m5EWTGARvQ

Thanks to the guys who helped with stage info :)

[eib1]

lol
Kruuda`s boot lid on Vainionpää car

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/11816827_928612630531642_4451166985565304618_n.jpg ?oh=d9ab9228b297e8781fb9353814047482&oe=5647DEA2

[Hartusvuori]

lol
Kruuda`s boot lid on Vainionpää car

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/11816827_928612630531642_4451166985565304618_n.jpg ?oh=d9ab9228b297e8781fb9353814047482&oe=5647DEA2

Bonnet also.

[danon]

A I'm a man not a woman as you might have thought
B F*** you
C I was just saying maybe Paul shouldn't co-drive for a driver who can't keep it on the road.

A short d/ck man fits your profile...

http://s5.postimg.org/xojwbsw1z/RECARO_WC.jpg

[bunnings]

http://i.imgur.com/P5lhbhG.jpg?1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UlkeZEe5jo)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UlkeZEe5jo

[Aldis S]

My video from an awesome Neste Oil Rally Finland as always! Opening clip from the legendary Ouninpohja stage, enjoy! :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m5EWTGARvQ

Thanks to the guys who helped with stage info :)

Video, worth to see... much cars from all classes, much interesting places, and podium ;)
If there would be smell from cars and Finnish forest, I would say I was in Neste Oil Rally Finland 2015 :D

Thanks!

[NikoP]

Rally Finland photos: http://nikop.kuvat.fi/kuvat/2015/Neste+Oil+Rally+Finland/

http://nikop.kuvat.fi/kuvat/2015/Neste+Oil+Rally+Finland/_MG_5883+copy.jpg/_smaller.jpg

http://nikop.kuvat.fi/kuvat/2015/Neste+Oil+Rally+Finland/IMG_0082+copy.jpg/_smaller.jpg

[Aquagen]

Gorban crash onboard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3AkiO2Qiz8

[N.O.T]

action videos, action photos... where are the lakes and the flowers from the super Pros ? you know... the guys who complain for the people who give free stuff without a single lake in them...

[AL14]

Happy day for flyng finns.

https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/11794117_10153077440010678_7338684482798861559_o.j pg

[hype]

@juf
@hype
you can sit everywhere you want or only to
spectator areas?the marshals were strict?

Not wherever you want, but there are lots of possibilities away from the spectator areas.
Depends on the marshals, some of them are relaxed, some not.
It's not as easy as on Sardinia for example, but much better than in Germany.

[Mirek]

OUCH PSA...

http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/2405/stewards_decision_no_4.pdf

Lefebvre excluded

Sooo many times Citroën or Peugeot got caught in last years. I wonder how much went unnoticed...

[RAS007]

makes me feel sick. But as people say, who is available that would do a better job? Most youngsters would probably visit the scenery as much as Kris...

Maybe Kris should be looking for a new co-driver. What's Derek Ringer up to these days?

[SubaruNorway]

Video, worth to see... much cars from all classes, much interesting places, and podium ;)
If there would be smell from cars and Finnish forest, I would say I was in Neste Oil Rally Finland 2015 :D

Thanks!

Thanks! Tried to bring as much different without making it too long this time after some comments after Sweden :)

Podiums is always a nice ending! :)

[Rallyper]

I think Lefebvre will be the #2 next year, and Ostberg has to do something big not to get the boot as well.

Lefebvre? Don´t make me smile with comments like that.

[Rallyper]

Was Mads driving the whole stage in road mode or just part of it? Thierry's car sounds terrible.

It was very heavy rainfall when the cars did Jukojärvi2. Just a clearification.

[Eli]

A short d/ck man fits your profile...

http://s5.postimg.org/xojwbsw1z/RECARO_WC.jpg

Tooshay

[hype]

Does someone know where these spots are:

00:53

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367016

00:05

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367001

[MartijnS]

00:53, I think its the new jump at Jukojarvi, not far after the start or its the Novikov jump at Horkka.
Curious about 00:05 too.

