[WRC] Neste Rally Finland 26 - 29 July 2018

[AnttiL]

I think it's still better for Latvala to secure a podium than crash trying to win. The team needs an experienced points scorer, could he step back into that role?

[Allez Andruet]

I think it's still better for Latvala to secure a podium than crash trying to win. The team needs an experienced points scorer, could he step back into that role?
From the team's perspective, yes. But for Latvala himself, I still think that in a somewhat twisted way it would be better to crash when fighting for the victory than to drive "safely" to 3rd place (if it makes sense to compare these two extremes).

My gut feeling is that JML wouldn't be happy in that experienced points scorer role. But if that's the only way he can remain in the WRC, who knows...

[AnttiL]

He could also win Finland. Last year he was clearly fastest after getting a better start position on Saturday. He didn’t even have big moments like in 2016. And now his start position is good already on Friday.

[Allez Andruet]

He could also win Finland. Last year he was clearly fastest after getting a better start position on Saturday. He didn’t even have big moments like in 2016. And now his start position is good already on Friday.

Absolutely. Saturday was a no-contest last year. No-one, not even Lappi, had a chance against him. If JML can find a way to return to that form, the rally could well be over after Friday.

[AnttiL]

But. If he crashes, from lead or not, he’s no better than he was in Portugal or Corsica.

[Rallyper]

As said, it all comes out how things happen.

If he is in front and the car let him down -bad, but nothing to do about it. Like last year. (I was at that spot the engine stopped - :) )

Out paced in a tenth of a second battle and still a podium will not harm him.

Worse if he is 5-8, I can agree. But that will not happen without natural reasons as punctures etz..

[Allez Andruet]

As said, it all comes out how things happen.
Agreed.

[AnttiL]

BTW the stages Moksi, Kakaristo and Tuohikotanen feature roads that have been used for Toyota's tests last year, so they have advantage on them. And Tänak was testing on the small road at the third fourth of Kakaristo last year.

[AnttiL]

Press releases
Toyota https://toyotagazooracing.com/release/2018/wrc/rd08-preview.html
Hyundai https://motorsport.hyundai.com/fight-to-the-finish/
Citroen https://media.citroenracing.com/en/temple-speed

[AnttiL]

And finally M-Sport as well: http://www.m-sport.co.uk/m-sport-news/fiesta-rs-wrc/fiestas-cleared-for-finland-take-off

Only Ogier will have new aero on the car

[steve.mandzij]

If he is in front and the car let him down -bad, but nothing to do about it. Like last year. (I was at that spot the engine stopped - :) )

I wonder who's more fragile: the Yaris or Latvala's head :(

(Also I remember watching that stage live, and when the feed cut to Latvalas car it was completely still. I remember waiting for a split second for the stream to unfreeze, until I saw the car rocking slowly forwards... Heartbreaking!)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Only Ogier will have new aero on the car

"The original intention had been for all three factory cars to run the update, but Autosport understands a combination of wing damage and lack of availability of parts has made that impossible.

The update is expected to be delivered to all the works cars in time for next month's Rally Germany."

[Slazwierder]

Leaving tomorrow morning towards Finland for our second visit! Weather forecast looks quite promising ... hot! :cool:
Will probably doing some recce on Tuesday & Wednesday.

[APX]

Hello! Last time I visited rally Finland was 2007. So planning to go again this year. My question is: How much has changed - I mean these camping places beside SS. In 2007 it was quite easy to park and set up your tent quite close to SS on official camping areas, so in the morning you walk 100-500 metres and enjoy the rally cars. I know that they cost money usually. But is there enough camping areas or I can only park the car to official parking area ( no camping) or to the roads inside forest where is allowed? Sorry about my complicated question :)

[SubaruNorway]

Has anyone been able to drive into this road next to the start of Philajakoski?
It's a bit narrow and i wonder if It's closed since it's used for road section

[jeronilavila]

Hello, I have two rally pass bought online from two friends who in the end will not be able to attend the rally, if someone is interested I would sell them for 50 euros each one
I would deliver them in person on Friday afternoon in Jyvaskila.
If someone is interested we can specify by private message.

Sorry for the off topic.

[AnttiL]

Has anyone been able to drive into this road next to the start of Philajakoski?
It's a bit narrow and i wonder if It's closed since it's used for road section

I think that's usually closed for spectators

[Rallyper]

Has anyone been able to drive into this road next to the start of Philajakoski?
It's a bit narrow and i wonder if It's closed since it's used for road section

That road is closed some 5 K from start down at the bigger road.

[dimviii]

rallirinkis interview with Martin about 2003.Nice read!

https://rallirinki.net/2018/07/22/reliverallyfinland2003-markko-martin-there-was-no-way-we-couldve-both-finish-the-rally/

Solbergs interview from rallirinki
https://rallirinki.net/2018/07/22/reliverallyfinland2003-petter-solberg-if-i-wanted-to-win-richard-i-knew-i-had-to-go-a-little-bit-over-the-limit/

Gronholms interview
https://rallirinki.net/2018/07/21/reliverallyfinland2003-gronholm-that-moment-i-just-wanted-to-pack-up-and-go-home/

[Lead]

Has anyone been able to drive into this road next to the start of Philajakoski?
It's a bit narrow and i wonder if It's closed since it's used for road section

I dont know about this year, but in 2015 we used this road to acess the stage. The road was narrow, but wasnt closed back then.

EDIT: Ok, my bad, back then stage went in the opposite direction.

[SubaruNorway]

I dont know about this year, but in 2015 we used this road to acess the stage. The road was narrow, but wasnt closed back then.

EDIT: Ok, my bad, back then stage went in the opposite direction.

Did you drive up from the south? i Have seen a marshal down there when shortcutting over to the junction

[Lead]

Did you drive up from the south? i Have seen a marshal down there when shortcutting over to the junction
Yes, we went up from south. I will find out maps to see which exact acess road we used. As we arrived at the finish of the stage (this year the start) we were surprised cause there was only a couple of cars parked alongside road.

[pantealex]

Everyone remember that you can NOT put any FIRE in Finland now!
so no barbecue or any makkara heating.

[tommeke_B]

Everyone remember that you can NOT put any FIRE in Finland now!
so no barbecue or any makkara heating.

So that means no makkara along the stage? :o

[Franky]

So that means no makkara along the stage? :o

I guess you'll have vendors providing that awful thing, but think any kind of grilling or fire making in the forests is pretty much prohibited in the entire Baltic sea region. The forests are super dry and may catch fire quite easily.

[pantealex]

So that means no makkara along the stage? :o

Self burned NO, cold ones YES.

