[WRC] EKO Acropolis Rally Greece 2023 (7-10 Sep)

[bomber21]

For third consecutive year, Acropolis Rally is in the WRC calendar.
It will take place from 7 to 10 of September, just like last year.

Rumors have it that it will be based not in the same place (Lamia) but in a new one (Loutraki?). But up to now, it is just rumors.

Organization says that they are trying to present many surprises because it is the 70th edition of the rally.

[MartijnS]

Booked accomodation for both possible scenarios!

[NOT]

We might know about the event host city on february 16th, since they will announce a number of events to celebrate 70 years of acropolis rally

[NOT]

https://twitter.com/AcropolisRally/status/1625830219448823808?t=mF6NdnUiEOMHrr_GsJBBsQ&s=19

[spyros]

where are these stages?

[dimviii]

Lamia region

[bomber21]

So no Loutraki?

[bomber21]

Watch live the presentation for Acropolis Rally 2023 70th edition celebrations. I assume that the presentation will be in Greek…
https://m.facebook.com/events/1012855586768786

[bomber21]

NEW 2 years contract for Acropolis Rally !!!

[bomber21]

The heart of rally will be LAMIA again.

[spyros]

Thank God, Finlamia again with beautiful stages.

[Tom K]

NEW 2 years contract for Acropolis Rally !!!

So 2024-2025 or 2023-2024?

[atsiotras79]

24-25

[Tom K]

HQ in Lamia but Friday again in Loutraki area.

[bomber21]

Acropolis Rally new logo

[bomber21]

I understand that a documentary will be published soon and this is a teaser video.

70 years Acropolis Rally
https://youtu.be/oMj2Y0CcmCU

[wrcanben]

Is there any news or romours abaot Itıeanry or stages ? and sss ?

[bomber21]

Is there any news or romours abaot Itıeanry or stages ? and sss ?

Not yet.

[NOT]

expect news late may early june

[NOT]

rally guide 1 is live

https://www.acropolisrally.gr/2023/en/competitors/documents

also we got a first mention of the stages that are going to be used that are around Lamia

karoutes (old classic), pavliani, eleftherochori, elatia, tarzan... but no details

as for the shakedown 2023

The surface of the shakedown stage is gravel.
Length of the actual shakedown stage: 3.62 km.
Distance between the service park exit and the TC SD: 15.21 km
Distance between the SD finish and the service park: 13.16 km

this was last years shakedown... looks like it is in the same place but a bit extended... which is complete shit if it is.

SHAKEDOWN 2022
The surface of the shakedown stage is gravel.
Length of the actual shakedown stage: 3.66 km.
Distance between the service park exit and the TC SD: 15.21 km
Distance between the SD finish and the parc fermé (SP): 27.54 km

[bomber21]

Full itinerary out
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1127inkqgbCKq6aA0iBaF6pq2QcWHDWZJ/view

[Yugo_para_siempre]

I believe, this year's itinerary is better than previous years.

They kept the fantastic Livadia stage, with so many good spots, fast and flowing.

They include also Elatia and I really hope that this longer version (28+ kms) to include the spectacular part Elatia - Zeli of 2021. Fast, flowing with very good spots, amazing.

They include the classic Pavliani that is not fast on average, but is very demanding stage, in spectacular mountainous scenery, also has some really nice places, especially around Pyra of Herakles.

They included the proper Karoutes - Bauxites joined stage. Previous two versions were uphill, Bauxites, then part of Karoutes, then the last part towards Prosilio...
Now it will be likely (since the stage name is Karoutes) start from the village up in the mountain, drive all downhill Karoutes stage and final part the downhill version of Bauxites stage... From fir trees and 1100 - 1200 altitude, down to the rocky scenery near the sea level. Fast flowing and very demanding for the brakes...

They include the decent Eleftherochori stage, beautiful with some known but very crowded spots.

They include Tarzan, which is legendary.

[AnttiL]

Nice that they keep changing the itinerary every year, and can always set up many single-run stages. This time no 30+ km stages and barely over 300 km in total, but then again all forest stages are over 16 km long, and half of them over 20 km.

[NOT]

grammeni is also a nice stage... if i remember correctly it has some nice jumps, but i might be wrong, the first one was near a small church and in the old days was a sideways jump... but i think the stage rollers flatten it and was not so spectacular anymore.

these are the jumps from 2005

2438

2439

grammeni is a really nice stage... has some nice fast corners as well

2440

will be nice to see how the stage changed after all these years

[NOT]

grammeni video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP3l23-buS8

but you never know how the stage changed over the years... maybe those jumps are not that spectacular anymore.. i will definitely visit the stage before the rally to check and let you know.

[NOT]

and another jump at a different spot from 2018 as part of the erc

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

[Yugo_para_siempre]

Nice that they keep changing the itinerary every year, and can always set up many single-run stages. This time no 30+ km stages and barely over 300 km in total, but then again all forest stages are over 16 km long, and half of them over 20 km.

We are a small country but we have plenty of roads, mountains, hence special stages, despite that many gravel roads became paved asphalt.

At some point in the future I would like to see Kaloskopi. The stage previously passed through Kaloskopi village, connecting the villages Stromi and Inohori. It had different names Stromi or Inohori, depending on the start. The part Inohori - Kaloskopi became paved asphalt, thus the last editions included only the part Kaloskopi - Stromi and vice versa.
Even as a mix stage, gravel - asphalt, it would be nice.

Other is Drossohori, especially the downhill edition of it usually called Gravia is very nice.