[makinen_fan]

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/11828752_10153572121389973_8268685490507579131_n.j pg?oh=3390c8d659d6518cf178004004168986&oe=56421C19

[dimviii]

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/34/76/Rallye_FInnland_2015_159_347665_55be75799.jpg
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/34/76/Rallye_FInnland_2015_155_347647_55be75785.jpg

for NOT exclusively
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/34/76/Rallye_FInnland_2015_139_347605_55be75759.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/grr_img_7968.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/grr__pb10767.jpg

[AL14]

There we go :D

https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-8/11807581_1032093770158770_3215441941860561207_o.jp g

https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/t31.0-8/11779819_1032093820158765_5075440537072270441_o.jp g

EDIT: Forgot these ones. Sure you like them ;)

https://scontent-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/11816198_936856339689239_7566841469510622334_o.jpg

https://scontent-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-8/11794183_936856386355901_4712821189889829118_o.jpg

[Sardalense]

Does someone know where these spots are:

00:53

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367016

00:05

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367001

The second video it's from Ouninpohja. Don't know the exact spot, I need to watch some onboard videos, but I thinks it's from the second half of the stage.

[Sardalense]

00:53, I think its the new jump at Jukojarvi, not far after the start or its the Novikov jump at Horkka.
Curious about 00:05 too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpDSPhECTSA

09:17

[sindroms]

The second video it's from Ouninpohja. Don't know the exact spot, I need to watch some onboard videos, but I thinks it's from the second half of the stage.

Exactly. 19.3-19.8km from start, access road from Rapsula.

[EstWRC]

Back from my very first Rally Finland and it was just amazing! i already want to go back :D...i was with my car and drove through Himos, a little bit Ouninpohja, Horkka, Jukojärvi and Myhinpää. The stages are just unbelievable, we couldnt believe that they really are driving with full speed on these stages.
We went to finland already on wednesday and stayed on the parking field near the shakedown stage. Watched shakedown and and city stage on thursday, shakedown was good but the city stage is sooooo boring, better to watch on TV.
Friday started with Ouninpohja for us and then on to Pihlajakoski and then to Himos. Half of the day we were not in a good because of the Tänak incident, it was just so painful watch him through Ouninpohja were he couldnt jump at all. On Pihlajakoski and Himos it was not so bad.
Saturday started with Mökkiperä, then to Horkka and then Jukojärvi. On the second pass of Jukojärvi we were just couple of km's away from where Meeke crashed and it started to rain heavily just when the stage started and we were sure someone is gonna crash.
On Sunday we were at the very end of Myhinpää were these 2 or 3 jumps are before the finish line. Tänak, Evans and Ogier were most spectacular there.

The only cons were cold weather and the parking tickets everywhere, 5 euros is OK but 10 or 20 is not.

[Barreis]

Relax b4 powerstage...
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10206408475667305&set=a.1896305723949.108348.1130775652&type=1&theater

[Rallyper]

Does someone know where these spots are:

00:53

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367016

00:05

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367001

00:53 is definately from Jukojärvi new jump at 5,9 K and first run, because second was heavy rain. Was there on second run.

[HarriK]

Brynildsen crash:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aa--D8z5vy4

[janvanvurpa]

00:53 is definately from Jukojärvi new jump at 5,9 K and first run, because second was heavy rain. Was there on second run.


Hej Pelle you made it back alive!
I was close to sending all the Finns here on spanings operation thinking you got into too much Kossu and met some Svetlana and woke in bathtub full of ice missing kidneys.

Rapport!

[KKSF]

KKSF HD video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4SU372r1NA

[Rallyper]

Hej Pelle you made it back alive!
I was close to sending all the Finns here on spanings operation thinking you got into too much Kossu and met some Svetlana and woke in bathtub full of ice missing kidneys.

Rapport!

Thanks for your consideration John!

Well, it wasn´t that dangerous. Fifteen times since 1999 has made me quite adjusted to finnish behavour. Besides I had a good friend since 45 years or so (I made my debut in rallying as codriving him in a Amazon - 18 years old in 1972) as company on the whole trip. So nothing happened more than we met all the drivers except from the Citroen guys in the Service area. And maybe a few beers in the evenings.

We stayed at hotels for every night so nothing dangerous there as well. Oh, must tell you - we were att Horkka SS and also very early arriving. Not much spectators and I looked at my twitter account seeing that organizer had to move away one motherbear and her two cubs from the area.

