[WRC] Rally Argentina - 26/29 April 2018

[EstWRC]

very slow split4 for Meeke, +20 secs

E: he is stopped now accordint to ALllive but is moving on my map

[N.O.T]

Very fast run by sordo... Meeke will be in trouble tomorrow.

[N.O.T]

What you are talking about! Latvala won already his 2nd event with the Yaris WRC and was very good last year...

kid... Latvala won because Neuville binned it in the superspecial...

wake up.

[EstWRC]

Ott very close to Meeke now after he chanced the tyre

[Allez Andruet]

Latvala won because Neuville binned it in the superspecial...


Yeah, we all know the "challenges" you have.

[N.O.T]

Ogier gained a place from meekes misfortune...

[EstWRC]

damn i really hate the punctures, Meeke was doing so well

[Rallyper]

Meeke giving away more points to Ogier.

[Allez Andruet]

Ogier gained a place from meekes misfortune...


Latvala won because Neuville binned it in the superspecial...

Logic.

[N.O.T]

Logic.

a puncture is not the same as an accident...

[dimviii]

Sordo -56 sec from morning/foggy pass

[Allez Andruet]

a puncture is not the same as an accident...

How come when it's caused by a driving error?

[EstWRC]

uhhhhhhh, damn that Toyota nearly left Ott out!


empty damper and no power steering for sometime

[er88]

How come when it's caused by a driving error?Was it?

[N.O.T]

How come when it's caused by a driving error?

if it was a driving error then replace the word misfortune with stupidity... i did not know what caused it.

[dimviii]

How come when it's caused by a driving error?

"Had to stop and change a puncture, there was a stone in the middle of the road and I couldn't avoid it, went over it and got a puncture straight away."

[er88]

And that Toyota is wanting to break on Ott.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Did All Live show Meeke stop and change a puncture.. I didnt see it.

[dimviii]

uhhhhhhh, damn that Toyota nearly left Ott out!


empty damper and no power steering for sometime

at least he was lucky to happened at last stage.

[N.O.T]

the driving is over... cruise mode for tomorrows stages by everyone.

[ZequeArgentina]

uhhhhhhh, damn that Toyota nearly left Ott out!


empty damper and no power steering for sometime

and he still made that time?

[EstWRC]

yep

[stefanvv]

Was it?

They showed from heli he hit some bank hard, but it might not be it

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Meeke giving away more points to Ogier.

And Neuville benefitted too.

[dimviii]

SAT 15:32 - SS15: TIDEMAND
Tidemand completes the stage now, he's quicker on the splits than his team-mate, could this be his first WRC 2 class win of the day? " We just follow the team strategy, we just want to get to the finish without problems. His pace is surprising but you can't tell real pace for everyone because people can be looking after the cars on these rough stages."

[stefanvv]

And Neuville benefitted too.

Neuville and Tanak actually are losing points against Ogier.

[Rallyper]

Don´t think cruising mode on PS.

[dimviii]

how will be the drivers points if they finish as they are now?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville and Tanak actually are losing points against Ogier.

What's the difference in points ?

[stefanvv]

What's the difference in points ?

hmmmmm, let me do the complex math. *Calculating................*. The answer is 2.

[Lead]

Tanak is superb, but my driver for the rally so far is Sordo. Very mature and settle drive. Keeping it clean and simple. I almost gave up on him after last season, but he shows here that he still has something left in the tank to be between the best in the world.

[mknight]

Tanak is superb, but my driver for the rally so far is Sordo. Very mature and settle drive. Keeping it clean and simple. I almost gave up on him after last season, but he shows here that he still has something left in the tank to be between the best in the world.

Obviously the result is good. But in terms of pace he is pretty much exactly same as last year, just without the small crashes and technical issues that he had on every second rally last year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

hmmmmm, let me do the complex math. *Calculating................*. The answer is 2.

Ogier 5th to 4th = 2 extra pts
Neuville 3rd to 2nd = 3 extra pts

[focus206]

Ogier 5th to 4th = 2 extra pts
Neuville 3rd to 2nd = 3 extra pts

Neuville was already second... and I believe 2nd to 2nd = 0 extra pts

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville was already second... and I believe 2nd to 2nd = 0 extra pts

That will explain it. Sorry Stef.

[dimviii]

Gary KiwiWRCfan Boyd
‏


@KiwiWRCfan
4:45pm local time
Argentine Police have closed Copina-El Condor stage as maximum numbers for overnight camping have already been reached
#PassionateRallyFans

https://twitter.com/ma_ipp/status/990329158197743623

[PLuto]

Starting order for the final leg - https://rally-base.com/2018/rally-argentina-2018/start-list/?startTimeTypeId=888

[bomber21]

https://twitter.com/GustavoBarriaC/status/990287080025665537
WOW! Fans would love it!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier explains:
"This morning I didn't feel like taking the risks in the fog, I was just too careful, then during the rest of the day I tried but we were not as fast as we would have liked. There are days like this." #RallyArgentina #WRC https://t.co/ca2QhLqcEz

[steve.mandzij]

Gary KiwiWRCfan Boyd
‏


@KiwiWRCfan
4:45pm local time
Argentine Police have closed Copina-El Condor stage as maximum numbers for overnight camping have already been reached
#PassionateRallyFans

https://twitter.com/ma_ipp/status/990329158197743623The crowds are going to be insane tomorrow! We can only hope the WRC doesn't leave one of its most passionate rallies for a cash cow event.

[stefanvv]

That will explain it. Sorry Stef.

Nah, don't need to apologize FEW, I'm not Meeke.

[PLuto]

Cash penalty for Hyundai - http://www.rallyargentina.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Stewards-Decision-No-21.pdf

[Indreq]

Read it from twitter that Latvala and Tänak have equal number of stage wins with Toyota now - but obviously JML has taken one full season longer to get there... :P

[KKS]

Read it from twitter that Latvala and Tänak have equal number of stage wins with Toyota now - but obviously JML has taken one full season longer to get there... :P
But Tanak have one year more developed car than Latvala.

