[WRC] EKO Acropolis Rally Greece 2024

[Dimitris]

Rally Guide 1 for the Acropolis is due to be out tomorrow. Some rumours say the ceremonial start won't be in Athens, and that the event will start from Lamia on Friday, then go down to Loutraki on Saturday, and then Sunday will be again near Lamia.

[bomber21]

SSS will be ridiculous and in a weird place. Big distances again for the drivers to cover between Lamia & Loutraki.

I receive not good feedback. More tomorrow.

[bomber21]

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p66SSAcLZSIG9eOTY0AGsPefxS_V03X5/view

Rally Guide with itinerary is out

[hari]

Looks very nice!
15 stages total - 303.23 km. Overall distance: 1417.19 km
10 different stages.

Looking forward to another great edition of the Acropolis Rally.

[br21]

Any idea where Super special will be? Athens?

[Dimitris]

I don't think so, according to the itinerary there will be a 140km liaison so it's going to be somewhere in between Athens and Lamia probably

[Dimitris]

Made a post about the route here:

https://www.powerslideblog.com/rally-acropolis-posts/reacting-to-the-2024-acropolis-rally-route

[CeskyOndra]

We have to calculate with forest fires again, I hope that these areas aren't the worst for fires?

[bomber21]

Central Greece forests are not so vulnerable to wildfires because of the lower temperature and humidity.

Loutraki/Korinth stages are more vulnerable.

[Dimitris]

The maps for the event are out

https://x.com/PowerslideMedia/status/1810440215540232575?t=U3uT6H0bmbZirRFe1qhbyA&s=19

[Dimitris]

The SSS this year will be at a rest area on the highway...

The layout of the SSS will be released on the 22nd

[WRCStan]

The SSS this year will be at a rest area on the highway...

I'm sorrry what now?

[Dimitris]

Yeah, I wish I was joking

[stavrosGDB]

Currently unusual high temp in Greece with no heavy rains,just some showers here and there,let's see in 45 days.Last year's rain flood was horrendous.

[DionLv]

Will leave it here :)

https://imgvb.com/images/2024/07/23/d9b35914973a9ba550484d8407733191.jpg

[TypeR]

Even if it's true(going to Greece), then really poor PR (to me).
Making joke/mocking of what happened with a fellow driver and fallen arch in Latvia..

[macebig]

Not as bad as predicted. Acropolis SSS will indeed be based around the Seirios Rest Area, but will heavily use the National Road and only parts of the parking area. Olympic Stadium always seems to be the best option, but probably costs don't allow the constant use of the venue.

[stavrosGDB]

I think SSS location was a selection for advertising the big sponsors of the rally.EKO and Kotsovolos which have stores at Seirios Rest Area.Indeed the National road of Greece will be closed for the stage.

[Dimitris]

I just hope it doesn't have an outcome on the Saturday standings

[Dimitris]

My Acropolis Rally Route Preview 👇

https://www.powerslideblog.com/rally-acropolis-posts/rally-acropolis-2024-route-analysis

[CeskyOndra]

My Acropolis Rally Route Preview 👇

https://www.powerslideblog.com/rally-acropolis-posts/rally-acropolis-2024-route-analysis

Great work mate. Can't wait for some more technical rally after 3 fast events.

[Dimitris]

Thanks!

[stavrosGDB]

Great read,after been two times at eleftherohori 2021 and 2022,this year is tarzan's time.

[Dimitris]

Nice! I'll go to either Thiva or Aghii Theodoroi on Saturday

[Dimitris]

Spectator maps and access points to the stages were released:

https://www.acropolisrally.gr/2024/en/spectators/maps-sp

[mknight]

What date is the entry list going to be published? (Entry deadline was Monday).

[TypeR]

What date is the entry list going to be published? (Entry deadline was Monday).

Next Monday, 12th of August

[Dimitris]

The Entry List is out!

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/14107ed3-6d69-4bc9-8bb0-e04aabac2ce1/2417032c-95b3-4730-a3f3-be1d588ed214_Entry%20List.pdf

[macebig]

Ogier/Evans/Katsuta
Neuville/Tanak/Sordo
Fourmaux/Munster/Serderidis

No chance for Mikkelsen is quite a surprise. He was the fastest WRC2 both in 2022 and 2023 and would have won with ease without the silly off at the SSS in 2022. Jourdain was kinda expected, but feels like a missed opportunity for Sesks. Doubtful he goes to Chile and that's the gravel season.

[stavrosGDB]

Long term weather forecast from ECMWF AIFS model shows rain in Lamia for friday,saturday and sunday too,let's see.

[CeskyOndra]

Long term weather forecast from ECMWF AIFS model shows rain in Lamia for friday,saturday and sunday too,let's see.

On Yr.no is no rain predicted so far but thats always a scam

[TypeR]

yr.noo and many others can't even tell the weather that was 2-3 days ago..

[CeskyOndra]

Long term weather forecast from ECMWF AIFS model shows rain in Lamia for friday,saturday and sunday too,let's see.

Can you share the link please?

[stavrosGDB]

Hello,i find this info from Windy(the red one)with premium membership,so link will not work.Right now shows some rain on thurday and some shower saturday evening and sunday morning to midday.

[mknight]

yr.no uses ECMWF operational model for predictions in Greece. So the result should be (almost) the same.

In other words of you want "independent" prediction you have to pick something else, like GFS or ICON.

[stavrosGDB]

I find Meteoblue very useful too,the multimodel one.
https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/forecast/multimodel/lamia_greece_258620

[manthey]

yr.no uses ECMWF operational model for predictions in Greece. So the result should be (almost) the same.