Else everything was fine. 9 on a scale of 10 this year. The weather wasn´t that good.

Watched SD and did some recce on Thursday. Then Harju in the evening. Päijälä 1 and 2 on Friday at Prokop spot. Met 70 swedes on a bustour with Rallytravels (Per Carlsson) at the spot. Harju2 in the evening.

Saturday Horkka1 and Jukojärvi2. Only spectacular was Ogier in the first righthander on Horkka. He went very wide and it looked for a moment he should go off. Very clean driving from the others, changing gears while lifting of over crests at the same time it was L5 or so.

Sunday we left hotel 0615 for Myhinpää. Roadsideparking on P4 and mobilehomes for about 1K. When leaving later it was roadsideparking for 3,5 K. (Teemu - Hartusvuori - had roadsid parking for 4,7K on P3) We were at sport only 300 m from finish. Very fast jump in a lefthander. Nice spot.

We left second run after LAtvala passed. Thanks to that we didn´t have much traffic jam from Myhinpää to JKL. Very nice to see spectators standing waving finnish flags on roadsection into JKL. Small kids, old people, parents waitng to see Jari-Matti passing.

Ferry from Turku to Stockholm arrived Monday morning and then 130K to Östhammar. 356 days to next year. I already misses NORF.

(I didn´t write on Forum because that is a Gismo thing to be able to handle such things - I only write on my PC to Motorsportforums.com)

[SubaruNorway]

Does someone know where these spots are:

00:53

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367016

00:05

http://www.laola1.tv/partner/v4player/index.php?identifier=wrc_com&menu1=&menu2=&menu3=&play=367001

00:05 is less than 1km before the last junction right at Mökkiperä, same section until 00:20, I was at the inboard bit, 2nd clip in my video.

And 00:53 is indeed the jump at 4.9km in Jukojärvi, i was also there the 2nd time in the rain :)

[dimviii]

#RallyFinland Emotions & Speed. Overwhelmed by winning WRC3 by 0.5sec | pic via @EvolutionChick

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLgtNk5WoAEBZYR.jpg

[Hartusvuori]

Sunday we left hotel 0615 for Myhinpää. Roadsideparking on P4 and mobilehomes for about 1K. When leaving later it was roadsideparking for 3,5 K. (Teemu - Hartusvuori - had roadsid parking for 4,7K on P3

Actually, we parked the car at 2,7 km before the stage 1,5 hours before 1st car. When we drove back, the furthest cars were at 4,7 km. I bet they had to hurry for the first run.

[b3637853]

#RallyFinland Emotions & Speed. Overwhelmed by winning WRC3 by 0.5sec | pic via @EvolutionChick

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLgtNk5WoAEBZYR.jpg

I wonder what Gilbert's next step could be. I think he is gonna win JWRC this year. Do you guys think any works team can be interested in him? I mean he is French, quite young and fast.

[SubaruNorway]

Was this the first time there was 2 min between all cars included WRC3? Took forever to watch a stage.

[donlorean]

Was this the first time there was 2 min between all cars included WRC3? Took forever to watch a stage.
I think so... Organisation send new WRC regulations just before rally and there was that start order... So it would be like that in every rally, not just NORF... Only privateers and DMack Fiesta's was 1min gap

[MartijnS]

Yes, that was about the only annoying thing in the entire weekend, besides the mosquitos haha. Takes way too long to watch the entire field like this.

However we had a great rally again. Arrived in Jyvaskala on Tuesday night. Wednesday we went to see the recce of the Shakedown and drive Myhinpaa, Surkee and Horkka that morning/afternoon. Nice dinner in city center at night, always a nice atmosphere there! Like the place.
Shakedown can't be bad if they use that stage and expectations were met at the first jump. Some good speed/hight and easy marshalls so the normal spectators could stand wherever they wanted for a long time and thats always sweet! Lazy afternoon in our appartment and than went to see Hurja. Stood at a 90" left corner, pretty fun.