[steve.mandzij]

Read it from twitter that Latvala and Tänak have equal number of stage wins with Toyota now - but obviously JML has taken one full season longer to get there... :PAnd he's essentially done two less rallies...

[Rally Hokkaido]

Cash penalty for Hyundai - http://www.rallyargentina.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Stewards-Decision-No-21.pdf

Ah ha! One of our forum members is now famous!

[dimviii]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/47/17/WRC-Rallye-Argentinien-2018-057_471709_5ae576aed.jpg
https://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/47/17/WRC-Rallye-Argentinien-2018-050_471767_5ae576b3d.jpg
https://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/47/15/WRC-Rallye-Argentinien-2018-033_471543_5ae4260e7.jpg
https://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/47/13/WRC-Rallye-Argentinien-2018-015_471359_5ae2c3709.jpg

[EstWRC]

traffic to El Condor, yesterday!!!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Db5hcDiX4AE4tMo.jpg

[EstWRC]

Torstein Eriksen
‏

@TorsteinEriksen
14m14 minutes ago
More
SS16/18 Copino - El Cóndor (16.43 km)

Opposite direction - even more enjoyable go uphill! More control. Starts quite fast and open, but then you quickly meet narrow bridges and slow corners. No space to go wide. Enjoy


orstein Eriksen
‏

@TorsteinEriksen
7m7 minutes ago
More
SS17 Giulio Cesare - Mina Clavero (22.41 km)

Crazy stage starting on the top of the Mountain. Downhill all the way to Mina Clavero on super-narrow and twisty road in a nature of rocks. Long and demanding 23 km test!

[KiwiWRCfan]

how will be the drivers points if they finish as they are now?

drivers points if rally finished after SS15 https://twitter.com/KiwiWRCfan/status/990304442648969216

[dimviii]

drivers points if rally finished after SS15 https://twitter.com/KiwiWRCfan/status/990304442648969216

nice! Neuville and Tanak can narrow more the gap to Ogier at power stage,seems they are the 2 faster crews,and they havent got to push so much today,so they will have tyres at better condition.

[Rallyper]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/47/17/WRC-Rallye-Argentinien-2018-057_471709_5ae576aed.jpg
]

That cut could really had ended up in front right suspension damage, puncture or whatever. Obviously it didn´t.

[EstWRC]

Tyre info - Day 3 #RallyArgentina: All the Michelin #WRC drivers with 5 MICHELIN LTX Force S5 (Soft) except Al Qassimi with 6S

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Amazing crowds !

[EstWRC]

dont know, i like it more in other direction, coming down

[EstWRC]

Lappi with some problem, very slow third split

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice jump at the end by Evans.

[ZequeArgentina]

dont know, i like it more in other direction, coming down
I have done this stage as spectator many times, going up is still demanding but takes most of the thrill out. Power will be key here. I expect huge time gap to R5 cars

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice jump at the end by Evans.

Jumped a place as well with Lappi in trouble.

[wwbroe]

Lappi somle problmes with front drive train? Puncture?

[EstWRC]

puncture from nowhere, said that he didnt hit anything

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Soooo annoying Desborough talking over every car blasting off the line. Why does no-one ever tell him to STFU ?!

[EstWRC]

whyyyy ? whyy???

Tänak with some problem but didn tell what

[stefanvv]

Ogier Sébastien - Ingrassia Julien (https://www.ewrc-results.com/entryinfo/44259-ypf-rally-argentina-2018/1754924/) "It's nice to do it in reverse, it's not too rough. Okay there are a few loose rocks but not too bad. Dani's only 50sec ahead of course I'll catch him!"

[KKS]

Ogier Sébastien - Ingrassia Julien (https://www.ewrc-results.com/entryinfo/44259-ypf-rally-argentina-2018/1754924/) "It's nice to do it in reverse, it's not too rough. Okay there are a few loose rocks but not too bad. Dani's only 50sec ahead of course I'll catch him!"
Sarcasm (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier Sébastien - Ingrassia Julien (https://www.ewrc-results.com/entryinfo/44259-ypf-rally-argentina-2018/1754924/) "It's nice to do it in reverse, it's not too rough. Okay there are a few loose rocks but not too bad. Dani's only 50sec ahead of course I'll catch him!"

A bit of irony there for the interviewer.

[KKS]

If Pontus need to push - he will push! -10sec to Rovanpera

[SubaruNorway]

I have done this stage as spectator many times, going up is still demanding but takes most of the thrill out. Power will be key here. I expect huge time gap to R5 cars

You can't really use the power of the WRC so much on this stage since you only get wheelspin

[RS]

If Pontus need to push - he will push! -10sec to Rovanpera

And quicker than Suninen.

[Mirek]

I expect huge time gap to R5 cars

Actually 1,24 s/km is very very small difference. Usually it's around 2 s/km.

[ZequeArgentina]

You can't really use the power of the WRC so much on this stage since you only get wheelspin

Yes, I was clearly wrong as Pontus time is more than normal, they are evidently fighting for traction uphill on the loose

[Mirek]

Yes, I was clearly wrong as Pontus time is more than normal, they are evidently fighting for traction uphill on the loose

Also in combination of low speed corners and very high altitude the WRC loose most of its aerodynamic advantage against the R5 car.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

whyyyy ? whyy???

Tänak with some problem but didn tell what

He doesnt have a problem - he meant its hard for him to get PS points this afternoon (because others need them more and he has to protect the o/a win).

[EstWRC]

no, he had a problem, you could see he was very angry and said he will tell later...and he was looking at the display...

i suspect the engine is overheating again or the handbrake didnt work because i didnt see using it.

[ZequeArgentina]

Also in combination of low speed corners and very high altitude the WRC loose most of its aerodynamic advantage against the R5 car.
Yep, My estimation was completely wrong, I had expected that after some rain, terrain to be more packed even rocky but from times and drivers comments they are sliding everywhere

[KKS]

It's a first time that Meeke benefit on a problems and not a problem get benefit from him?