In other words of you want "independent" prediction you have to pick something else, like GFS or ICON.Interesting, can you write down the links to these forecasters?

[stavrosGDB]

Windy have both models mentioned and have a feature that you can compare it with other models for precipitation temp etc,doesn't require premium membership for this.Here is a good read.
https://community.windy.com/topic/26304/understanding-the-compare-forecast-feature-in-windy-com

[stavrosGDB]

Government forbid overnight camping at powerstage along with fires,barbeque etc.Very very strict this year.

[CeskyOndra]

Yr no showing zero rain for the upcoming week

[CeskyOndra]

This is interesting. Both yr.no and windy are showing basically zero rain in service park (Lamia), whereas on the first stage of the rally down in the mountains it is totally different, lot of rain forecasted for Thursday afternoon.
Does the elevation really play big role in Greece or is it just a silly forecast? :D It looks very interesting tho..

https://www.yr.no/nb/v%C3%A6rvarsel/daglig-tabell/2-255668/Hellas/Central%20Greece/Phthiotis/P%C3%A1vliani

[mknight]

Air with lower temperature/pressure can hold less water. So as wet air gets blown towards mountains it will rise, cool down, clouds will form and it will rain. Perfectly normal phenomenon.
With ~ 9km resolution in the ECMWF model it will be able to predict this.

Whether it will happen is off course not perfectly certain.

[EstWRC]

Recce interviews by dirtfish https://youtu.be/6ESxCT4Yivc?si=ejrCAHbLl8C6U4hN

Everybody saying it’s rough and rougher than last two years. Roads not fully repaired

[focus206]

Recce interviews by dirtfish https://youtu.be/6ESxCT4Yivc?si=ejrCAHbLl8C6U4hN

Everybody saying it’s rough and rougher than last two years. Roads not fully repaired

Good luck to who drives a certain car notorious for having fragile suspensions. And I just noticed Saturday is without service halfway through, only tyres.

[CeskyOndra]

Good luck to who drives a certain car notorious for having fragile suspensions. And I just noticed Saturday is without service halfway through, only tyres.

Do you mean good luck for Neuville, who always carry suspension issue? :D Well, atleast he is going first, so there shouldn't be so many rocks :D

[Dimitris]

Recce interviews

https://www.acropolisrally.gr/2024/en/category-media/news/general-en/650-the-acropolis-rally-confirms-its-tough-nature

[focus206]

Do you mean good luck for Neuville, who always carry suspension issue? :D Well, atleast he is going first, so there shouldn't be so many rocks :D

Any Hyundai driver, really. What worries me is the second day without service.

[meh]

Crazy cleaning (on shakedown), 2nd pass 6-7sec faster than 1st pass. Probably 1st on the road is not as bad as 2nd on the road because of hanging dust.

[240RS]

Delighted to see Ott and Martin in their groove after Finland.

[rallyfiend]

Crazy cleaning (on shakedown), 2nd pass 6-7sec faster than 1st pass. Probably 1st on the road is not as bad as 2nd on the road because of hanging dust.

tomorrow they will have 3' gaps as usual - for SD today was only 2'....

[CeskyOndra]

I don't think that few seconds with road position will really matter in here.. It will be just about surviving in my opinion, the one (Toyota) with trouble-free run will win..

[spyros]

Sordo has a good chance to be 1st tomorrow night.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fewer SD runs here due to the rough road conditions...

https://x.com/DirtFishRally/status/1831618216134684935

[spyros]

Part of some stages are rough but in general its not so rough, like stage rengini, the last part its like pikes peak. I think its a technical rally, with some very fast parts.

[focus206]

So no rain and no damp stages after all? Another dry gravel rally for the delight of the road sweepers?

[CeskyOndra]

So no rain and no damp stages after all? Another dry gravel rally for the delight of the road sweepers?

There is a chance for rain today, isn't it? Anyways, Neuville is unlucky this year

[focus206]

There is a chance for rain today, isn't it? Anyways, Neuville is unlucky this year

He got a damp Finland, even though it was academic because all his rivals except Ogier DNF'd because of various misfortunes. But dry or no dry, a major part of this rally will be about surviving anyway.

[hari]

Some images from Shakedown & Servicepark: https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_acropolis_rallye_2024.html

https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis2/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis2/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis/5.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis2/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2024/acropolis2/4.jpg

[TypeR]

Just found out, that there is no lunch service on Saturday.. and it's rally Acropolis. joooke.

[focus206]

Just found out, that there is no lunch service on Saturday.. and it's rally Acropolis. joooke.

Yeah, I don't like that... but the afternoon Kms are much less than the morning Kms, so it's not too bad. Of course, if somebody has an issue on SS8 or SS9, they're done for.

[Rallyper]

Pickems closing tomorrow morning at 0655 CEST.

[CeskyOndra]

Pickems closing tomorrow morning at 0655 CEST.

.. Yeah and I still can't decide who will finish the rally :D

[focus206]

It will be interesting to see the speed of Ogier, how much faster he will be than Neuville and how much slower than Tanak and Evans. Then again, all drivers talked about roughness of the roads, so for sure they won't be flat out.
I still see Ogier as favourite for the title. Neuville has to hope for an Ogier DNF or he has to have no mistakes and no technical troubles in the 4 remaining rallies, which I think is a very big call. First, both Neuville and Hyundai need to show they can survive Acropolis and bag good points.

