[WRC] Neste Rally Finland 1st-4th August 2019

[AnttiL]

Yeah, the forecasts will change during the week. But the Friday weather is the crucial one. The slightest amount of dampness would help Tänak, but as of now it seems there's nothing available.

[er88]

Doubt it matters Ott starting 1st, I'd be surprised if he doesn't win the event regardless. Although the cleaning can/will make a difference, it's not as bad as certain other events and we've seen Ott cope remarkably well with the cleaning effects this year anyway.

Only way I can see him even challenged is if Jari comes with a good mentality, makes no mistakes and has a brilliant Friday. Or maybe Suninen as an outside bet.
I would've put Meeke in that mix as well, but him not being there last year (when the route changed massively from previous years) will probably harm his chances.

[Allez Andruet]

The question is, how much would Tänak have to lose on Friday not to win the rally? I think that gap of even 25-30 secs would be fine for him after Friday. No-one's safe from the superman.

[Tauri_J]

https://youtu.be/EzlUr2nmQM0?t=60

Which stage? Thanks

[Luis Pacheco]

First jump is Paijala stage few km before the "famous" curve.

[AnttiL]

Looks dry now though

Now shows rain for Sunday again

[AnttiL]

Doubt it matters Ott starting 1st, I'd be surprised if he doesn't win the event regardless. Although the cleaning can/will make a difference, it's not as bad as certain other events and we've seen Ott cope remarkably well with the cleaning effects this year anyway.

Only way I can see him even challenged is if Jari comes with a good mentality, makes no mistakes and has a brilliant Friday. Or maybe Suninen as an outside bet.
I would've put Meeke in that mix as well, but him not being there last year (when the route changed massively from previous years) will probably harm his chances.

I could see Tänak being in the top 5 after cleaning the road on Friday, then having a better road position for Saturday and winning all the stages, like in Sardegna. I see Latvala as Tänak's biggest challenger, with a great road position on Friday. Will Mäkinen issue team orders?

Also one interesting thing about Latvala: now he starts so late that he will hear Ott's end of the stage comments and hear the times before starting the stages himself. It will be important for him mentally.

[er88]

Will Mäkinen issue team orders?

Yes and no imo. I don't think Makinen will intervene during the rally, but reckon after the rally is finished Jari could be ordered to check in late to the final time control or something (if he beats Tanak). That way Jari still has the feeling of winning the event on the stages, but Tanak gets the 25pts.

Makinen hasn't issued many team orders in the past iirc? And in Portugal it sounded from what Meeke was saying on Sunday morning, it was going to be sorted out after the final stage if he had managed to overhaul Tanak.

[Allez Andruet]

Will Mäkinen issue team orders?
Hell no. And if he ever was to, it won't be in Finland. No matter what.

[pantealex]

Hell no. And if he ever was to, it won't be in Finland. No matter what.

I also believe in this. Japanise mentality is against it.

[pantealex]

Official temperature of Jyväskylä was 32,2 yesterday but it´s getting much much colder tomorrow

[Tarmop]

That`s to put it nicely. You could say, that spring/autumn or even winter is coming to the region ( as those degrees also tend to be normal in December-February nowadays).:D

Hopefully it will change.

[Oliverk]

So. Whats with the access road that are not marked closed in official program. Closed from main road or from 200 m till stage like normally?

[SubaruNorway]

They sure know how to get your mood down in Finland on a Monday, hopefully it's just someone being a stickler with the video rules...
https://twitter.com/RallyFinland/status/1155734704479510528?s=20

Most of the time you have to check the entry roads, some are even blocked later on by land owners like it has been into that small new loop on Päijälä from the east (Has been possible to get in anyway, also from the west)

[tommeke_B]

I remember from world rallycross videos got taken offline by the promotor. Not sure if that's possible to do for WRC. Anyway it would be very stupid.

[pantealex]

Video rule is same in every WRC event, don´t blame us finns.

