[WRC] Rally Chile BIOBÍO 2024

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWjHdFsXQAM5g3_?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWjHdF_XcAIyLYW?format=jpg&name=large

[deephouse]

Weren't some time ago mentioned, that there would be two more Pumas in the hands of locals?

[Dimitris]

Weren't some time ago mentioned, that there would be two more Pumas in the hands of locals?

That was for Paraguay I think

[mknight]

No surprises since Lappi just did gravel test in Finland.

So Mikkelsen seemingly just does the 5 contracted rallies, which used to be the norm until Adamo-time when drivers (including Loeb) got kicked in and out of rallies based on previous rally result.

[deephouse]

That was for Paraguay I think

Oh ok my bad. Sorry.

[meh]

Pajari replaces Katsuta in Chile

* https://x.com/OfficialWRC/status/1833751101872472481
* https://x.com/DirtFishRally/status/1833751517154726236

[meh]

So the most interesting battle is - Pajari vs Sesks :)

[AndersX]

So the most interesting battle is - Pajari vs Sesks :)

How so? One has R1, other 135hp less on abrasive surface. Only battle will be - how long both stay on the road - if both finish, both will be winners.

I am guessing that Pajari will be sharing car with Katsuta next year, my guess - Pajari will have 5-6 rallies.

[TypeR]

Lappi-Ferm who..??
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYLOL2OXoAAVO8H?format=jpg&name=medium

[AndersX]

Rally in 2 days, the thread of Rally Chile is "active"...😀

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYT9gPzW0AA849E?format=jpg&name=medium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Lappi's last rally at the top level ?

https://rallyjournal.com/esapekka-lappi-faces-his-final-wrc-rally-at-the-top-level/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Some parts are seriously muddy...

https://x.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1838652389622190524

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYQ0iG3W8AA-8ra?format=jpg&name=medium

[CeskyOndra]

Some parts are seriously muddy...

https://x.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1838652389622190524

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYQ0iG3W8AA-8ra?format=jpg&name=medium

Is it going to dry up? Temperatures are not so high tho

[becher]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYT9gPzW0AA849E?format=jpg&name=medium
Stunning.

[Rallyper]

Less than 48 hrs to make your Pickems for Rally Chile.

Closing time is 1330 hrs CEST on Friday 27th.

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYUO9zKXQAA8HW4?format=jpg&name=large


Will it be third time and with third different team?

Weekend will tell.

[doubled1978]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYT9gPzW0AA849E?format=jpg&name=medium

Looks sensational.

[Backa]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYT9gPzW0AA849E?format=jpg&name=medium

It's Pelun stage if I am not mistaken, I remember watching 2019 onboard when at some point car was above clouds and then go downhill into the fog. Would be fun addition to EA Sports game.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Is it going to dry up? Temperatures are not so high tho

I kind of hope not. Since losing Wales Rally GB I've missed a very slimy muddy gravel rally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

M-Sport event preview:

Richard Millener , M-Sport Ford World Rally Team Principal: “I’m really motivated to be returning to South America for Rally Chile, especially as we’re fielding three Puma Rally1 units. I’m delighted to have Mārtiņš back with us at the wheel of the non-hybrid Puma – his performances for us have made him stand out and I’m looking forward to seeing what he does in this new opportunity.”

“Grégoire will benefit from last year’s experience and more time in the car since then, so he should feel pretty comfortable behind the wheel. Hopefully he can score a good result after the difficult weekend he had in Greece.”



“Adrien and Alex will be competing in this event for the first time, but I strongly believe that they will be up to the task. They have already proven their pace on gravel, with four podiums on loose surfaces this season, especially in Finland. I am looking forward to seeing how they perform.”

Adrien Fourmaux : “It’s going to be something new for me to do this rally, last year I was in France commentating on it for Canal+. It’s good to compete in South America and I’m excited to discover Chile and the rally itself. Looking at the videos, it seems to be a fairly fast rally with soft surfaces in some stages, but also quite technical in others, although not as tough as Greece. We want to take our first WRC rally win, so we’re going to try again on this last gravel rally of the season.”

Grégoire Munster : “I’m really looking forward to Rally Chile as it was our first Rally1 event last year. The surface is fairly familiar, with some loose gravel, but tyre wear on the second day is often incredibly high, so that strategic aspect of tyre choice makes it very interesting. It’s a fast rally, but there are also some very tight roads in the mountains and a lot of variety in the stages, so it’s by no means an easy event.”

Mārtiņš Sesks : “Of course it is a big challenge to go to South America and drive a Rally1 in Chile for the first time. I think it will be a big adventure, something very new and that is why we have tried to prepare for the rally. It will be a bit more difficult for us to drive a non-hybrid Puma, but again that will be an opportunity to show good pace without the hybrid aid. If we manage that, it will be great. Our experience from Poland and Latvia in understanding the Puma Rally1 will help a lot. It is a challenge we are looking forward to.”

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l_XYAQNjaZ?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l7WkAAhIGx?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l9XYAEKOvh?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVuMdrXYAAdyIf?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVuMdxX0AAawCT?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVpRg7WQAgO4Je?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[CeskyOndra]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l_XYAQNjaZ?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l7WkAAhIGx?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVd6l9XYAEKOvh?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVuMdrXYAAdyIf?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVuMdxX0AAawCT?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYVpRg7WQAgO4Je?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

Last picture is a proper Rally GB, unfortunately I think it will be gone by the time of the rally

[EstWRC]

Recce interviews by Dirtfish

https://youtu.be/1smarbEXLco?si=mPnnvORqjTlIn6l7

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Last picture is a proper Rally GB, unfortunately I think it will be gone by the time of the rally

Yep. Ogier said on his recce interview that he hadn't seen any mud and Evans and others that the roads were really abrasive.