Organization will sell as usual, only open fire is prohibited.

[EstWRC]

only open fire is prohibited? so we can take our little grill with coal?

[SubaruNorway]

Here in Norway It's completely forbidden and lots of smaller fires. It can travel more than 50cm under ground even from fire pits that you think you've put out.

Has there been any fires near the rally area?

In Sweden It's crazy right now if you haven't seen the news, some not too far from Likenäs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peuL6YvQp3s

[pantealex]

only open fire is prohibited? so we can take our little grill with coal?

coal can start fire...
NO, only gas grill allowed

SubaruNorway
There are no fires near rally route, or anywhere in Finland now.

[BigWorm]

It really has been a terrible summer regarding rain in North Europe

But we all know there's no such thing as climate change....

[N.O.T]

But we all know there's no such thing as climate change....

there isn't

[Rallyper]

The severe weather situation puts me out of visiting Rally Finland this year. Me and my son have had the plans as usual since late March, but took decision yesterday evening to cancel our trip.

More important is to be close home regarding safety for rest of family staying home.

Very sad to miss the WRC event of the year. Last time I missed it was back in 2005. So twelve year in a row now broke.

I wish you all personal friends, rallyfans, average Joes spectators a fantastic rally. Be sure we will follow every minute and second on all stages. That´ll be on WRC+.

[N.O.T]

The severe weather situation puts me out of visiting Rally Finland this year. Me and my son have had the plans as usual since late March, but took decision yesterday evening to cancel our trip.

More important is to be close home regarding safety for rest of family staying home.

Very sad to miss the WRC event of the year. Last time I missed it was back in 2005. So twelve year in a row now broke.

I wish you all personal friends, rallyfans, average Joes spectators a fantastic rally. Be sure we will follow every minute and second on all stages. That´ll be on WRC+.

On the positive side you are going to be trapped in this forum with me and my intellectually superior comments during the rally.... Isn't life great ???

[Rallyper]

On the positive side you are going to be trapped in this forum with me and my intellectually superior comments during the rally.... Isn't life great ???

Yes, N.O.T. that will be the upside. And I´m serious about it.

Only wait and see the intellectual sides of us when we see the outcome of the rally...

[mknight]

Result thoughts:

There are 4 clear candidates for the win here, 3 Toyotas and Ogier.

For Toyota anything but a win and 2 cars on podium should be considered a failure, given their drivers, their unlimited testing on same stages, performance last year here and so far this year. But things can happen, Citroen was also big favorite in Corsica this year and not a single car on podium, same with Hyundai in Germany last year or Toyota in Sweden this year.

Ford had the speed relative to Toyotas last year and both Evans and Sunninen did their best as well, so should be able to fight in top. Not quite sure about Ogier approach, he might settle for 3rd or so after Friday if Neuville struggles.

I actually rank Citroen above Hyundai here, both Breen and Østberg have done very good here in the past so 5-6th for one of them should be easy. For Østberg it depends if he can stay out of trouble.

Don't think Hyundai suddenly made the car work in Finland, doesn't look they did so much testing for it either. Neuville would try some damage control in some 6th place. Mikkelsen no idea, he has always struggled in Finland and seems to struggle with Hyundai in fast stages. Paddon is anyone's guess as well, given his last have year it's most likely crash when fighting in top or safe drive for 5-7th.

[AnttiL]

Agreed, but I wouldn’t put so much pressure or expectations on Toyota, Fords and Breen will be quick as well. Neuville will have a big struggle first on the road, seems like dry roads for Friday.

[EstWRC]

Lappi and Latvala are clear favourites IMO. Especially Latvala with his excellent starting position, and like AnttiL has said and Hirvonen says in Urheilulehti that he has been testing on some of the stages past years. Suninen should also be very fast given his result and speed last year.

Ogier hasnt had the best result the past two years and we know Hyundai doesnt like those roads and Neuville starts first. i dont even know what to expect from those two.

I also agree that Breen should be good, got his first podium here and he really likes this event and has a great starting position.

Tänak has had great speed on this event but his best finish so far is only 5th. Every year (except 2012) he has made some small stupid mistakes that have ruined his rally already on Friday. For example last year when he went little wide in the first corner of Jukojärvi stage and had a puncture.

We are leaving tomorrow morning and i really hope this year we can come back with a good result :)

[famjo70]

There is a app released called Neste Rally Finland App 2018 (both Android and Iphone) that contains all information as well as maps. Access roads marked if not allowed to enter.

[famjo70]

I think that Lappi will be dangerous. Good confidence from last years win and it will be interesting to see how he tackles to be "favorite"! Latvala and Tänak will also be dangerous!

The Hyundai's I am not sure about? Starting position for Thierry looks difficult. And if Andreas and Haydon can keep out of trouble they might be in the top. But often they do some mistakes.

Ford's I think Sunninen has the best chances. He did well last year and should have good confidence and more experience this year. Also remember that there is less pressure on him. Ogier seems not to do well in Finland?

I think Breen can be on the podium, would be great for him and Citroen since they need some good results after all turbulence! Östberg seems to be candidate for pos 4-6?

It looks interesting and lets hope that it will be an open fight until the last meters of the power stage!!!

We are driving to Stockholm in a few hours to spend the night there and take the ferry tomorrow morning!

[Ucci]

Result thoughts:

There are 4 clear candidates for the win here, 3 Toyotas and Ogier.

For Toyota anything but a win and 2 cars on podium should be considered a failure, given their drivers, their unlimited testing on same stages, performance last year here and so far this year. But things can happen, Citroen was also big favorite in Corsica this year and not a single car on podium, same with Hyundai in Germany last year or Toyota in Sweden this year.

Ford had the speed relative to Toyotas last year and both Evans and Sunninen did their best as well, so should be able to fight in top. Not quite sure about Ogier approach, he might settle for 3rd or so after Friday if Neuville struggles.

I actually rank Citroen above Hyundai here, both Breen and Østberg have done very good here in the past so 5-6th for one of them should be easy. For Østberg it depends if he can stay out of trouble.