[AnttiL]

Video rule is same in every WRC event, don´t blame us finns.

exactly. I'm pretty sure they tweeted the same a year ago. Thus I was a bit hesitant to post a short video I shot from the shakedown, but having seen the official Rally Finland account themselves retweet spectator videos, I figured it can't be bad.

[AnttiL]

Current weather forecast is largely dry. Friday will still be warm as in 10-20 °C but it gets colder during the weekend with Sunday only at 8-12°C.

[Got Mail]

I find it strange that MSport haven't managed to find a replacement for Gus's original WRC2 entry.

Perhaps the FIA would not allow it.

[AnttiL]

I find it strange that MSport haven't managed to find a replacement for Gus's original WRC2 entry.

Perhaps the FIA would not allow it.

Do you have any idea how M-Sport works as a rally team? They don't just give cars to people. Greensmith brings budget to the team. His sponsors would have financed the R5 car and now they finance the WRC car instead.

[Got Mail]

Do you have any idea how M-Sport works as a rally team? They don't just give cars to people. Greensmith brings budget to the team. His sponsors would have financed the R5 car and now they finance the WRC car instead.

Yes - I have pretty good knowledge of the financial arrangements. But thank you for your concern.

I'm just surprised that they haven't placed this opportunity with another driver who would fetch the necessary budget.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Do you have any idea how M-Sport works as a rally team? They don't just give cars to people. Greensmith brings budget to the team. His sponsors would have financed the R5 car and now they finance the WRC car instead.

M-Sport had already planned finance for Evans' car. They needed Greensmith to replace him as its driver for the team. He has thanked them for giving it to him for Finland. He may have made a contribution, but we dont know.

Someone would have to pay to drive Greensmith's R5 however.

[Portimao]

I find it strange that MSport haven't managed to find a replacement for Gus's original WRC2 entry.

Perhaps the FIA would not allow it.

Pieniążek has no cash for more rallies this season, article in Polish https://wrc.net.pl/polski-sen-o-wrc-pryska-jak-banka-mydlana-upadek-mimo-zwyciestwa

[AnttiL]

M-Sport had already planned finance for Evans' car. They needed Greensmith to replace him as its driver for the team. He has thanked them for giving it to him for Finland. He may have made a contribution, but we dont know.


Greensmith was planning on a WRC drive later this year anyway, it's not like it was a gift, it was just that he got his WRC drive already now.

Another thing is that changing drivers after entries have closed must be expensive.

[tommeke_B]

Pieniążek has no cash for more rallies this season, article in Polish https://wrc.net.pl/polski-sen-o-wrc-pryska-jak-banka-mydlana-upadek-mimo-zwyciestwa

Good joke for M-Sport. In the beginning of the season I've heard rumors that they picked Pieniazek over Bergkvist just because he brought more money.

[Rallyper]

Good joke for M-Sport. In the beginning of the season I've heard rumors that they picked Pieniazek over Bergkvist just because he brought more money.

Yeah, they´re playing with money.
However MSport have already paid entry fees logistical and for sure have the cars ready, how much would have to cost to offer young driver a wheel? And Bergkvists connections to MSport are there... Only real scrimping why MW doing this...

[Got Mail]

Maybe Paddon now moves to WRC2 Pro?

[the sniper]

Maybe Paddon now moves to WRC2 Pro?

Both his and M-Sport's tweets seem clear, he's done for this weekend. Otherwise would have seemed like a nice idea.

[tommeke_B]

If they don't find a way to get an extra WRC car there in time, they won't find a way for an R5 car either.

[Tarmop]

Well, they did just hand over chassis no. 6, which is located over the bay, in addition to chassis no. 5. I believe it`s not rented out for Finland.

[EstWRC]

I doubt Hayden himself is really interested driving with a r5 car.

What could he prove there? He wants to prove in top class which unfortunately won’t happen.