[wwbroe]

Shakedown starting in about 10 minutes, looking forward to this one.;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

SD
https://www.youtube.com/live/2S8_G2h_Zlw?si=H_6avdQc0NwAbPen

[wwbroe]

Problem for Ogier?

[EstWRC]

That was interesting. What was Tänak hinting there that he can’t say?

Btw he recently had an interview with his sponsor Vivatbet and his answer there about next year wasn’t convincing at all

[meh]

What did Tänak hint with "I don't know how much we can say"?

I propose options as well:
* The team order for serving Neuville to get the title
* Hyundai is going to leave soon
* Something about the PowerStage conditions, and was afraid to criticize because FIA may write a fine

[EstWRC]

wtf is going on

Everybody saving tires or boycotting FIA?

[Päss1928]

What did Tänak hint with "I don't know how much we can say"?

I propose options as well:
* The team order for serving Neuville to get the title
* Hyundai is going to leave soon

Will add another one: Tänak replaces JML.

[wwbroe]

Will add another one: Tänak replaces JML.
That would be something else:D

[wwbroe]

Awesome time by Kalle and also Sesks and Pajari doing very well

[meh]

Epic cruising comedy. Probably that is what was Tänak's hinting.

[TypeR]

Solberg also slow.. make a statement because of the dust..?


E: tyre saving.. but very stupid rule.. give them extra 4 tyres ffs.

[PLuto]

It is clear. They need to save tyres for the rally...

[Rallyper]

Solberg also slow.. make a statement because of the dust..?

No. said he was saving tires.

[wwbroe]

Solberg driving in roadmode to save tyres, but Rossel and Solans seems to be pushing?

[stavrosGDB]

I think is more of an answer to FIA.

[focus206]

What did Tänak hint with "I don't know how much we can say"?

Maybe it's "I don't know how much I'm allowed to say/criticize before I get fined" in relation to Ogier's fine in Acropolis.

[240RS]

Not happy at all watching the drivers cruise in virtual road mode.

This stage is supposed to be a shop window of sorts for WRC. Something needs fixing here. And you don't need to guess much!!!

[EstWRC]

Maybe it's "I don't know how much I'm allowed to say/criticize before I get fined" in relation to Ogier's fine in Acropolis.

this, they were basically all protesting against it with todays shakedown

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why the hell are the Softs the prime tyre here after last year?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://www.wrc.com/a/news/w28698_Lappi-fastest-as-tyre-tactics-shape-Chile-shakedown

[focus206]

There's potential for being a very interesting round. Ogier, Tanak and especially Evans have to push, but have to watch out for tyre wear. Kalle will of course push for the win. Neuville will probably play it defensive, but the big question is how much he'll lose from 1st on the road. Last year there was a lot of sweeping effect, and remembering Latvia, Neuville might lose a lot of points to his rivals even if he makes no mistakes.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak explains his SD end comments:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/tanak-unsure-how-to-act-following-fia-sanctions-for-ogier-verstappen/10658266/

[CeskyOndra]

Amazing opening ceremony, loving the Chilean fans

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Beware the tyre killer !

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/drivers-wary-of-tire-killer-rally-chile/

[typhoon]

Amazing opening ceremony, loving the Chilean fans

Saw the ceremony live last night and was fantastic, That's how every ceremony should be, a great party and celebration of motorsport. Nice tribute also for Michele Mouton.

[wwbroe]

First stage is live

[EstWRC]

Neuville almost out in first proper corner

[wwbroe]

Lot of banks on this stage and also very narrow at some places

[Rallyper]

Hello fellow rallyfans. Time to spectate. :)

[wwbroe]

Not so bad by Neuville, considering the cleaning, Ogier on a mission

[spyros]

Good rally to all.

[wwbroe]

Seems like Evans started 8 mins after Ogier, what is the reason?

[B group]

Ogier all in:hot:

[wwbroe]

Stage neutralised because of spectators

[becher]

Uh well roadmode it is then. Spectators in stupid spots.

[linni]

Spectator`s safety.

[stavrosGDB]

Stage cancelled and Ogier cold like ice on stage interview.

[EstWRC]

Can’t wait for the 25 season already

[Simmi]

Red flag. There's a section after a jump with fans literally on the side of the road on both sides in the landing area. It's taped off there too but surely that's not safe.

[wwbroe]

So, only 3 cars that used their tyres

[flat_right]

What will happens with the times? All times will be cancelled? I mean massive win for others... There is already tire disadvantage for Tänak, Neuville and Ogier..and now also time difference.

[Dontcut]

What if FIA cancelled the stage just to let Ogi and Tän ruin tyres for nothing :D
Intresting to see notional times

[Rallyper]

Ogiers lips were sealed at the finishline... wonder why..? ;)

[linni]

Ogiers lips were sealed at the finishline... wonder why..? ;)

The same with Ott. "Everything is positive". Such a comment from him after the stage, nothing else.

[meh]

Cruising on shakedown, road mode for SS1, ... next? :)

[wwbroe]

That is what FIA make them do, isn'i it? Pitty for us as it is always nice to hear what they have to say after the stage.