Don't think Hyundai suddenly made the car work in Finland, doesn't look they did so much testing for it either. Neuville would try some damage control in some 6th place. Mikkelsen no idea, he has always struggled in Finland and seems to struggle with Hyundai in fast stages. Paddon is anyone's guess as well, given his last have year it's most likely crash when fighting in top or safe drive for 5-7th.
I would partly agree with you, however minor corrections arised to me: Toyota (Lappi & JML) are still favourits, but this season's results are not so brilliant (except one victory and two second places, all achived by Tanak, who doesn't count as a distinctive favorite on this event), so other drivers have wider opend doors for a possible victory.
Ogier is defenitely one of them, but in the case that Neuville will not bew able to challenge him due to speed or technical troubles, he can very soon settle ''just'' for a podium place. If Ogier makes same stupidity as last year, championship dreams Nb.6 are over. So, still not an easy event for him.
Suninen can chllenge for some stage wins, but to bring Fiesta with this speed to the finish line-mission impossible. Same goes for Evans.
Breen & Ostberg: C3 is the most fragile car, I simply do not see them as a winner contender.
Neuville: I do not know, what to predict for him...last year performance was disgraceful. I hope (although I'm Ogier's fan) that he is going to finish in top3. But first day (sweeping) is going to cost him precious time....
Paddon-if he finishes under top5, he can be happy.

[AnttiL]

Also remember that Tänak and Lappi start 3rd and 4th. Latvala, Breen and Suninen are 7th, 8th and 10th

[AnttiL]

Also, concerning the M-Sport crews, hard to pick a favourite. Ogier may not have good results in the last two years and has a bad starting position, but he is strong everywhere. Suninen might have a good starting position and is fast in Finland, but inexperienced and prone to errors. And Evans...well, you can't argue that he was second last year, but this year he has struggled a lot, and how much DMacks helped him last year? Also, would they set team orders if the other drivers would be infront of Ogier

[Rallyper]

Pickems? Someone?

[Micke_VOC]

So, time to go to Finland !
Arriving tomorrow, hope i meet some of the forum-people.

To recognize me, Me usually have some Tidemand t-shirt and Pirell-cap on me =)

[eewrqt]

I'll be attending some stages, but wonder do you have to be strictly to the spectator areas?

For example here - https://i.imgur.com/XvEvuzZ.png

Green are where spectator areas are, could I walk along (well in advance, of course) the road (or through forest) to the red arrows?

[tommeke_B]

You are allowed to walk on the stage until 30min before it starts. But be careful for the first safety cars. If you are standing on a safe place and it's ok for marshalls, no problem.

[eewrqt]

You are allowed to walk on the stage until 30min before it starts. But be careful for the first safety cars. If you are standing on a safe place and it's ok for marshalls, no problem.

Great, thanks! I plan to be there an hour before so that's good. I've been to many stages before but only stayed to spectator areas. It looks a very fast straight bit of road I want to go to, so we'll be good back from the road in a safe place I reckon. Just wasnt sure if it's allowed, but on on board you often see people in random places and I always wondered how the get there

[AnttiL]

I'll be attending some stages, but wonder do you have to be strictly to the spectator areas?

For example here - https://i.imgur.com/XvEvuzZ.png

Green are where spectator areas are, could I walk along (well in advance, of course) the road (or through forest) to the red arrows?

Why would you want to spectate a 900 m straight? Also, that particular section is between two fields. Remember that you are not allowed to walk on a field which hasn't been harvested

But in general, use common sense and be in advance, you can spectate pretty much wherever you want, as long as it's safe, not private property and not destroying tree plants / crops etc.

Not sure if mentioned here but at least Apple App Store has a Neste Rally Finland 2018 app which has all spectator instructions for free

[eewrqt]

Why would you want to spectate a 900 m straight? Also, that particular section is between two fields. Remember that you are not allowed to walk on a field which hasn't been harvested

But in general, use common sense and be in advance, you can spectate pretty much wherever you want, as long as it's safe, not private property and not destroying tree plants / crops etc.

Not sure if mentioned here but at least Apple App Store has a Neste Rally Finland 2018 app which has all spectator instructions for free

speeeeeed

I'll see enough corners elsewhere

[AnttiL]

speeeeeed

I'll see enough corners elsewhere

Just go to the following junction, you’ll see the whole straight plus a spectacular hairpin

[eewrqt]

Just go to the following junction, you’ll see the whole straight plus a spectacular hairpin

Won't it be absolutely packed?

We're trying to avoid really busy places too (hence my question about if you can walk down the road a bit). It's just better in our opinion with less people there. A reason I avoid Harju stage.

On that point, I saw your great post a few days ago about best places to go on stages on Friday.. You seem experienced about the stages and places for spectators.. can I ask where you think are (or could be) good but also quiet? The fewer people there the better. We can walk if we have to!

We found this (https://i.imgur.com/Nx8K72g.jpg) place in 2016 on Horkka stage and it was really great

[AnttiL]

I don't want to start recommending unofficial places. They could be private property or otherwise forbidden.

Actually on topic, here's fresh pictures from Oittila

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di4RKjAXoAARr_m.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di4RM-IWwAA9ok7.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di4ROkBW4AACagm.jpg

https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1021773178127958017

The two first pictures are from the small road (the first 8 km), before the straight on the third picture. I would go for that small road to see something special.

But that third picture place from the straight and the junction seems great. I don't think it will be "absolutely packed" as it's Friday and the stage is run only once and it's not even the most easy junction to access (it requires a bit of walking).

But I'm quite sure if you start walking down that field on the straight, the marshals are going to get you. They don't want to be responsible for your actions near the cars, with official spectator zones so nearby.

[eewrqt]

I don't want to start recommending unofficial places. They could be private property or otherwise forbidden.

Actually on topic, here's fresh pictures from Oittila

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di4ROkBW4AACagm.jpg


Thanks, I just had a look and think I've spotted a great place just out of shot on this pic. Will definitely check it out and not bother with the straight.

I didn't necessarily mean 'unofficial' places, just places where there aren't usually so many people for whatever reason

[bluuford]

Thanks, I just had a look and think I've spotted a great place just out of shot on this pic. Will definitely check it out and not bother with the straight.

I didn't necessarily mean 'unofficial' places, just places where there aren't usually so many people for whatever reason

Just finished all Day 2 stages, + Oittila, extremely loose, and Oittila, unusually rough (some places) and loose. I must say that with new sections in stages, day 2 caharcetristics are 95% similar to Rally Estonia. Drove also those stages, and here I had very similar feeling.

[AnttiL]

Oittila, extremely loose, and Oittila, unusually rough (some places) and loose..

Second sounds like Oittila, first is Moksi?

[AnttiL]

I'm listening to this two hour special on Finnish radio. They talk about dust being a big issue this year and also the roads could wear more because it has been so dry. Some roads wear more with wet conditions, some more with dry.

[bluuford]

Second sounds like Oittila, first is Moksi?