[steve.mandzij]

Pieniek has no cash for more rallies this season, article in Polish https://wrc.net.pl/polski-sen-o-wrc-pryska-jak-banka-mydlana-upadek-mimo-zwyciestwaMeh, bad luck, but he wasn't very good anyway

[the sniper]

I doubt Hayden himself is really interested driving with a r5 car.

What could he prove there? He wants to prove in top class which unfortunately won’t happen.

Breen driving R5s in European national rallies afforded him a greater opportunity than Hayden's way, driving his car in NZ, competing against nobody... If he's not interested, he's not helping himself to get back to the top full time...

[dimviii]

Breen driving R5s in European national rallies afforded him a greater opportunity than Hayden's way, driving his car in NZ, competing against nobody... If he's not interested, he's not helping himself to get back to the top full time...

Βreen just could afford it financially.

[Andre Oliveira]

If they don't find a way to get an extra WRC car there in time, they won't find a way for an R5 car either.

There it is a spare Fiesta R5 in service park afaik.

[Allez Andruet]

There it is a spare Fiesta R5 in service park afaik.

99,9% sure someone tweeted a picture from the service park that had a Fiesta R5 MK2 in M-Sport livery.

[EstWRC]

nice video preview of the Toyota team https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScpyhwJlMmg

[Got Mail]

99,9% sure someone tweeted a picture from the service park that had a Fiesta R5 MK2 in M-Sport livery.

Camilli's car surely.

[deephouse]

Living in Europe and driving in European events is cheaper than living in New Zealand and driving in European events. Surely also sponsors from NZ would rather saw him driving in his homeland because they don't have nothing out of driving in Europe, except if it were WRC. Don't get high hopes for Breen, it's just one-off, because Sordo and Loeb don't want to drive it there. I can see their sitaution next year with their existing drivers. Neuville, Sordo (he have extra motivation now with his recent win), Loeb (Maybe yes, maybe not full season) and if Mikkelsen will be out Breen will come to the team more often if at least one of other two will not want to drive full season.

[Andre Oliveira]

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


99,9% sure someone tweeted a picture from the service park that had a Fiesta R5 MK2 in M-Sport livery.

Jari Ketomaa tested today
Pic by Ouninpohja

[satukata]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8FD_1EaEGk&feature=youtu.be

WRC2 test video today

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8FD_1EaEGk&feature=youtu.be

WRC2 test video today

hyundai has a big difference in landing vs fabia/polo

[RS]

hyundai has a big difference in landing vs fabia/polo

Very nose heavy.

A nicer quality video from the test; R5 Cars look and sound pretty good in Finland: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ovC8mU2F3II

[the sniper]

Βreen just could afford it financially.

That is a different matter, which may well be true. Paddon may well be very interested, but unable to raise a budget from NZ for a season in an R5 in Europe/WRC2(Pro). Est though doubted that he was interested. I said "If he's not interested"...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Jari Ketomaa tested today


Just a general test or a late entry in 'Greensmith's' Fiesta R5 mk2 ?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Paddon came here to drive a WRC car after missing the WRC seat at Hyundai. I also doubt he would want to drive an R5 now or see he had to prove himself at that level.

And Breen never drove R5's in WRC events, only in national ones (in Italy, Ireland, Belgium) where R5 was the top class.

[COD]

Just a general test or a late entry in 'Greensmith's' Fiesta R5 mk2 ?
He said before the season, that his team will get the latest version when it becomes available. Maybe related to that?

[Fredouye]

Citroën has used a joker on the C3 : https://www.rallye-sport.fr/ogier-jai-bien-recharge-les-batteries/

(front end of the car, which will allow more settings)

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EArKgX4UcAY4BaJ?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EArLcmZUIAEU9NY?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EArLcnFUYAAkfOn?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EArPxKYU0AYi5r9?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[pantealex]

Update, this time it has "FINAL" stamped
https://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/5146/nrf_sp_layout_final_240719_locked.pdf
I only noticed some changes in inside area.