From last year I rate high the Dafni stage. A little difficult to spactate, but really nice stage fast and technical. Some priests of a nearby monastery that did not like the rally cars, did not allow the last kms to take place...

Also Elikonas stage was very very nice in 2012. With spots you could enjoy the action for hundreds of meters, nice scenery also, mountain, fir trees, with sea on the background.

Pyrgos is very beautiful stage to drive, never ending, with big variety, but not so many places for spectators.

Also in Peloponnese region, stage Ziria. What a stage, magic in every aspect...

[NOT]

grammeni video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP3l23-buS8

but you never know how the stage changed over the years... maybe those jumps are not that spectacular anymore.. i will definitely visit the stage before the rally to check and let you know.


the jumps were there in 2018 as well...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxg16Gr19bk

[spyros]

Καλημέρα, η Γραμμένη είναι στην Γραμμένη Οξιά ? και γενικότερα πως μπορεί κάποιος να κινηθεί για να δεί την Κυριακή Ταρζάν και Γραμμένη?

[Yugo_para_siempre]

No, Grammeni stage has nothing common with old Grammeni Oxia stage.

It is placed north west of Lamia, between the villages Grammeni and Kalamaki.

[bomber21]

Rumors have it that this year’s SSS will be in the city centre but it will not be a mickey mouse stage like 2021.

[bomber21]

Rumors have it that this year’s SSS will be in the city centre but it will not be a mickey mouse stage like 2021.

SSS will take place in the old Athens airport area, named Ellinikon,
where now a huge regeneration project is happening.

It will be night and on tarmac.

[drive]

maps https://www.auto-news.gr/2023/07/70.html

[bomber21]

Serderidis will drive the Puma in Acropolis Rally

[Antonis9]

Sebastien Ogier join Acropolis rally !

[typhoon]

Unfortunately part of the SS Loutraki has been heavily affected by the wildfires earlier this week. Such a shame. :(

[Rallyper]

First I´d like to ask Dimviii if he´s ok.

Then I wonder if the roadsurface also was burnt up in Loutraki SS? ;)

[dimviii]

i am ok Per! just to busy with work.

[bomber21]

SSS will be in Athens Riviera, in Plateia Nerou, known for hosting concerts.

Watch presentation live on https://m.facebook.com/acropolisrally

[bomber21]

Shakedown same as last year.

SSS will be free to watch, no tickets.

[Eli]

Sordo confirmed (as expected) to drive the 3rd i20.

[GINE]

Unfortunately part of the SS Loutraki has been heavily affected by the wildfires earlier this week. Such a shame. :(

SS Loutraki wasnt affected by the fire.

[CeskyOndra]

I hope that there will be no more fires in Greece which could lead to cancel rally like in Australia 2019.

[CeskyOndra]

Btw, Ogier is coming to Greece I think. He said on his Instagram stories "see you soon in Greece"

[mknight]

Btw, Ogier is coming to Greece I think. He said on his Instagram stories "see you soon in Greece"

I am getting the impression he wants to drive more. Latvala said he wanted to drive in Finland as well but the car was already promised to him and they didn't have a 5th one.

[CeskyOndra]

I think Ogier will be next year full season in Hyundai honestly :D

[TypeR]

I think Ogier will be next year full season in Hyundai honestly :D
Ogier: ,,Hold my beer''
Takes title with 4th different manufacturer :D



e: wrong thread tho

[denkimi]

I think Ogier will be next year full season in Hyundai honestly :D
If anyone could win a title in a hyundai it would be him.

[bomber21]

SSS tickets out now for 70 euros!!!
The initial announcement was misleading talking about FREE entrance to SSS…

Well, the entrance can be free IF you manage to find a spot among the myriads in any other spot that the grandstands.

[Andre Oliveira]

Entry list is out: https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/80243-eko-acropolis-rally-greece-2023/

72 entries

[Eli]

Hey bomber21, hope you’re well and not affected by the wildfires, hope they’ll get it under control soon.

[bomber21]

Hello! I am OK, I live in the city, not close to the wildfires.

Too many wildfires and the situation is not good but we hope this will end soon.

I understand SS in Viotia region may be affected if the wildfires will not stop soon.

[Sal yet again]

Latest round of the Canary Islands championship which was due to run in GC this weekend has been called off due to the heat and risk of fires conditions so hope the cooler weather hits Greece soon.

[bakas88]

Thierry Neuville was testing yesterday for Rally Acropolis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wlr3hIHlQg&t=11s&ab_channel=GreekRallyPassion

[sete]

How is it weather looking?Any info from locals?
Im leaving with friends tommorow
It will be my first WRc event with photo accreditation,really looking forward to this rally

[bisak]

Forecast is for floodings Tuesday and Wednesday

[EstWRC]

Bad weather expected https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/acropolis-wrc-runners-warned-of-heavy-storm-disruption/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

From heat waves and forest fires to storms and flooding ... what a dramatic unexpected change for all involved ! I hope it doesn't get too bad and people remain safe and the rally isnt spoiled.

[spyros]

The rally will be muddy and i believe front runners will benefit.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

M-Sport boss has high hopes for Greece...

https://www.wrc.com/a/news/w26628_M-SportFordprincipalMillenerhashighhopesforGreece

[Tauri_J]

From thursday it Will be bone dry.

[bomber21]

Exactly, it will not rain during the rally but the days before.