Friday start at Pihlajakoski. Nice fast section few hundred meters after the hairpin halfway, some nice passes there. Left shortly after the WRC's. Than to Ouninpohja, parked our car 30 meters from the stage for probably one of the best spots of the rally for us. Flatout jump, than almost flat left into another small jump at about 18.5 km into the stage. Only 5 other people there besides us! Incredible speed there from the topguys.

Back to Pihlajakoski for a fast left corner, on which they get launched a bit due to the speed and drop, just before the hairpin. Last year we went there too, but this year security was a bit more strict so more difficult to get some decent shots, but still a nice spot!
Watched the same cars again, than back to Ouninpohja again. Nice left corner a bit before the finish. Some good drifts there.

Saturday we had some startup issues, due to the first 5.5 km of Mökkiperä being forbidden for spectators. Had 2 corners noted, both not, at last not easily reachable. So we ended up at the straight with the number of jumps. By that time we had seen enough jumps, so was not so special there. Some good air though from some of the guys.
Quickly left to Surkee for also a great viewing spot. Just before they reach the big spectator spot at 8 km another flatout spot. First a top, on which some cars made some air and than a really fast left corner after it.
Not interesting for photos, but to watch a stage is good fun too I found out haha.
After the entire field there, back to Mökkiperä, some good spot gladly. Back to Surkee again, sweet open spot, about 70" left few km after the start, but really fast. Nice sideways action!

Sunday we did one run of Myhinpää on fast part, not that special, but all we could find without seeing another jump. After the entire field, we had to go to catch our flight in Helsinki again!
So 10 stages on the best roads in the world once again. Definitely going back again next year.
My photos are online now!

http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/68183705.jpg

http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/44074199.jpg

http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/89960457.jpg

http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/18286425.jpg

http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/89463117.jpg

More at our Facebook Page (http://facebook.com/rallymedia) or our Website (http://www.rallymedia.nl/images/2015/rallyfinland/rallyfinland.html) !

[dimviii]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/jaf_neste%20oil%20rally%20finland%202015-64.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/jaf_neste%20oil%20rally%20finland%202015-87.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/jaf_neste%20oil%20rally%20finland%202015-53.jpg

http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=19126&fotograf=394

[Hartusvuori]

I've recovered enough to give a few thoughts on this event. Rally Finland as an event is more than just Thursday to Sunday for me. This year I had time to visit few pre-event tests the week before. M-Sport test was odd as Tänak and Evans drove the same car on the same day. At least it was possible to see their huge difference and it was also along very nice fast road in Jämsä, spectated in a point some will remember from Rally Finland 2011 SS Hassi. The next day Latvala started his tests just nearby my in-laws house. It was a rainy day, but I still saw what I wanted, confident driving and some huge jumps.

Then came the Rally Week. I started it with a visit to Lukyanuk tests. When I heard from marshall's walkie talkie that the driver now has a helmet on, I started to walk right. Had I walked left, I would've seen the crash. Oh well. That was a huge accident and a huge blow for the event to miss its only wild card WRC entry. This matter was discussed thoroughly last week. Anyway. Hyundai did its VIP drives this Monday on the same test road. There are some incar footage available. If they started at the same place with Lukyanuk, it took Paddon 55 seconds to reach the crash corner. Less than a minute in a WRC car. During the week I didn't meet anyone who'd understand what Lukyanuk were doing. After that test stage was over quick, I drove to Keuruu for P3 drivers' test, only to accidently drop by at Citroen DS3R3 tests (+ Lefebvre) on the way. It was very nice this year that the recce started only on Tuesday and that Monday was still a full on test day with one open to public test stage. I'd appreaciate this kind of concept for future - and other - events as well. Tuesday was a get together day with friends.

Wednesday started with visiting the start of the recce in SS Surkee, getting the first chance to talk to the drivers and see in what mood they are. Out of VW drivers Mikkelsen was very serious, even stressed-looking, keeping it to himself in the car. Same for Ogier, but for him only concentrated. Latvala however was very relaxed, talkative, like it was any other day. Big difference. It was also nice to meet Juho after a long time. Later in the day we drove to the Service Park to meet the drivers at the same time they had this Meet the Kids thing (kids were we too last week). Meeke was looking very concentrated and even stressed, even when they were on the podium platform for the group picture with kids. During the visit to SP I had nice chance to talk with a number of drivers and also met a handful of other friends known from previous rallies or social media. Very nice evening altogether.