This time it has "LOCKED" stamped
#20Paddon #22??? and #93Yates have been taken away, I didn´t notice any else.
https://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/5146/nrf_sp_layout_final_locked_300719.pdf

[Simmi]

Rally friends with experience of the Urria stage. I want to go to the Mikko's Crest area but the spectator parking (P4) is a long way to the spectator zone. Is there a shuttle bus service between the car park and stage? I've done this a couple of times in Ouninpohja but just wanted to check.

Hope everyone has a great rally!

[Rallyper]

Hi everyone! Don´t forget to make your Pickems for Rally Finland! Note: a few hours earlier closing time, this round.

Me myself will in a short moment start my trip to Jyväskylä. Ferry from Stockholm at 20.00 hrs CET. See you guys on sight. :) :)

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAuOMEoXkAAVNDT?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAuFiYaXkAAqbP5?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1156108437912215553/photo/1
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAtQDCAX4AAnqRv?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAtS-1DW4AA_EGn?format=jpg&name=4096x4096
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAuJQgoXUAAZTIG?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAuKXBRWwAInUHg?format=jpg&name=small

[stefanvv]

Back to work

[EstWRC]

everybody seems to be happy that the break is over, so am i

just came from the store and packing my things now...leaving tomorrow morning, i hope its as awesome as last year

[Allez Andruet]

i hope its as awesome as last year

Will be even better.

[Barreis]

no jokes with Adamo.
http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/145088

[pantealex]

It´s now raining a bit in service park / HQ area. +13C. High point today was +18

Average speed of mondays WRC2 test was over 140km/h (Emil Lindholm´s data)

[br21]

I see quite many people from Forum going to the rally, I'm already here, so it would be nice to meet someone!

[tommeke_B]

I see quite many people from Forum going to the rally, I'm already here, so it would be nice to meet someone!
We might come to service after shakedown. Which team are you working with?

[mknight]

no jokes with Adamo.
http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/145088

I agree with him that the attitude that seemed to be there in the past about Finland is just not good enough. The can't go to Finland every year and just say "nah we won't be competitive here" and give up, like they did before. Finland here, tarmac rounds there and in the end you don't win any championship.

That said I doubt the upgrades they introduced can close a gap so big as they had in recent years.

[EstWRC]

We might come to service after shakedown. Which team are you working with?

we are definitely coming to the service park after shakedown and thenwe are going to eat in Jyväskylä in the famous Buffa ;)

[spiderem]

Shame that Evans and Paddon will not be there. Was it not possible to do a last minute change for Paddon to drive instead of Greensmith?

Anyway, good that the summer break is over, look forward to a nice battle and hope we get actions till the last kilometres! Let's see if Jarmo Lethinen can make it 2 podiums in a row, that would be quite a come back!

Have fun rally friends.

[tommeke_B]

Shame that Evans and Paddon will not be there. Was it not possible to do a last minute change for Paddon to drive instead of Greensmith?


If Greensmith would be driving without bringing any budget, probably. But still it would be sad to miss the event for someone else's mistake...

[SubaruNorway]

It´s now raining a bit in service park / HQ area. +13C. High point today was +18

Average speed of mondays WRC2 test was over 140km/h (Emil Lindholm´s data)

9c and rain when i drove past Oittila area tonight, so much nicer than last year!

[mknight]

Talk about rubbing it in the face of other teams:

https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/1156128896405987328

[AnttiL]

Rally Radio special warned last night that it is drier than ever so absolutely no fires or barbecueing in the forest, and if possible, quit smoking for the weekend. Even though now it's colder, it's still drier than last year. It has rained less in Jyväskylä during the summer than ever while it has been measured.

[pantealex]

Servicepark is open today from 16PM to 20PM for FREE, no need to wait after shakedown...

Me and RallyPer will attend, probably every day.