[atsiotras79]

In Kamena Vourla is raining now, but nothing serious… the forecast for tomorrow though… looks like a lot of rain…

[CeskyOndra]

In weather forecast for Lamia there is 118mm of rain on Tuesday. That's absolutely massive and Rovanpera has luck once again

[atsiotras79]

The government just sent SMS about extreme weather conditions in the area for the next 24 hours…

[bluuford]

This can be extended, they were very late with this warning, I warned last Friday already, lets see, hopefully the most extreme is staying in north from rally, but it will be sooo extreme there that probably many rescue services are needed there. Some models are predicting amounts (ca 30-50 km norths from Sunday stages) I have never seen before, never, nowhere. That is basically 2.2 meters of water in ca 2 days. Models tend to misjudge extreme events due to their rare occurrences, but it shows anyway that this is note joke, that this is bad.

[Rallyper]

This can be extended, they were very late with this warning, I warned last Friday already, lets see, hopefully the most extreme is staying in north from rally, but it will be sooo extreme there that probably many rescue services are needed there. Some models are predicting amounts (ca 30-50 km norths from Sunday stages) I have never seen before, never, nowhere. That is basically 2.2 meters of water in ca 2 days. Models tend to misjudge extreme events due to their rare occurrences, but it shows anyway that this is note joke, that this is bad.

You mean 2200 mm of rain? Or water? Where?

[Oliverk]

Prob meant 2.2 m of snow.
Will travel to rally in Wednesday, hopefully not the worst scenario and it will go on, else nice one week vacation :D

[bluuford]

You mean 2200 mm of rain? Or water? Where?

2200 mm of water was the worst prediction, but now it is a bit downgraded;) ca 50 km North from Lamia.

[Negaiss]

Hello ! Apart from being rally fan, I am also meteo enthusiast and local (Latvian) storm chaser. I checked the situation and these are my my points:
1. All the models predict huge amount of rain for next 2,5 - 3 days. Even up to 2000 mm of total rain accumulated. Even 500 mm of rain for 3 days is extreme.
2. The majority of models show the big rain falling just north of the rally region, but but still even up to 500 mm in rally region.
3. Rain will stop Thursday (07.09.2023) evening but damage will be done.
4. If the models verify (and they will because at least 5 different weather models show the same), there will be disaster and state of emergency north of the stages. Access roads will be destroyed, even rally stages can be damaged. A lot of rock falls can happen and block the roads. And Emergency vehicle access can be a problem.
5. I thing WRC rally of Greece 2023 will be canceled.

[Rallyper]

2200 mm of water was the worst prediction, but now it is a bit downgraded;) ca 50 km North from Lamia.

Really!? Ooaaohh!

[Negaiss]

You can see actual rain (areas there rain is falling at the moment) for Greece here - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/country/weather/radar/greece_greece_390903

[Tauri_J]

I dunno where you guys see 2metres of rain on the forecast. If that would happen they need to get the hell out of there and evacuate half of Greece. 200mm looks like to fall and even that is enormous amount of rain.


Cherrapunji, India, holds the world record for two-day (48-hour) rainfall, with 2 493 millimeters (98.15 inches) recorded on 15–16 June 1995.

[bluuford]

You can see actual rain (areas there rain is falling at the moment) for Greece here - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/country/weather/radar/greece_greece_390903

Radar is working very bad here, yesterday it didn't show nothing in many places and we had up to 20 cm of puddles :P according to radar, I have had rain for a long time now in Kamena Vuorla.. well, asflat is getting dry. But looking out of the window works well, there is mostly light rain in Lamia and just on Sunday stages, there are very, very heavy rainclouds. And you are right, we just got warning that traffic is prohibited in NE county from Lamia. This is called Omega block, we have flooding in Spain and Greece, hot air in between.

[SubaruNorway]

Looks like a mess on recce, people stuck

[TypeR]

Any possibility of not happening at all?

[Co-driven]

2021 saw similar situation, with cars stuck in the mud and recce schedule being changed on the last minute. And in the end there were no issues at all during the rally.

[Indreksi]

https://ralli.ee/pildid-kreekasse-joudnud-vihm-muudab-ralli-kiiruskatsed-juba-labimatuks/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk4YffIdL9c

[bomber21]

Lets wait, floods are not in the area of the rally yet

[Tauri_J]

Any possibility of not happening at all?

If theres floods and landslides it will be canceled for sure. No purpose of having a rally when people’s lifes are in danger.

[Rallyper]

What´s the domestic talks about the rally, Tasos or Dimviii?

[dimviii]

Per i will be all week at Cyclades islands for job,and return at Saturday.Have no clue at all.
It will be the first absence at Acropolis for me since 1982.


The wider area of Fthiotida, where a large percentage of special routes of the EKO Rally Acropolis, is already affected from Monday by the bad weather "Daniel".


The organization is constantly monitoring its progress and, with the aim of minimizing the inconvenience to the crews, modified the day's program, allowing recognitions on the Tarzan special route that were scheduled for tomorrow Wednesday, instead of Pauliani, where heavy rain has occurred.

Today's recognition day includes passages from the ed. Karoutes and Eleftherochori, while tomorrow's program will be decided later tonight.

In any case, the organization of the race monitors the meteorological developments with particular attention and is ready to cope with any condition.
https://www.newsit.gr/athlitika/eko-rally-akropolis-i-kakokairia-Daniel-epirease-tis-anagnoriseis/3851841/

[Yugo_para_siempre]

At the region of Thessaly, especially at Volos town and at the villages of Pelion the situation is very bad.

Very very big amount of water, flood, cars dropped in the sea, roads with huge holes.