[stefanvv]

Sarcasm (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm)


A bit of irony there for the interviewer.

You both are genius!

[jparker]

Are we going to see PS live on Redbull.tv?

[Mirek]

(31 - Tidemand Pontus / Andersson Jonas): We will try, he pushed yesterday morning when he's supposed not to push so now we're trying the claim it back. It's a fair fight though, we'll see what happens.

Seems like yesterday Škoda wanted its crews to simply cruise through but Kalle didn't like that. Honestly I can understand that considering his age.

Greensmith in trouble. Veiby back to third.

PS I'm thinking whether for such young drive like Kalle it even makes any sense to try to keep him following team orders. He has a big potential to be a future winner and in my opinion it's maybe better to simply let him go for it all the time no matter what. I think that for the future they should rather develop his killer instinct instead of training the tactical skills.

[KiwiWRCfan]

18 years and a half years since Australia 1999. It's been a while since we had a finish like this.

[KKS]

Seems like yesterday Škoda wanted its crews to simply cruise through but Kalle didn't like that. Honestly I can understand that considering his age.

Greensmith in trouble. Veiby back to third.
Any sanction team will provide for that? restricted WRC2 rounds or so?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

no, he had a problem, you could see he was very angry and said he will tell later...and he was looking at the display...

i suspect the engine is overheating again or the handbrake didnt work because i didnt see using it.

I think you're reading too much into it.

[ZequeArgentina]

Yep, My estimation was completely wrong, I had expected that after some rain, terrain to be more packed even rocky but from times and drivers comments they are sliding everywhere

Probably my estimation was bias as I have memories of once going in same direction as this year (Copina to El Condor) being 5 people in a 80cv car, it really needed power!!

[RS]

Seems like yesterday Škoda wanted its crews to simply cruise through but Kalle didn't like that. Honestly I can understand that considering his age.

Greensmith in trouble. Veiby back to third.

PS I'm thinking whether for such young drive like Kalle it even makes any sense to try to keep him following team orders. He has a big potential to be a future winner and in my opinion it's maybe better to simply let him go for it all the time no matter what. I think that for the future they should rather develop his killer instinct instead of training the tactical skills.

Will Rovanperä even do enough events for a WRC2 campaign? It makes sense for Tidemand to win..

[Mirek]

Any sanction team will provide for that? restricted WRC2 rounds or so?

I don't think so.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Bad split for Meeke..

no its fixed now..

[Mirek]

Will Rovanperä even do enough events for a WRC2 campaign? It makes sense for Tidemand to win..

But for what? Marketing is fine but they didn't sign Kalle for WRC2. They will need him in the future in the best possible shape so why not to let him try to win? There is no risk. They will win WRC2 anyway no matter with which driver.

[rp]

Will Rovanperä even do enough events for a WRC2 campaign? It makes sense for Tidemand to win..

So far he is allowed to drive only 6 events. After Argentina the next will be in Finland. Then GB, Spain and Australia if Skoda will compete there.

[KKS]

Mikkelsen up 4.6 on Ogier on 1st split and 5.9 on 2nd. Only 14sec overall gap

E: 7.9 on 3rd!!!

[EstWRC]

Mikkelsen and Neuville pushing

[Fast Eddie WRC]

There was only 0.5s between them on the first run of Condor.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

3.8s gap !

[KKS]

3.8sec into last stage! Battle!

[focus206]

Good push by Andreas, but a bit too little too late... 3.8 seconds from Ogier in the PS is not wasy to get

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak is going well, no sign of a problem.

[EstWRC]

Roveanperas splits are right? faster than majority of wrc cars

[Mirek]

Roveanperas splits are right? faster than majority of wrc cars

Tidemand also faster than many WRC on first split. Many WRC drivers probably already spare tyres for PS.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Mikkelsen is fine to go flat out as his team-mates are ahead of him taking the Manu points.

[Mirek]

Is Mina Clevero all the time downhill?

[EstWRC]

no it is also reversed for this year

[KKS]

Rovanpera faster than rally-leader :D ))))

[EstWRC]

so Tänak did had some problems Eddie


unbelivable pace from Rovanpera here


E: and goes just off when i say it..second ttime this week when i curse finland guy :p

[wwbroe]

Rovanpera off???

[Mirek]

no it is also reversed for this year

Of course but doesn't that mean it's downhill? I don't know honestly.

[Eli]

WOW what a roll! (or at least the part we got to see).

[USER47]

End he went through some camp with tents, hopefully nobody got hurt...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

so Tänak did had some problems Eddie




Not much though, he was 3rd fastest on the first run of Condor.

[Eric]

Straight into a tent(?) Lets just hope no one is hurt

[KKS]

Wow

[jparker]

Good push by Andreas, but a bit too little too late... 3.8 seconds from Ogier in the PS is not wasy to get

Unfortunately for Mikkelsen, that's true. Ogier just gave away some time in order to safe the tires, so he will push on the PS, not because of Mikkelsen, but to get as much as he can from this rally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Thats why they delay the pictures !

[wwbroe]

They stopped images on all-live, so no further info

[BigWorm]

That didn't look nice, really hope there were noone near that off.

[jparker]

who crashed?

[cali]

I'm away from home, in Finland to be precise and do not watch All Live atm. Who went off, Rovanperä? Wtf is going on?? :)

[BigWorm]

Kalle went off

[cali]

Some reports in Twitter indicate that he hit a spectator....

