Acropolis Rally 2015

[RudiH]

Will it go ahead ?

[nafpaktos]

We hope so but nothing is sure.the sure is that some people try hard to deliver.

[RudiH]

We hope so but nothing is sure.the sure is that some people try hard to deliver.

anymore news ?

[PLuto]

I think that decision will be made soon...

[nafpaktos]

The announcement for referendum from the person who will destroy Greece have already judjed whether or not we will have acropolis the next years.

[WUff1]

The announcement for referendum from the person who will destroy Greece have already judjed whether or not we will have acropolis the next years.

All the best for you and all the greek people!

[nafpaktos]

Thanks man.

[vino_93]

French magazin AutoHebdo said a few weeks ago that Acropolis could be cancelled, and a rally in Turkey replaced it.

[nafpaktos]

Vino unfortunatelly we dont deserve a rally to the international scene.we have agean sea and we dont have world championsip windsurf race anymore,turkey has,we deserve nothing.

[vino_93]

Don't be so hard with your ;) Acropolis was a nice event, it doesn't need to die, even if it's no more what it has been ... of course it's difficult time there, but it's not by letting disappear everything that existed that it will be better.

[PLuto]

Like I told before, there is really big chance that Greece will be cancelled. There were some talks about Turkey to replace them, but I think it will not happen.

[WRC1]

i was in greece two times 2001 wrc and last year for the erc rally, and i liked both events!! the history of your country is just amazing, the greek people are very kind and the rallyes itself where really nice and spectacular! Greece deserves a place in top rallying!

all the best to all of you! i hope i will come back soon to watch a rally in this beautifuil country!

[Vaggelis27]

Some rumours say that Eurosport will reset the entry fee to help us in this difficult time..Nothing official confirmed..

[harriswrc]

It seems that there are good news about ERC- Rally of Greece 2015!
Just waiting the announcements.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Confirmed ! :D

The Greek Motorsport Federation (OMAE) has confirmed that it will run the Acropolis Rally on its original date (9-11 October), despite the very difficult political and economic situation in Greece.

This announcement is the result of tireless work over recent months with the final target to make the Acropolis Rally survive and stay at an international level. The 2015 event will run in a condensed format, allowing OMAE to prepare the 2016 edition.

The event also officially returns to its much loved and traditional title of the Acropolis Rally, replacing the name Rally of Greece.

Dimitris Michelakakis, President of OMAE, said: “We believe that together, the State, Federation, Organisations and Sponsors will contribute to the successful organisation of the Acropolis Rally, which will once again show our country at international level.”

Jean-Baptiste Ley, ERC Co-ordinator, said: “We have monitored the situation very carefully with OMAE and are delighted they confirmed the Acropolis Rally will happen, as it was originally planned since last WMSC of 2014.”

http://www.fiaerc.com/omae-confirms-acropolis-rally-2015/

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120024 confirmed from autosport

[Jarek Z]

The event also officially returns to its much loved and traditional title of the Acropolis Rally, replacing the name Rally of Greece.

Great news! All rallies in the world should return to their original names! :)

[nafpaktos]

Apart from the original name i would also prefer to return to their original routes.

[RudiH]

already some news in Greece about special stages, timing, ...

[Andre Oliveira]

Itinerary: http://ewrc-results.com/harmonogram.php?e=20145&t=Acropolis-Rally-2015

https://scontent-mad1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/t31.0-8/11060870_739709622824949_1815392593652179701_o.png

[tolis]

Official website on air: http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/index.php/gr/
Maps: http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/index.php/gr/2015-08-07-01-29-03/2015-08-07-10-18-25

[Vaggelis27]

No skoda motorsport in acropolis?Because tour de corse is one week before..

[tommeke_B]

No skoda motorsport in acropolis?Because tour de corse is one week before..

Because ERC is not on their to do list anymore? ;)

[Vaggelis27]

Ok i just wondered because they have enter as factory team in the championship..sorry

[mousti]

That was only for Barum (Jan Kopecky)

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[N.O.T]

I might go a bit earlier (wed before the event) to recce the stages and find the best lake and flower spots... will keep you informed.

I have to refresh my memory on Ziria/Kinetta/Kefalari and klenia since i have done these stages in the past but cannot remeber much... athikia will be new to me so i will go through it for sure to see what is going on.

October is rain season here so it will be interesting.

Have not spectated a rally the way i like it since 2012...

[EightGear]

Since when are you interested in ladyboy village events?

[N.O.T]

Since when are you interested in ladyboy village events?

I am interested in spectating because i like the sport i just do not take them seriously enough... plus if i remember correctly there is a big lake in ss Ziria... how can i resist so much water ??

[N.O.T]

also at first glance the event should be categorised as mixed not gravel.

[Vaggelis27]

SS Klenia,kefalari,ziria is sure only gravel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDsPyTPH2kI Here is my video from kefalari.maybe will help u.From 2009 i always go in this stage!

[N.O.T]

Kinetta for sure has a large tarmac section, also from google maps i think that athikia might be tarmac... but i will wait for the official google maps from the organisers.

a pic from kinetta from 2012
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/7402170588/in/album-72157630194970730/
Ziria
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/7402241396/in/album-72157630194970730/
kefalari
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/7402263810/in/album-72157630194970730/
klenia 2011
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/5846513410/in/album-72157626858800491/

[N.O.T]

best action foto (taken from google earth)ever from ss Ziria... around 5.2kms from the finish of the stage.. there is also a kiosk you can relax, of course you will not be able to see the cars but who cares...

http://i.imgur.com/77cPNE2.jpg

[N.O.T]

Onboard Latvala ss Ziria from 2013.. around 3.24min at the valley usually wild horses gather but they flee during the event due tot he noise, they were there last time i recced the stage in 2012.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAPbS9Viw3M

the shakedown/qualifying by Ogier

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRT9s-0OKDY

pics from shakedown in 2009 which is the same as this year.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/albums/72157626825722617

i will try and find some more onboards as we get closer.

[trifonvl]

SS Klenia,kefalari,ziria is sure only gravel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDsPyTPH2kI Here is my video from kefalari.maybe will help u.From 2009 i always go in this stage!

SS Klenia,kefalari,ziria are for sure mixed this year. SS Klenia has the last 2-3 km on asphalt, SS Athikia is more than half on asphalt...starts after the village of Athikia in the opposite direction of last year ss Aghios Ioannis and before the village of Aghios Ioannis turns right, run a big section on gravel and finish again on asphalt before village of Kamaritsa. SS Ziria starts after village Ano Trikala, on asphalt, does an uphill until the snow center and turns right on gravel and runs the last part of old ss Ziria until Mesaia Trikala.

[N.O.T]

google earth map is out.

http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/index.php/en/en-menu-spectators/en-menu-spectators-google-earth

If anyone outside Greece interested in spectating i could post some suggestions here after i recce the stages.

[makinen_fan]

Lambros Athanassoulas will start with a Fabia R5

https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11216830_913027678768252_3250675419365924181_n.jpg ?oh=330a28b015ca13fb80f04ee841267ff0&oe=565E437B

[liposh]

with BRR car? I think Raimund Baumschlager is the only privateer with gravel suspension....yeah, and Meireles.

[Leon]

motorsport italia

[Rallyper]

google earth map is out.

http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/index.php/en/en-menu-spectators/en-menu-spectators-google-earth

If anyone outside Greece interested in spectating i could post some suggestions here after i recce the stages.

Kefalari from the small village at start is beautiful view of couple of km. Was there in 2012 WRC.