[atsiotras79]

I am in the rally area since last Saturday.
They just announced the recce program for tomorrow which includes SS Grammeni and Shakedown only! That means that SS Pavliani up until tomorrow will not be done recce… let’s hope that the 2 for tomorrow hold on and also Eleftherohori dries out a bit, on the last one they completed recce but with 2 more days rain I don’t know if it will be doable…

[bluuford]

I am in the rally area since last Saturday.
They just announced the recce program for tomorrow which includes SS Grammeni and Shakedown only! That means that SS Pavliani up until tomorrow will not be done recce… let’s hope that the 2 for tomorrow hold on and also Eleftherohori dries out a bit, on the last one they completed recce but with 2 more days rain I don’t know if it will be doable…

I did Powerstage 2 hours after the start of rain on Monday and it was very dangerous there. Today Hyundai engineers tried to recce it and turned back after 3 km. Based on my experience, maybe first 10.6km of Power can be done, maybe. Pavliani weather has been very bad again and I dont think it can be done. SS9, Miracle if it runs.. There was very heavy rain today evening in SD and Powerstage, I am not very poistive what is left by morning. Lets see. Night is not over yet.
By the way, It is not officially confirmed yet, but it seems that new World record of daily precipitation was measured, 754 mm. And it was not the end of the day. it was measured 80 km from Lamia.

[bearclaw]

...many thanks bluuford for your last minute information. we are discussing a lot, if we should fly in or stay at home. your informations are for us spectators so helpful...thanks

it sounds not very positive at the moment...

[Steve Boyd]

You can keep track of the organisers decisions on the official noticeboard here:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/sportity/80243-eko-acropolis-rally-greece-2023/
Check under "Bulletins" and "COC Documents"

[PLuto]

You can keep track of the organisers decisions on the official noticeboard here:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/sportity/80243-eko-acropolis-rally-greece-2023/
Check under "Bulletins" and "COC Documents"

Official noticeboard is here - https://webapp.sportity.com/channel/wrcgrc2023

[Hartusvuori]

I did Powerstage 2 hours after the start of rain on Monday and it was very dangerous there. Today Hyundai engineers tried to recce it and turned back after 3 km. Based on my experience, maybe first 10.6km of Power can be done, maybe. Pavliani weather has been very bad again and I dont think it can be done. SS9, Miracle if it runs.. There was very heavy rain today evening in SD and Powerstage, I am not very poistive what is left by morning. Lets see. Night is not over yet.
By the way, It is not officially confirmed yet, but it seems that new World record of daily precipitation was measured, 754 mm. And it was not the end of the day. it was measured 80 km from Lamia.

They have now shortened the first 10,6 km of the power stage and only the last 9 km runs, if so. Also now confirmation yet on the recce of SS Pavliani.

Thanks for the insights!

[bomber21]

I understand there will be changes but not cancelation.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F5QM4M7XAAESEIO?format=jpg&name=large

[sete]

Theres a big rain at the moment at Kamenna Vourla

[Oliverk]

Theres a big rain at the moment at Kamenna Vourla

Not so big. Half way from Athens was full torrential rain.

[Tauri_J]

Will probably be more of a rallysprint than a full rally

[seb_sh]

Looks like an Evans rally to me...

[meh]

Looks like an Evans rally to me...

... and the Mud-Boy Rovanperä

[Fast Eddie WRC]

... and the Mud-Boy Rovanperä

And with the best road position too.

[bomber21]

SS Pavliani now available for recce!

[bomber21]

Shakedown cancelled

[macebig]

The cancellation of the whole rally is a very real probability now. Evacuations in villages around Lamia are taking place and the National Road is closing and opening intermittently. Plus, a considerable amount of police, fire brigade and hospital personnel is being diverted into helping deal with the situation.

[seb_sh]

At this point it's starting to remind of Imola this year for F1. When emergency services are needed for people in the area holding a motor race doesn't make sense. Hope everyone is safe.

[bomber21]

We shall see, the rain will stop probably tonight and the stages will get dry by Saturday and Sunday. Friday stages are OK.

[manthey]

https://youtu.be/dwbo23FdTtY?si=YsPBFDb76UPRroUa

Recce interviews

[Steve Boyd]

Official noticeboard is here - https://webapp.sportity.com/channel/wrcgrc2023
Thanks for posting the direct link. The EWRC link I posted ends up in the same place but the direct link should be more reliable!

[manthey]

Any update about the critical situation?

[macebig]

Still up in the air. National Road isn't easily accessible and there are questions over how the cars will be transported from Lamia to Athens. Further news around 14.00 local (1.30 hours from this post).

[MartijnS]

We drove from Lamia to Loutraki just now and had not much trouble on our way.

[spyros]

the road is ok and from now on it gets drier.

[Rallyper]

Loading trucks have problems to reach the SP area for the transportation to Athens.

[macebig]

Wonder who has to bring his car to Athens by their own means. Hope everything goes smoothly from here on. Let's go.

[macebig]

Ben Sulayem is talking to Colin Clark. Wait for the video later on Dirtfish.

[er88]

He was just speaking to Kiri Bloore as well. Same old guff from him im afraid - im paraphrasing here but he was yapping on about "how great the sport is, the sport can make the changes needed and he wants to spend more time focusing on the wrc".
Nothing we didnt hear from the first time he took as head of the fia.....

Hopefully CC asked more pressing questions

[macebig]

Pumas didn't take the start (yet?). Drivers are here though.

[Rallyper]

Pickems closing in 5 minutes. Hurry up!!!