[USER47]

Yeah, Rovanpera rolled the car through some roadside camp. The images were cut off immediately, so it's hard to say how serious it was,

[EstWRC]

I'm away from home, in Finland to be precise and do not watch All Live atm. Who went off, Rovanperä? Wtf is going on?? :)

went off and there were some cars and tents...according to twitter one spectator is hurt but i dont know if it is true

[KKS]

Here we say in this way: "grabbing fortune by the beard"
Rovanperra belive that he faster than Pontus and Tanak... it far over the line

[EstWRC]

ally Argentina
‏
Verified account

@rallyargentina
50s50 seconds ago
More
Rally Argentina Retweeted Rally Argentina
Aclaramos que los pilotos están bien y que no hay personas heridas. / To clarify: drivers are ok and there isn't people hurt

[cali]

ally Argentina
‏
Verified account

@rallyargentina
50s50 seconds ago
More
Rally Argentina Retweeted Rally Argentina
Aclaramos que los pilotos están bien y que no hay personas heridas. / To clarify: drivers are ok and there isn't people hurtGreat news, what a relief!

[cali]

Confirmed by wrc.comhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180429/c960c98b9fbd383109080a2de6373dd4.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

KR: We are both Ok, car is not.

[Essaj]

But holy sh** what kind of a pace both Kalle and Pontus were showing there. Kalle was just 4,5seconds behind stage winner Neuville at 16km's!

[KKS]

But holy sh** what kind of a pace both Kalle and Pontus were showing there. Kalle was just 4,5seconds behind stage winner Neuville at 16km's!
This must be end like that... both drive over a limit, question only was "who first?"

[steve.mandzij]

Oof, accidents on Sunday's stages in Argentina must be scary with all the people on the side of the road. Any video or something of Kalle's crash?

[cali]

But holy sh** what kind of a pace both Kalle and Pontus were showing there. Kalle was just 4,5seconds behind stage winner Neuville at 16km's!Cruise mode for the most WRC crews. Although his pace was very good

[SubaruNorway]

Oof, accidents on Sunday's stages in Argentina must be scary with all the people on the side of the road. Any video or something of Kalle's crash?

42:50min into SS17 on All live

[bluuford]

Yes, last stage was narrow, very slow and all downhill

[dimviii]

@OfficialWRC

El Condor up next! 8500 cars at the stage. 100.000 people in the stage! http://wrcplus.com #WRC #WRCLive #RallyArgentina

click for photo
https://twitter.com/OfficialWRC/status/990558736543600640

[dimviii]

Rovanpera crash
https://twitter.com/Cadena3Com/status/990589386571042817

[EstWRC]

filmed by a fan https://twitter.com/RaccaaNickk/status/990596064888672256


that could have ended so badly

[drive]

so basically just jumped/rolled over the fan tent.Very lucky noone was hurt if its true, as so many spectators are really in not so safe places..

[dimviii]

Seems like yesterday Škoda wanted its crews to simply cruise through but Kalle didn't like that. Honestly I can understand that considering his age.


i was surprised that Kalle was faster from Pontus.Now we know the reason.
Imho he had to follow the orders.

[dimviii]

SUN 11:58 - LIVE TV POWER STAGE RUNNING ORDER:
1. Tidemand 2. Al Qassimi 3. Suninen 4. Lappi 5. Meeke 6. Evans 7. Mikkelsen 8. Ogier 9. Sordo 10. Neuville 11. Tänak

[Mirek]

I just learned from WRC stream that the torque of Fiesta WRC is 5500 RPM... :eek::D

[Frostmourne]

any links for the power stage please

[cosmin_sb]

http://cricbox.net/bt-sport-espn-live-streaming-uk-hd-115/ with google chrome

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle Rovanperä has possible concussion after roll on SS14. Taken to hospital for check-up.

[stefanvv]

I just learned from WRC stream that the torque of Fiesta WRC is 5500 RPM... :eek::D

Newton will be happy.

[Mirek]

Beautiful helicopter shots!

[EstWRC]

Beautiful helicopter shots!

agreed, really love those

[EstWRC]

https://www.upload.ee/image/8382811/a.jpg

[steve.mandzij]

Beautiful helicopter shots!It might even look better uphill!

Has the stage been delayed again? In one shot there was a spectator running across the road...

[EstWRC]

Lappi so overtrying again

[Mirek]

It looked like Lappi stalled the engine for a short while in one corner.

[EstWRC]

a dog running across the track for Meeke

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier 0.5s down already

[steve.mandzij]

Meeke and Lapping absolutely flying!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Poor rally by Evans, really disappointing.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier 1.1s down to Mikk

0.4 now

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Yes Seb !

[dimviii]

very clean drive from Ogier!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville coming fast...

[stefanvv]

3 drivers same time:D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville takes it.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak 2s down to Ogier

Edit Tanak 4th on PS... great rally though... congrats !

[stefanvv]

Tanak untouchable this rally. Congrats!

[N.O.T]

Great win by Tanak... he can be a strong contender for the championship with the rallies that follow.

[BigWorm]

Brilliant win, hats off!

[Mirek]

Yes, perfect rally for Tänak!

[EstWRC]

Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh hhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[itix]

Very well deserved!

[KKS]

If Neuville will continue use his brain - it will be great championship battle!

[itix]

https://www.upload.ee/image/8382811/a.jpgI'm amazed nobody died...

[stefanvv]

I'm amazed nobody died...


the party had.

[Mirek]

Both Veiby and Greensmith in trouble on the last stage but nothing changed in the results because nobody was close behind them.

[jparker]

So, after Argentina:
Ogier: 100
Neuville: 90
Tanak: 72

[dimviii]

So, after Argentina:
Ogier: 100
Neuville: 90
Tanak: 72

Hyundai = 144 pts

M-Sport = 129 pts

Toyota = 124 pts

Citroen = 93 pts

[KiwiWRCfan]

Drivers points table sorted by average points per rally started.
With Breen, Paddon & Ostberg all back for Portugal and Sardegna it will be interesting how they look in 2 months time. https://twitter.com/KiwiWRCfan/status/990630910969106432

[dimviii]

more photos from Rovanpera crash
https://twitter.com/RallyingUK/status/990619838732267521

[focus206]

Great rally by Tanak, deserved win. If his Toyota won't let him down, he can fight for the title.
Good rally by Neuville, he got 2nd place by starting 2nd + PS victory, Tanak was untouchable so nothing more he could do.
Very good job by Sordo as well, deserved podium. This isn't Ogier's favourite rally so all in all he did good, but I expect him to find back his speed in next rallies, even if he'll have to clean the road.
Mikkelsen and Evans... meh.