The rally itself:
Shakedown - 500 metres from the start, newly cut forest on tight downhill right with a tree stub lying in await at the exit if you go wide. Mikkelsen spun right away. Apart from that Bertelli and Pärn managed to escape the tree stub in high speed by less than half a meter.
SS Harju 1 - downhill right to S-curves into finish. It was nice place to spectate and it would've been even nicer with a little more rain prior to the stage start. However, I preferred this place over the downhill on gravel which we spectated last year.
Ouninpohja 1 & 2 - only stage we did on Friday as there were some desired corners we wanted to spectate and the no-service schedule left less room for driving between stages. Well, we've never done Rally Finland like this, staying on one stage the whole day, so why not give it a go. First run, a fast over crest left. It should've been faster, no hot moments now. Vetomies and second run we did on tighter overcrest left where had been close calls on the first run. Nothing notable on the run except it is a nice place to spectate.
Mökkiperä 1 - junction! Again, something for a change. This junction however is a tricky, fast one which one can drive almost directly on a correct line, but only on a correct line. Sordo approached way faster than cars prior to him, almost hit the bank on the inside, but managed to save it into a halfspin. Bertelli had similar idea. Rest of the time I talked with Guy Wilks who at that time had come to spectate just next to us. Some nice stories there.
Horkka 1 - faster, faster, faster. Whereas everyone else walked 500 metres further from us to see the Novikov jump, we stayed at the tightening left after the long straight after the jump. A few wide lines on very high speed, Lefebvre was already touching the grass roadside, but I think he didn't even noticed anything weird. Novikov / Visala jump seems to have a strong reputation still and also on this opposite direction. A lot of people were walking towards it even after the top crews had passed. Some were walking back already as there was no good places to spectate left.
Jukojärvi 2 - we went to see the rut that almost stopped Latvala from winning last year. Now the road had a big rut too after the first passage and it started to rain heavily just before the first cars. Quite a high speed place and few cars jumps out the rut on the soft. First car we didn't spectate was Nikara and friend told he jumped off the rut there. Just a little later he pulled over to retire.
Horkka 2 - back to Horkka and now to the jump what we call Juho's Jump. My favourite place. We were in a big hurry eventually, but managed to made it less than 2 minutes before Kubica made a huge, I'd say around 35-40 metre jump. There's a fast right corner just after the jump and this year it was lined with pile of logs. Last year we though it was possible for driver's to go off there, but now with the logs we hoped everything stays intact on the jump, it would've been nasty to hit those logs.
Myhinpää 1 & 2 - Hate is a strong word, but I could say I don't like Myhinpää being driven on Sunday. For us it's the furthest stage of the event, almost a two-hour drive. Also, as it was now the only stage, there are big crowds. We were early enough, but still had to walk a long way and a long way back. We were in a place with limited vision to a big jump on the approach which continued into overcrest left and right after a tight downhill right. Nice place to compare driver's techics. For example Tänak, Evans, Sordo, Neuville approached the last tight right more nose end first, turning, turning and turning and Latvala and Ogier threw the car sideways and right away started to accelarate while the car was sliding down soon pointing at the exit and next straight. Last car of the field, a C2 R2, jumped on its nose in the big jump and then approached the tight right far too fast, went wide and rolled. Second run we watched a little further, S-curves with nice sideways approach. Then it was time to start the walk to the car, drive to home and prepare to start work again.

I would say technically the best driving performance was done by Esapekka Lappi, absolutely. There was nothing extra, always on a good speed and perfect line. Second run in Ouninpohja, the place we were had that jump over crest where one could jump wide into the ditch. It continued to long, round right where there were a rock in the line in the inside, after first run. Many drivers before Lappi, WRC drivers too, had to turn left on the right hander to avoid touching the rock. Lappi jumped just enough on the right and then continued to the right hander with a single turn, placing the nose of his Fabia R5 just next to the rock but not in danger of touching it. Just perfect. This was definitely the best of Lappi I have ever seen. Also, his stage end comments were so confident that as long as his driving meets his words, he'll be unbeatable.