[jonkka]

That is what FIA make them do, isn'i it? Pitty for us as it is always nice to hear what they have to say after the stage.

Rather, it is their reaction to what FIA has done and in my opinion, somewhat justifiedly so. Swearing in press conference is a borderline case but Ogier's case in Acropolis is complete bollocks. When sport authorities enforce smiling policies to maintain sport's image, that sport is already lost cause.

[EstWRC]

i am completely on Ogiers and Tänaks side, right thing to do.

[wwbroe]

All cars , at least Rally 1, will get notional time of 10.09.6, the time of Neuville

[Rallyper]

All cars , at least Rally 1, will get notional time of 10.09.6, the time of Neuville

Ogier loser, then.

[wwbroe]

Ogier loser, then.
I wouldn't be so sure that others wouldn't be faster considering for example road position of Kalle?

[B group]

Ogier's and Tanak's time remains, they pass rally 1 +10.5(Neuvile time) and rally 2 +40.9

[wwbroe]

Ogier's and Tanak's time remains, they pass rally 1 +10.5 and rally 2 +40.9
Correct, that is what i meant;)

[TypeR]

Times will be revised after SS4, so they may change later.

[B group]

Only Sesks have been treated unfairly +40,9

[denkimi]

So kalle with fresh tyres. If he doesn't crash he is the big favorite for the win now.

[wwbroe]

Only Sesks have been treated unfairly +40,9
Where do you see that, not to my knowledge?

[meh]

Only Sesks have been treated unfairly +40,9

Evans also. But hard to believe it stays like that. There is no logic for that.

[mknight]

Rather, it is their reaction to what FIA has done and in my opinion, somewhat justifiedly so. Swearing in press conference is a borderline case but Ogier's case in Acropolis is complete bollocks. When sport authorities enforce smiling policies to maintain sport's image, that sport is already lost cause.

Ogier and Tanak are acting like small children.

To me it does not seem like FIA wants to enforce smiling, it is about the form. It should not be necessary to insult or swear at organizers on allive when you don't like some decision.
After all, that's what we teach small children. When they don't agree they often react like this.

[wwbroe]

Stage 2 delayed

[Fast Eddie WRC]

i am completely on Ogiers and Tänaks side, right thing to do.

Not saying anything is a bit childish..They should just stay silent when there is something important like safety to comment on.

[denkimi]

Ogier and Tanak are acting like small children.

To me it does not seem like FIA wants to enforce smiling, it is about the form. It should not be necessary to insult or swear at organizers on allive when you don't like some decision.
After all, that's what we teach small children. When they don't agree they often react like this.
There is nothing illegal about swearing, so there should never be a punishment for it.

I support ogier here, it's not up to the FIA to determine what a driver can or can't say.

[wwbroe]

Neuville started the stage 5 mins later

[JAM]

Ogier and Tanak are acting like small children.

To me it does not seem like FIA wants to enforce smiling, it is about the form. It should not be necessary to insult or swear at organizers on allive when you don't like some decision.
After all, that's what we teach small children. When they don't agree they often react like this.

You are like a small children, because you don't undesrtand what means a driver start talking at the end of a stage where adrenaline and emotions are at the top.

Imagine that the forum administration was like FIA, probably in the next days you wouldn't write a single word here :D

[EstWRC]

Tänak all over the place, horrible to watch, not his style at all. Like watching Lappi

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great viewing coverage so far, a really nice variety of camera shots.

[PLuto]

I dont understand why all other cars than Rally1 has received 30 seconds worse notional time on SS 1....

[mknight]

There is nothing illegal about swearing, so there should never be a punishment for it.

I support ogier here, it's not up to the FIA to determine what a driver can or can't say.

Actually there is.
TV-broadcasters can get fines and other penalties if they broadcast inappropriate language (and the program is not after 22 PM and/or age-restricted).



You are like a small children, because you don't undesrtand what means a driver start talking at the end of a stage where adrenaline and emotions are at the top.

Imagine that the forum administration was like FIA, probably in the next days you wouldn't write a single word here :D

Used to be called decent behavior, clearly that's not deemed necessary by some anymore.

On this forum it is (still) normally enforced.

[EstWRC]

Cleaning a lot like expected

[COD]

I feel sorry for the stage end reporters and spectators, but am 100% on the side of the drivers. If the FIA is being stupid, what else can they do without risking more sanktions?

[wwbroe]

Very good performance by Evans on this one

[B group]

Corrected to +10.5 Evans,Sesks time

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Still commenting on a regular stage should be no problem.

They should only make the point by saying 'no comment' when there is something important happening.

[jonkka]

Actually there is.
TV-broadcasters can get fines and other penalties if they broadcast inappropriate language (and the program is not after 22 PM and/or age-restricted).


In what country, Saudi Arabia? In civilized society, Media Ethics Board is only concerned about misleading advertising or outright lies in news. They do not police language or even nudity.

[EstWRC]

Hyundai is just plain horrible when there isn’t grip. The times also show

[wwbroe]

Luckily we still have EP with his great comments at stage ends;)

[TWRC]

Pajari with a nice time - also, this time he survives the first stage without taking the back off the car :D

[meh]

SS2: Pajari and Evans maybe better than expected, Lappi maybe a bit worse than expected and others are logical.

[rallyfiend]

Ogier not talking to the TV only makes him look a bit silly.