[steve.mandzij]

Great rally by Tanak, deserved win. If his Toyota won't let him down, he can fight for the title.
Good rally by Neuville, he got 2nd place by starting 2nd + PS victory, Tanak was untouchable so nothing more he could do.
Very good job by Sordo as well, deserved podium. This isn't Ogier's favourite rally so all in all he did good, but I expect him to find back his speed in next rallies, even if he'll have to clean the road.
Mikkelsen and Evans... meh.Toyota again proving the village team has what it takes!

Evans and Suninen are quite big question marks and with their results it remains to be seen how well MSport will be able to defend their Manu title.

Mikkelsen was slightly better here than before and his little push today was a little redeeming point.

Championship is over for Latvala, I'm afraid. I hope he can bounce back with a win in Portugal.

[EightGear]

Quite amazing that Ogier still has not won in Argentina.

'13: Loeb won on his limited program
'14: Lost battle with Latvala
'15: Chaos, Meeke win
'16: Paddon's year
'17: Neuville vs. Evans
'18: Tanak domination

[BigWorm]

Maybe it should be Neuville-Sordo-Paddon who should be nominated for manu points in Portugal...? Sordo has been in fine form on gravel...

[cali]

Maybe it should be Neuville-Sordo-Paddon who should be nominated for manu points in Portugal...? Sordo has been in fine form on gravel...You don't need to nominate anymore, all 3 drivers are eligible to score

[BigWorm]

You don't need to nominate anymore, all 3 drivers are eligible to score

But they are fielding 4 cars in Portugal, someone has to be non-eligible.

[cali]

But they are fielding 4 cars in Portugal.Oh right... :D my bad

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans and Suninen are quite big question marks and with their results it remains to be seen how well MSport will be able to defend their Manu title.



I said from day 1 in 2018 that there is no chance for the Manus title.

For M-Sport it's just Ogier vs the rest for the Drivers, with virtally no back up to take points off his rivals.

[Kaspark]

Anyone got a link where we can watch the official podium?

[Tarmop]

But they are fielding 4 cars in Portugal, someone has to be non-eligible.

But why did they ask/hint in the end interview that "we won`t be seeing you in next few events"? Same was told before that interview in one national broadcast.

I also remember something like 4 cars in Portugal.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@MSportLtd
Four additional points in the Power Stage, and @SebOgier and Julien maintain a 10 point lead at the head of the Championship standings. Bring on @rallydeportugal where we will be as determined as ever to be back on top! 💪

#WRC #FordPerformance #RallyArgentina https://t.co/JQhwamPXnp

[BigWorm]

But why did they ask/hint in the end interview that "we won`t be seeing you in next few events"? Same was told before that interview in one national broadcast.

I also remember something like 4 cars in Portugal.

Maybe the reporter had not done the homework, but of course it could change. What I've read from Hyundai is that they want to give both Sordo and Paddon 7 events this year, that means they will have to field 4 cars in one event and that event is planned to be Portugal.

But with Sordo's form on gravel and Portugal being one of his strongest events it would be crazy not to nominate him.

[tc10a]

From Hyundais final press release today:

"....Hyundai Motorsport finished 2-3 in Portugal last season and will field a four-car entry into this year’s event with Hayden Paddon/Seb Marshall returning to action... "

[dimviii]

@planetemarcus

#WRC 2017 vs 2018 points : After 5 events in 2017 (2018)
Ogier 102 (100)
Latvala 86 (31)
Neuville 84 (90)
Tänak 66 (72)
► http://bit.ly/XL8nl9

[Indreq]

Someone should complain to FIA, there were innocent bystanders nearby (taking photos) who could have been hit if he had lost control over car :D https://twitter.com/Miguelamotta/status/990662330835927040/video/1

[dimviii]

Bulacias crash
https://twitter.com/Miguelamotta/status/990221259492462593

[Essaj]

Bulacias crash
https://twitter.com/Miguelamotta/status/990221259492462593

Two youngsters had a quite hard ones this weekend :D

[dimviii]

Michelin video
https://youtu.be/jQ2RTumNzJE

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Did Tanak or Toyota ever say what his issue was ?

[dimviii]

"I'd rather be on the podium and get a better result, but those are good points we're getting in. Thanks to the units in the Power Stage, it's more or less equivalent to a podium place. At least, this result will prevent Thierry from crying because he does not have the best car.Well, he will cry anyway because the Toyota was faster.We know that Thierry and Ott are my two rivals for the Ott has made a great rally, the battle will be tough, "detailed Ogier at the microphone of our colleague RTBF Olivier Gaspard, special correspondent in Argentina.

"Our Ford has been less efficient, I have to find the reason, I have my idea, the rally, anyway, it's always a compromise, we're aiming for the best package everywhere. season, but as in Argentina last year, we were not very fast here, we lack grip, we have to work on this point.In Portugal, we will try to do better than here.If it is completely dry there is a good chance we will suffer, we look at the general picture and we will try to do the best, "concluded the defending champion.

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_ogier-tacle-neuville-ce-resultat-va-lui-eviter-de-pleurer-car-il-n-a-pas-la-meilleure-auto?id=9905491#comments

[jparker]

In terms of total PS points collected so far:
Neuville - 14
Ogier - 12
Mikkelsen - 11
Tanak - 9

So, Mikkelsen has the speed, but probably taking safe approach so far.
Team orders/strategy could be another reason.

[rallyfiend]

In terms of total PS points collected so far:
Neuville - 14
Ogier - 12
Mikkelsen - 11
Tanak - 9

So, Mikkelsen has the speed, but probably taking safe approach so far.
Team orders/strategy could be another reason.

Maybe Ogier's total will go up by 4 more on Friday when the appeal is heard...