[CeskyOndra]

Next 3 days will be absolutely crucial in 2024 championship guys. Evans struggled to find a speed on slow gravel rallies this year, let's see where he will end up.. I can see a surprise winner as a Fourmaux or Taka here also. Altought we have 3 minute gaps tomorrow, If the stages are in the forests, there could be an issues with hanging dust.

[EstWRC]

Tyre choice https://x.com/rallyesport/status/1831918832560304352?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[Eli]

Ogier is a 9 time champion chasing Neuville? These commentators are definitely something else… then they wonder why the sport is like this, which manufacturer in his right mind would want these incompetent people cover their cars when one of them insists it’s an R1 rally car….They can’t nail the fundamentals, don’t expect anyone coming by…bloody amateurs.

[rallyfiend]

Ogier is a 9 time champion chasing Neuville? These commentators are definitely something else… then they wonder why the sport is like this, which manufacturer in his right mind would want these incompetent people cover their cars when one of them insists it’s an R1 rally car….They can’t nail the fundamentals, don’t expect anyone coming by…bloody amateurs.

Ha ha ha ha

Yeah, car companies make decisions on commentators.... Please...

A worrying amount of american's still want to vote for a bloke who can't string a whole sentence together, and you're worried about a small statistical error....

[jonkka]

Fourmaux doing well on splits 4 and 5.

[TypeR]

Evans changed puncture.. ss1..

[CeskyOndra]

Evans's splits looked like he is saving the car a bit, but he still did a puncture

[Eli]

Ha ha ha ha

Yeah, car companies make decisions on commentators.... Please...

A worrying amount of american's still want to vote for a bloke who can't string a whole sentence together, and you're worried about a small statistical error....

But it’s not just a small statistical error, they keep making mistakes all the time and it’s a symptom of a larger problem, when these small things aren’t working properly, how can you expect them to solve the bigger things and substantial issues? Regarding America, I’m not referring to them am I? The fact they are (being) stupid doesn’t mean everyone needs to follow suit but that’s off topic at this point.

[Rallyper]

Mawnin´...Evans going slow... :(

[EstWRC]

Fourmaux is simply amazing this season

[jonkka]

And Sordo is quite slow despite good road position.

[meh]

Yes, we can speculate that it probably was a stage to win for Fourmaux without Evans's dust.

[Eli]

Fourmaux is simply amazing this season

Hope his Puma will survive, he said he had some smoke.

[macebig]

Neuville working on the car.

[TypeR]

Long difficult stage and Rossel faster than Munster..

[meh]

Long difficult stage and Rossel faster than Munster..

For the context, it seemed that Munster had some issues with the car.

[Tauri_J]

WRC2 guys will be dust warriors

[CeskyOndra]

Are Neuville and Evans moving towards Dafni?

[meh]

Are Neuville and Evans moving towards Dafni?

Based on maps, both are on the move.

[haris274]

Stage 2 delayed!!!

[TypeR]

SS1 red flagged, someone has crashed..?

[macebig]

Loubet crashed.

[EstWRC]

SS1 red flagged, someone has crashed..?

Loubet car on fire

[erikli2]

Loubet's car on fire in SS1 acc. to this account

https://x.com/PowerslideMedia/status/1831935925368320059?t=eKbSe7oWDNq3XIhtfVfISg&s=19

[haris274]

Athanassoulas also rolled in SS1...

[jonkka]

Evans carrying a problem or hit another stone?

[TypeR]

,,50% of the stage on 3 cylinders'' and only losing ca 10-15sec.. sounds a bit weird :D

[jonkka]

,,50% of the stage on 3 cylinders'' and only losing ca 10-15sec.. sounds a bit weird :D

Typical Neuville-talk. The rock he hits is always size of a mountain and cleaning he has to do is always worst in a decade.

[EstWRC]

Huge difference looking at onboards of Tänak and Ogier and Fourmaux.

Fourmaux so much more on ragged edge

[Eli]

Gotta feel for Evans, I honestly hope he stays in Toyota for next year in spite of this difficult season.

[denkimi]

I wonder why they still bring out sordo. He has lost almost all of his speed, even with a massive road position advantage he's still slow.

[jonkka]

I wonder why they still bring out sordo. He has lost almost all of his speed, even with a massive road position advantage he's still slow.

Despite that, he has been quite often on podium and scored points which team appreciates. And maybe Lappi didn't want to contest hot Acropolis.

[trykmann]

I wonder why they still bring out sordo. He has lost almost all of his speed, even with a massive road position advantage he's still slow.

I understand this is also an issue related to the current hybrid cars. They are more difficult to drive and if you are not driving a full season, then it is difficult to find the correct setup and drive quickly. Still I believe with his experience he can still end up on the podium.

[EstWRC]

Let’s talk again at the end of the rally.

When Sordo is second or third then you have nothing to say

[flat_right]

Let’s talk again at the end of the rally.

When Sordo is second or third then you have nothing to say

Yes, I agree. I think this has been the case for the past few years when Sordo has been driving. Slow in the beginning but when he picks up the pace + others fall off/crash, he ends up in the podium or very close to it and the main thing is that he finishes. Super reliable guy!

[CeskyOndra]

Everyone can still win there.. Its Acropolis

[Rallyper]

So delayed again... and the wrc.com/livetiming is so static. Why can´t they change itinerary?

[CeskyOndra]

11:43 is new start time (local)

[Rallyper]

11:43 is new start time (local)

And where did you find out that?

[jonkka]

And where did you find out that?

WRC Live Timing / Live Updates

[TypeR]

Tanak losing a lot to Ogier..

[meh]

Tanak losing a lot to Ogier..