If he wants to hurt the FIA he should do what Max did and not talk in the FIA-organised press conferences and other events.

Max still spoke to the media and TV etc.

[TypeR]

Ogier not talking to the TV only makes him look a bit silly.

If he wants to hurt the FIA he should do what Max did and not talk in the FIA-organised press conferences and other events.

Max still spoke to the media and TV etc.
In F1 they have live team radio during the race which is basically same as stage end interviews in wrc.. And the rule is same about saying anything else than very good, super race.

Although Ogier didn't send anybody to dark wholes or shout F words.. he just addressed the known issue that was with dust and safety.

Let them be quiet now and fia eat their soup.

[saco0o]

if i were ogier i'd start talking like in those american championships
"i'd like to thank toyota for this amazing car, our sponsors panasonic for really great 70 inches l.e.d. TVs, my family back in home for the support, love you mom. the fans here, you are amazing"
but in EVERY interview.

[mknight]

In what country, Saudi Arabia? In civilized society, Media Ethics Board is only concerned about misleading advertising or outright lies in news. They do not police language or even nudity.

In UK you can get fines almost directly:
https://deadline.com/2023/09/ofcom-uktv-swearing-gaffe-casualty-1235542761/

In Norway you won't get fines right away but if it is repeated there can be consequences. I am quite sure many other european countries have similar regulations.

It might be those don't qualify as civilized society for your but since UK broadcasters are important source of income to the promoter it kind of does not matter much what you think.

[JAM]

Actually there is.
Used to be called decent behavior, clearly that's not deemed necessary by some anymore.

On this forum it is (still) normally enforced.

You called "child" to Ogier, but i can't call you "child".

Nothing more to say.

[PLuto]

In UK you can get fines almost directly:
https://deadline.com/2023/09/ofcom-uktv-swearing-gaffe-casualty-1235542761/

In Norway you won't get fines right away but if it is repeated there can be consequences. I am quite sure many other european countries have similar regulations.

It might be those don't qualify as civilized society for your but since UK broadcasters are important source of income to the promoter it kind of does not matter much what you think.

Yes, current world is going more and more crazy. Unfortunately...

[Tauri_J]

Better blame Pirelli again Seb

[Rallyper]

Ogier puncture after light off.

[jonkka]

Ogier in trouble?

[wwbroe]

Better blame Pirelli again Seb
He was very lucky there not to roll

[mknight]

Yes, current world is going more and more crazy. Unfortunately...

In CZ this has been in the law for 25+ years.

This law:
https://www.e-sbirka.cz/sb/2001/231/2024-01-01?zalozka=text

[EstWRC]

Ogier and Kalle doing clearly mistakes this year when pushed

[Rallyper]

Ogier in trouble?

Puncture rear left after hitting a bank quite hard.

[denkimi]

Yes, current world is going more and more crazy. Unfortunately...
Crazyness is americas biggest export product. Especially now through social media where the most offended gets to set the norm

[jonkka]

Puncture rear left after hitting a bank quite hard.

Yes, I first saw him stopped and only then the repeat of what happened.

[jonkka]

Same for Fourmaux?

[rallyfiend]

Ogier stopping in the middle of the road to change his tyre.

He's such a dick.

[TypeR]

No room on the side as there was a ditch..

[wwbroe]

Evans maybe in the dust of Ogier?

[jonkka]

Ogier stopping in the middle of the road to change his tyre.

He's such a dick.

I was amazed too but with three minute intervals he knew he'd be off before next car.

[jonkka]

Ah, Fourmaux had timing glitch, no 1m20s loss on split 1 after all.

[denkimi]

Ogier and Kalle doing clearly mistakes this year when pushed


I was amazed too but with three minute intervals he knew he'd be off before next car.
Untill something goes wrong and he blocks everyone behind.

[Rallyper]

I feel sorry for the stage end reporters and spectators, but am 100% on the side of the drivers. If the FIA is being stupid, what else can they do without risking more sanktions?

There´s no winners in this mess. Only losers. Unfortenately.

[JAM]

Better blame Pirelli again Seb

He can't.
He's not speaking :D

[meh]

Evans maybe in the dust of Ogier?

At the stage end Evans said he even did not notice.

[wwbroe]

At the stage end Evans said he even did not notice.
On the onboards you saw some dust hanging from Ogier, but nothing major

[1988senna]

why sesks so slow?

[jonkka]

Pajari up to 3rd, Toyota has triple lead and even Fourmaux is just 0,1s behind Tanak.

[mknight]

There´s no winners in this mess. Only losers. Unfortenately.

Common sense is the loser here.

"Back in the days" Kankunnen would say "black round Pirelli", because swearing would be considered a stupid thing to do and he would be universally condemned.

But now we should cheer on drivers that can swear at stage ends and then make a big point about being quiet instead of saying things in a different way.

[AE1WRC]

Ogier and Kalle doing clearly mistakes this year when pushed

Yes that is correct. This just proves the GOAT and the young GOAT are human after all. 😀

[Tauri_J]

Thats a broken car

[jonkka]

I think that Kankkunen was (and is) far too jovial guy to even know any swear words.

[AE1WRC]

I was expecting Kalle to destroy the field with this road position to be honest but props to Elfyn. I also really like what I am seeing from Pajari. That boy is coming !

[Rallyper]

Common sense is the loser here.

"Back in the days" Kankunnen would say "black round Pirelli", because swearing would be considered a stupid thing to do and he would be universally condemned.