[JTGANG]

Car is brand new and belongs to Max Rendina

[RICARDO75]

More Skoda photos from Motorsport Italia

[dimviii]

some other photos from Lambros fabia.

who can find whats wrong at these photos? 2 beers to winner.http://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/smooth/drinks.gif

https://scontent-mrs1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12032206_913027712101582_1776176840321439482_n.jpg ?oh=79d7c7c813fae9da27f5d1a525063ee9&oe=5690FE78
https://scontent-mrs1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12033176_913027688768251_2112092745385731262_n.jpg ?oh=6de60cac83a55130b337d059442839f1&oe=5693CFE2

[Mirek]

Asphalt setup and tyres? Than probably starting number, missing ventilation on front side windows. And finally name of co-driver is written wrong :)

[makinen_fan]

Those are physical things and can happen. The blue circle decal that extends on the rear wheel though... big fail in Photoshop :)

[stefanvv]

Those are physical things and can happen. The blue circle decal that extends on the rear wheel though... big fail in Photoshop :)

unless it is a hologram;) Anyway it is obvious it is just photo editing.

[dimviii]

Asphalt setup and tyres? Than probably starting number, missing ventilation on front side windows. And finally name of co-driver is written wrong :)

some of them you are right(window ventilation) i hadn t noticed though,so 2 beers for you.

i saw pirelli logo on michelin pattern tyres.

[Mirek]

i saw pirelli logo on michelin pattern tyres.

Yes, I haven't noticed that :)

[tc10a]

Is there already a entry list out for Rally Acropolis 2015?

Should have been published today:
MON 28 SEP - Publication of List of Entries in seeded order (approved by the FIA) Website

[Jarek Z]

Entry list has finally been published. 29 crews only - almost like in WRC.
http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/images/pdf/en_acro2015_event_erc_entries.pdf

[PLuto]

Entry list has finally been published. 29 crews only - almost like in WRC.

Because they are bringing bad manners from WRC (registrations, qualify, tyres...)

[tc10a]

Entry list has finally been published. 29 crews only - almost like in WRC.
http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/images/pdf/en_acro2015_event_erc_entries.pdf

Sorry to bother you, but it's like a sacrilege to compare the Quality of the entry list to ANY WRC Event...

A pity what happened to the ERC, just remember good old days of IRC some years ago...

[pucky54]

Entry list has finally been published. 29 crews only - almost like in WRC.
http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/images/pdf/en_acro2015_event_erc_entries.pdf

And not all of them will start ;)

[RS]

On the positive side we should/could have a three way battle for the win. The championship contenders are all there.

[liposh]

Hmm, I expected Tarabus to drive Rally du Valais with Fabia R5. He could be very fast there, because the package (driver and car) would be competitive. Do you think we will see him on both events?

[dimviii]

And not all of them will start ;)

hope that dont apply for the crazy Russian.

[Vladik]

hope that dont apply for the crazy Russian.

They will be in Greece, don't worry ;) Seems like pucky54 thought about Tushkanova, she can cancel her participation in last minute. And quite strange car choice she made, honestly

[Jarek Z]

Sorry to bother you, but it's like a sacrilege to compare the Quality of the entry list to ANY WRC Event...

I mean the number of crews. This entry list looks like some sad WRC round in Mexico or somewhere. I think it has never been so bad in the ERC. Previous rounds had some 50-100 crews competing or even more.

[N.O.T]

I mean the number of crews. This entry list looks like some sad WRC round in Mexico or somewhere. I think it has never been so bad in the ERC. Previous rounds had some 50-100 crews competing or even more.

mostly because of strong local entry though... In Greece rallying is dead for a long time now, only some useless 50 year olds remain in 20-30 year old cars.

I think it would be wise for the ERC to drop the round in Greece. Its a farce especially when it carries the Acropolis name... they can reinstate in around 50 years when plants start to grow again on this scorched earth.

[pucky54]

They will be in Greece, don't worry ;) Seems like pucky54 thought about Tushkanova, she can cancel her participation in last minute. And quite strange car choice she made, honestly

Not only her ;)

[PLuto]

Hmm, I expected Tarabus to drive Rally du Valais with Fabia R5. He could be very fast there, because the package (driver and car) would be competitive. Do you think we will see him on both events?

Tarabus will for sure start in Acropolis, mechanics will stay there after return from Cyprus. And I think he will do also Valais.

[PLuto]

hope that dont apply for the crazy Russian.

He will start in Acropolis.

[PLuto]

They will be in Greece, don't worry ;) Seems like pucky54 thought about Tushkanova, she can cancel her participation in last minute. And quite strange car choice she made, honestly

She was also thinking about enter with Clio R3 to Barum Rally. It was difficult to explain her that with Clio R3 she cannot start in ERC2 category...

[Jarek Z]

She was also thinking about enter with Clio R3 to Barum Rally. It was difficult to explain her that with Clio R3 she cannot start in ERC2 category...

You must be joking! How difficult is it to understand it? :)

[Jarek Z]

mostly because of strong local entry though...

Yes, of course. But I consider all those local heroes as part of the colorful atmosphere of the ERC. The more the merrier :)

[janvanvurpa]

mostly because of strong local entry though... In Greece rallying is dead for a long time now, only some useless 50 year olds remain in 20-30 year old cars.

I think it would be wise for the ERC to drop the round in Greece. Its a farce especially when it carries the Acropolis name... they can reinstate in around 50 years when plants start to grow again on this scorched earth.

Ah! But they are in a rally and in a car even if it is 20 years old....
unlike you who is in some dreary basement lab and cannot even be in any rally..

It is NOT they who are useless...


Whatever they do, or have done, in THIS CONTEXT, they are always worth something, and you are NOT

[PLuto]

You must be joking! How difficult is it to understand it? :)

You cannot imagine how difficult it is...

[Vladik]

You cannot imagine how difficult it is...

I can imagine how hard it was and can predict that she doesn't changed her opinion after all :)

[Vaggelis27]

Any information about testing here??Greek guys help!!

[PLuto]

Any information about testing here??Greek guys help!!

I am afraid that most of the teams used Rally Cyprus as a test before Acropolis...

[trifonvl]

Any information about testing here??Greek guys help!!

http://www.xwmatinos.gr/forum/viewtopic.php?t=62&start=360
Peugeot team gravel and tarmac test on Wednesday near Loutraki

[Vaggelis27]

http://www.xwmatinos.gr/forum/viewtopic.php?t=62&start=360
peugeot team gravel and tarmac test on wednesday near loutraki

το ειδα ο ιδιος ειμαι :p Θα παω εννοειται

[trifonvl]

το ειδα ο ιδιος ειμαι :p Θα παω εννοειται

χαχαχα..ουτε που προσεξα το ονομα

[liposh]

english, please. There are lot of Czechs here and have you ever seen us communicate in czech language? No.

[dimviii]

I am afraid that most of the teams used Rally Cyprus as a test before Acropolis...

Pluto you will be present at Acropolis?

[PLuto]

Pluto you will be present at Acropolis?

Yes, of course :)

[trifonvl]

english, please. There are lot of Czechs here and have you ever seen us communicate in czech language? No.

You are absolutely right!!
Sorry by me..

[dimviii]

Yes, of course :)

at service park?

[Ralph-Mario]

english, please. There are lot of Czechs here and have you ever seen us communicate in czech language? No.

and few fans from germany...

[liposh]

and few fans from germany...