Maybe the tire-choice or tactics

[EstWRC]

Seems that another “brilliant” tire choice from Tänak this year

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why dont they show Evans at all ?

E. Finally right at the end.

[meh]

Ogier also guessed the cause is different tire-choice, but no comments toward tire-choice from Tänak

[meh]

Sordo is greeting everyone from the 1st split.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Love seeing Mark Cavendish's reaction !

[TypeR]

Why dont they show Evans at all ?

E. Finally right at the end.
What to show there? Crawling thru the stage :D

[EstWRC]

Ogier also guessed the cause is different tire-choice, but no comments toward tire-choice from Tänak

Tänak said he had all hard ones although he had also two soft ones with him

[meh]

Taka wanted to take the lead but took the tire off?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Toyota disaster. All on the boss Ogier again.

[Rallyper]

Taka should be in the circus just for filling up the field.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great stage by Fourmaux and without hybrid and in Evans dust !

[flat_right]

Great stage by Fourmaux and without hybrid and in Evans dust !

Did he even have so much dust? Evans was cruising and there is massive difference if you power slide through the corners or just drive.

[EstWRC]

Yeah he is way over reacting with the dust talk

[TypeR]

Did he even have so much dust? Evans was cruising and there is massive difference if you power slide through the corners or just drive.
Didn't they have 6min gap? Then there is no dust

[jonkka]

Didn't they have 6min gap? Then there is no dust

I think it's four minutes?

[EstWRC]

So Sordo 4th now

Where are the critics?

[mknight]

So Sordo 4th now

Where are the critics?

I am here.

2 years ago he would be top2 on speed alone on a slow gravel rally with cleaning advantage. Now he is 4th after two cars out and the only guy he is bearing without issues is Munster.

That said it certainly beats crashing out on leg 1 or even first stage.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What to show there? Crawling thru the stage :D

Just wanted to see if Evans rally and Championship were over. Just being told his splits was a bit strange.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

TBH I'm a bit worried if Fourmaux has a great result it makes him being poached from M-Sport more likely...

[CeskyOndra]

Let's see what afternoon will bring, the road is destroyed already... Ogier looking really strong, If he won't hit any trouble, he is winning thats for sure..

[dimviii]

Rossel clearly faster till now
Lets see if c3 will cope the hard surface

[TypeR]

Rossel clearly faster till now
Lets see if c3 will cope the hard surface
Next one to get a chance with rally1? Has really improved this year on different surfaces + C3 also seems very good..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Some hard core Welsh rally fans I follow on X really dont think Evans has much of a future...

Quotes:

Not good enough at present. If Fourmaux stays then I think the second seat will go elsewhere.

Really think he has lost it, and being honest, don’t think he deserves it at the moment.

Really think this could be the end of the road for our boy, not only for this year but for a drive next year.

Yes, he’s having problems, but I also think he has lost the spark and speed required at the top level.

Don't worry mate, he'll be there next year.

Not sure if he deserves to be at present.

[trykmann]

Some hard core Welsh rally fans I follow on X really dont think Evans has much of a future...

Quotes:

Not good enough at present. If Fourmaux stays then I think the second seat will go elsewhere.

Really think he has lost it, and being honest, don’t think he deserves it at the moment.

Really think this could be the end of the road for our boy, not only for this year but for a drive next year.

Yes, he’s having problems, but I also think he has lost the spark and speed required at the top level.

Don't worry mate, he'll be there next year.

Not sure if he deserves to be at present.

Seems quite harsh. As a championship contender he does have lost something he had with the 2017-gen Yaris. As a second driver he still seems to be the best option available.

[meh]

When talking about Evans's future, I think there should be a separation between "spark gone for the drivers title level" and "just can not drive".

He seems to struggle a lot this year and although the points wise he has been quite close to the top, then performance wise he _flees_ lacking a bit.

On the big picture, I could not be that dramatic. How many drivers are better than him? The choice is not that big. But, the choice of available seats is not big as well.

[TypeR]

I think that for him the big (negative, mental) part is also the circus going on with Kalle and Ogier in Toyota.. seemingly being nr 1 driver going for WDC, but straight from the begining of the season the team doesn't care about it and no help in any wsy..(place-points wise).

No way he is going to lose a seat in WRC in couple of years..

[EstWRC]

Everybody with 6 hard tires

Let’s go then

[EstWRC]

Thierry with working car loses still as much as with non working car in the morning

[jonkka]

Thierry with working car loses still as much as with non working car in the morning

Proves that his complaints are just bag of hot air.

[EstWRC]

So sordo now up to third and Thierry up to fourth place already

[trykmann]

With the current situation Neuville moves into third position.

[B group]

Fourmaux stopped

[jonkka]

Acropolis shapes up to be car breaker. With four stages gone, Katsuta and Fourmaux are out and Evans already well down. Who's next?

[CeskyOndra]

Acropolis shapes up to be car breaker. With four stages gone, Katsuta and Fourmaux are out and Evans already well down. Who's next?

I think that that's all

[denkimi]

Acropolis shapes up to be car breaker. With four stages gone, Katsuta and Fourmaux are out and Evans already well down. Who's next?
Sordo and Neuville can take it easy. Only tanak and ogier may still try and take risks.

[TypeR]

Neuville just drive thru the rest of stages and all good, no worries. Minimal point loss..

[focus206]

Rough and damaged road can catch out drivers even if they take it easy...

[CeskyOndra]

Rough and damaged road can catch out drivers even if they take it easy...

Exactly.. No one is safe out there..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If anything happens to Ogier the points score for Hyundai will be huge.

[focus206]

If anything happens to Ogier the points score for Hyundai will be huge.