Of course Latvala's performance was also without room for critic. On Friday morning it seemed he'll have a tough time with Seb, but on Ouni 2 he replied in such a manner that he got the upper hand and kept it. Latvala did one day of his testing in a heavy rain also, just like Jukojärvi 2. Ogier tested only on dry. This might have helped. Ogier's tests were otherwise interupted too as he on the first day crashed slightly into a field and the second day was prematurely ended after Ogier broke the car in a jump. Latvala was very, very well-prepaped and that paid off.

Paddon seemed very fast too, though I didn't get to see many passages from him. Meeke was mainly clean and effective, but maybe not as super quick as last year. The biggest disappointment must be Neuville. Didn't he get a clean run? He was not convincing at any place. 2013 he was way ahead of his current shape. Tänak was very nice once the car was back in one piece. Pretty much the biggest shame of the event he broke it so early on. Hänninen understandably was picking up the pace as the event went on. His car seemed also lacking power on some stages, some stages it was better. He followed a good tactic and once so many faster guys retired, he got a nice result. Also nice stage end comments. After Myhinpää 2, radio commentator asked are you going to attack on the Power Stage. Juho replied that considering their whole WRC season these power stage points aren't that important, so he would keep the same pace as until then. :-)

On WRC2 the biggest and most nice surprise was Pedder. Nice to spectate and apparently quite effective too. On the other hand, Brynildsen, Gröndal, Koci - they're going nowhere. Breen - such unlucky driver at the moment.

Altogether, again a very nice event. Some changes to the route are needed for the next year like always. I'd swap Sunday with a longer Thursday for example. Still, an amazing event.

Here's my friend's photo gallery: http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Neste+Oil+Rally+Finland+2015/

[dimviii]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/mn_048.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/neste_oil_rally_finland_2015/mn_122.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=19126&fotograf=119

[Hartusvuori]

One thing I'd like to add to my review. Not necessarily good in the long run, but moving around and between stages is easier year after year. Maybe also less spectators every year. This year we had to pay for parking twice, €5 each, and we parked our car seven times. One of the most surprising things happened when approaching Ouninpohja. We used the private roads North of Ouninpohjantie knowing we need to walk a little. The road was blocked one junction earlier than expected and we had some 2 km walk ahead. While parking a worn out 4x4 stopped and continued. After walking for some 15 minutes similar 4x4 stopped, a young guy jumps out and was cursing that we had left our car so quickly that they didn't have time to offer a ride. They insisted we packed our stuff in and save our legs from walking. So, soon it was six persons in the car, road changed into a forest path which changed into a field which again changed into a small road. We saved 30 minutes with nothing but generousity of this local guy and his mates.

Also, number of marshalls was very limited. Only in Myhinpää we were asked to walk in the forest about 1 hour before first car, but after a while we got back on the road. On Horkka 2 we walked in the forrest on our decision, due to safety, because we were so damn late. Apart from Myhinpää, there were marshalls only every few hundred meters. Common sense helped choosing places in general. In this respect, Rally Finland to me is more appealing and likeable. Especially on Finnish forums people are accustomed to complaining about fenced spectator zones and their limited visibility. That's correct, they exist, as a choice for people who don't want to make an effort in looking first on the route and places they'd desire. If you make make that effort, it's also possible to watch on most of those places.

[N.O.T]

I find the lack of lakes in all these pictures disturbing...

[Allyc85]

Random question, what was the reason given as to why Meeke was late to one of the stages?

[maciotacio]

It was Paul Nagle fault, he made wrong calculations

[vino_93]

I wonder what Gilbert's next step could be. I think he is gonna win JWRC this year. Do you guys think any works team can be interested in him? I mean he is French, quite young and fast.

He will drive DS3 R5 next year. Don't except anything else ... if he is still there, it's only because Armando Pereira, very rich french man, is supporting him.
He is still in WRC3 whereas he was from the same generation as Chardonnet ... this year it seems he learnt how to stay on road, but his reputation is made : he crashed too many times to interest any manufacturer. His only chance is to be extraordinary next year. But when I see how Lefebvre struggle ... I doubt about Gilbert's ability to be better.