But now we should cheer on drivers that can swear at stage ends and then make a big point about being quiet instead of saying things in a different way.

Having said what I said, didn´t mean I´m not agreed to what your saying. On the contrary.

[denkimi]

Munster 3th time. The cleaning must be monstrous.

[meh]

I wonder who is more childish - Ogier (and Tänak) with their stage-end interview or you crying about it. :) For now, I think we have heard from everyone what they think about it, it's naive to think that you are going to convince others to change their mind for your liking.

[wwbroe]

Double puncture for Martins and only one spare unfortunally

[meh]

Sesks double-punture and now spares, so it may be retirement for today.

[Danny0405]

Munster 3th time. The cleaning must be monstrous.

Not so sure considering what happened with Fourmaux and Lappi (+ Kalle has not made much better than Evans)
Munster was a bit slower in the SS2 so maybe his tyres are in better shape

+ it’s a bit his last hope so maybe he is overdriving… let’s see until Sunday.

[focus206]

Lappi holding back to put another sweeping car in front of Neuville and Tanak for Saturday?
Chance for Neuville after Ogier's puncture. But Tanak still in front of him and Evans leading. Thierry has to drive smart and bring points home, one puncture and he's back behind Ogier.

[denkimi]

I wonder if evans or kalle would back off for Ogier's here. I would assume not, considering he didn't back off when evans needed him to.

[focus206]

I wonder if evans or kalle would back off for Ogier's here. I would assume not, considering he didn't back off when evans needed him to.

Evans is 14 points behind Ogier, if he has a good rally vs a bad rally for Ogier, he could be the best placed Toyota before the last 2 rounds.
Kalle will probably back off if he can't win the rally. I wonder if he could back off only for Saturday evening, if a teammate is right behind...

[AE1WRC]

I wonder if evans or kalle would back off for Ogier's here.

Absolutely not

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Gutted for Sesks :(

But a good morning loop by Fourmaux and Munster.:)

[meh]

Gutted for Sesks :(

I hope he did not ruin too much of what he has built so far. At the moment it seemed like over-pushing instead of collecting experience. At least he gets more TV-time tomorrow.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I hope he did not ruin too much of what he has built so far. At the moment it seemed like over-pushing instead of collecting experience. At least he gets more TV-time tomorrow.

He didnt sound too bothered. Plus his mistake was almost the same as an 8x WRC Champion...

[TypeR]

Sesks retired for today

[doubled1978]

Sesks retired for today

I’ve said it before and now again, it’s ridiculous to send a car half way round the world and retire it for a puncture. There has to be a better solution than that for teams, drivers, spectators etc.

[becher]

I’ve said it before and now again, it’s ridiculous to send a car half way round the world and retire it for a puncture. There has to be a better solution than that for teams, drivers, spectators etc.

Oh the days when they could get back to service with a puncture or just three wheels....

[denkimi]

Oh the days when they could get back to service with a puncture or just three wheels....
Some of the greatest stories are about cars limping back to service.

Sadly it has been taken from us by the cucks that rule the fia.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

In the case of someone like Sesks who is only there for experience it was pretty stupid to send him out with just one spare. Plus he couldn't really compete properly anyway in the non-hybrid version so an extra wheel was no issue. A real waste of a days rallying.

[denkimi]

In the case of someone like Sesks who is only there for experience it was pretty stupid to send him out with just one spare. Plus he couldn't really compete properly anyway in the non-hybrid version so an extra wheel was no issue. A real waste of a days rallying.
Didn't he had 2 spares but 3 flats?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier to the FIA :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYfytO5XkAArnxj?format=jpg&name=medium

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ogier-weve-been-told-by-the-top-of-fia-to-shut-our-mouths/

[doubled1978]

Oh the days when they could get back to service with a puncture or just three wheels....

Ha Ha, yeah there has been some pretty epic ones over the years! If I think back to some of things I saw being dragged along a welsh B road in the 80’s I don’t think that is acceptable in today’s world.
But a perfectly working car sat in the service park on stands this afternoon rather than out in the stages because of a flat tyre is plain stupid.

[saco0o]

Colin Clark following Sesks on the tires problem
https://www.facebook.com/DirtFishRally/videos/1475160816477687/
oh man thats such a bummer =[
50% of my interest in this race is basically gone

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I’ve said it before and now again, it’s ridiculous to send a car half way round the world and retire it for a puncture. There has to be a better solution than that for teams, drivers, spectators etc.

Crazy. There should be the option to drive the afternoon loop but no times awarded.

[denkimi]

Colin Clark following Sesks on the tires problem
https://www.facebook.com/DirtFishRally/videos/1475160816477687/
oh man thats such a bummer =[
50% of my interest in this race is basically gone
So they are allowed to drive on a flat tyre after all, as long as it remains the shape of a tyre.

I assume giving them some expanding foam to fill up some of the flat so it can be driven to service is illegal?

[EstWRC]

Tänak correcting 3 times during the corner….

Understeer, oversteer, understeer

[jonkka]

Tanak's comment at the end: "Cool stage. Fun rally. All good." :D

[meh]

Motivation for Ogier and Tänak put crazy times in place - SS4 stage times are used to give nominational times for others for SS1

edit: based on current situation, after revising SS1 times Tänak may find himself from the lead.

[EstWRC]

Tänak and Ogier going bonkers after lunch.