True, but nothing almost ever happens to Ogier :D

[240RS]

Hyundai are just a step from repeating their 2022 superb 1-2-3 result. Something about Toyota in Greece. They have remarkable reliability in Kenya, but somehow contrieve to cook it here.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

True, but nothing almost ever happens to Ogier :D

You forgot all his Pirelli rants ? ;)

[CeskyOndra]

Ogier PROBLEM!! Im totally disgusted by commentators

[CeskyOndra]

Looks like same problem as Evans

[jonkka]

True, but nothing almost ever happens to Ogier :D

You were saying?

[focus206]

You were saying?

I did write "almost" :D
but let's see what kind of problem it is. Ogier is now 5 seconds behind Tanak so if it's a temporary problem, nothing is lost for him.

[focus206]

Did anyone mention what was Evans' problem? Between SS5 and SS6 there's 2 hours (don't know how long the transfer takes). If it's something fixable by the driver, Toyota could instruct Ogier on what to do.

[CeskyOndra]

Did anyone mention what was Evans' problem? Between SS5 and SS6 there's 2 hours (don't know how long the transfer takes). If it's something fixable by the driver, Toyota could instruct Ogier on what to do.

I was thinking the same - If it is the same problem, they already know what to do. Ofc it has to be a problem with some part they are carrying in the car

[meh]

Nice 2 stages from Virves, lost 0.1 to Rossel on SS4 and 4.2 on SS5. Shame he lost so much with first stages. Anyone knows the reason?

[flat_right]

Nice 2 stages from Virves, lost 0.1 to Rossel on SS4 and 4.2 on SS5. Shame he lost so much with first stages. Anyone knows the reason?

In the first stage I think it was dust problem and slowed down too much.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Possibly a turbo issue for Ogier...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWzEtmtWUAApNN_?format=jpg&name=medium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Now he's crawling through... Toyota disaster complete.

[meh]

Well, technical troubles for Ogier. Only Hyundai can now ruin their own party.

[Morte66]

Just tuned in. Oh what a day.

[meh]

Latvala maybe is reading some chapters about seppuku already.

[meh]

But we need to mark this somewhere - so far, the pressure is on this - so far - Tänak is the only Rally1 driver without technical dramas.

[CeskyOndra]

But we need to mark this somewhere - so far, the pressure is on this - so far - Tänak is the only Rally1 driver without technical dramas.

Let's see if it will remain the same after this brutal stage.. Wow, what a rally..

[EstWRC]

Such a shame. Ogier is the only one who would threat Neuville in title race but now loses points against him

[jonkka]

Such a shame. Ogier is the only one who would threat Neuville in title race but now loses points against him

Neuville hasn't scored anything yet. It's long way to Saturday points, he has to finish Sunday too to get those.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The Hyundai's still have to get through tomorrow unscathed.

[240RS]

Toyota face the distinct possibility of having to clear the road tomorrow for Hyundai. It will be a long hard day for them.

[erikli2]

Ott as charismatic as always.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ott: No comment :D

[denkimi]

Toyota face the distinct possibility of having to clear the road tomorrow for Hyundai. It will be a long hard day for them.
Cleaning won't matter anymore. Tanak and neuville aren't going to fight each other, and sordo will just let neuville pass.

No it's just about surviving saturday and then we can have some action on sunday again.

[TypeR]

We could see wrc2 car on podium if it continues like that :D

[Morte66]

I was hoping that a WRC2 would beat Munster on the road.

[meh]

As nothing interesting happens (despite Munster changing a wheel) on the stage, we can continue the "why to hire Evans topic" - he does not say that car is crap or the quality is amazing, he just keeps driving silently.

[EstWRC]

Okay Munster saved Ogier now a bit.

Still a way to go. Let’s see tomorrow with the day without any service

[jonkka]

As nothing interesting happens (despite Munster changing a wheel) on the stage, we can continue the "why to hire Evans topic" - he does not say that car is crap or the quality is amazing, he just keeps driving silently.

Plus he is consistent points scorer for the team. This season, only ones who've scored more manufacturer points than him are the obvious Neuville, Tanak and Ogier plus Fourmaux. Adrien has outscored Evans mainly because there are no other nominees at M-Sport, meaning he will score everytime he finishes whereas at Toyota, Evans may finish but not score as there are two other drivers besides him.

[focus206]

Not a big loss for Ogier considering it was a broken turbo, he should be right behind Neuville? If the turbo would have broken tomorrow morning it would have been a disaster, with no service either. He can still outscore Neuville, and all Hyundais have to still bring it home.

[meh]

Munster collected another puncture but.. Rossel got a puncture as well.

[Morte66]

Munster collected another puncture but.. Rossel got a puncture as well.

Oh well, that's fair.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Not a big loss for Ogier considering it was a broken turbo, he should be right behind Neuville? If the turbo would have broken tomorrow morning it would have been a disaster, with no service either. He can still outscore Neuville, and all Hyundais have to still bring it home.

Ogier did an ok time considering, plus he still had hybrid power which showed on the graphics.

I wouldnt totally write him off yet with the attrition we've seen so far.

[Eli]

It’s somewhat ironic Hyundai have one leg out the door when it actually looks like they will be the team to beat in 2025.

[denkimi]

Not a big loss for Ogier considering it was a broken turbo, he should be right behind Neuville? If the turbo would have broken tomorrow morning it would have been a disaster, with no service either. He can still outscore Neuville, and all Hyundais have to still bring it home.
It means he lost the rally win. That's a big los for someone who is only there to win.