[MartijnS]

I find the lack of lakes in all these pictures disturbing...

On all the stages there were only 2 lakes they drove by really close, the others were too far away to get in a photo haha ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Dont know if already posted... Kubica crash:
https://youtu.be/W4OetcF71z8

https://youtu.be/nNoUetOH9hg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLqsIvVWEAAmfDO.jpg:large

[SubaruNorway]

I couldn't have been far away from you in both runs on Myhinpäa Hartsuvouri?
Might have seen me working non stop to move people and VW weather/split crews so we could see the "jump" managed to piss off the marshall when i asked if i could remove some weeds too :p

I left to the right/left combo 300m after before Grøndal so missed the C2 roll, nice save by the Evo there 2nd time :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m5EWTGARvQ

[satukata]

Rally Finland 2015 was my best rally i have ever seen !! Great roads and great fights and Big jumps ! I like it !! See you next year!

[Mirek]

Video from Škoda: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BzgxCCQfBU

[KKSF]

Marshals vs Spectator (I don't know the reason, missed the beginning and the end because of rally cars, but spectator was taken down and handcuffed by safety masrhals at SS1 Harju (Jyvaskyla). Handcuffs on 1:25) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYCYUxK92c4

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CLu7Zm7WUAAZByj.jpg

[Ide]

Here's my rally Finland gallery (http://www.ilkansivu.net/NORF15/index.html). There are 200 photos about 8 stages and the podium ceremony.

[N.O.T]

Here's my rally Finland gallery (http://www.ilkansivu.net/NORF15/index.html). There are 200 photos about 8 stages and the podium ceremony.

shots 4 and 5 from Horkka 2 are the best, great spot.

[Allyc85]

More "special" marshals like in Germany, when spectators tried to get a car moving again?!

[Hartusvuori]

More "special" marshals like in Germany, when spectators tried to get a car moving again?!

Don't mix this with that situation. I'd say he had it coming.

[metko74]

A friend made video as we saw WRC Rally Finland 2015

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seXYFnuODEY

[OldF]

More pics from NORF.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/timokorkalainen/sets/72157656939897635

[OldF]

Thanks! Tried to bring as much different without making it too long this time after some comments after Sweden :)

Podiums is always a nice ending! :)

This kind of videos are never too long.:)

[SubaruNorway]

This kind of videos are never too long.:)

That's good to hear!

Quite a lot of video's from Finland so maybe good it's not taking too much of peoples time ;)

[Ounin]

Here's my rally Finland gallery (http://www.ilkansivu.net/NORF15/index.html). There are 200 photos about 8 stages and the podium ceremony.

Great stuff Ide, I do like the whole package, from action pics to atmosphere pics to private pics to pics of "humans" -fans- at the track! It makes me more jealous I wasn't there!

[katxal]

With some delay...my pics from Neste Oil Rally Finland. Hope you like them, more @ www.andrescachalvite.es

http://i59.tinypic.com/wuty.jpg

http://i60.tinypic.com/2zz517o.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/2m61see.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/1zlu71e.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/14t3nll.jpg

[dimviii]

krismeeke.com ‏@krismeeke
Tighten the belts. The ‘Holy Grail’ stage of the #WRC. Ride onboard on @RallyFinland #Ouninpohja @CitroenRacing

https://youtu.be/DiWlAXSSWc0

[drive]

VW Matrix style video - old but nice trick!
https://video-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xpf1/v/t42.1790-2/11867266_521120188040860_1898413613_n.mp4?efg=eyJy bHIiOjEwNDksInJsYSI6NTEyfQ%3D%3D&rl=1049&vabr=583&oh=af6bec64b51760881b1a7d3e8b28a697&oe=55D316B4

[MTA]

Great rally as usual!
Our images can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/rallyfoto.se?_rdr=p

We were standing right next to Timo Korkalainen on Mökkipäre 1 and in the same curve as the Subaru Norway on Myhinpää 1 I discovered when i look at theres pictures and videos.

[dimviii]

watch Mads face after the jump lol
https://twitter.com/romps22/status/638308645898485760