Kakaristo and Oittila, both very loose, some sections of Pihlajankoski and Päjällä also. And yes, some places my car was hitting the bottom already in Oittila, some sections in this stage were already softer than Rally Estonia stages after second pass, steep uphills in Oittila are quite bad for normal car:)

I do not think dust is so big issue. Compared to South European rallies, I was able to see everything from my mirrors ;)

[AnttiL]

Yeah, more of an issue for spectators than competitors. More than usually, probably less than South European rallies

[bluuford]

Yeah, more of an issue for spectators than competitors. More than usually, probably less than South European rallies

Any Forum members in Service or near Hotel Alba?

[AnttiL]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di4UNp8W0AEFzpC.jpg

Double junction at Ässämäki. A nice place to spectate as well.

[AnttiL]

More interesting talk from the radio special. In this heat, maybe hard tyres could be a good option, whereas traditionally everyone uses only softs in Finland.

[bluuford]

First fast junction to the left in SS13, 400 m from start is nice, its is well hidden behind the crest, you can see road going straight but it actually turns left... I almost missed it ;)

[AnttiL]

First fast junction to the left in SS13, 400 m from start is nice, its is well hidden behind the crest, you can see road going straight but it actually turns left... I almost missed it ;)

No problem, the drivers already did it last year

Another bit of information is that the small road on the Kakaristo stage after the Kakaristo area (Pitkäjärventie) will be closed already on Friday and you cannot go camping there.

[pantealex]

Non starters for VETOMIES:
265 Koljonen
267 Rytkönen
272 Korpiaho

[AnttiL]

Current forecast shows an all-dry, all warm rally. Even the rains from Sunday have disappeared.

[AnttiL]

Ruuhimäki flying finish, also for the whole rally.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8wVRyXoAIic7U.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8wWB5WwAIIh9f.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8wX81XgAAL2RP.jpg

https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1022088849357524995

Yesterday's radio special also mentioned that its modeled after the yellow house jump, although the organizers haven't mentioned it officially.

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8RMWtWsAA9iIJ.jpg
https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/37733894_10155652957855754_5300701005812334592_n.j pg?_nc_cat=0&oh=727287404e6e3a37d1d3f67ab903abfd&oe=5BC6E28D

[Watson]

It looks quite a bit better with the livery on.

[JUF]

Arrived well and safe in Finland. Already got the rally feeling on the plane cause Mattias Adielsson was on the same flight :). Now looking forward to tomorrow, I think we've found a good spot for the Shakedown.

[Steve Boyd]

They talk about dust being a big issue this year
Any talk of needing to run at three minute intervals instead of two?

[EstWRC]

We are at the shakedown stage, p3, 15 euros parking per car , what the hell? So disappointed, totally robbing and you don’t even have recycle bins?

Ruuhimäki parking was a lot better

[Franky]

15 euros parking per car

Welcome to Finland!

[bluuford]

Any talk of needing to run at three minute intervals instead of two?

no need

[NickRally]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8RMWtWsAA9iIJ.jpg
https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/37733894_10155652957855754_5300701005812334592_n.j pg?_nc_cat=0&oh=727287404e6e3a37d1d3f67ab903abfd&oe=5BC6E28D

Much nicer diffuser, will be more effective in downforce generation than the previous one, hopefully without ruining the aero balance. The effect of the exhaust blowing appears significantly reduced though (increased gap between exhaust outlet and deiffuser trailing edge).
Exhaust blowing is of course a double edge sword - great when it is there, not so much when it disappears mid corner. The more knowledgeable people here would know (I don't) if teams are allowed to play with engine mapping to maintain high energy flow in the exhaust when driver is off throttle (on top of what is required to keep the turbo spinning).

[janvanvurpa]

I´m not a finn, .........
(Thats my thoughts)

Keep trying..Practice is the key..And it is good to have a lofty goal...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Di8RMWtWsAA9iIJ.jpg
https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/37733894_10155652957855754_5300701005812334592_n.j pg?_nc_cat=0&oh=727287404e6e3a37d1d3f67ab903abfd&oe=5BC6E28D

Cant wait see it in action. It'll be interesting to see if Ford Performance have improved what M-Sport created...

[dimviii]

"I'm very happy to be here, the break has been quite long even though I've had plenty to do, the second part of the season starts with one of the most prestigious and challenging rallies. At the beginning of the season, the key to beating Ogier will be regularity, we had 7 good races this season, except for Mexico where we took fewer points, we were regular: we won 3 heats and we were 5 times If we want to be world champion, this scenario must be repeated, "said the Belgian at the microphone of our colleague Olivier Gaspard, special correspondent of RTBF in Finland.

"The Finnish race has always been more complicated for Hyundai, we'll have to be smart this weekend and focus only on Ogier, the Toyota will be very fast: they play at home and have no limit to tests here, even if we had to lose some points on Ogier, it would not be catastrophic, "continued our compatriot.

The course is changed to about 60% compared to last year. "There will be a lot of specials played in the opposite direction, some parts are added, our car has improved compared to last year, we have worked on the aero, on the shock absorbers at the level of the landings. still the reactivity of the car But the others have worked too, so it is likely to be tight.The top 3 final of the event I would say Latvala or Tanak in the lead, then an Ogier, Neuville or Mikkelsen ", TN said.
https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_la-priorite-finlandaise-de-neuville-etre-malin-et-se-focaliser-sur-ogier?id=9981074

[racerx1979]

Lappi will take the risks and has little pressure. I can see him going all out if he gets a good rhythm going and could be untouchable.

I want to see Latvala win this just because he has had a horrible season and last year was a sad situation for him in Finland.

[HarriK]

1613
Good morning from Shakedown!
Looking from maps looks like order could be Lappi, neuville, tänäk, ogier

[Micke_VOC]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/9d4cb49ff6a4cd1a5738c5f0bb0dbd27.jpg One more Morning from Shakedown. The road looks a little damp to the end of stage, maybe they have put on some salt.


Skickat från min iPhone med Tapatalk

[dimviii]

https://twitter.com/rallyparadise/status/1022350487994216448

[Thousandlakes]

Best rally in the calendar is about to start now. Fortunately couldnt go forrests this year. No worries. Wrcplus, ewrc and this great forum helps. Tänak will be fast. Second pass in shakedown was good. Let see if he can win. Interesting to see Citroens speed aswell.

[AnttiL]

Suninen looking very tidy and fast, whereas Latvala, Paddon and Evans sideways and nervous

[Micke_VOC]

Evans on attack-mode
https://twitter.com/mickelindh/status/1022358979475853316?s=21


Skickat från min iPhone med Tapatalk

[jiipee64]

Citroens seem to be quick???

[racerx1979]

Citroens are on fire!! Ostberg fastest followed by Breen.

Maybe the shakedown stage suits their setup. Regardless the car is showing it has potential. That being said, tomorrow is a whole different ball game.