I live in that area.

[Lead]

See you guys at the stages. Have a safe rally everyone.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why Rhys Yates isnt here:
Gutted not to be starting @RallyFinland this week. Time just beat us in getting the car fixed after a heavy @ypresrally crash. Back for Rallye Deutschland ! https://t.co/Pp492EK4LR

[dimviii]

http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_07_2019/post-157-0-29655500-1564566337.jpg

[polomayu]

Hi, can anyone tell me where can i download the startorder for the rally?
Thanks and have a nice rally!

[CWJ]

Its coming here just before day one

https://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/en/competitors/

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3iciU8AA2nD5?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3icjVAAAOkIo?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3iciUEAAkjVE?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3ichUcAAPS0I?format=jpg&name=large

[Gregor-y]

Seems early for the snow-poles.

[EstWRC]

Chilling at the shakedown stage atm. As far as I have seen It will be very hard for Tänak. The stages seem so loose and the Moksi part we drove through was also so loose

[janvanvurpa]

Seems early for the snow-poles.

You never know...Nobody expected the Spanish Inquisition, either.
That is their secret!

[Jajá]

Hi, all, just wanted to wish everyone a great rally! Have been there in 2008 and it was a blast! I hope I can do it again in the future!

[sindroms]

We did all Saturday stages recce plus Moksi and Urria. Surface seems very solid to compare with previous years, very much loose gravel tough in some places - I don’t rememeber such stuff from previous years. Pihlajakoski new part (small road) - if anyone consider to go there I don’t find it as a good idea. It will turn to “Acropolis” very quickly.
Otherwise everything is perfect. Having a good time in SD parking. Friday Moksi first part is our choice :)

[EstWRC]

We did all Saturday stages recce plus Moksi and Urria. Surface seems very solid to compare with previous years, very much loose gravel tough in some places - I don’t rememeber such stuff from previous years. Pihlajakoski new part (small road) - if anyone consider to go there I don’t find it as a good idea. It will turn to “Acropolis” very quickly.
Otherwise everything is perfect. Having a good time in SD parking. Friday Moksi first part is our choice :)

Where are you exactly at shakedown ?

[Rallyper]

I see quite many people from Forum going to the rally, I'm already here, so it would be nice to meet someone!

Me and Pantealex will be att SD from start. I’ll wear my orange Richard Burns t-shirt, maybe under a green fleece jacket, if cold weather... 😬

[HarriK]

I'm ready at SD! Have a great rally for all of you! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190801/a476cf6bf0f31adf724f89d2083eb75f.jpg

Lähetetty minun PAR-LX1 laitteesta Tapatalkilla

[HarriK]

Meeke rally close to hit a tree! 300m before last 90 junction. Small crest an too much left and hit front tyre and the almost lost Control in high speed.

They come from right of my last photo.

[mknight]

Meeke rally close to hit a tree! 300m before last 90 junction. Small crest an too much left and hit front tyre and the almost lost Control in Hugh speed.

Lähetetty minun PAR-LX1 laitteesta Tapatalkilla

Yeah, half of it was visible on the Alllive stream. Seemed shaken all the way to the finish after that.

[AnttiL]

Meeke already suffering from not doing the stage last year like others. Great opening time from Breen, third fastest...and Tänak fastest although cleaning

[HarriK]

Greensmith hit also left bank in same place.

Lähetetty minun PAR-LX1 laitteesta Tapatalkilla

[Sulland]

When are the rest of the Rc2 cars start?

[mknight]

SD is stopped for some reason, you can see it on alllive maps. Camilli waiting on the start.

[GravelBen]

Is all live stream working for anyone? I'm just getting an error message.

[HarriK]

SD stopped due to spectators on wrong place

Lähetetty minun PAR-LX1 laitteesta Tapatalkilla

[mknight]

Is all live stream working for anyone? I'm just getting an error message.