Great to watch but also horrible to watch how understeering the Hyundai of Tänak is

[NoBudgetWRT]

Where's Fourmaux?

[meh]

Where's Fourmaux?

Seems, that starting after Pajari and before Lappi.

[NoBudgetWRT]

Seems, that starting after Pajari and before Lappi.

Spilts seems ok

[meh]

Buuh, Fourmaux putting some pace in. Hopefully he finish with that.

Lost 0.2 sec to Ogier at the end. Respect!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great time Adrien !

[meh]

Fourmaux just need work on the car before driving - remember the crazy powerstage in Croatia? Just need to be pissed off and full of adrenaline before the start.

[Dontcut]

We gonna have some tyre drama within 1 spare drivers on the last stage. Those soft tyres take a hell of a beating.

[EstWRC]

Yep, will be interesting to see how Tänak, Fourmaux and ogier will manage the next stage

[meh]

Tänak keeps the lead over Evans with 0.4 sec.

[EstWRC]

Evans should have been much faster with two spares

[NoBudgetWRT]

Lappi? E: wrong split

[Rallyper]

Fourmaux has learnt his lessons. Now I´d say he´s a legimite top driver, equal to the current top 5 WRC drivers.

[meh]

Well done Fourmaux!

3 Toyota drivers and one Ford driver won stages, but Hyundai leading the rally (with huge 0.4 sec).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What a time by Fourmaux again. Such a shame he got the 1min penalty.

[meh]

Tomorrow comes the reality, who was a Friday hero today and who actually can drive.

I just think we underestimate Neuville-Tänak-Ogier performances because they cleaned the road for others.

Pitty that Ogier and Fourmaux got the time-loss, would be nice fight for the win.

Seems interesting and "out of the box" scenario rally so far.

[doubled1978]

Crazy. There should be the option to drive the afternoon loop but no times awarded.

Something like that, or a ‘penalty’ tyre you can take to finish the loop that gives a 30 second penalty or whatever.

[doubled1978]

These’re great rallying roads, I love watching the footage here.
A few decent performances today, but I must say I am impressed with Munster today. He’s been fast enough to use his road position, I don’t recall that happening before and now he will have a decent road position tomorrow. I don’t expect him to maintain it, but a good effort I didn’t think he had in him.
Pajari very solid.

[focus206]

Impressed by Fourmaux, would have been up there around the lead if it wasn't for the penalty.
Great pace by Tanak, expected a bit more from Kalle and Evans. Tomorrow big battle for the lead, they're within 7s.
Neuville is 20s behind Munster and Pajari, if they keep today's pace it will be hard to catch them without taking risks. We'll see their pace without much road advantage. Fourmaux and Ogier are 25s and 50s behind Neuville and are fast, so whatever mistake or puncture, they can pass him.

[denkimi]

Something like that, or a ‘penalty’ tyre you can take to finish the loop that gives a 30 second penalty or whatever.
Just let them drive if they want but give them the 10 minutes retirement penalty.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Adrien FOURMAUX.@AdrienFourmaux

1min time penalty... 1min gap from P1.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Luke Barry @lukebarry97

Been impressed by Gregoire Munster today.

Not everyone learns at the same pace, but returning to an event he’s done before in the Rally1 car, he’s looked like he belongs at this level.

[becher]

I didn't follow closely today, but Tänak, Munster and Fourmax were very impressive. I'm very surprised by Rovanperä time loss.
I'd say both Neuville and Lappis pace are difficult to judge given roadposition and potential team strategy respectively.

[NoBudgetWRT]

How much was Ostberg fined back in the day? and didn't fans raise the money trough crowdfunding?

[saco0o]

hmmmm nothing of importance but is skoda's logo gone from all the tv graphics? its written SKODA instead of the regular logo

[EstWRC]

So Ss1 times adjusted and it’s actually Evans who leads overnight by 3 seconds.

How on earth they calculated that time for Evans when he didn’t even drive one split with rally speed?

[Dontcut]

hmmmm nothing of importance but is skoda's logo gone from all the tv graphics? its written SKODA instead of the regular logo

That written Skoda is the new logo. It same on the back of production cars also.

[TypeR]

Tanak was 4.6s faster on SS4 than Evans and yet they decided to give Evans 2s faster notional time from SS1.. Stewards having some strong wine once again..

[AnttiK7]

Tanak was 4.6s faster on SS4 than Evans and yet they decided to give Evans 2s faster notional time from SS1.. Stewards having some strong wine once again..

They have used Neuville as the reference point while giving the notional times, and as Tänak didn't have a great run on SS1, he suffers because of that. Tänak was only 1.4 seconds faster than Neuville on SS1.

Evans was 3.4 seconds faster than Neuville on SS4 and as Neuville is the reference point, gets awarded 3.4 seconds faster time than Neuville on SS1. Similarly, Fourmaux was 1.8 seconds faster than Neuville on SS4, and gets 1.8 seconds faster time for SS1.

They were probably also taking into account that SS4 was effectively the first run of that stage for Evans, while it was the second run for Tänak. So with that logic you would expect Tänak to have a small advantage on SS4 compared to Evans. Difficult to calculate how many seconds that advantage is though.

[Tauri_J]

They have used Neuville as the reference point while giving the notional times, and as Tänak didn't have a great run on SS1, he suffers because of that. Tänak was only 1.4 seconds faster than Neuville on SS1.