Ja, natürlich. Aber Sie haben den Krieg verloren so Sie müssen auch Englisch sprechen. ...Entschuldigung, ein Witz :D


original joke :
A Pan Am 727 flight, waiting for start clearance in Munich, overheard the following: Lufthansa (in German): "Ground, what is our start clearance time?"
Ground (in English): "If you want an answer you must speak in English."
Lufthansa (in English): "I am a German, flying a German airplane, in Germany. Why must I speak English?"
Unknown voice from another plane (in a beautiful British accent): "Because you lost the bloody war!"

...so end of fun, let´s get back to topic.

[makinen_fan]

Weather forecast is rainy during the weekend with storm on Saturday.

[PLuto]

at service park?

At service park, but I would like to see also ceremonial start and then maybe first refuelling zone (and then first stage).

[PLuto]

Weather forecast is rainy during the weekend with storm on Saturday.

I hope that weather forecast is wrong... But it should help that there will be no dust in night stage.

[dimviii]

At service park, but I would like to see also ceremonial start and then maybe first refuelling zone (and then first stage).

hope to find spare time between stages to see you.

[atsiotras79]

At service park, but I would like to see also ceremonial start and then maybe first refuelling zone (and then first stage).

SS1 we go together if you want, 10 mins from Service Park... :)

[Rallyper]

SS1 we go together if you want, 10 mins from Service Park... :)

I wish I´d be there to meet you all my friends! Waves then?

[dimviii]

Athanassoulas brand new fabia from motorsport italia

http://www.zougla.gr/image.ashx?fid=1810501
http://www.zougla.gr/image.ashx?fid=1810511

[dimviii]

Lukyanuk Arnautov testing wheel change
https://instagram.com/p/8imX8rsFjh/?taken-by=lehus_arnautov

[PLuto]

SS1 we go together if you want, 10 mins from Service Park... :)

To say the truth, I would like to go to ceremonial start as I have never been at Acropolis. After that I will go to refuelling before SS 1 or directly to watch SS 1, it will depends on weather.

[PLuto]

Today, whole evening was raining in Loutraki. At least temperature was not so bad, around 28.

[dimviii]

Lambros testing also at night

http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/08/1444250105418009.jpg



Breen testing today at stage Pissia

http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/08/1444242801766860.jpg

[dimviii]

https://scontent-frt3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12107787_535597063266213_3010832498688274207_n.jpg ?oh=047b2989f4a3da2c6d697d39d0d986a7&oe=56D34F81

more
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.535596786599574.1073741846.152863181539605&type=3

[N.O.T]

long day today i went to the peugeot test but was not able to catch any action apart from the service because the road to the stage was too rough for normal cars and i did not want to ruin my rally. I did went throught he Kinetta stage... the first gravel kms are really really interesting and resembles more of finland than acropolis... tough choices on what to spectate to be honest. Tomorrow i will go through Athikia stage to see if they look promising.

[N.O.T]

the shakedown stage is infested with no go areas as well... they are in some really stupid places. it will make spectating quite a pain.

[makinen_fan]

Short video from tests
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4O3mPNPJGGE

[N.O.T]

went through twice the ss 3-7 today, really nice stage some great places to watch on both Gravel and tarmac decision will be tough, even some of the hairpins in that stage could be fun to watch.

[AL14]

went through twice the ss 3-7 today, really nice stage some great places to watch on both Gravel and tarmac decision will be tough, even some of the hairpins in that stage could be fun to watch.

Time of both passes?

[makinen_fan]

the shakedown stage is infested with no go areas as well... they are in some really stupid places. it will make spectating quite a pain.

Completely idiotic, some photos:

https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12122568_10207253119276969_5563376388797376131_n.j pg?oh=ef2c22e5b5d8c5518f86e64a5616cdca&oe=5695BF4E

https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/12115953_10207253119916985_6597439889812353861_n.j pg?oh=19ce6fc3d004a1d7c892750391ce29a9&oe=56CD795B

[Jarek Z]

Thanks for your comments from the trenches of the rally guys! I always appreciate any comments, photos or videos from the local fans :up:
Here in central Europe nobody can read any Greek rally websites, so it's good to have your own impressions!

Here is a handful timetable from Kajto:

https://scontent-mxp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xlp1/v/t1.0-9/12105797_963708317005314_7241979750489066109_n.png ?oh=3c43cffc230ce2258c5744d778a51b36&oe=56CF592E

[Jarek Z]

According to Kajto's press release he only needs 16 points to win the ERC title already in this rally. 4th or 5th position in Greece should be enough to achieve it (of course it depends on leg points too).

http://kajto.pl/en?i=1&t=news&n=688&news=just_16_points_separate_them_from_the_fia_erc _title:_kajetanowicz_and_baran_on_the_verge_of_an_ epic_triumph

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen test
http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/08/1444308829771036.jpg

Serderidis in the Citroen DS3 R5
http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/08/1444290888611562.jpg

Magalhaes
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQtv_2VWwAAbKUr.jpg:large

[Vaggelis27]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp4KVkxfgrs&feature=youtu.be

[N.O.T]

Time of both passes?

sick dog pace...

[AL14]

sick dog pace...

That is because you were not nose end first enough. Weren't you?

[PLuto]

went through twice the ss 3-7 today, really nice stage some great places to watch on both Gravel and tarmac decision will be tough, even some of the hairpins in that stage could be fun to watch.

I have been going through SS 3 today and for me it is absolutely uninteresting stage. First part is uphill on wide tarmac stage, like hillclimb race, nothing for rally. Rest of tarmac part is also disaster, too wide and too fast, not interesting for drivers or spectators. Same it is with gravel parts, too fast and too wide. Only interesting places are tight hairpin in first village after long downhill, two or three tarmac hairpins in the middle part of the stage and gravel parts very close to last return from gravel to tarmac. I must say that tarmac parts of this stage are really fast and uninteresting and all czech rallies should be ashamed for using it...

[PLuto]

I was also going through SS 4 from Kineta to Mykenae, this was more interesting and also more spectacular.

[PLuto]

After rain during last night some stages will be very difficult. SS 5 was really crazy during recce tonight. And I expect it will be interesting in water splashes on SS 1...

[PLuto]

After rain during last night some stages will be very difficult. SS 5 was really crazy during recce tonight. And I expect it will be interesting in water splashes on SS 1...

[N.O.T]

I have been going through SS 3 today and for me it is absolutely uninteresting stage. First part is uphill on wide tarmac stage, like hillclimb race, nothing for rally. Rest of tarmac part is also disaster, too wide and too fast, not interesting for drivers or spectators. Same it is with gravel parts, too fast and too wide. Only interesting places are tight hairpin in first village after long downhill, two or three tarmac hairpins in the middle part of the stage and gravel parts very close to last return from gravel to tarmac. I must say that tarmac parts of this stage are really fast and uninteresting and all czech rallies should be ashamed for using it...

the first tarmac part is stupid but it will gather a lot of people because of the hairpins most of greeks go to rallies for the hairpins and to eat at the local taverns and have absolutely no idea what they are there for or any rally knowledge whatsoever.

I disagree with the gravel and the tarmac sections though. The gravel section has at least 2-3 very interesting parts and driver choices could be different especially around the fast downhill S corner around the 13.5k mark which is the one i will probably be in for the first pass, about the second time through i am undecided.