Stream is over after first passes of everyone, you can now watch it as replay on the WRC Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/WorldRally/

Meeke's moment is at 8 min in.

Camilli started now.

[GravelBen]

I must have just caught the end, it was still saying it was live but only showing an error message, now its gone.

[mknight]

Greensmith hitting the side:
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1156813299792666626

Meeke moment:
https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1156812454346801152

[eib1]

lol

https://i.imgur.com/K9DUB5x.jpg

[er88]

Meeke already suffering from not doing the stage last year like others. Great opening time from Breen, third fastest...and Tänak fastest although cleaningCould've been nasty. I reckon he'll struggle this weekend

[mknight]

Could've been nasty. I reckon he'll struggle this weekend

I fear he will try too hard, bin or win.

[COD]

What happened to Lappi on third run?

[mknight]

Following on what was said in the stream, rally Finland stats:

Toyota - all 3 drivers have a win, 5 in total, 10 podiums

Citroen - both have a win, 2 in total, 6 podiums

Hyundai - 0 wins, 2 podiums (Breen and Neuville)

MSport - 0 podiums (not much of a "team" here though)

Quite some difference from Toyota+Citroen to Hyundai.

[flykas]

So what are the results after all runs of SD?

[mknight]

Some are still driving:

https://www.ewrc-results.com/shake/54468-neste-rally-finland-2019/

Kristoffersson is stopped in SD.

[Portimao]

So what are the results after all runs of SD?

https://www.ewrc-results.com/shake/54468-neste-rally-finland-2019/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So a 2-3-4 for the Hyundai driver's on SD. Maybe they have finally found some good improvements to the i20 for these roads..

[AnttiL]

So a 2-3-4 for the Hyundai driver's on SD. Maybe they have finally found some good improvements to the i20 for these roads..

It’s just the shakedown and they weren’t so fast on the first runs

[the sniper]

I'm at Kristoffersson's car. No noteworthy damage visible.

Edit: Hit a stone, damaged the sump guard.

[dimviii]

https://reho.st/self/512ac325f5de82ded47d2a3617946db0adcaa5a9.jpg
http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_08_2019/post-238-0-08057900-1564643641.jpg

[dimviii]

http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_08_2019/post-1272-0-41042600-1564655567.png

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It’s just the shakedown and they weren’t so fast on the first runs

I was waiting for someone as soon as I posted about SD...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen:
First day back after 9 months away from the #WRC and we were 3rd quickest on the shakedown! 💪

#RallyFinland #HMSGOfficial https://t.co/Cb1nIB4FJg

[mknight]

Similar story as in rally Estonia, Portugal, Chile and Argentina. Toyota fastest on first pass/early and Hyundai and others closing up on later passes when the road is less smooth.

[AnttiL]

http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_08_2019/post-1272-0-41042600-1564655567.png

I repeat. No open fire in the dry forests. I know you guys are sensible, but watch for the people next to you.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Meeke:
Sensible run through shakedown. This is such a challenging rally, we had to make 50-60% new notes which is never easy here. It’s a fascinating rally to drive and hopefully we can help bring home a good team result for @TGR_WRC this weekend #KM100 https://t.co/h0hb6glXcG

[Fast Eddie WRC]

For anyone who missed this, Hyundai has new front aero for Finland:

https://www.wrcwings.tech/2019/07/04/hyundai-tests-modified-front-aero-package-in-finland/

[dimviii]

Νice small clip with Lappi
https://twitter.com/F_Gustavsson/status/1156821216856072193

Lappi with problem
https://twitter.com/TaaviSevostjano/status/1156830042883788802

[pantealex]

https://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/5565/entry_list_nrf_amended_20190801.pdf

Starters list with 61 crews in it.