Evans was 3.4 seconds faster than Neuville on SS4 and as Neuville is the reference point, gets awarded 3.4 seconds faster time than Neuville on SS1. Similarly, Fourmaux was 1.8 seconds faster than Neuville on SS4, and gets 1.8 seconds faster time for SS1.

They were probably also taking into account that SS4 was effectively the first run of that stage for Evans, while it was the second run for Tänak. So with that logic you would expect Tänak to have a small advantage on SS4 compared to Evans. Difficult to calculate how many seconds that advantage is though.

Then why no mention of car nr. 11 (Neuville) in the official document?

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/137e6457-1fc6-4a53-956a-b40a6603d4bf/01fe9a3a-bead-412f-b6c0-e7aad7fba913_COC%20Notification%202.pdf

[AnttiK7]

Then why no mention of car nr. 11 (Neuville) in the official document?

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/137e6457-1fc6-4a53-956a-b40a6603d4bf/01fe9a3a-bead-412f-b6c0-e7aad7fba913_COC%20Notification%202.pdf

Good question, I guess they don't want to bore people with details. But yeah, it would have been good for them to mention that Neuville's time on SS4 has been used as a reference point for Evans, Fourmaux and Pajari. Munster actually set the same time than Neuville on SS4, so they didn't have to reallocate his time because of that.

And perhaps it would have been also good for them to mention why Lappi and Rovanperä weren't reallocated worse times than Neuville for SS1. As neither Lappi or Rovanperä had a clean run on SS4, they have taken it into account while reallocating the times and haven't penalised Lappi and Rovanperä any further by giving them worse times than Neuville for SS1.

[meh]

Again this situation, when Evans was sleeping faster.

[CeskyOndra]

I do expect Tanak to pull away from Evans today and Kalle maybe will get into the fight. Tyre management will be key

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ironic when Hyundai have moved their test base to Finland...

RallyJournal:

"After first stage this morning, I said to the engineers that top six or maybe top eight is maximum. You know, it was not driving at all. Thierry (Neuville) was also struggling. Clearly we had struggles with the car and with the car setup.”

According to the Estonian driver, the handling and setup challenges in Chile are similar to those faced during the Finnish round at the beginning of August.

“As said, clearly we had struggles with the car and with the car setup. It’s something to do with these kind of roads as well, like we had in Finland and here. But you still need to push, be able to react and to improve,” Tänak told."

[EstWRC]

how its ironic

like FX said, the car is fundamentally wrong, nothing to do there. the Finland base not gonna solve all the problems

such a shame they couldnt build the new car for next year

[focus206]

I mean, even with not a good setup, Tanak is 2nd, much better than 6th or 8th. Did he tweak the setup after SS3 or is he pushing like hell?
If Kalle doesn't find his mojo and get into the fight, Tanak can take Evans and win this.

[EstWRC]

I mean, even with not a good setup, Tanak is 2nd, much better than 6th or 8th. Did he tweak the setup after SS3 or is he pushing like hell?
If Kalle doesn't find his mojo and get into the fight, Tanak can take Evans and win this.

As I understand from the mid service and end of the day interviews he couldnt do much with the set-up, it was just the fact that there was better grip on second passes and then the car just works better.

But from the onboards I would say he was also pushing like hell, reminded me the Poland Sunday onboards.

[Tauri_J]

Its the same old story with Hyundai in the low grip conditions.

[satnav]

Hyundai protested the times for SS1;

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/137e6457-1fc6-4a53-956a-b40a6603d4bf/e36e6b42-4992-44fe-a017-57a7ad53ed78_Stewards%20Decision%203.pdf

[TypeR]

Hyundai protested the times for SS1;

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/137e6457-1fc6-4a53-956a-b40a6603d4bf/e36e6b42-4992-44fe-a017-57a7ad53ed78_Stewards%20Decision%203.pdf

Decision:
The protest is rejected.

[EstWRC]

Tyre choice

https://x.com/rallyesport/status/1839994371246014839?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[Rallyper]

They said smth on swedish radio about rallyaccident in Estonia... or Latvia? Any details what happened, someone?

Edit: Thanks TypeR.

[EstWRC]

I’m really surprised the other didn’t make a choice like Ogier or Fourmaux.

The stage is quite damp and it’s morning

[NoBudgetWRT]

They said smth on swedish radio about rallyaccident in Estonia... or Latvia? Any details what happened, someone?

In Lithuania. One dead 14+ injured

[Tauri_J]

They said smth on swedish radio about rallyaccident in Estonia... or Latvia? Any details what happened, someone?

Edit: Thanks TypeR.

Tragic accident yesterday in Lithuania. 1 dead, 5 critically, some of them had to be resuscitated

[EstWRC]

First runs and Toyotas strong again. 1-2-3 on this stage

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I’m really surprised the other didn’t make a choice like Ogier or Fourmaux.

The stage is quite damp and it’s morning

There's still the two longer more abrasive stages to go. Let's see how it plays out.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier stopped

[stavrosGDB]

Ohh the stone on the right.

[EstWRC]

Again a mistake from Ogier

[Mirek]

Tänak half spun and reversed. Didn't loose much.

[TypeR]

Again a mistake from Tanak also.. Neuville just has to cruise thru the rally :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville aware of Ogier now. All he has to do is a finish.

[jonkka]

Rovanpera aims to win this, it seems?