[racerx1979]

Querra jumped to inside and cut a lot off bank. A little bit more and would rolled...

Who is that?

[mknight]

Citroens seem to be quick???

Nice surprise. But remember last year Meeke was fastest on SD and nowhere near TOP after friday morning loop.

[HarriK]

Who is that?
Sorry, Guerra. Tried to modify my msg but my phone deleted it..

[famjo70]

Agree! Ogier looked fine at the right hander after P3 junction! Also Breen and Ostberg! (Go Citroen!!!)

[N.O.T]

can someone install a script in this forum so when mentally handicapped forumers take shakedowns seriously to be banned instantly for 10 years ???

[itix]

Last year on shakedown Meeke and Neuville were fastest while Lappi was 11th.
I believe the result when I see it repeat in the rally actual.

Still, having both cars with mediocre drivers in front has to be an indication of something being right for that particular road so it can't be negative.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

After "massive" changes, Citroen's WRC car tops Rally Finland shakedown and Ostberg declares he can do that pace all weekend:

https://t.co/BtLFgXTdZ5

[N.O.T]

After "massive" changes, Citroen's WRC car tops Rally Finland shakedown and Ostberg declares he can do that pace all weekend:

https://t.co/BtLFgXTdZ5

by David Evans....

LOL....

[Rallyper]

Heavy rain in Jyväskylä? Local I guess.

[Luis Pacheco]

Near Korpilathi was raining

[stefanvv]

Ostberg declares he can do that pace all weekend

Probably he can, but I'm sure others will have better one.

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/uSVmugRamKQ

[KKS]

0:14 - Gopro at middle of the road :)

[eewrqt]

Heavy rain in Jyväskylä? Local I guess.

Not in the centre (Harju) at least

[bluuford]

Heavy rain in Jyväskylä? Local I guess.

No rain here, just very smallscale heavy showers here and there

[wrc2017]

by David Evans....

LOL....

Has Otsberg learnt nothing.. always over promises.. and always under delivers

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@Craig_Breen

After a brilliant shakedown where we were 2nd fastest, Scott and I are ready to get going here at @Rally Finland !

[AnttiL]

https://youtu.be/mDFGn-c5Ws4

I was in the same corner as the first part, you can even see me at times

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/KYgS17i1Hm4

[dimviii]

"On this surface, we were not in the game last year, we worked for the best compromise between motor skills and jumps protection.This concerns the differentials and the suspension, all that is related to the We have improved ... Will it be enough? We'll see ... We want to keep the lead in the championship so we want to finish well ranked and collect points.The goal is not necessarily the win this week The 3rd or 4th place would be a good result for Neuville I think the transfers for next year We will first make the Rally Finland, we will see then ", explained Michel Nandan, main team of Hyundai, to our colleague Olivier Gaspard, special correspondent of RTBF on Finnish roads.

"The race will be on the dry side so, opening the road, we will suffer a little on the first day.It will limit the damage and make the point Friday night.I am optimistic because our last test session here s It is relatively well spent, but in pure performance, the Toyota is likely to be far ahead.We will especially focus on Ogier.The course has been changed to about 30%: We will all be tempted to cut a little inside the corners so I would not be surprised to see a little more punctures than usual, "detailed Nicolas Gilsoul, co-driver of Neuville.

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_chez-hyundai-l-objectif-n-est-pas-forcement-la-gagne-ce-week-end?id=9981551

[dimviii]

https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2018/photos/neste_rally_finland_2018/hfr_dsc_2823.jpg
https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2018/photos/neste_rally_finland_2018/hfr_dsc_2978.jpg
https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2018/photos/neste_rally_finland_2018/hfr_dsc_2934-edit.jpg

https://www.ewrc.cz/foto/44262-neste-rally-finland-2018/515/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Historics LIVE

https://www.facebook.com/WorldRally/videos/10155767267880678/

[dimviii]

small clip with Ogier
https://twitter.com/inforallyes/status/1022425974690992129

[HaCo]

Somewhere free live video anyone?

[KKS]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5S9bs4YWNug

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Re SS1 - they have put tarmac on the slope up to the gravel section so the cars should be faster on that part. :)

https://i.imgur.com/YB4u9sc.jpg

And no tractors for the chicane - its now DHL sponsored tyre barriers... :(

https://i.imgur.com/cQIcNZH.jpg

[dimviii]

michelin video
https://youtu.be/cLdddOLqGgA

[dimviii]

Tanak shake onboard
https://youtu.be/Q9-ljfRXzxo

[mknight]

Is start now or in 1 hour? Live maps say in over 1 hour while itenary says now?

[dimviii]

new medium compound from Finland
https://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/july-2018/michelin-finland-tyres/page/5597--12-12-.html

[KKS]

Is start now or in 1 hour? Live maps say in over 1 hour while itenary says now?
very reverse start order. Stage start 19:00, but WRC cars will start near 20:00

[dimviii]

Hirvonen view about spots
https://www.redbull.com/int-en/mikko-hirvonen-interview-wrc-finland-2018


nice clip with Mads
https://twitter.com/EpicRallyTribe/status/1022404613411155968

[eewrqt]

my first pic to kick off the weekend!

https://i.imgur.com/TAU4IZG.png

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5S9bs4YWNug

really cant understand whats the reason to film at the fastest rally of the season at spots with 20km/h average.
excellent video as always from Ziggysony
https://youtu.be/I-TBvW7P8kQ

[Mise]

Really looking for the battle of WRC2, hence so many drivers in there

[dimviii]

M-Sport Ford agrees for Ogier to switch to old VW damper supplier

M-Sport has agreed for World Rally champion Sebastien Ogier to switch to the same dampers he used at Volkswagen for his Ford on this week's Rally Finland.
In addition to the significant aerodynamic revisions at the rear of his car, Ogier will swap from Reiger dampers to Sachs in an effort to find further performance on a rally he has not won since 2013.
Team principal Malcolm Wilson told Autosport the change was "something Sebastien has been talking about and pressing for a while. It's really just a part of our ongoing development."
Ogier feels he knows the Sachs suspension better than the Reiger version.

His team-mates Elfyn Evans and Teemu Suninen will continue to run Reiger on their sister cars.
"Seb has done some testing with the new suspension, which gives us another set-up option," Wilson added. "He's happy with it."
Autosport understands the dampers are likely to remain on Ogier's car for the remainder of the gravel rallies, but he will return to Reiger for the asphalt events in Germany and Spain later this season.