[Tauri_J]

This is an awful stage

[EstWRC]

Why did they dump the stadium stage. That was awesome

[macebig]

Cost+dates. They was a concert from a group called Imagine Dragons yesterday at the Olympic Stadium and Panathinaikos football team has leased it back for its European dates.

[hari]

Some pictures from Servicepark today: https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_acropolis_rallye_2023.html

https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/4.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/5.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis/6.jpg

[EstWRC]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230908/8e4e31730d696fe4d9d46c540e77db77.jpg

[TypeR]

SS2/4 shortened to 10.37km, 8km taken off..

Ffs, stage is live and already started.. yet they keep talking random stuff

[Eli]

Onboards not working?

[Rallyest]

Evans with puncture already

[Tauri_J]

SS2/4 shortened to 10.37km, 8km taken off..

Ffs, stage is live and already started.. yet they keep talking random stuff

Stage looks perfectly fine. Wonder how bad is the canceled part.

Coverage is again…horrendous. But I cant complain, somehow I can see live TV without subscription

[TypeR]

Problems for Loubet already before start?

[Rallyest]

if its technical issue for Loubet it is humiliating

[Dontcut]

What a weird itinerary for today. After second stage huge pause to Loutraki 2 and after that again long pause.

[Rallyest]

Lmao, Fourmaux stopped also short after Parc ferm

We should have a whole different pickems for on what stage which ford dies on.


edit: Whewh, seems Fourmaux info was false.

[jcevc]

Fourmaux also stopped on road stage. This is ridiculous.

EDIT: too fast on keyboard :)

[Tauri_J]

Thats a puncture Julian

[dimviii]

Solberg stopped

[TypeR]

Loubet had already problems yesterday, but couldn't fix it.. (Serderidis said)


First proper stage and much drama in wrc2.. Solberg also problems with car..

[Dontcut]

Proper carnage

[meh]

I copy-paste piece of Tänak's interview from M-Sport thread.

Google translated from the article: https://sport.delfi.ee/artikkel/120229943/delfi-video-ott-tanak-kreeka-ralli-eel-loodaks-jouda-kaugemale-kui-esimesed-kaks-katset
"Tänak had a lot of bad luck both at Rally Estonia and the following rally in Finland. What goals has the Estonian set for the Greece rally? "I would hope to go a little bit further than the shakedown and the first stage. We have already taken a step forward since the shakedown was cancelled. Hopefully we can drive at least a clean rally and restore the rhythm," continued Tänak."

So seems, that was not joke at all.

[Tauri_J]

3G impact is nothing

[bomber21]

M-Sport yet to inform about Loubet issue…….

[Tauri_J]

Probably too embarrased

[EstWRC]

Stage quite damp and Tänak and lappi with two hards…

[Doon]

How long will Tanak's car last? It feels like M-Sport are on the downward spiral unfortunately.

[bomber21]

“ Not only was he without a solution, but also could not even identify his car’s problem despite phoning his M-Sport colleagues in the service park, and he became a retiree before even turning a wheel in anger.”

Dirtfish

[Tauri_J]

Rovanpera almost somersaulted

[1988senna]

The first driver on this condition will have huge advantage and the Mr Rovanpera is very good at mud surface,So no wonder that big difference , I must say
Rovanpera really have luck some time ,For this year I remember the Portugal and Kenya is the same ,He didn't lose any time on the first day

[Tauri_J]

Ott telling like it is. He’s just slow, nothing to do with road position.

[EstWRC]

9 months in the puma and still not to Tänaks liking

[TypeR]

9 months in the puma and still not to Tänaks liking
That's like on repeat on every rally.
9 months in car and can't make it better..

[denkimi]

9 months in the puma and still not to Tänaks liking

just like he couldn't get the hyundai to his liking in 3 years.

[bomber21]

Serderidis said his Puma has an engine issue since yesterday….

[EstWRC]

just like he couldn't get the hyundai to his liking in 3 years.

Different situations, there was also Neuville but here they are doing everything for him but no progress at all with either speed or reliability

[AndersX]

This thread is so quiet....either all are on the sigh or care about WRC in Greece as less as americans about world cup in rugby....zero.

[seb_sh]

Tanak's engine has some issues, something leaking from the engine, he's working with 2 mechanics in the tyre fitting zone...

[bomber21]

Tanak's engine has some issues, something leaking from the engine, he's working with 2 mechanics in the tyre fitting zone...
Jesus, this must be the worst car of the last 20 years.

[TypeR]

I wonder, when Ford USA calls and tells them to take Ford logos away from the car..

[EstWRC]

Thanks these idiots

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230908/9c2634ce74d37b57299745a028ec84a1.jpg

[Tauri_J]

Wait, Tänak retired or where is his time?

[Eli]

Wait, Tänak retired or where is his time?

Left tyre fitting zone 22 minutes late and got 3 minutes & 40 seconds penalty.

[seb_sh]

Wait, Tänak retired or where is his time?

he checked in late and has 3:40 penalty, he was going to start in between Rally2 cars but the staged was stopped before him

[Tauri_J]

Ok at least he’s running. Going better than in Finland

[bomber21]

Thanks these idiots

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230908/9c2634ce74d37b57299745a028ec84a1.jpg
The idiots of the year… Too stupid.

[doubled1978]

What can you say, it’s completely shambolic from MSport that they can’t keep these cars running, not only is it damaging to themselves and Ford, but it’s no good for the series either.
I know they had a few issues last year, but this is something different, are they running parts over life to save money?

As for the moron in the picture, that’s worse. Dear god, it makes you wonder how these people survive long enough in life to even get to a rally stage.