[Rally Power]

Congrats to Tanak/Jarveoja and Toyota for this fantastic win. The WRC title fight between Ogier, Neuville and Tanak looks promising, but the French seems always to be in control of it. Sad for Meeke; there’s little doubt that the C3 is now fixed and at the same level of the others, but Citroen drivers have been quite unlucky. A shame to see the Tidemand/Rovanpera fight ending with the young Finn crash, still he continues to impress all with his amazing speed. Next one it’ll be here in Portugal; hard to wait for it!

[AnttiL]

Hard to expect anyone else to win the upcoming gravel rallies as much as Tänak. Quick in Portugal and even won Sardegna last year. If the car holds up, nothing is stopping him.

[GigiGalliNo1]

I fell asleep last night during the Powerstage... Epic win for Tanak and Toyota! Congrats!

[GigiGalliNo1]

But they are fielding 4 cars in Portugal, someone has to be non-eligible.

Non-eligible? I thought that any three of the four drivers can score?

[KiwiWRCfan]

Non-eligible? I thought that any three of the four drivers can score?

Team can nominate a maximum of 3 drivers. Best 2 of the nominated drivers score manufacturer points.

4th driver can collect drivers points and power stage points. Fourth driver increases potential for team orders that influence drivers championship points only. The 4th non nominated driver cannot have any effect on manufacturer points.

[BigWorm]

Non-eligible? I thought that any three of the four drivers can score?


In Wales last year Hyundai entered four cars with Sordo getting dropped for manufacturers points. Mikkelsen-Neuville-Paddon was nominated for the manu points.

[EstWRC]

Hard to expect anyone else to win the upcoming gravel rallies as much as Tänak. Quick in Portugal and even won Sardegna last year. If the car holds up, nothing is stopping him.

naaah, careful with that, you never know...last year a lot of people expected him to win Poland and Finland after Sardegna win but he messed up both of those.

[mousti]

"I'd rather be on the podium and get a better result, but those are good points we're getting in. Thanks to the units in the Power Stage, it's more or less equivalent to a podium place. At least, this result will prevent Thierry from crying because he does not have the best car.Well, he will cry anyway because the Toyota was faster.We know that Thierry and Ott are my two rivals for the Ott has made a great rally, the battle will be tough, "detailed Ogier at the microphone of our colleague RTBF Olivier Gaspard, special correspondent in Argentina.

"Our Ford has been less efficient, I have to find the reason, I have my idea, the rally, anyway, it's always a compromise, we're aiming for the best package everywhere. season, but as in Argentina last year, we were not very fast here, we lack grip, we have to work on this point.In Portugal, we will try to do better than here.If it is completely dry there is a good chance we will suffer, we look at the general picture and we will try to do the best, "concluded the defending champion.

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_ogier-tacle-neuville-ce-resultat-va-lui-eviter-de-pleurer-car-il-n-a-pas-la-meilleure-auto?id=9905491#commentsOgier at his best

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G935F met Tapatalk

[GravelBen]

naaah, careful with that, you never know...last year a lot of people expected him to win Poland and Finland after Sardegna win but he messed up both of those.

I think the only reliable thing about trying to predict rally results is that anything can happen and the prediction is usually wrong.

:)

[dimviii]

naaah, careful with that, you never know...last year a lot of people expected him to win Poland and Finland after Sardegna win but he messed up both of those.


+1
we cant extract conclusions,even we have to admit that Tanak is maybe the most formed driver at the moment.
Rallies will be won, by the driver who will setup his car, in that way that he can trust to push at 100%
We saw Ogier at previous rally,untouchable.
At this rally he was lost.
the driver who will setup properly from stage 1 have the most chances.
trying to setup correctly the car at day 1,the rally is lost.Tanak (or whatever driver)build half minute difference,and you cant do something but to settle for 2nd/3rd etc.
Differences at cars are minimal imho performance speaking.

[dimviii]

Ogier at his best

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G935F met Tapatalk

thats at his best.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DcBw7EhWAAEWhTM.jpg

[dimviii]

lol

OT:
Yes, definitely I would say more or less that maybe for the first rally in my career I never changed anything. I did a small adjustment during the shakedown, after the first run, but after this everything was exactly the same. Sometimes it was difficult to come back to Service without any complaint! It’s not an easy feeling.

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-tanak-i-had-really-confident-feeling

[AnttiL]

Team can nominate a maximum of 3 drivers. Best 2 of the nominated drivers score manufacturer points.

4th driver can collect drivers points and power stage points. Fourth driver increases potential for team orders that influence drivers championship points only. The 4th non nominated driver cannot have any effect on manufacturer points.

They are entering four cars in order to give Paddon and Sordo equal amount of rallies this year. Of course the drivers and fans would love to have more of four car entries, but in practice, having the fourth car is just an expense and won't help the team in any way, except by the fourth driver helping their title contender by taking points off other drivers.

[AnttiL]

I think the only reliable thing about trying to predict rally results is that anything can happen and the prediction is usually wrong.

:)

I have predicted the winner in the last four rallies. ;)

[AnttiL]

naaah, careful with that, you never know...last year a lot of people expected him to win Poland and Finland after Sardegna win but he messed up both of those.

And he came close to messing up Sardenga (missing junction on last day), Germany (hanging in the ditch for a long stretch) and Argentina (hitting a stone, spinning and breaking the steering). All of those could have ended worse, or the Poland and Finland incidents could have been nothing. There's always an element of luck when driving on the limit.

[Essaj]

”Kalle’s speed and analysis show unique potential. Nobody could have driven faster in a WRC2-car than Kalle did on SS17. Sadly it ended in a spectacular crash..” concludes Kalle Rovanperä’s Manager Timo Jouhki.

[Tarmop]

Well, you have to find positives and he was going really fast, but in the en, even he himself couldn`t go that fast, as the result shows.