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/137637/ogier-reverts-to-vwstyle-suspension-for-finland

[over jump]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VW55WKKeY1o

Shakedown Vesala

[dimviii]

Huttunen warming tyres before ss1
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1022527089726173185

[dimviii]

Paddon warming tyres for ss1
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1022532277014810624

Suninen
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1022533266115633152

small clip from ss1 with Rovanpera
https://twitter.com/HennaVirkkunen/status/1022530738451869696

[steve.mandzij]

Regretting the fact I overlooked Citroen in the pickems!

[mknight]

same 1-2-3 as last year in this stage

[wrc2017]

same 1-2-3 as last year

you not believing the Citroen hype wagon? what wrong now.. still the car.. or the drivers?

[KKS]

really cant understand whats the reason to film at the fastest rally of the season at spots with 20km/h average.
excellent video as always from Ziggysony
https://youtu.be/I-TBvW7P8kQ
Fast straight or corner it's too not enough to make good video. For compare same place, but first video is so booooring - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDFGn-c5Ws4 , and this (with 20 meters ahead) looks much better https://twitter.com/akikojmlfani/status/1022350889313619968

[spiderem]

really cant understand whats the reason to film at the fastest rally of the season at spots with 20km/h average.
excellent video as always from Ziggysony
https://youtu.be/I-TBvW7P8kQ

Really can't understand why official photographs are still allowed to be posted in dangerous area... must be super human thing

[KKS]

M-Sport Ford agrees for Ogier to switch to old VW damper supplier

M-Sport more and more splits for two independent teams, M-Sport Ogier Team with new aero, new and more expensive suspention and for M-Sport others. No setup sharing, no tips and so on... run two different specification of cars at one rally is it what M-Sport looking for? hm

[stefanvv]

M-Sport more and more splits for two independent teams, M-Sport Ogier Team with new aero, new and more expensive suspention and for M-Sport others. No setup sharing, no tips and so on... run two different specification of cars at one rally is it what M-Sport looking for? hm

Hyundai were doing the same for Neuville for a long time

[spiderem]

M-Sport more and more splits for two independent teams, M-Sport Ogier Team with new aero, new and more expensive suspention and for M-Sport others. No setup sharing, no tips and so on... run two different specification of cars at one rally is it what M-Sport looking for? hm

Wasn't the aero a question of spare parts availability? otherwise all 3 cars would have been fitted with it.

What i can sense from this change of damper is Ogier starting to feel the pressure and seeing the title sleeping away... Going all directions now to get a faster car as he cannot beat Neuville purely on driving.

[Tarmop]

Plus several other drivers and teams in the past and in the future...

[mknight]

I actually think it's quite risky for M-Sport to put new aero and dampers on Ogier's car with little testing (he said so in post stage interview). More downforce in the back can upset the balance/behavior of the car and it might not be easy to quickly change rest of the car to compensate.

Might even interpret it as a sign of desperation. (Same for Neuville with new aero in GB last year)

[Japé]

Jari Ketomaa had very true comment tonight in Finnish TV's broadcast, finding that when other drivers are red, exhausted and somehow lost in the end of state while Tänak does not sweat at all and is always totally fresh and relaxed even while doing fastest times in tight fights - it just comes so easy from him.

[dimviii]

https://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally%20Finland%202018/3O9A9448.JPG/_medium.jpg

more
https://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally+Finland+2018/

[spiderem]

penalty for Ogier for touching the tires chicane at SS1?!

[wrc2017]

Ogier getting SACHS on the car is a big deal. I'm very surprised.

[N.O.T]

(Same for Neuville with new aero in GB last year)

why neuville was desperate last year at GB ?

[stefanvv]

penalty for Ogier for touching the tires chicane at SS1?!

Yes, he will start after Neuvile tomorrow.

[spiderem]

Yes, he will start after Neuvile tomorrow.

:)

Very little logic this year with regards to touching chicanes...

[stefanvv]

:)

Very little logic this year with regards to touching chicanes...

;). Well it's not power stage, yet, where completely different rules apply, it's like a rally in the rally, we just don't know these rules.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Hyundai have never got a podium here so I think Neuville will play it very safe and hope the others take points off Ogier. He certainly wont want a DNF and let Ogier back into the Championship race.

Toyota are very strong here and Mikkelsen could push hard and have Paddon as back-up for Manu points.

Ogier's fight-back has to start here and his new Ford Performance aero needs to produce the goods.

[COD]

Really looking for the battle of WRC2, hence so many drivers in there

Pietarinen is my bet for a surprise there

[KKS]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYshyPv1aYg
Shake + SS01 video with Guerra and Ciamin hot moments

[KKS]

Michelin Motorsport‏ (https://twitter.com/Michelin_Sport)2 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/Michelin_Sport/status/1022710327941709826)

#tyre (https://twitter.com/hashtag/tyre?src=hash) info - Day 1 Morning - All the Michelin @OfficialWRC (https://twitter.com/OfficialWRC) drivers with 5 MICHELIN LTX Force M6

[dimviii]

Good morning guys! Hope to have a tight battle till the last stage!

Ciamin i20

https://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/44262_djdpmuxwsaa_vrt.jpg

[dimviii]

wow Tanaks first split!

[dimviii]

FRI 08:26 - SS2: LAPPI
We're hearing Lappi briefly stopped at the 2.9km mark.

[wrc2017]

road must be cleaning

[KKS]

Very early call for Lappi. Huge self pressure for him seems

[KKS]

any links for Finnish rally radio?

[dimviii]

Neuville+4,5 sec at stage end to Ogier.Not bad for 20 km stage

[KKS]

WOW!!! Ott!!!!!

[wrc2017]

I'd say bonnet open for Lappi or something

[KKS]

any links for Finnish rally radio?
https://areena.yle.fi/radio/ohjelmat/yle-radio-suomi?_c=yle-radio-suomi-jyvaskyla

Lappi told that he stalled an engine

[dimviii]

according to ewrc.cz both Mikkelsen and Lappi spun

[dimviii]

Mads with fast split

[dimviii]

FRI 08:38 - SS2: LAPPI
The issue for Lappi was an engine stall while he was braking going into a corner. He said it happened a lot during the test and should have been fixed.

[dimviii]

Ostberg with fastest 3rd split now

[mknight]

the look in JMLs face when he saw Tanaks time at the end of the stage....

[KKS]

Mads on 3rd split faster than Ott!!!!!! RALLLLYYYYYYYY

[dimviii]

Suninen with fastest split now

[wrc2017]

Suninnen?????

[rage82]

Teemu second split is just crazy!
Edit: aparently a mistake in times it was his third

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Go Mads !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Shame for Breen... puncture ruining his time.