The village hairpin is indeed interesting since there is a quite big difference in elevation from one road to another but today i watched the organisers putting some big bags full of sand infront of the electricity pole and that might limit visibility. the corner with the big cut around 400 meters after the hairpins will be good i think especially on the second pass.

here is the google street view of the village hairpin... the elevation cannot be seen but is at least 1-1.5 meters.

https://www.google.gr/maps/@37.7736512,22.9630512,3a,90y,190.49h,59.49t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sZWg_RViieNaZhjHnNW7w0g!2e0!6s% 2F%2Fgeo2.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DZWg_RViieNaZh jHnNW7w0g%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_ sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26y aw%3D339.73697%26pitch%3D0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en

another hairpin which could be interesting is one shortly after the village one (do not know exactly where because i do not go to rallies for 1st 2nd gear corners) because there is a very steep downhill straight section before for at least 300 meters (maybe more) but the narrowness of the road is a disadvantage for any crazy acts.

the very fast downhill tarmac part i think needs a lot of bravery from the drivers and there are 1-2 places where you could definitely see who is the man and who is the dog, the only lowside is that visibility is not that good because of the trees and the fact that the gravel section is more interesting for me at least.

[dimviii]

http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/09/1444338116680164.jpg

http://cdn1.24live.co/images/2015/10/09/1444336989452486.jpg

[Jarek Z]

Lambros Athanassoulas's Skoda was blessed by the priest. Does anyone know how much of an influence that can have on his stage times? ;)

https://fbcdn-photos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtp1/t31.0-0/p180x540/12052467_919784481425905_5718278264053308667_o.jpg
https://scontent-frt3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-0/p180x540/12138477_919784461425907_3160459592901557716_o.jpg

[makinen_fan]

Ford did it back in 2002 too, and they won :D
http://cdn-2.motorsport.com/static/img/mgl/0/60000/62000/62100/62152/s8/wrc-acropolis-rally-2002-ford-drivers-blessed-by-a-greek-orthodox-priest.jpg

[N.O.T]

you now have an answer why Greece is such a mess on all levels... ridiculous clowns.

[liposh]

Lambros Athanassoulas's Skoda was blessed by the priest. Does anyone know how much of an influence that can have on his stage times? ;)

IMHO it could be around 0,666 s/km :D

[Rallyper]

you now have an answer why Greece is such a mess on all levels... ridiculous clowns.

So why should God bless one driver (car) and not another or all of them? Does he have favourites? No. Everyone is equal in his eyes.

[Mirek]

Guys, let's leave sarcastic or insulting comments about religions out of here. There are people from all over the world and of many religions on this board and someone could feel offended. It's better to have respect for others than making a laugh of them.

Anyway I don't see anything wrong with Priest's blessing. Would it help me? Certainly not as I don't believe in God but I'm pretty sure it can help those who believe. It's psychological thing proven by thousands of years.

[Jarek Z]

IMHO it could be around 0,666 s/km :D

That's not bad at all! On the first stage, 42 km long, that would give him over 28 seconds already at the very beginning of the rally! :)

[Jarek Z]

Guys, let's leave sarcastic or insulting comments about religions out of here. There are people from all over the world and of many religions on this board and someone could feel offended. It's better to have respect for others than making a laugh of them.

Anyway I don't see anything wrong with Priest's blessing.

Yes, I agree with you. It's a difficult subject, especially in Poland. But I hope you all know that I didn't want to offend anybody. I'm sure God has a sense of humour! At least his Pope does! :)

[N.O.T]

I do not care about anyones beliefs...given the fact that religions are about spiritual healing, blessing lifeless objects just shows the level of retardation in this country.

The Ford one was a stint back in the day organised by some useless media reporter in the country and not the ford team... the expression on the fords drivers face says it all...

[RICARDO75]

Acropolis Rally Test - Skoda Fabia R5 - Athanassoulas & Zakcheos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UPzw4Nb8Hg&feature=youtu.be

[N.O.T]

Acropolis Rally Test - Skoda Fabia R5 - Athanassoulas & Zakcheos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UPzw4Nb8Hg&feature=youtu.be

in total around 10 seconds of testing footage...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So why should God bless one driver (car) and not another or all of them? Does he have favourites? No. Everyone is equal in his eyes.

The priests blessing was surely only for a safe rally, not for their victory.

A prayer cant do any harm with some of the unusual dangers here !

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQ4HuZ4WwAAqKlw.png:large

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Alexey Lukyanuk: "It's a brain-breaking thing to understand how to drive the Acropolis Rally stages"

https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/12141736_10153734785188291_2371458884819977964_n.j pg?oh=1b5fb8b7f06017621f40563083ea5d2f&oe=56D37197

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen PET video:

https://youtu.be/Xp4KVkxfgrs

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The crews of the SEAJETS 2015 Acropolis Rally had a first taste of the Special Stages of the event, after rounding up the first day of Recce. Their program consisted of 2 passes from the Special Stages Klenia-Mycenae, Kefalari and EKO Racing Ziria that will be held on Sunday 11 October.

QUOTES
1 BREEN Craig - MARTIN Scott PEUGEOT 208 T16 R5
“The conditions we faced today were not very nice, because of the mud. But that’s how it is. In the last stage we had a rear right slow puncture.”

2 KAJETANOWICZ Kajetan - BARAN Jaroslaw FORD Fiesta R5
“The stages are really fast, with fast tarmac and gravel sections. The second one is very slippery, while the last is very fast at the beginning. The last part of it is very tricky.”

3 LUKYANUK Alexey - ARNAUTOV Alexey FORD Fiesta R5
“The stages are quite interesting and different than those we are used to, more twisty and rocky. The mud makes the surface very slippery and if it rains, it will be hard to predict how it’s going to be.”

4 CONSANI Robert - VILMOT Maxime CITROEN DS3 R5
“The second stage was very slippery with a lot of mud. The first one is very nice and the last one is in my opinion too fast, especially at the beginning. I didn’t like the last one.”

5 MAGALHAES Bruno - MAGALHAES Hugo PEUGEOT 208 T16 R5
“The second stage we did recce today is very rough, while the third is too fast. The second was muddy, because of the rain and will be much more different than the third one. The first stage we did today is known from last year.”

6 TARABUS Jaromir - TRUNKAT Daniel SKODA Fabia S2000
“The Special Stages became more difficult after yesterday’s rain. The last stage is very fast, while the second one is slippery, muddy with many rocks. I’m sure it’s going to be interesting.”

7 MARTIN Charles - SALVA Thierry PEUGEOT 208 T16 R5
“The Special Stages are very pleasant. They will be very difficult if it rains, especially because some downhill parts will be very slippery due to the mud. In general, the Special Stages are very fast and we will have a lot of fun.”

8 TLUSTAK Antonin - KUCERA Ladislav SKODA Fabia S2000
“The second stage was very muddy, while the first one is known and nice. The last one was really fast, but I didn’t really like the tarmac part of it.”

9 JEETS Raul - TOOM Andrus FORD Fiesta R5
“The gravel stages are always nice. The stages we did today are very demanding technically and also very difficult, as there are many places you can get a puncture. The last was very fast, but in general I think that the Special Stages are quite slow, they are slower even than Cyprus. Everything will depend on the weather.”

10 ATHANASSOULAS Lambros - ZAKCHEOS Nikolaos SKODA Fabia R5
“The stages are very nice, at least for the moment. SS Klenia-Mycenae is in very good condition, as well as SS Ziria. After what we saw from SS Kefalari during the afternoon, this stage was also in good condition and except from a few muddy places, the surface was good. There are planted rocks on the surface, which is hard, but I expected worst conditions there. In general, the Special Stages are good. Of course they have been better, but if we take into account the recent downpour and the period we are in, then they are in good condition.”

[trifonvl]

Day 2 recce quotes

http://acropolisrally.gr/2015/index.php/en/en-menu-media/en-menu-media-pr/97-en-art-info-2

[N.O.T]

The priests blessing was surely only for a safe rally, not for their victory.

A prayer cant do any harm with some of the unusual dangers here !