[spyros]

I was at the last stage it was dry and some idiots sit in wrong places.Wrc cars was awesome.

[er88]

Thanks these idiots

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230908/9c2634ce74d37b57299745a028ec84a1.jpg

Rumour has it that is NOT ;)

[becher]

Different situations, there was also Neuville but here they are doing everything for him but no progress at all with either speed or reliability

Sure enough, hire the reigning world champion and pay him millions but don't listen to him. Sounds like a plan.

[EstWRC]

Sure enough, hire the reigning world champion and pay him millions but don't listen to him. Sounds like a plan.

Did I say this?

The problem was they both wanted different cars.

Your boy can’t get the car sorted for 10 years already with the same understeer problem every year and missing his setups for Fridays

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak with water pump issue reported...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-drops-out-of-contention-with-mechanical-woe/

Total disaster to restart the season with..

[Rallyper]

Why was stage Loutraki 2 cancelled? I´ve been out this morning.

[Tom K]

Spectators

[denkimi]

Left tyre fitting zone 22 minutes late and got 3 minutes & 40 seconds penalty.
I thought one was only allowed to be 20 minutes late at any time control before disqualification.

Put perhaps the rules are different for wrc.

[jcevc]

I thought one was only allowed to be 20 minutes late at any time control before disqualification.

Put perhaps the rules are different for wrc.

30 minutes on one time control max and all together 30 minutes between overnight regroupings.

[becher]

Did I say this?

The problem was they both wanted different cars.

Your boy can’t get the car sorted for 10 years already with the same understeer problem every year and missing his setups for Fridays
I don't have a boy.

[Tauri_J]

Ott was probably driving too hard and broke the car.

[dimviii]

Linnamae
https://twitter.com/PowerslidePod/status/1700094070129827991

[Rallyest]

Ott was probably driving too hard and broke the car.

If you build a WRC car, it shouldnt break everytime it is driven hard

Or you know, driving out of parc ferm for that matter

[seb_sh]

If you build a WRC car, it shouldnt break everytime it is driven hard

Or you know, driving out of parc ferm for that matter

I think he was being sarcastic.

[TypeR]

SS4 notional times:
5.35.9 for Tänak(same as Lappi) +3.8 to Ogier)

6.15.6 for everybody else

[dimviii]

Loubet with water pump issue too

[Rallyper]

loubet with water pump issue too

ccf

[Tauri_J]

Still havent seen crazy conditions, looks rather dusty

[mousti]

Lovely time by Thierry

Verstuurd vanaf mijn 2201123G met Tapatalk

[bomber21]

Still havent seen crazy conditions, looks rather dusty

Friday stages were not very affected

[mousti]

3rd puncture for Mikkelsen

Verstuurd vanaf mijn 2201123G met Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

Watching Tänaks splits maybe he should also drive part time next year and start from back and pick wins like Ogier :D

[meh]

Watching Tänaks splits maybe he should also drive part time next year and start from back and pick wins like Ogier :D

It just made clear for everyone, how much road position matters.

[dimviii]

Fourmaux punctured Gryazin leading

[dimviii]

Lappis hyundai is leaking coolant before the stage

[dimviii]

Ogier with fast first split

edit Lappi faster

[jonkka]

Ogier wants to win this...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier, King of Strategy.

[er88]

Neuville thinks hes got a broken rear diff

[EstWRC]

Ogier and Evans both missing pieces of rear wings

[Tom206wrc]

Poor Mikkelsen with all these punctures :mark:

[dimviii]

Tanak lost a lot between splits 4 & 5

[EstWRC]

Tanak lost a lot between splits 4 & 5

The second part exactly the middle wet part is getting worse. Huge loses also there from Lappi, Taka and ec and Ogier didn’t gain against front runners

[er88]

Dont often feel sorry for him after some of his "im going to dominate" comments the last few years, but there must be something wrong with Andreas' car today

[AndersX]

Well...Tanak vs P1- + 3:34 with 3:40 penalty.

[meh]

Well...Tanak vs P1- + 3:34 with 3:40 penalty.

Yes, those are the numbers but it requires context as well - Tänak had much better road position "thanks to" the penalty.


... and which also means, tomorrow he will be opening the road.

[dimviii]

we are lucky we didnt had a fatal crash...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVuk9Uu-_wc&t=10s

https://www.facebook.com/koullis.kyriakou/videos/310294311680704/?ref=embed_video&t=7

[meh]

we are lucky we didnt had a fatal crash...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVuk9Uu-_wc&t=10s

https://www.facebook.com/koullis.kyriakou/videos/310294311680704/?ref=embed_video&t=7

I watched it with 0.25 speed and many pauses to understand, how those survived. Someone can celebrate this day in the future. And hopefully made some notes, where to stand next to the rally road.

edit: and there is slow-down made for you in another video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSb3na0X71k

[TypeR]

Holy sh!t..
How are they even allowed to stay there..?!? No wonder stages get cancelled..