[dimviii]

Neuville at ss2
https://twitter.com/ericdobro/status/1022717762429480961

Breen puncture
https://twitter.com/SaariJarno/status/1022720000526901248

[Thousandlakes]

Tänaks incar in the beginning of stage was crazy. Big risks everywhere. Big time differencies compare last year.

[mknight]

after stage impressions:

Teams:
Toyota's fast as expected but not so dominantly, Citroens up there (Breen also on split) Ford as well, Hyundai still seem a bit behind

----------------------
Drivers:
JML not in the right "mood" atm let's see if it changes, Lappi slow on splits even if you take the stall out. Neuville quite close to Ogier.
Let's see if Østberg and Sunninen keep it on the road without issues, we have had all sorts of cars/drivers doing well on first few stages in Finland.

[dimviii]

Lefebvre faster from Veiby andHuttunen at 2nd split

[Tauri_J]

Tänaks incar in the beginning of stage was crazy. Big risks everywhere. Big time differencies compare last year.

you know better than him?

[dimviii]

Lefebvre on problems at 3rd split.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier beaten by his team-mates despite the new aero...

[KKS]

wrc+ down now only for me?

[dimviii]

Rallirinki / Teemu

Lefebvre driving road speed. Arai caught him.

[tc10a]

wrc+ down now only for me?

working well

[KKS]

Rallirinki / Teemu

Lefebvre driving road speed. Arai caught him.

Now without Meeke this team highly equipped with "pro's"... everywhere.

[dimviii]

Paddon flat out
https://twitter.com/RafaMSport/status/1022723408189112320

[dimviii]

Rovanpera coming with amazing time

[sinepikohv]

you know better than him?

Well, judging by Elfyn's comments, he must've been talking about Tänak and/or Östberg but most probably he was referring to the both of them because they were so much faster than anyone else.

Breen's puncture is really sad and also Lappis's engine stalling...But we still have a long rally ahead!

[Thousandlakes]

Rovanperä another planet like Tänak. Go Kalle

[dimviii]

Nikara?

[Thousandlakes]

Nikara rolled

[dimviii]

Citroën Racing
‏
SS 2 – Moksi 1 (20,04 km) #WRC2

Technical issue for @SLefebvreRallye after touching a bank
#C3R5

[René]

https://twitter.com/Ralliradio/status/1022726483536687104

[KKS]

Not good pace for Lappi

[dimviii]

Nikara
https://twitter.com/Ralliradio/status/1022728461192978437

[dimviii]

https://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/44262_djf2iztxgaaoox8.jpg

[RaunoK]

There's no regular rally radio anymore? At least all I can hear is silence...

[KKS]

Lappi running with problems definitely! Not tell about spun on SS2 and now "nonono all fine"

[KKS]

Andreas very polite about Hyundai performance here :)

[dimviii]

Latvala with fast split

[KKS]

Finally JML on a rhythm!

[dimviii]

Breen 2nd faster

[Tarmop]

There's no regular rally radio anymore? At least all I can hear is silence...

Check your adblock and antivirus, mine blocked its script as harmful.

[AL14]

There's no regular rally radio anymore? At least all I can hear is silence...

Even if it works it's useless since it's just audio from all live and no more a "regular radio".

[KKS]

Arai tyre change on stage? +2min

[René]

News from Citroën: @SLefebvreRallye has been forced to retire following his issue on SS2 #RallyFinland #WRC2

[eib1]

https://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/44262_djf6yt7x0aalyr3.jpg

[RaunoK]

Check your adblock and antivirus, mine blocked its script as harmful.

Thanks, got it working on Opera. They're serving the radio over http, so it gets blocked, lol..

[Thousandlakes]

Mikkelsen off

[KKS]

Mikkelsen have some off

[Micke_VOC]

https://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/44262_djf6yt7x0aalyr3.jpg
Left junction after small road (old surkee) ?


Skickat från min iPhone med Tapatalk

[MartijnS]

Yes.

[KKS]

heh stage win for Mads )))

[KKS]

and reaction was brilliant :D

[Sub_Skoda]

Ostberg!! :eek:

[KKS]

Mikkelsen https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjGF_nhXsAEw6I-.jpg

[irish_tiger]

Check your adblock and antivirus, mine blocked its script as harmful.

When i click on the twitter links and they pop up fine but when i click on them to play nothing happens ???

[mknight]

Was checking and found out it's actually Mikkelsen's first "big" crash of the season (off course there were spins here and there). Doesn't matter if it's misheard or misread pacenote, it's still a crew mistake.

Anyway, think Hyundai will try to keep him on the road without rally2 so that he can clean for Neuville tomorrow.

[skarderud]

How was it again, useless car and useless driver? Or team?

GOOO MADS AND THORSTEIN!!!!!

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[Jewy46]

Well Kris Meeke must be fuming.

Clearly Citroen have made a big step forward with the times both Breen & Ostberg are capable of putting in, Breen saying the geometry feels great. If Ostberg is fighting near the front with this car my opinion is that Meeke would be battling with Tanak for the victory here.
Such a lost opportunity for Kris, seeing the car finally performing the way he wanted and not being able to take advantage must be truly frustrating.

On the other hand Citroen must be happy that things are finally working, but they are without a driver of Meeke's ability to take full advantage of the car and win (like he did in 2016) If Breen had avoided the puncture he would be right up there however by the looks of things!

[mknight]

Going into what ifs...

- with Meeke Citroen might not have had the money to introduce the changes
- with Meeke it's not sure the changes would have been done at all cause:
a) Østberg wouldn't be there to work on settings
b) Meeke might want different changes/settings

Getting a bit tired of all changes to the car being attributed to Meeke who was developing the car for 1 year when it turned to be crap in the first place and when real changes started first after Mikkelsen (dif), Loeb (suspension) and Østberg drove the car.

Last but not least, Breen was much faster than Meeke here last year.

[cali]

How was it again, useless car and useless driver? Or team?

GOOO MADS AND THORSTEIN!!!!!

Sent fra min SM-G950F via TapatalkDon't worry, tomorrow they have equal starting positions. If the Toyota does not break. Then again great to see Citroën progressing

[KKS]

Well Kris Meeke must be fuming.

Clearly Citroen have made a big step forward with the times both Breen & Ostberg are capable of putting in, Breen saying the geometry feels great. If Ostberg is fighting near the front with this car my opinion is that Meeke would be battling with Tanak for the victory here.
Such a lost opportunity for Kris, seeing the car finally performing the way he wanted and not being able to take advantage must be truly frustrating.