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQ4HuZ4WwAAqKlw.png:large

all these goats are going to be in pens by the time of the event... if they are not, there are many ways spectators to take advantage of that some of which i recommend and are local favourites.

http://i.imgur.com/HYaXRLv.jpg

[dimviii]

just came back from service park.
Plenty of competitors are confused about the weather, and what tyres they have to choose.

Bluuford any news about the weather for Saturday and Sunday?

[PLuto]

Today it was all day hot weather. Actually it looks like no big rain expected. Locals talks that maybe very small rain tomorrow evening and maybe something also on Sunday evening. But nothing serious like two days ago.

[PLuto]

Today I was going through SS 5 and SS 6. I must say, SS 6 is quite similar disaster like SS 3. First part on tarmac is bumpy and wide, but with more corners like in SS 3, for me it looks like on Rally Bulgaria. Second part is very wide and very fast gravel with few hairpins before finish. For mem SS 3 and 6 are the worst stages of the rally and if they will not be included in itinerary, it should be better. Lot of liaisons are more beautiful than this two stages.

SS 5 is completely different story. First part is uphill on wide gravel with fast and slow corners following faster part on the top. But in the middle of the stage character completely change to very narrow and bumpy road on red gravel, which is very slippery (and in wet conditions it should be really, really interesting - I think that 2WD cars has no chance to go through in rain conditions). Together with Mycenae stage, SS 5 is the most beautiful stage of the rally for me (I must say, I havent seen SS 1/2).

[Jarek Z]

Today it was all day hot weather. Actually it looks like no big rain expected. Locals talks that maybe very small rain tomorrow evening and maybe something also on Sunday evening. But nothing serious like two days ago.

The official website says something else - that there is a 90% chance of thunderstorms on Sunday morning:
http://www.fiaerc.com/thunderstorms-now-forecast-for-sunday-erc-stages/

[N.O.T]

The weather is quite unpredictable this time of year... no benefit for forecasts just wait and see if you are a spectator and pray if you are a competitor.

[PLuto]

This Sunday thunderstorm arrived on Wednesday evening :) It is very difficult to predict the weather and also different weather forecasts shows different prediction.

[N.O.T]

Goodmorning lazy boys... just woke up and heading to SD from athens in around 30 mins... weather seems ok now with light clouds... but it could get messy later

for SD
http://www.yr.no/place/Greece/Peloponnese/Loutraki/hour_by_hour.html

and ss1-2
http://www.yr.no/place/Greece/Peloponnese/Kin%C3%A9tta/hour_by_hour.html

[dimviii]

Good morning mates.Heading to SD too.

[PLuto]

Actually there are big clouds around Loutraki, especially in mounain on the north. But actually no rain. So we will see...

[PLuto]

I think free practice will be quite boring as there is more than two hours (7:40-9:45) for only 13 cars. And qualify will start only in 1-minute intervals instead of usual 2-minute intervals, which means 45 minute gap between last qualify car and first shakedown car...

[PLuto]

Free practice is running for 10 minutes now, but there is quite in service. No car left to the stage, nobody is in a hurry, breakfast at most of the teams...

[Jarek Z]

Free practice is running for 10 minutes now, but there is quite in service. No car left to the stage, nobody is in a hurry, breakfast at most of the teams...

Did Kirkos lose his wheel during breakfast? ;)

http://www.fiaerc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Kirkos_wheel_1-800x522.jpg

[Jarek Z]

Alright, Kajto fastest on the qualifying stage:

Kajetan Kajetanowicz (POL)/Jarek Baran (POL) Ford Fiesta R5….2m16.002s
Alexey Lukyanuk (BLR)/Alexey Arnautov (BLR) Ford Fiesta R5….+0.402s
Craig Breen (IRL)/Scott Martin (GBR) Peugeot 208 T16….+1.546s
Lambros Athanassoulas (GRE)/Nikolaos Zakcheos (GRE) ŠKODA Fabia R5….5.157s
Charles Martin (FRA)/Thierry Salva (FRA) Peugeot 208 T16….+5.962s
Jaromír Tarabus (CZE)/Daniel Trunkát (CZE) ŠKODA Fabia S2000….+6.179s
Raul Jeets (EST)/Andrus Toom (EST) Ford Fiesta R5….+6.567s
Bruno Magalhães (PRT)/Hugo Magalhães (PRT) Peugeot 208 T16….+7.775s
Robert Consani (FRA)/Maxime Vilmot (FRA) Citroën DS3 R5….+7.866s
Dominykas Butvilas (LIT)/Kamil Heller (POL) Subaru Impreza WRX STI….+8.809s
Antonín Tlusťák (CZE)/Ladislav Kučera (CZE) ŠKODA Fabia S2000….+8.904s
Dávid Botka (HUN)/Péter Mihalik (HUN) Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX….+10.279s
Labros Kirkos (GRE)/Giorgos Polyzois (GRE) Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX….No time set

https://scontent.fwaw3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-0/p480x480/12066046_993124060751822_7527136471361604248_n.png ?oh=fdabb444fec1dfe8df79f063c6784e13&oe=569F2893

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Raining now ...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQ80Kg3WwAASqD7.png

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQ81P-VWUAEWogY.png:large

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The usual pop-off valve problems on the PSA cars again ... :rolleyes:

Magalhaes 2:23.777 in QS: "I had a new pop-off but open in the all stage and I ran with no power. I don’t understand.."

Consani 2:23.868 in QS: "Better than in the FP. I changed the pop-off and have more power now.."

[Vaggelis27]

https://youtu.be/Weki-Q-29MM

[TWRC]

The usual pop-off valve problems on the PSA cars again ... :rolleyes:

Magalhaes 2:23.777 in QS: "I had a new pop-off but open in the all stage and I ran with no power. I don’t understand.."

Consani 2:23.868 in QS: "Better than in the FP. I changed the pop-off and have more power now.."
Would it be illegal or useless to install a ventilator or some kind of fresh air piping that somewhat cools the problematic area?

[tommeke_B]

Would it be illegal or useless to install a ventilator or some kind of fresh air piping that somewhat cools the problematic area?

Yes.

[Andre Oliveira]

Due to the rain and extreme weather out on the stages, SS1 SEAJETS Kineta-Loutraki has been shortened from 43.41 kilometres to 24.33 kilometres. It will now be the same as SS2 EKO Racing Kineta.

[makinen_fan]

SS1 shortened from 43 to 23km due to weather. Now it is the same as SS2.

[Jarek Z]

Due to the rain and extreme weather out on the stages, SS1 SEAJETS Kineta-Loutraki has been shortened from 43.41 kilometres to 24.33 kilometres.

Someone said here that rain will be very small or nothing at all ;)

[Jarek Z]

Are there any photos from the rally somewhere?

[AL14]

Rain in Acropolis stages could turns this into a very survival rally. Won't be surprised to see some non R5/S2000 car in the top5.

[makinen_fan]

Are there any photos from the rally somewhere?

Not a lot from QS so far

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/12109331_763392813787365_4942269617029835880_n.jpg ?oh=0868495571fa46d70b91f6f955b3d8ad&oe=568519A3
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/12088090_763399020453411_7838292527358319048_n.jpg ?oh=c3923a7de82c461db67316dd3580e5ff&oe=5684C9F2
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/12088521_536606656498587_2793397419052182196_n.jpg ?oh=1b0f40fcca7dc53e12e696395a0de408&oe=568DB825
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12105937_536606969831889_1048244177546026340_n.jpg ?oh=9d38b2d6ad7be56dc3f60876b65305f5&oe=569C2555

few more
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.536601796499073.1073741847.152863181539605&type=3

[Mirek]

Stopped in stage, stopped in stage, stopped in stage... shit :(

[makinen_fan]

Havoc in SS1!!