[dimviii]

very hard hit for Athanassoulas
https://www.zougla.gr/automoto/acropolis/eko-rally-acropolis-kokkini-simaia-stin-e-d-ano-pavliani-logo-exodou-tou-agonistikou-ton-labro-athanasoula-niko-zakchaio/

[meh]

Oh Virves, please reach to the finish with this tempo and the category lead is yours.

[becher]

It’s somewhat ironic Hyundai have one leg out the door when it actually looks like they will be the team to beat in 2025.

What? Next year Rovanperä is back in a Toyota...

[AE1WRC]

Man this guy Ogier really has what it's called "champion luck". He has a similar problem what Evans had in the morning but still 4th overall right behind Thierry. We know if it continues like this Dani is going to give his place to Thierry. Then Ogier really has to push hard for Sunday points (Of course this is with the assumption that nothing changes in the standings, but this is Acropolis)

However, it is sad to see no one in terms of speed in this rally can catch up with Ogier. The only driver who can really be faster than him and challenge him is not in this rally.

[Morte66]

Did Pajari have a puncture this morning?

[Eli]

What? Next year Rovanperä is back in a Toyota...

I meant they will have the number 1 on the car lol, fully aware Rovanperä is back full time next year.

[meh]

Did Pajari have a puncture this morning?

yes

[AE1WRC]

It means he lost the rally win. That's a big los for someone who is only there to win.

Ogier's main objective now is not winning rallies that he enters anymore since he is in the title fight. If he scores more points than Thierry than he would be happy with that IMO

[EstWRC]

I know it’s only a first day but nice to see Tänak and Järveoja bouncing back after difficult run of events.

Out in Poland on SS2
Out in Estonia on SS2
Out in Finland on SS3

The only one they finished was Latvia

[Morte66]

Oh well, that makes Pajari's time for the day vs Rossel look a lot better. :)

[meh]

Oh Virves, please reach to the finish with this tempo and the category lead is yours.

He did it! This is an epic thing to follow.

For the context - https://www.wrc.com/a/news/w28588_Estonian-fans-rally-for-Virves--WRC2-Greece-entry

[EstWRC]

Great job Virves!

This year finally he can show his talent with a proper machine.

[AE1WRC]

I know it’s only a first day but nice to see Tänak and Järveoja bouncing back after difficult run of events.

Out in Poland on SS2
Out in Estonia on SS2
Out in Finland on SS3

The only one they finished was Latvia

Tanak and Martin are really unlucky this season. Because Tanak is one of the drivers that rarely do driving mistakes. I feel for them especially for Martin since I am a huge Martin Järveoja fan. I wish 2 things to happen
1) Tanak and Rovanpera in Toyota fighting for the title
2) Ogier and Rovanpera full season in Toyota

Second scenario is unlikely to happen but for the first one there is still chance for that and that would be an OP team.

[denkimi]

However, it is sad to see no one in terms of speed in this rally can catch up with Ogier. The only driver who can really be faster than him and challenge him is not in this rally.
I believe both tanak and neuville can challenge him if it wasn't for road position and technical problems.

[focus206]

Tomorrow will be mostly about survival and avoiding mistakes for everybody... Tanak has no challenger for the lead, Sordo should let Neuville pass, Neuville should avoid mistakes to keep at distance from Ogier so that Hyundai will be able to slow Sordo down for the swap, Ogier is too much behind Neuville to catch him on speed alone...
But as we saw today, even if you don't make mistakes, technical troubles can destroy your rally. And tomorrow there's no service either, so I'll be surprised if the top 4 will get to the end with 0 troubles.

[TypeR]

Seb doesn't hold back.. brilliant :D

https://www.upload.ee/image/17067968/received_880422870695272.jpeg

[AE1WRC]

I think that for him the big (negative, mental) part is also the circus going on with Kalle and Ogier in Toyota.. seemingly being nr 1 driver going for WDC, but straight from the begining of the season the team doesn't care about it and no help in any wsy..(place-points wise).

No way he is going to lose a seat in WRC in couple of years..

Retweet this !! After he was beaten to Seb in 2 years in a row (which I really admire Evans for putting up a fight against Ogier) and Seb decided to participate the championship as a part time driver and some people (including me) thought that "Right, Elfyn it's your turn now!". However the "new" Ogier arrived and destroyed our (at least my) thought (Elfyn literally just couldn't and still can't deal with Kalle). This is very difficult mentally since 2 of your teammates are literally in the class of their own and just simply better than you. That's tough!!

[AE1WRC]

Seb doesn't hold back.. brilliant :D

https://www.upload.ee/image/17067968/received_880422870695272.jpeg

Damn!! Seb basically said grow a pair of balls and get on with it. To be fair, I have not heard other champs like Ott and Kalle complain about opening the road not to mention ogier (Ogier did this for 2 days back in the days when regs were not the same)

[EstWRC]

lol serious shots fired but I have to say there is some truth in it but not entirely

[flat_right]

Just some mental games from Seb but imho a bit silly...

[denkimi]

Damn!! Seb basically said grow a pair of balls and get on with it. To be fair, I have not heard other champs like Ott and Kalle complain about opening the road not to mention ogier (Ogier did this for 2 days back in the days when regs were not the same)
It may be my memory that is playing tricks, but i do seem to remember him complaining about opening the road quite often. It's even the main reason why he skipped rallies, so he wouldn't have to open the road.
I also remember him trying to blame his punctures on pirelli.

[focus206]

It may be my memory that is playing tricks, but i do seem to remember him complaining about opening the road quite often. It's even the main reason why he skipped rallies, so he wouldn't have to open the road.
I also remember him trying to blame his punctures on pirelli.