On the other hand Citroen must be happy that things are finally working, but they are without a driver of Meeke's ability to take full advantage of the car and win (like he did in 2016) If Breen had avoided the puncture he would be right up there however by the looks of things!
It will be more funny if they made this changes what Meeke pushing to do from early 2017.

[itix]

My theory is that they spent so much time trying to fix the geometry issue that they "inadvertently" created a really quick car once the fundamental problem was fixed.

[Jewy46]

Going into what ifs...

- with Meeke Citroen might not have had the money to introduce the changes
- with Meeke it's not sure the changes would have been done at all cause:
a) Østberg wouldn't be there to work on settings
b) Meeke might want different changes/settings

Getting a bit tired of all changes to the car being attributed to Meeke who was developing the car for 1 year when it turned to be crap in the first place and when real changes started first after Mikkelsen (dif), Loeb (suspension) and Østberg drove the car.

Last but not least, Breen was much faster than Meeke here last year.

Fair points well made, especially relating to Breen being quicker here last year.
I'm really glad for Craig that he now at least looks to be in a quick car. He has shown real speed already on this rally, which bodes well for the future.

Personally I just would love to see what Meeke could do with this car with this setup (however that was achieved)

[itix]

Going into what ifs...

- with Meeke Citroen might not have had the money to introduce the changes
- with Meeke it's not sure the changes would have been done at all cause:
a) Østberg wouldn't be there to work on settings
b) Meeke might want different changes/settings

Getting a bit tired of all changes to the car being attributed to Meeke who was developing the car for 1 year when it turned to be crap in the first place and when real changes started first after Mikkelsen (dif), Loeb (suspension) and Østberg drove the car.

Last but not least, Breen was much faster than Meeke here last year.

Completely 100% spot on. Meeke is not the universal genius everyone thinks he is.

[KKS]

Neuville off and damaged rear suspention

[Simmi]

Car is crabbing quite badly. He should be able to get it back to service. Strange off.

It does show how ridiculous some of those mid-season pieces were saying it was a huge championship advantage for Thierry.

[itix]

Right rear is bent... Hope he makes it to the service. Not what neuville needed

[itix]

26 secs lost to Ogier... not the end of the world. Lucky it happened on such a short stage.

...not hyundai's morning for sure!

[KKS]

Sunninen veeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeryyyy wide

[Simmi]

Suninen that was quality. Bit of a smirk at the finish too. Wasn't beating himself up for a change.

[itix]

Holy crap this rally is throwing up action early on. How did sunninen not bin that one there?
Good time from Paddon

[eib1]

https://www.ewrc-results.com/quickp/44262_djgwrixxcaabmnq.jpg

[KKS]

Neuville was very lucky to have escape road with good angle to the stage... if it happen at other place it definitely will be retire

[René]

https://twitter.com/ericdobro/status/1022774066539847680

[Mise]

Pietarinen going great. Only 14 secs behind Rovanperä. And fastest time on WRC2

[KKS]

https://twitter.com/ericdobro/status/1022774066539847680
rabbet on RR tyre

[cali]

Pietarinen going great. Only 14 secs behind Rovanperä. And fastest time on WRC2Pietarinen was very impressive in Rally Estonia too. Great new find for finns.

[AL14]

Great performance by Ott! He's driving Finland like Jari-Matti in the good old days.

Neuville's suffering opening position and made a mistake. It will be tough for him until the end of the championship, Seb is the worse of the opponents you can have and you're going to pay the most little of mistakes.

[Mirek]

Pietarinen going great. Only 14 secs behind Rovanperä. And fastest time on WRC2

Can You tell me something about him?

[dimviii]

https://scontent.fbru3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/37835272_10214950735914673_4265488246798024704_o.j pg?_nc_cat=0&oh=f1bb1877bf82c2dc4891c40a3de66b0f&oe=5BC71101
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjGb9UmXoAE1XOZ.jpg

[KKS]

Great stuff from wrc+ covering full service for Neuville and Mikkelsen. And seems like Mikkelsen going to late on TC from service due to nearly all mechanics work on car #5

[Rallyper]

Suninen very lucky twice in a row. 2017 and 2018.

[KKS]

expect 4min late for Mikkelsen

[dimviii]

760/5000
"30 seconds in Finland, we know how difficult it is to get in. The gap may increase again this afternoon.The Tanak - Toyota package is on another planet right now. the teeth and limit the break as much as possible to see what can be done Saturday with, hopefully, a better position on the road.The error of Neuville? He has done well, he loses not much, we're 7th, it's not synonymous with very big points, we'll have to whip again.At our aero package, there is still work, I'm not sure it brings us an advantage For the moment, it's a gain in some places, but a loss in others, "said the Frenchman at our microphone this afternoon.

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_ogier-l-erreur-de-neuville-il-s-en-est-bien-sorti-il-ne-perd-pas-grand-chose?id=9982322

[dimviii]

"It's always been difficult for us here, being first on the road really makes it difficult, the car is not fully developed and has never been competitive here, we knew it would be a tough weekend. In the 5th stage, there was a turn where the note was a bit too optimistic, I wanted to correct it, but there was a trap right after that. note and I got myself, "said the 30-year-old driver to our colleague Olivier Gaspard, RTBF special correspondent in Finland.

"I do not know what is missing from the car ... but it's missing something anyway! I think we'll still suffer, especially in the 6th special because there is a lot of sweeping. It will be a little better, it is necessary that all the other drivers remain in front of Ogier and take the big points, so we minimize the difference with respect to him, "concluded our compatriot.

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_neuville-on-savait-que-le-week-end-serait-difficile-ca-se-confirme?id=9982318

[dimviii]

Suninens almost crash.Watch how close to the pole he passed
https://twitter.com/planetemarcus/status/1022774913638248452

and from another angle
https://twitter.com/inforallyes/status/1022776124093464576

[dimviii]

Mikkelsen a bit wide
https://twitter.com/inforallyes/status/1022788483419701248

[Zeakiwi]

How is the dust for the drivers?

[stefanvv]

I didn't noticed issues.

[itix]

Pietarinen was very impressive in Rally Estonia too. Great new find for finns.

new find? he's 25 and has been rallying since 2012 mostly locally.

[dimviii]

FRI 14:31 - TYRES THIS AFTERNOON
All the crews have taken five Michelin medium compound tyres for this afternoon's loop.

[COD]

Can You tell me something about him?

Finnish Gr. N champion last year, first R5 event in the last Finnish Championship event last year and he won the rally. Leading Finnish Championship with a big margin this year. A great talent it seems. Like someone said before, rallied nationally for years, and has developed a lot. This is his first ever WRC event

[Mise]

Can You tell me something about him?

I wish I could

[HaCo]

TN slower than first run.