[mousti]

Consani:

A spectator was in the middle of the road!! How can this be possible if you are a rally fan? Guys! Please! Behave! Rally is over for us

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[Simmi]

Crazy situation for Consani. Will be interested to see the onboard of what happened.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What's going on in there ???

[TWRC]

Wow, already 2 or 3 big names down on the first stage... great times by Botka and Kajto.

[Jarek Z]

What a massacre! It seems Consani and Magalhaes are out of the rally already after the first stage! Kirkos went off the road too, but now he finished the stage losing over 21 minutes!

[makinen_fan]

Luky started the stage behind Serderidis and passed him on stage

[Mirek]

(3 - Lukyanuk Alexey / Arnautov Alexey): It was amazing how different it was. We had rally, rallycross, everything. I'm sorry we had to push Jordan, it was only chance how to pass him.

Alex had to overtake Serderidis.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

There's going to be some interesting on-boards after that !

[Mirek]

Luky started the stage behind Serderidis and passed him on stage

He said they got lost on the road section and arrived late.

[Jarek Z]

He said they got lost on the road section and arrived late.

...and got 10 penalty seconds.

[makinen_fan]

He said they got lost on the road section and arrived late.

Checked in 1min late. But why was he behind Jordan?


A lot of mud in the cars!
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/12079497_1078303855536215_4182033847638388297_n.jp g?oh=c1225a30e737034bb4cdd9b46c6caaa7&oe=569ACF67

[Fast Eddie WRC]

SS1: CONSANI stopped in stage. Broken suspension. MAGALHAES stopped in stage. Suspected gear box failure...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Alexandra Consani ‏@alex_consani 6m6 minutes ago
My apologies on @AcropolisRally it was a car which was right in the middle which forced Robert to jump on the side to avoid a collision.

[mousti]

Big misunderstanding and sorry for the previous tweet!! A car was in the middle of the road which I could not avoid and jumped in the side.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent-mad1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12119119_10153051417606583_7903218787392825748_n.j pg?oh=430189c8d1896401fede417e4265e2ff&oe=56CEB7EE

[Simmi]

Hmmm okay? That's why if I was a rally driver I would not let anyone else have control of my Twitter account ;)

[Jarek Z]

SS1: CONSANI stopped in stage. Broken suspension. MAGALHAES stopped in stage. Suspected gear box failure...

This Magalhaes' car looks much worse than just a gearbox failure...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Robert Consani ‏@ROBERTCONSANI Loutraki-Perachora, Peloponnisos
Spectators have not been misbehaving in Acropolis Rally. Thank you for your support. Still gutted as it had to happen to us..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This Magalhaes' car looks much worse than just a gearbox failure...

Look at that suspension strut.. :(

[makinen_fan]

Serderidis:

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/l/t1.0-9/10247504_536851139807472_6393104088638641903_n.jpg ?oh=18805dd42ac6c3e17132c0f8928d7399&oe=56C83F9D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It was Consani with the gearbox problem ...

[Jarek Z]

It was Consani with the gearbox problem ...

But did Consani somehow finish the stage? I see him in the results in the 23rd position, 36 minutes behind Kajto...

[Mirek]

Consani was off road.

[Andre Oliveira]

Damage to the front of Alexey's car at the end off the stage after nudging Jourdan Serderidis on the stage while he was trying to pass.

http://ewrc-results.com/quickp/20145_luky.jpg

[Jarek Z]

What a confusion with this situation of Consani! First I heard it was a spectator in the middle of the road, then that it was some (private) car and the latest version says it was a stranded car of Lambros Kirkos:
http://www.fiaerc.com/consani-avoids-erc-collision-but-gets-stuck-in-the-mud/

[Jarek Z]

So the first passage of this stage was a disaster for many crews. Now imagine driving this stage in the dark...

[tommeke_B]

Since there are very few starters it would be interesting to leave more time/space between the cars...

[Mirek]

Usually first pass (especially if it's first stage of the rally) brings a lot more dramas than the second. Just remember how many times we have had such a situation in past few years. I can remember many cases (such as Catalunya or Argentina few years back).

[Mirek]

Is the time of Lambros real???

[TWRC]

Is the time of Lambros real???
Looks like, ERC website says he's the overnight leader by 9.6s. :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Stunning time by Lambros.. any explanation !?

[Mirek]

He lives few kilometers from the stage? :)

[liposh]

He lives few kilometers from the stage? :)

...or his grandmother does :)

[trifonvl]

..or he has bigger balls....clever boys

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CQ-SaKlWwAAzIGv.jpg

[N.O.T]

just got back home... the rally was ok, nice to see Athanassoulas making the best use of the road knowledge, i think it is going to be difficult to catch him tomorrow.

Overall i am pretty dissapointed of the overal level of competitors.... only 4 drivers worth watching (and from those 4 only Lukyanuk seems to have something to show outside the Championship) and the rest just cause eye bleeding...

my pictures of SD and ss01 here

https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/albums

early wake up tomorrow at 4:00 am...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://youtu.be/r6TiHplLOC8

[Mirek]

According to PLuto neither Magalhaes nor Consani will restart :(

[N.O.T]

Everything was dry but we had rain for around 2 hours on he stage just before the start.... lets see how it goes tomorrow.

[Luis Pacheco]

Stunning time by Lambros.. any explanation !?

https://fbcdn-photos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtp1/t31.0-0/p180x540/12052467_919784481425905_5718278264053308667_o.jpg

[PLuto]

Overall i am pretty dissapointed of the overal level of competitors.... only 4 drivers worth watching (and from those 4 only Lukyanuk seems to have something to show outside the Championship) and the rest just cause eye bleeding...

For me bigger disappointment are local drivers. Except Athanassoulas, rest of the local drivers are not interesting. But most of the field chosen defensive strategy (especially after what happened in first stage), because this rally will be mainly about reaching the finish.

[PLuto]

Stunning time by Lambros.. any explanation !?

He knows the stage very well, he has done it many, many times. And especially in night condition it was big advantage for him. He was betting to that stage. I am curious how fast he should be on second leg. I dont think he will be so fast, but question is also how much will be pushing other drivers...

[PLuto]

Weather update - during whole night it was raining in Loutraki. Actually it is more than one and half our without rain, but cloudy. First two stages are completely wet and slippery with lot of muddy places, but it is not so big problem to go through. More important will be condition of SS 5, especially second part (and as this stage is in mountains, there is almost no possibility for shortening it).

[PLuto]

Since there are very few starters it would be interesting to leave more time/space between the cars...

I think two minutes were ok. During the day and also during the night. The biggest problem was crash of Kirkos, who blocked the road and nobody was signalling it to other drivers. So Tlustak spun because of him, Butvilas crashed into his car, Consani went off road because of him...

[PLuto]

Consani was off road.

Consani was off road and when he was trying to get back to road, he broke gearbox.

[PLuto]

He said they got lost on the road section and arrived late.

Lukyanuk missed refuelling and tyre fitting zone before SS 1 and must go back. Thats why he got penalty.

[PLuto]

Also one interesting story - Lukyanuk, Consani and Athanassoulas missed refuelling/tyre fitting/tyre checking zone before SS 1. Lukyanuk and Consani returned back to correct their mistake, but Athanassoulas not. So he was doing first stage without marked tyres. I am curious what will stewards do...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Surprised to wake up and find Breen leading !!

[wwbroe]

Surprised to wake up and find Breen leading !!