[Essaj]

"But then it all went wrong, after one flatout left hander following right was a lot tighter than we had in our pace notes and in that moment there was absolutely nothing I could have done to safe it anymore, we hit a rock which send our car flying over the rock fence, hit a tree and finally stopped in couple of parked cars." Kalle's comment from his facebook

[Rallyper]

”Kalle’s speed and analysis show unique potential. Nobody could have driven faster in a WRC2-car than Kalle did on SS17. Sadly it ended in a spectacular crash..” concludes Kalle Rovanperä’s Manager Timo Jouhki.

Well I guess a lot of drivers could even driven faster, but shouldn´t as a consequence not even have come that far. The statement should be about his perfomance on the other stages. Not SS17. At that stage he was way beyond his ability.

[AnttiL]

So far he is allowed to drive only 6 events. After Argentina the next will be in Finland. Then GB, Spain and Australia if Skoda will compete there.

I think Germany was also in the plans, as he got the permission to drive there.

[jparker]

thats at his best.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DcBw7EhWAAEWhTM.jpg

Happy moment for one Incurable Enthusiast

[krissucool]

I have predicted the winner in the last four rallies. ;)

So the only one you did not predict correctly this season was probably the easiest winner to predict :D?

[AnttiL]

So the only one you did not predict correctly this season was probably the easiest winner to predict :D?

I thought Neuville wouldn’t be so stupid again...

[dimviii]

spectators helping Veiby
https://twitter.com/RafaMSport/status/991173027718156289

[EstWRC]

Rovenperas shunt from another angle https://www.instagram.com/p/BiN1fhRlFht/

[Rallyper]

Rovenperas shunt from another angle https://www.instagram.com/p/BiN1fhRlFht/

So lucky there weren´t any spectators at the crashspot. Soft landing though (on the car)

[wrc2017]

”Kalle’s speed and analysis show unique potential. Nobody could have driven faster in a WRC2-car than Kalle did on SS17. Sadly it ended in a spectacular crash..” concludes Kalle Rovanperä’s Manager Timo Jouhki.

what bollocks. stop trying to pump him up, if he hasn't got the brains not to drive himself off the road. if I was on a suicide mission I could be quicker than Rollinpera.

[krissucool]

what bollocks. stop trying to pump him up, if he hasn't got the brains not to drive himself off the road. if I was on a suicide mission I could be quicker than Rollinpera.

Oh do pipe down, he is 17. Would be the biggest talent motorsport has ever seen if he would have the brains at that age.

[Rallyper]

Oh do pipe down, he is 17. Would be the biggest talent motorsport has ever seen if he would have the brains at that age.

But obviously he has yet a lot to learn.

[Rallyper]

what bollocks. stop trying to pump him up, if he hasn't got the brains not to drive himself off the road. if I was on a suicide mission I could be quicker than Rollinpera.

Agree.


Well I guess a lot of drivers could even driven faster, but shouldn´t as a consequence not even have come that far. The statement should be about his perfomance on the other stages. Not SS17. At that stage he was way beyond his ability.

[Mirek]

But obviously he has yet a lot to learn.

Ewrc-results lists 49 starts of him with only 4 unfinished events (3 due to driving errors). That's pretty reliable record, for driver of his age it's quite unbelievable. That recent crash doesn't change anything about that.

[EstWRC]

So lucky there weren´t any spectators at the crashspot. Soft landing though (on the car)

"There was a lady napping in the car.....she is ok, hell of scare though.
Never park or camp outside corner."

https://twitter.com/Guiye73/status/991315801218142209

[janvanvurpa]

So lucky there weren´t any spectators at the crashspot. Soft landing though (on the car)
But you can see as well as I --car was still rolling...Hit the KEY AND GO!!!!!!

(grumble ground tjafs! Kids! this is what happens when you spoil them and give them cars at 8...One little mistake and they fold their arms and quit..Harumph! Why in my did we'd crash every stage UPHILL, both ways no PS, steering with BLOODY STUMPS.....and you didn't see us DNFing! Kids!)

[Rallyper]

"There was a lady napping in the car.....she is ok, hell of scare though.
Never park or camp outside corner."

https://twitter.com/Guiye73/status/991315801218142209

Even worse then and only luck there was no fatals. Will FIA investigate Argentina safety now?

[SubaruNorway]

what bollocks. stop trying to pump him up, if he hasn't got the brains not to drive himself off the road. if I was on a suicide mission I could be quicker than Rollinpera.

One wrong pace note made in recce and now the most reliable youngster is suddenly on a suicide mission...?
If you don't stand out you're never going to get anywhere, time is running out for Pontus unless he steps up I'm afraid.

[EstWRC]

not many videos of this rally

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdSUI_bq_lQ skip to 1:20

[Allez Andruet]

what bollocks. stop trying to pump him up
Jouhki is Rovanperä's manager. He's supposed (and eventually gets paid) to pump him up. There's absolutely no guarantee, that whatever the manager says would have anything to do with the truth.

That being said, I agree with the guys who've pointed out Rovanperä's reliability and also think that Jouhki is probably one of the most non-biased managers when it comes to public statements.

[N.O.T]

poor jouhki, still lives in the era where finish managers did everything they wanted in the WRC feeding the series will garbage... then Loeb came and manufacturers realised that you have to invest into driver ability instead of managers...

That kid is nothing special... hirvonen and latvala did a lot more in his age and we see how that ended... hope his father has deep pockets because he is going to need them.

[Allez Andruet]

hirvonen and latvala did a lot more in his age
Even though you really know how to embarrass yourself, this was still pretty good.

[N.O.T]

Even though you really know how to embarrass yourself, this was still pretty good.

well winning his class in rally gb and national events in gb at 17 is far better than some youtube videos and some wins against some worthless tourist nobodies in latvia.

[Allez Andruet]

well winning his class in rally gb and national events in gb at 17 is far better than some youtube videos and some wins against some worthless tourist nobodies in latvia.
No-one's denying that. Too bad it has nothing to do with the subject here.