Ogier's epic constant rants on Pirelli... and how to forget his constant complaining on "Shitroen", gaslighting everyone to believe the C3 was a slow, unrealiable car, when in reality its problems were on driveability and hard to setup :D
But he is an old fox, he is playing mind games to upset Neuville ahead...

[Rallyper]

Seb doesn't hold back.. brilliant :D

https://www.upload.ee/image/17067968/received_880422870695272.jpeg

That’s journos fantasies…

[AndyRAC]

But he is an old fox, he is playing mind games to upset Neuville ahead...

Only he thinks they're mind games.... I can think of plenty of sportsmen who were good at these - he's not, and is an amateur in comparison.

It must be another Seb Ogier who was constantly crying about road order, and the unfairness of it all. In any case, I'm sure Neuville's car was running on 3 cylinders, hence the times.
Ogier is just showing he's a classless gobshite.......

[pedro16]

That’s journos fantasies…

There is video of it... It's actually what Ogier said
https://x.com/OfficialWRC/status/1832103579399942279

Also Abiteboul joined the game and is a bit too confident... a statement like this can backfire

2559

[AE1WRC]

It may be my memory that is playing tricks, but i do seem to remember him complaining about opening the road quite often. It's even the main reason why he skipped rallies, so he wouldn't have to open the road.
I also remember him trying to blame his punctures on pirelli.

I respectfully disagree about the reason of him skipping rallies. The guy literally won his all championships by starting first on the road (at worst 3rd) so imo he never gets worried about this because this is something that he mastered himself in his career.

[AE1WRC]

Ogier's epic constant rants on Pirelli... and how to forget his constant complaining on "Shitroen", gaslighting everyone to believe the C3 was a slow, unrealiable car, when in reality its problems were on driveability and hard to setup :D
But he is an old fox, he is playing mind games to upset Neuville ahead...

The only time I really remember that Ogier was complaining about being first on the road was Sweden 2018. Other than that there may be a couple more but not a lot I believe.

[TypeR]

Also Abiteboul joined the game and is a bit too confident... a statement like this can backfire

2559
I really really wish that Ogier or Tanak takes the title and then show that to Whineboul again :D
would even buy that merch t-shirt :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It may be my memory that is playing tricks, but i do seem to remember him complaining about opening the road quite often.

He did... but he also won 8 Championships opening the road.

[TypeR]

It may be my memory that is playing tricks, but i do seem to remember him complaining about opening the road quite often. It's even the main reason why he skipped rallies, so he wouldn't have to open the road.
I also remember him trying to blame his punctures on pirelli.

He is 8x WDC and can say things how they are.. Back in the days he used to sweep road on both fridays and saturdays. I don't remeber him saying anything like that against Tanak or Rovanpera.. who are the only champions during the ,,French era''.

Tell us more, which rallies did he skip because of ,,not opening the road''.. (after getting his last WDC)?

[focus206]

The only time I really remember that Ogier was complaining about being first on the road was Sweden 2018. Other than that there may be a couple more but not a lot I believe.

But in my quote I'm talking about him complaining about Pirelli and Citroen, which was a ridiculous amount.
Ogier is a top driver and a top complainer as well, especially when you bring into the equation how much he has won.

[AE1WRC]

But in my quote I'm talking about him complaining about Pirelli and Citroen, which was a ridiculous amount.
Ogier is a top driver and a top complainer as well, especially when you bring into the equation how much he has won.

Ahh sorry mate I replied to the wrong quote my bad !

[becher]

I meant they will have the number 1 on the car lol, fully aware Rovanperä is back full time next year.

Ahh I see.

[denkimi]

I also seem to remember someone hiding in bushes so as not having to start on the position he was supposed to. Can't quite remember the name...

[becher]

Seb doesn't hold back.. brilliant :D

https://www.upload.ee/image/17067968/received_880422870695272.jpeg

Once again proving he has no class.


What was the name of that french multiple world champion complaining about opening the road every second event again?

I'm sorry but I forgot.

[Tauri_J]

I really really wish that Ogier or Tanak takes the title and then show that to Whineboul again :D
would even buy that merch t-shirt :D

Whats wrong about Tänak taking the drivers title?

Btw three estonians inside top6 at the last stage :eek:

[AndersX]

You are complaining that WRC is lacking some story, drama, attraction, that everybody talks PR rounded texts: just take pack of popcorn and enjoy the real thing - open talks, whatever was the history - have fun with all this. Every time when modern rally drivers open doors at finish line, they complain, about everything. Ogier has 8 WDC, while Neuville 0 - Seb has all the rights to tell whatever he wants. I like this, some action on WRC rally where 4,5 cars are still normally running.

By the way, if Toyota loses both champs, expect that Latvala will be the fired just for the warning to others.

[CeskyOndra]

Seb doesn't hold back.. brilliant :D

https://www.upload.ee/image/17067968/received_880422870695272.jpeg

His Toyota tank breaks for the first time this season and he starts to complain about the others, even though he was the one who was complaining about the road position all the time.. Road position is a big factor in Greece, remember Kalle had no chance in 2022..

My opinion about Ogier really got worse by this interview..

[CeskyOndra]

Let's remember Sweden 2018 I think, where he waited before PS just not to be first on the road.. hahhaha..

[meh]

Btw three estonians inside top6 at the last stage :eek:

Nice to watch, although it's just a stage end.