Seems like he was running with opened bonnet on last stage, so he might loose the lead again.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Did I speak too soon.. Breen in trouble ?!

[Mirek]

Not anymore Eddie. Misake with loose bonnet. Anyway Kajto neeeds only to cruise to be 3rd ever Polish ERC champion, Alex made a mistake on previous stage. Lambros seems off the pace of Craig today. Therefpre I think Craig can climb to first again.

[WUff1]

Luky retired after SS 4.

[N.O.T]

For me bigger disappointment are local drivers. Except Athanassoulas, rest of the local drivers are not interesting. But most of the field chosen defensive strategy (especially after what happened in first stage), because this rally will be mainly about reaching the finish.

I agree with you... the Greek drivers are a bunch of nobodies dragging their corpses around the roads... Athannasoulas is a positive surprise, to be honest he is nothing special when it comes comparing him to the international field but at least he is a rally driver who drives with rallying lines... by the way here are some pics from the "uninteresting" stage 3 :):)

https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/21464212754/in/dateposted-public/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/21900143759/in/dateposted-public/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/22060974316/in/dateposted-public/


Overall the rally was way too boring to follow more than 1 stage today... only 4 drivers were rally drivers the others were just a bunch of garbage bags with wheels...I was expecting at least the Greeks to feel motivated but the sport is dead and buried here... once my generation of rally fans die the sport will die with us...for example the place i was today was perfect and Breen/Lambros/Kaj and Lukyanuk drove it as it should... the rest gave my eye cancer.

full gallery here... i did not bother following more than 1 stage today.... no reason to waste my time just to see 4 drivers worth my time... i am no yes man.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/51932399@N07/albums

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen had wipers problem before so maybe tried to fix them and didnt secure the bonnet again ?
Silly mistake.

[PLuto]

SS 9 is cancelled due to bad weather conditions.

[tommeke_B]

2 weeks and 2 already short rallies shortened to sprints due to weather conditions...

[Jarek Z]

Luky retired after SS 4.

Yes, accident after his own mistake:
We had a problem with pacenotes, we went straight and hit a wall. Some arm and driveshaft is broken.

Also Charles Martin crashed on SS4.

It's strange. Kajto is driving very carefully, he doesn't push to the limit, but he still leads the rally.
I don't know why but I'm not relaxed, there are big emotions in my head. We have big chance and we have three stages to go. It's hard to go and do no mistake.

[Jarek Z]

Stunning time by Lambros.. any explanation !?

God led him through the night :)

[Andre Oliveira]

Acropolis Rally @AcropolisRally

Due to the extremely bad weather conditions, the rest of the event will not be run. @AcropolisRally

[br21]

Kajto new ERC Champion!

[Andre Oliveira]

So, Kajto is the new ERC champion

[Jarek Z]

End of the rally?!

[PLuto]

Finally they cancelled all remaining stages...

[WUff1]

Congrats to Kajto for ERC champion 2015!

[Jarek Z]

Congratulations to Kajto, undoubtedly the best driver in this year's ERC! He is only the third Polish driver to ever have won European Rally Championship. Before him only Sobieslaw Zasada (in the sixties) and Krysztof Holowczyc (in 1997) achieved this great success!

http://static.polskieradio.pl/c685d162-8f1e-4e8b-b6d2-6c3062fd5228.file

http://www.rallipro.com/holek/holek07.jpg

http://www.fiaerc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/1315008_105-800x533.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Congtrats Kajto !

Well deserved title with fast consistant error-free driving.

Also well done to his team for giving him a fine reliable Fiesta R5.

[Jarek Z]

Here is how Breen lost the rally:
https://scontent.fwaw3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/l/t1.0-0/p480x480/11229897_993621144035447_3535987159766805287_n.png ?oh=70b8fab9c98a350e412cd8fbbed4e587&oe=56972082

[RS]

Really pleased for Kajto because he is a good driver and a nice guy but also because it shows a privateer driver can win in ERC.

[makinen_fan]

Overall the rally was way too boring to follow more than 1 stage today... only 4 drivers were rally drivers the others were just a bunch of garbage bags with wheels...I was expecting at least the Greeks to feel motivated but the sport is dead and buried here... once my generation of rally fans die the sport will die with us...for example the place i was today was perfect and Breen/Lambros/Kaj and Lukyanuk drove it as it should... the rest gave my eye cancer.

full gallery here... i did not bother following more than 1 stage today.... no reason to waste my time just to see 4 drivers worth my time... i am no yes man.


At least you did not miss any action today!

I agree with you that the level of ERC drivers in gravel is very poor. After seeing them last year in Cyprus and from what friends told me for this year, only Kajto, Breen and Lukyanuk are worth watching...

I wonder if Breen is not disappointed for choosing Corsica instead of Cyprus. He might still had a chance for the title. Anyways, well done to Kajto.

[makinen_fan]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CRB_9pOWEAAbEof.jpg

[RS]

I wonder if Breen is not disappointed for choosing Corsica instead of Cyprus. He might still had a chance for the title. Anyways, well done to Kajto.

Breen went to Cyprus last year and the Peugeot didn't cope very well..

[Simmi]

Congrats to Katjo. Great guy. Quick on all surfaces and certainly deserved the title.

Breen made a few mistakes and collected as much bad luck as he could find. Really a character-building year and time to move on from the Peugeot I think.

[bluuford]

2 weeks and 2 already short rallies shortened to sprints due to weather conditions...
The guys who created the calendar do not know nothing about climate and weather. If you go to Mediterranean at the end of Sept or in October, it is very likely to have a strong rainfall/storm. sea is warm, land is getting cold = pretty bad storms. Spring, summer are all OK, but they do almost all these rallies in autumn (Corsica, Greece, Cyprus, Spain) .. not very clever. common sense is missing. You can buy a lot of things with money, but you cannot change the weather. I use to go to the sea with my small boat a lot.. to do fieldwork. You have to know that you cannot go to the sea if the sea says "no", even if you have prepared everything as good as possible, you just cannot force the weather.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

"When the pins are open the bonnet will open..." Craig Breen

Ridiculous mistake this time costs Breen the win and any hope of the title.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CRCgz5MWgAEHu-x.jpg

Too many mistakes this year have been more costly than his bad luck and Kajto has been just as fast and much more consistent ..

Possibly the best chance Breen will ever have to be ERC Champion and he blew it. Skoda will be back next year and the competition will be much stronger.

[tommeke_B]

Possibly the best chance Breen will ever have to be ERC Champion and he blew it. Skoda will be back next year and the competition will be much stronger.
Where did you read that?

[WUff1]

Not sure about Skoda next year, but Kopecky in ERC would be reasonable.



Really pleased for Kajto because he is a good driver and a nice guy but also because it shows a privateer driver can win in ERC.

Well, at least he got big support from M-Sport Poland.

[N.O.T]

Congrats to Kajito a well deserved title nobody cares about... ERC should be far more compact and with a format to lure up and coming drivers and also manufacturers.

About the event seems i was lucky i did not wait for a second pass through the stage.

[N.O.T]

so pluto what is your opinion about the rally from an organisers point of view... the only thing i noticed was the lack of marshals.

Here in Greece there are also some people who say the cancellation could be avoided at least for 2 of the remaining 3 stages.