[Rallyper]

One wrong pace note made in recce and now the most reliable youngster is suddenly on a suicide mission...?
If you don't stand out you're never going to get anywhere, time is running out for Pontus unless he steps up I'm afraid.

Well, standing out by crashing might be a bit harsh. Some did and succeded. Some didn´t. Suicide mission? No, absolutely not. Loss of tactics, being beaten by almost all his lead? Yes.
Young drivers need hard coaching. I think they failed in doing that, this time. Don´t think it was missed pace note. Just drivving too fast trying to maintain lead. Just as simple as that.

Hope his speed will not suffer from this could have been fatal crash.

[ESTR]

I don't really remember well but I think that Tidemand had similar crash into the trees (or it was Lappi) maybe 2 years ago? It was pretty rough and with Skoda Fabia R5 in it's early years of development.

[AnttiL]

I don't really remember well but I think that Tidemand had similar crash into the trees (or it was Lappi) maybe 2 years ago? It was pretty rough and with Skoda Fabia R5 in it's early years of development.

Tidemand crashed on power stage in Finland 2016

[COD]

Jouhki is Rovanperä's manager. He's supposed (and eventually gets paid) to pump him up. There's absolutely no guarantee, that whatever the manager says would have anything to do with the truth.

That being said, I agree with the guys who've pointed out Rovanperä's reliability and also think that Jouhki is probably one of the most non-biased managers when it comes to public statements.

He is the MOST biased. He has praised Hirvonen and Latvala as future champions. Hirvonen never was and Latvala never will be.

[Rally Power]

+1
we cant extract conclusions,even we have to admit that Tanak is maybe the most formed driver at the moment.
Rallies will be won, by the driver who will setup his car, in that way that he can trust to push at 100%
We saw Ogier at previous rally,untouchable.
At this rally he was lost.

Maybe he was lost on the set up or maybe he simply felt he should avoid taking risks on such a rough terrain, as he was/is the series leader…

Besides his undisputed speed, Ogier has developed a superior tactical sense, which was essential to last year title. Others may match his speed, but only he is able to mix ‘maximum attack’ and ‘safe mode’ in a series winning way.


PS: Rovanpera is a fantastic driver and this kind of accidents is part of his learning process; still, his manager comment sounded a bit like the ‘look Mom, no hands’ joke...

[Mirek]

I don't really remember well but I think that Tidemand had similar crash into the trees (or it was Lappi) maybe 2 years ago? It was pretty rough and with Skoda Fabia R5 in it's early years of development.

Here You go: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=4&v=DT44-BxZkBM

And Veiby as well: https://youtu.be/Ty9h4zEbT7o?t=31

The point is that near everyone had such crash. Hell even never crashing Kopecký had a monstrous crash in 2003 in which he or his co-driver could have died - that crash was likely worse than those of Rovanperä, Tidemand and Veiby combined ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z47SZtahk20 ). Even Ogier had a crash which could have been fatal ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADPRs_AswDQ ) The point is to learn from the accidents not to be scared to crash from the beginning. You won't win anything if you drive thinking about how not to crash.

[ESTR]

Master of crashes is we all know who. Award goes to Kubica. Last year to Meeke

[bluuford]

Huh, I am tired, just reached home. Just wanted to tell that Rally Argentina is the best event in my mind, safety is actually very good, imagine any other event in the calendar where you have 100 000 spectators in 16 km? and no problems? And if you look at Rovanperas accident site. Did you see anyone walking or spectating there? No, because it was not allowed. Why tents were there? have you been on that stage? It is mostly stones and not very smooth surface, spectators come there couple of days before, they can put their tents there but they are not there during the stage.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Huh, I am tired, just reached home. Just wanted to tell that Rally Argentina is the best event in my mind, safety is actually very good, imagine any other event in the calendar where you have 100 000 spectators in 16 km? and no problems? And if you look at Rovanperas accident site. Did you see anyone walking or spectating there? No, because it was not allowed. Why tents were there? have you been on that stage? It is mostly stones and not very smooth surface, spectators come there couple of days before, they can put their tents there but they are not there during the stage.

100% agree with you Bluuford, from what I experienced in Argentina 2017 spectator safety was very good. What really impressed me is how spectators policed themselves, if someone was in a bad place other responsible spectators were very quick to let them know that they needed to move to somewhere safer. 1000's of people who do not want a stage cancelled can actually self police themselves very well.
I would go as far as to say the self controlling by spectators I witnessed in Argentina was better than what I have witnessed in NZ or Australia.

[Allez Andruet]

He is the MOST biased. He has praised Hirvonen and Latvala as future champions. Hirvonen never was and Latvala never will be.

Well the rest must be really Mother Teresa-esque people then, if the most biased award goes to Jouhki for praising that his client, who end up being a four-time runner-up for the title (and came 1 point shy of dethroning Loeb) would be a future champion :D

[AnttiL]

100% agree with you Bluuford, from what I experienced in Argentina 2017 spectator safety was very good.

https://youtu.be/MzwH5Gutbd8?t=26s :imubash:

[Tarmop]

Something you can find on every rally. Just one of those events that attracts every kind of "fans", could be said about motorsport in general.

[AnttiL]

well winning his class in rally gb and national events in gb at 17

who did this?

[dimviii]

lucky dog
https://twitter.com/MundialdeRallys/status/991343832271814656

[dimviii]

"I felt confident throughout the weekend, even when fighting for the podium. I felt that I had the situation under control at all times. We need to keep going in this direction."
He added that while the changes didn't bring more speed out of the car, the increase in confidence allowed him to push for quicker stage times.
"Putting on a new geometry doesn't get you from A to B any faster but if it gives you confidence that breeds speed and time. Before this rally, I was able to push to do good times but the car was a lot more nervous - you felt like a passenger," he explained.
With no further gravel testing scheduled before Vodafone Rally de Portugal (17-20 May) Meeke decided to use Sunday's three stages as an opportunity to experiment with different set-ups ahead of the championship's next round.

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/may-2018/meeke-car-upgrades/page/5416--12-12-.html