[EstWRC]

I would be amazed if Kalle didn’t use his tires now

[Danny0405]

Top 3 within 5s in WRC-2…huge battle between Solberg and Citroën guys

[meh]

Top 3 within 5s in WRC-2…huge battle between Solberg and Citroën guys

I think it is worth some live coverage as well...

[becher]

I thought Grayzin was impressiv yesterday, 10 seconds up on Solberg despite the huge moment in the last stage.

[meh]

I thought Grayzin was impressiv yesterday, 10 seconds up on Solberg despite the huge moment in the last stage.

They have their own road-cleaning to do - first Rally2 car need to make the line for next ones. That is why Rossel is so good today compared to Grazin.

[saco0o]

oh, Oli was behind grayzin, gus and rossell yesterday, right? nice run today already! cheering for him!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I think it is worth some live coverage as well...

It will get it on this Stage (9).

[saco0o]

lappi said yesterday something like "maybe i lost my skills". i've been cheering for him since ERC days but idk, he never actually impressed in rally1, imo? i really hope he is passionated about rallying and find something like a R5 to compete in finland, ERC. that'd be cool, a better position for him. potential to win loads of races.
(off topic: so far mikkelsen P3 in italy, ostberg P2 in slovenia hehe)

[meh]

It is raining... and too often it does not mean anything good for Tänak.

[saco0o]

got the feeling ogier dont want to go to japan haha lets see if he retires in the central european round

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville pushing on regardless.

[meh]

The Welshman saw the rain and hit the pedal down

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I would be amazed if Kalle didn’t use his tires now

Yep. Elfyn managed his much better.

[TypeR]

Oh no... Solberg used the f word.. :D

[focus206]

Big chance for Evans. After this round there's 2 slippery asphalt rounds, so I don't count him out for the title.
Neuville has to bring it home with no mistakes. 4th place is the best he can hope for, no catching the top 3, barring problems.

[Dontcut]

Oh no... Solberg used the f word.. :D
100k € fine, 240h community service and death sentence incoming from FIA

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Oh no... Solberg used the f word.. :D

You can say what you like as long as it's not aimed at the rally stewards...

[jonkka]

Oh no... Solberg used the f word.. :D

He said Ford? :eek:

[denkimi]

You can say what you like as long as it's not aimed at the rally stewards...
Ostberg got a suspended 25 points deduction and 1000 euro fine for yelling fuck aimed at nobody 2 years ago.

The FIA just does whatever it likes whenever it likes.

[meh]

He said Ford? :eek:

No.. F... IA!

[saco0o]

oli leading the R5s! NICE. NIIIIIIIIICE
FCKING NICE

[saco0o]

hahahah LITERALLY colin clark helping ogier removing his car from that ditch
https://www.facebook.com/DirtFishRally/videos/494513636740177/

[saco0o]

why the rallyTV girls talking live now cant say Colin Clark's name?
"Oh there was another journalist that got to Seb's crash first"
haha we all know colin, cmon

[saco0o]

weird to see Seb talking like that, on the defensive, saying "winnint this title was not a goal, it became a goal two rallies ago", "people said it wasnt be good for the championship if i won the title as a part time driver so thats positive for the championship" (in a way), or "i had lots of highs in my career and there are lows, so we use it to return stronger"
its weird, its like hes not doing that well mentally with these two last rounds. he is a competitive guy of course but he keep using these excuses as if he had something to prove but at the same time he knows he doesnt need to prove anything anymore, but it feels like a mental conflict. its interesting anyway

[mknight]

Ogier just really doesn't like to lose.

In Greece he was really trying everything both on stages, off stages and through media.

Now he accepted that he likely won't win. Not like he gave up, just mentally acknowledged that title is unlikely.

[NoBudgetWRT]

Let's see if the rain will come. They said on rallytv that Tanak took 6 hards

[Dontcut]

Pajari with 3 softs...intresting.
Anyway Hyundais tend to improve on second passages, let's see. And what weather does?

[meh]

The weather seems "blind driving" :)

[manthey]

weird to see Seb talking like that, on the defensive, saying "winnint this title was not a goal, it became a goal two rallies ago", "people said it wasnt be good for the championship if i won the title as a part time driver so thats positive for the championship" (in a way), or "i had lots of highs in my career and there are lows, so we use it to return stronger"
its weird, its like hes not doing that well mentally with these two last rounds. he is a competitive guy of course but he keep using these excuses as if he had something to prove but at the same time he knows he doesnt need to prove anything anymore, but it feels like a mental conflict. its interesting anyway

did he say these words?

[becher]

Ostberg got a suspended 25 points deduction and 1000 euro fine for yelling fuck aimed at nobody 2 years ago.

The FIA just does whatever it likes whenever it likes.

I'd say the reason Ostberg got a fine wasn't language but rather the way he behaved and completely lost it because of something totally normal and was reminiscent of a child losing it because of a minor inconvenience.

[becher]

hahahah LITERALLY colin clark helping ogier removing his car from that ditch
https://www.facebook.com/DirtFishRally/videos/494513636740177/

He is his biggest fanboy after all.

[saco0o]

did he say these words?

yes. during the little show before the afternoon stages, talking to becky.
i wrote it "resumed", but he actually said that. you can see he is kinda frustrated and on the defensive because he hates losing, even knowing he has nothing to prove anymore.
around 18:30 min https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2wXC1M-z3o

[Dontcut]

Is Hyundai going for the Tänak - Neuville swap at the end of the day?