[dimviii]

Just came back from rally..
Congrats to Kajto-Baran they deserved this title.
Very poor rally,just 6-7 crews worthed to watch.
Didnt saw so many stages(just 3,ss 1-2-6) due to some work at service park.
This kind of weather cant please spectators or crews.Tyre choice was always a compromise between tarmac mud,gravel.Such a tyre doesnt exist.Big differences you saw at stages was from their choice which was almost lottery.
Right choice at most stages was pirelli km4 and km6 and such tyres available,were less than 16 for all the competitors....
Most competitors didnt had enough tyres for the right choice.
Athanassoulas very good pace,some years without drive,new car,and managed to mix with top erc crews.
Lukyanuk fast but very wide and risky aprroach at some passes.
Kajto best overall,with right lines,no risk.Fast and clean.
Breen unlucky this time,as he was fast and inside the battle for win.
Botka faster by far from n4 drivers.Butvilas slower but worth to watch him.
Did i enjoy the rally? No!
Would i go if i knew that i will watch these passes i watched? No....

[dimviii]

Here in Greece there are also some people who say the cancellation could be avoided at least for 2 of the remaining 3 stages.

Greg was at Ziria,and as i left after 10 cars to go to service park,the rain was unbelievable.3rd speed at wipers and couldnt go more than 30-40km/h.That was for more than 1 hour.I came to service park and still raining hard.

Nice photos by the way,but not even one at hairpin?


Pluto nice to meet you,pitty that i didn t have more time for a coffee or beer.Next time mate.

[Mirek]

Possibly the best chance Breen will ever have to be ERC Champion and he blew it. Skoda will be back next year and the competition will be much stronger.

Unfortunately I don't expect Škoda to do ERC next year. I also thought Breen doesn't plan to continue in ERC anyway...

[N.O.T]

Greg was at Ziria,and as i left after 10 cars to go to service park,the rain was unbelievable.3rd speed at wipers and couldnt go more than 30-40km/h.That was for more than 1 hour.I came to service park and still raining hard.

Nice photos by the way,but not even one at hairpin?


Pluto nice to meet you,pitty that i didn t have more time for a coffee or beer.Next time mate.

Rain should not be reason for cancellation if the roads hold... remember Cyprus some years ago was a lot worse.

I think the main problem was the lack of specialised vehicles as rescue crews.

Overall the rally was really disappointing from every point of view, maybe we have seen the last Acropolis as a part of international competition.

[dimviii]

Rain should not be reason for cancellation if the roads hold... remember Cyprus some years ago was a lot worse..
.Problem wasnt the rain,but the mud created from rain.Havent heard something about flooded roads etc.

[Allyc85]

"When the pins are open the bonnet will open..." Craig Breen

Ridiculous mistake this time costs Breen the win and any hope of the title.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CRCgz5MWgAEHu-x.jpg

Too many mistakes this year have been more costly than his bad luck and Kajto has been just as fast and much more consistent ..

Possibly the best chance Breen will ever have to be ERC Champion and he blew it. Skoda will be back next year and the competition will be much stronger.

Rookie error with the bonnet pins, but the shocking unreliability of the 208 R5 has been the main reason for failure this season.

Congratulations to Kajto on a fast and consistent season. Would like to see Breen in the same machinery as him :)

[N.O.T]

.Problem wasnt the rain,but the mud created from rain.Havent heard something about flooded roads etc.

i have done athikia 3 times, i can assure you the stage had no mud problem and would not have a mud problem no matter the amount of water.

Also the tarmac part towards the end judging by some of the lines would have been really really good... i am going there next time... if there is one.

[RS]

Unfortunately I don't expect Škoda to do ERC next year. I also thought Breen doesn't plan to continue in ERC anyway...

What will Breen do? And Kopecky? I suppose Lappi and TIdemand will do WRC2.

[Mirek]

What will Breen do? And Kopecky? I suppose Lappi and TIdemand will do WRC2.

I thought Breen wanted to go to WRC. Kopecký will go where they send him and I'm quite sure they will not do WRC and ERC in the same time.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen had two accidents and only one mechanical putting him out of rallies, dont think he can blame the 208T16 for his failure to win the title.

Kajto had one accident and no mechanicals.

As for Skoda, even if its not the factory team, their cars will be there in 2016 and they will be the cars to to beat.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen bonnet-open video: https://youtu.be/o_k3jBkUF3w

[Mirek]

Rookie error with the bonnet pins, but the shocking unreliability of the 208 R5 has been the main reason for failure this season.

Actually not. That was true for 2014 but in 2015 it was only the case of his WRC2 campaign, not ERC one.

Jänner - accident
Liepaja - 1st
Ireland - 1st
Acores - 1st
Ypres - overheated engine caused by going off, not a reliability issue
Estonia - oil pressure problem caused by heavy landing on a jump
Barum - 7th due to a pucnture and a wheel change on stage
Cyprus - skipped for going on Corsica
Acropolis - 2nd due to a mistake with the bonnet

You can see that 2015 ERC was in no way about reliability issues of his car. He lost the fight with Kajto because Kajto was more consistent. Where Breen was strong Kajto was still good enough and where Breen lost a lot or wasn't present Kajto took maximum of the situation.

[Luis Pacheco]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=33&v=baz3pYpFrxg

[danon]

Breen bonnet-open video: https://youtu.be/o_k3jBkUF3w

Lesson - what the bonnet shape should be in case of opening to not completely block visibility and to force the driver stop to fix it.
He could keep going with limited visibility and increase downforce.

[Simmi]

Lesson - what the bonnet shape should be in case of opening to not completely block visibility and to force the driver stop to fix it.
He could keep going with limited visibility and increase downforce.

Taking some lessons from the 2003 Focus. Which was also at the Acropolis funnily enough - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mHzoRPWrus

[Mirek]

The shape is given by stock car. There is no way the shape could be modified within existing rules.

[danon]

Taking some lessons from the 2003 Focus. Which was also at the Acropolis funnily enough - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mHzoRPWrus

Focus - the right word, yet another lesson how the brain works in extreme circumstances with less visibility.
20k with open hood and only 6 secs slower than the fastest time... good example.

One more - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoDYO9Ya6DA

[danon]

The shape is given by stock car. There is no way the shape could be modified within existing rules.

Mr. Serious Armchair General,

We all know it!

That's why I used "should" instead of must or have to.

A kind of recommendation.

Thank You for the clarifying anyway.

[Rally Power]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=33&v=baz3pYpFrxg

Smarts are stronger than I thought!

Another rally with terrible weather...Breen very unlucky this time, but Katjo really deserves to be champ. Congrats to him and his codriver. Also to MSport: first time a car developed by them wins ERC title (or IRC).

Hope next year Skoda can be there entering a Junior team, and Peugeot keeps running their Academy program (maybe with another team rather than Saintéloc).

Besides experienced drivers from all over Europe fighting for it, ERC it's a great place for manus to provide new talented drivers the opportunity to compete at international level.

[RS]

Actually not. That was true for 2014 but in 2015 it was only the case of his WRC2 campaign, not ERC one.

Jänner - accident
Liepaja - 1st
Ireland - 1st
Acores - 1st
Ypres - overheated engine caused by going off, not a reliability issue
Estonia - oil pressure problem caused by heavy landing on a jump
Barum - 7th due to a pucnture and a wheel change on stage
Cyprus - skipped for going on Corsica
Acropolis - 2nd due to a mistake with the bonnet

You can see that 2015 ERC was in no way about reliability issues of his car. He lost the fight with Kajto because Kajto was more consistent. Where Breen was strong Kajto was still good enough and where Breen lost a lot or wasn't present Kajto took maximum of the situation.

I would count Ypres and Estonia as reliability issues. Ypres all he did was drive through a field with some cabbages in it. The landing in Estonia was not that bad. Do you think Fiesta or Fabia wouldn't have survived those incidents?