[EstWRC]

Last year in the calendar I guess

I really like the rally but in those previous years and this year the people have been in so stupid places

Sorry

I’m sure the promoter will try to remove the video

[dimviii]

amazing photo

https://wrc.enhance.diagnal.com/resources/images/eyJrZXkiOiJodHRwczovL2VuaGFuY2Utc3RvcmFnZS1zdGFjay 1wcm9kLXdyY21lZGlhZmlsZXN0b3JhZ2UtZzN6MmhnM3Vyd2Zm LnMzLmFtYXpvbmF3cy5jb20vOWFhNDgyYmUtYmYyNS00Y2ViLW JhMzItNmNmOWViY2RhODlhXzA4MDkyM2F0LXRoaWVycnktbmV1 dmlsbGUtZ3JlZWNlMDEucG5nIiwidGltZXN0YW1wIjoiMjAyMy 0wOS0wOFQxNTowMDo0NS4zNjRaIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsiZXh0cmFj dCI6eyJsZWZ0IjowLCJ0b3AiOjAsIndpZHRoIjoxOTIwLCJoZW lnaHQiOjEwODB9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjEzNjYsImhl aWdodCI6NzY4fSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5IjoxMDB9fX0=/9aa482be-bf25-4ceb-ba32-6cf9ebcda89a_080923at-thierry-neuville-greece01.png

[NOT]

amazing photo

https://wrc.enhance.diagnal.com/resources/images/eyJrZXkiOiJodHRwczovL2VuaGFuY2Utc3RvcmFnZS1zdGFjay 1wcm9kLXdyY21lZGlhZmlsZXN0b3JhZ2UtZzN6MmhnM3Vyd2Zm LnMzLmFtYXpvbmF3cy5jb20vOWFhNDgyYmUtYmYyNS00Y2ViLW JhMzItNmNmOWViY2RhODlhXzA4MDkyM2F0LXRoaWVycnktbmV1 dmlsbGUtZ3JlZWNlMDEucG5nIiwidGltZXN0YW1wIjoiMjAyMy 0wOS0wOFQxNTowMDo0NS4zNjRaIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsiZXh0cmFj dCI6eyJsZWZ0IjowLCJ0b3AiOjAsIndpZHRoIjoxOTIwLCJoZW lnaHQiOjEwODB9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjEzNjYsImhl aWdodCI6NzY4fSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5IjoxMDB9fX0=/9aa482be-bf25-4ceb-ba32-6cf9ebcda89a_080923at-thierry-neuville-greece01.png

I have better ones it was in the same spot as the estonian crash... the place was unreal... guess how many pro photographers were there...

Only ogier who almost rolled neuville and tanak gave 100% the others were at 70

[bomber21]

People have gone crazy these days, I really do not understand them. They are so stupid. And I see that people are all over the place…. JUST USE MANY MANY MARSHALLS, I DID NOT SEE MANY MARSHALLS TODAY

[meh]

People have gone crazy these days, I really do not understand them. They are so stupid. And I see that people are all over the place…. JUST USE MANY MANY MARSHALLS, I DID NOT SEE MANY MARSHALLS TODAY

These days... you want to watch some footage from 80s? :) I think this "these days" is more and more related to everyone recording and sharing so other just getting to know about those stupid ones.

[SubaruNorway]

Big hole with bedrock on the inside at Linnamäe's corner at 27sec in SS2 it looks like

[Managarium]

Yes, those are the numbers but it requires context as well - Tänak had much better road position "thanks to" the penalty.


... and which also means, tomorrow he will be opening the road.

Loubet, Serderidis?

[Dontcut]

Loubet not restarting

[hari]

Some pictures from Friday: https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_acropolis_rallye_2023.html

https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/4.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/5.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/7.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2023/acropolis2/21.jpg

[satnav]

Holy sh!t..
How are they even allowed to stay there..?!? No wonder stages get cancelled..

And who in their right mind would even want to stand there...........

[TypeR]

And who in their right mind would even want to stand there...........
Maybe they are the people, who NOT has been calling €#€€%@##..
But on the other hand.. he was there at same place, same time.. and didn't call/tell these people same way as here in forum :D

Thankfully nobody was injured badly

[satnav]

There's a few videos on YouTube of todays action , it seems there were a lot of clowns about today, with folk like these it's only a matter of time until there's a serious accident involving spectators, and the guys making the videos as well, some are standing in places i wouldn't even put a remote camera never mind myself.

[doubled1978]

we are lucky we didnt had a fatal crash...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVuk9Uu-_wc&t=10s

https://www.facebook.com/koullis.kyriakou/videos/310294311680704/?ref=embed_video&t=7

This is ridiculous. Standing on the outside of a corner at the same level as the road is plain madness. Blind luck that nobody was killed.

[bomber21]

Alarm set for 03:30 to get up early to be on Eleftherohori on time! No internet there so no frequent updates! Good night!

[Yugo_para_siempre]

This year I was able to spectate only on Friday.

Stage Livadia, once more a very good stage. I was in a technical twisty place of about 100 km/h, left, to right, to left.

Kalle quite careful, not all over the place due to cleaning. Quite conservative.

Neuville was pushing like hell. Maybe not the optimum lines, a bit wide, but for sure the most violent. Very spectacular.

Ogier quite sideways, surprisingly for him, not so violent but very very fun to watch.

Tanak, just a killer. Very fast, very efficient. Not very sideways, sliding a little with all for wheels. Previous years was more aggressive. This Ford... I cannot believe these technical issues.

Katsuta quite brave and spectacular maybe not optimum lines, but he has improved during these years.

Athanassoulas by far, I insist, by far the best Greek driver. You can see that his pass was the only Greek that deserved to be compared with the best world class drivers of RC2.
Taking into consideration his age and that he only drives once per year, the 1" - 1.2" per kilometer is quite good.
I hope you agree.

[SubaruNorway]

Not sure If I've seen this been done before, some new engine rule or just for JWRC?
https://twitter.com/FIAJuniorWRC/status/1700225115923902931?s=20

[er88]

Seems like some of the spectators have been idiots.