But the overnight situation is nice:
* Rally1 - Tänak 1st
* Rally2 - Virves 1st
* Rally3/Junior - Jürgenson 2nd (fighting for the title this weekend)

... and I know well that there is a loooooong and rocky way to go.

[focus206]

Ogier has 8 WDC, while Neuville 0 - Seb has all the rights to tell whatever he wants.

Ogier could have 800 world championship, it doesn't make what he said automatically true nor it gives him extra rights not to be criticized. Everyone can see he's a great champion and everyone can see he's a great complainer. So it's obvious that if he calls another driver out for complaining, fans will call him out for all his past complaining.
In his career, Ogier had very very few realiability issues, and the very few he had, he immediately started complaining and being bitter - major examples being Shitroen and today. If we apply his standard, Neuville and Tanak would still be complaining about that piece of trash that Hyundai was in 2022, 2 years later.

[AE1WRC]

Ogier pulled the pin of the bomb and threw into Thierry's hands. I know that Ogier has complained a lot during his career (C3, Pirelli, sometimes opening the road etc). However, the main difference is that he backed all that "crap" talking by beating everyone especially under pressure. Some of you might not like his behaviour which I totally understand. However, the only driver that has the right to make this kind of statement is Ogier like it or not (you might add Tanak and Rovanpera). Thierry has been in at the top level of this sport for 12 years and still struggling to open the road and performing in that situation while Kalle for instance in his only 3rd season (at the top level) has already mastered this and in 2023 he was doing the same stuff.

So, to make a conclusion, yes Ogier is talking dirty, but he backs his statement up everytime by performing.

[focus206]

So, to make a conclusion, yes Ogier is talking dirty, but he backs his statement up everytime by performing.

What's the correlation between complaining and performing? Performing doesn't delete complaining. Actually, in my view, it makes it worse: Ogier has won so much and has had so very few reliability problems... that he dares to whine and throw his toys around the few times things don't go his way? Does he expect to win every championship and every rally he takes part in?
It could be that I compare him with Loeb, who would very rarely complain, even when things didn't go his way.

[AE1WRC]

Does he expect to win every championship and every rally he takes part in?
It could be that I compare him with Loeb, who would very rarely complain, even when things didn't go his way.

Probably winning too much does this lol. Yeah, I agree that Loeb is more of a laid-back character who is really opposite to Ogier. Maybe Loeb was also complaining but was keeping it private and away from the media due to his personality if you know what I mean? Ogier, we all know likes to speak to the media and is keen on to start a fire with his statements and is not shy from this stuff. I compare them to Jordan (Loeb) and Lebron (Ogier) from the NBA lol.

[Jarek Z]

Speaking of Loeb... he doesn't stop:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/results/86389-rallye-mont-blanc-morzine-2024/

[saco0o]

tomorrow:
"dani, this is cyril. slow down please"
"ott, this is cyril...." -oh, ott crashed- "nevermind, mate. are u ok?"

[denkimi]

I do believe thiery isn't pushing as hard as he could when he thinks he has no chance. Just looking at his powerstage results seems to indicate he can go faster if needed.

[becher]

Speaking of Loeb... he doesn't stop:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/results/86389-rallye-mont-blanc-morzine-2024/

And leading in an RGT!

[focus206]

And leading in an RGT!

It's actually a GT+ of the French championship, I'm not sure what's the difference but it's faster than a regular A110 RGT. Still impressive from the old man :D

[Eli]

What's the correlation between complaining and performing? Performing doesn't delete complaining.
It could be that I compare him with Loeb, who would very rarely complain, even when things didn't go his way.

I was gonna say, I only know one Sebastien who got on with the job every time and his surname is Loeb…took the words right out of my mouth.

[becher]

It's actually a GT+ of the French championship, I'm not sure what's the difference but it's faster than a regular A110 RGT. Still impressive from the old man :D

Ahh, probably a bigger restrictor i'd guess.

[becher]

The people claiming Neuville made up the engine issues should probably check their hearing aid, that thing was not running on all cylinders.

[focus206]

Hyundai 1-2-3 going into tomorrow... but I have the feeling it will be hard for them to bring it home without drama. Apart from independent technical troubles, running later in the order also means more stones in the way, they'll have to be very careful. And there's no midday service.

[EstWRC]

Morning.

Tire choice https://x.com/as_pipolopez/status/1832282263427359141?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

Weird itinerary today IMO, long gaps between stages

[TypeR]

Morning.

Tire choice https://x.com/as_pipolopez/status/1832282263427359141?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

Weird itinerary today IMO, long gaps between stages

+ very short afternoon loop

[Rallyper]

Sportmanship gone when things doesn´t go your way.

Disrespectful behavour.

[Rallyper]

Tanak puncture!!!!

[EstWRC]

Team orders done nicely

[CeskyOndra]

its here.... 2.26m advantage over ogier

[CeskyOndra]

Team orders done nicely

what is this comment? they wouldn't drop tanak from the lead..

[Rallyper]

Team orders done nicely

Big no.

[EstWRC]

Cmon guys I was joking

Very fast change from Tanak

[TypeR]

Ogier: .... What a shame.. I like Ott :D

[CeskyOndra]

Cmon guys I was joking

Very fast change from Tanak

1:26 change is really fast

[cosmin_sb]

not the faster but Sordo became leader of the rally

[Rallyper]

2nd puncture now!!! Big big shame!!!

[Tauri_J]

Well this is it for me this year

[CeskyOndra]

Another puncture... **** lucky ogier

[EstWRC]

Go home Tänak and prepare for next year

Disaster of a year to be honest

[TypeR]

Congratulations Thierry for WDC!




Too low pressure? Something must be wrong..