Hopefully the rest of the weekend can go okay.
I can imagine some youtube vids will make it look like folk are even closer than they actually are though. Twice during watching AllLive, I noticed a camera pod on the racing line or inches from it....., but spectators safe up a bank on the inside of a corner

[Yugo_para_siempre]

we are lucky we didnt had a fatal crash...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVuk9Uu-_wc&t=10s

https://www.facebook.com/koullis.kyriakou/videos/310294311680704/?ref=embed_video&t=7

Total idiots.
I am sorry to use these words but honestly, these morons will kill our iconic and beautiful rally.
Most of the spectators are quite good, have logical thinking and behavior.
But the percentage of these morons is little higher here.
I really hope that they will use this video in order to show how easy is to happen, hopefully some of them will be convinced.

[Rally Hokkaido]

Not sure If I've seen this been done before, some new engine rule or just for JWRC?
https://twitter.com/FIAJuniorWRC/status/1700225115923902931?s=20

If Scrutineer is present when you cut the seal and re-seals afterwards it is allowed to replace the headgasket/cylinder head.

[br21]

You don't need to cut any seal to change cylinder head or gasket, it is and always was allowed by the rules. Only block is sealed and can't be replaced

[Rally Hokkaido]

Thanks for the correction. I knew it was only the engine block that was sealed and couldn't be replaced during the rally. I assumed the sealing was from head to block.

[TypeR]

Delayed again..
If these get cancelled (2x24km) then no full points?

[Rally Hokkaido]

" An updated start time is TBC." Edit: new start time is 7:40am

[jonkka]

Somewhat frustrating to wake up early for stage to be delayed for half an hour... Could have slept more...

[Eli]

07:40am local time they’ll start.

[TypeR]

Middle part of the stage is very muddy

[dimviii]

Solberg why didnt start?

[dimviii]

TANAK COMMENT
"Quite OK. Seems like the guys have put some safe mode in, as it's running on some really low power and boost."

[EstWRC]

TANAK COMMENT
"Quite OK. Seems like the guys have put some safe mode in, as it's running on some really low power and boost."

lol. Like always, something wrong right after they come out of service

[Tauri_J]

Tänak in a very grumpy mood

[TypeR]

Ogier takes the lead, gap to Neuville 7.8s

[Lead]

Its seems will we finally see flat out Mikkelsen today.... 20sec faster than next WRC2 car. Too sad Solberg isnt driving today to match the pace.

[1988senna]

all the Toyota quicker than Hyundai, did the Toyota upgrade?

[dimviii]

https://livecenterimagesnorth.azureedge.net/lc-images-2021/lcimg-fe842887-f482-44b3-9524-0dd2c49b06e9.jpeg

[denkimi]

What's happening? is his jack broken?

[BleAivano]

Solberg why didnt start?

Water pump issues which led to other problems

https://www.emotorsport.se/nyheter.php?in=2&nyhets_id=24099
https://www.svt.se/sport/motorsport/solberg-tappade-taten-direkt-i-akropolisrallyt

[Eli]

Is the next stage starting 30 minutes later?

[BleAivano]

What's happening? is his jack broken?

Car fell off jack according to Dirtfish
https://fb.watch/mXTJFXiyJ1/

[Rallyper]

Evans engine problems. Going on hybrid on stage 9. Eleftherohori 1.

[Eli]

Evans engine problems. Going on hybrid on stage 9. Eleftherohori 1.

High oil temperature Molly said.

[SubaruNorway]

Water pump issues which led to other problems

https://www.emotorsport.se/nyheter.php?in=2&nyhets_id=24099
https://www.svt.se/sport/motorsport/solberg-tappade-taten-direkt-i-akropolisrallyt

Foam in the fuel tank disintegrated, strange in a car that's a bit over half a year old?

[haris274]

High oil pressure Molly said.

High oil Temperature not pressure... High oil pressure is good!!!

[Eli]

High oil Temperature not pressure... High oil pressure is good!!!

Sorry my bad, will edit the post, thanks.

[satnav]

Evans is now moving again on his way to service

[dimviii]

Foam in the fuel tank disintegrated, strange in a car that's a bit over half a year old?

this problem had some cars with illegal fuel at Greece.Just for reference.

[satnav]

Foam in the fuel tank disintegrated, strange in a car that's a bit over half a year old?

Apparently this is happening to all the cars that are using the fuel in the WRC, the foam in the tanks has to be changed often as it breaks down, the Pumas were having the same problem in Finland 2022

[cosmin_sb]

great pace for Mikkelsen on the first loop today. It is quickest almost 1min to the rest RC2 car. If he drive like this he can win the WRC2 category.

[TypeR]

Evans got back to service

E: and they managed to repair it on time.

[skarderud]

great pace for Mikkelsen on the first loop today. It is quickest almost 1min to the rest RC2 car. If he drive like this he can win the WRC2 category.Yes, it is actually possible, that would be a comeback worth to talk about.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

lets take a walk from here

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F5k3STJXYAAH2hQ?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[seb_sh]

For me the remarcable performance this rally is Neuville so far, looks like he made a step up on gravel lately. You can see he's really pushing too.

The negative impression is sadly the idiot spectators, not sure if you can even blame the organisers, if the idiots go and pick fights with the marshalls, what could they do, have police everywhere ready to beat them like football hooligans?

[dimviii]

https://livecenterimagesnorth.azureedge.net/lc-images-2021/lcimg-e4f2b329-bc3f-450d-a205-232193767d15.jpeg

[jonkka]

Can't see times on wrc.com for SS10, am I the only one with this problem?