[dimviii]

nice hat Per https://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/oldforum/shifty.gif
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA3FC4DXYAAjb7K?format=jpg&name=small

[dimviii]

Rallirinki / Teemu
@HartusvuoriWRC
·
They hit a rock heavy with sumpguard and it damaged the car.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA4BBVIWkAAYHGi?format=jpg&name=small

[dimviii]

karate kid

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA4l-0GXoAAY5Li?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[erikli2]

Here´s a video of Greensmith hitting the rock that took out Kristoffersson: https://twitter.com/Kevin_MRacing/status/1156849967375536129?s=20

[Rallyper]

Pickems closing 53 mins from now (time is 15:07 CET when posting this). Make you Pickems folks!

[pantealex]

https://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/site/assets/files/5979/start_list_for_section_1_-_tc0_thursday_01st_august_2019.pdf

Starting order for SS1 Harju tonight

[drive]

Does anyone know what is 4th toyota in service area? Nr 60+ Kankunen
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA45CERXUAAB9B3?format=jpg&name=small

[AnttiL]

Does anyone know what is 4th toyota in service area? Nr 60+ Kankunen
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA45CERXUAAB9B3?format=jpg&name=small

Show runs at Harju. Kankkunen turned just 60 this year.

[eib1]

nice pics

https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/67949357_2262370703861986_1536553725856841728_o.jp g?_nc_cat=109&_nc_oc=AQno9ySo9QfHNIDRzeVgCgcjbOoTOhDXHK-EVUajOUlYeiVT8omlGxbkzQ8JNb0vQ5w&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg2-1.xx&oh=beee23e9dd61560a0f95fe09757b5c83&oe=5DDB2B68

https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/67402509_2262381970527526_1601590143582470144_o.jp g?_nc_cat=109&_nc_oc=AQk7n0GE1dxmqa8QkZmtmWg1gXbMXCwc7oCt9Z8hGJL aYvl6tz1JEzEJ0jTqkK23iH4&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg2-1.xx&oh=a90c9472d754de0e51dd699d65d7b246&oe=5DEE12BA

[Rallyper]

Kristoffersson destroyd oilpump. Will be replaced and start tonight as planned, said one of his mechanics.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rallirinki / Teemu
@HartusvuoriWRC
·
They hit a rock heavy with sumpguard and it damaged the car.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA4BBVIWkAAYHGi?format=jpg&name=small

A rock hit and they got a destroyed oil pump... A rock hit for Paddon and he got a destroyed car...

Some guys are just unlucky. :(

[KKS]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3iciU8AA2nD5?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3icjVAAAOkIo?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3iciUEAAkjVE?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EAw3ichUcAAPS0I?format=jpg&name=large
How much deep they dig into the ground?

[mknight]

R. Millner says Toyota has an engine upgrade here in Finland. First time I hear about it.

[AnttiL]

Harju is live, already non WRC2 R5 cars driving

[mknight]

Don't quite get the logic of the starting order with all WRC2 starting after WRC... except Huttunen who starts before them together with WRC2PRO entries.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Virtanen ? Who ?
Shame Paddon isnt in that car.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No personal sponsors on the M-Sport Fiesta of Greensmith...

[stefanvv]

Latvala & Breen even on splits and stage result :D

[mknight]

Latvala & Breen even on splits and stage result :D

Yeah looked almost like timing error.

[mknight]

I'd say all the factory drivers had a corner or a few where they took it carefully, for Tanak for example it was the last one. Only exception was Neuville who pushed on the limit basically everywhere and the time shows.

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/OO2uNXyan_4

[dimviii]

shakedown pre start video
https://youtu.be/kTjt5teMhyI

[mknight]

Best vid of Meeke's SD moment I have seen so far is this one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibFUATF4kb0

there is also a slow motion of the landing on the start of the Michelin vid, but it cuts out too early:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IMnclLBZVY

[AnttiL]

Don't quite get the logic of the starting order with all WRC2 starting after WRC... except Huttunen who starts before them together with WRC2PRO entries.

The organizers can choose whom they show at the beginning of the broadcast to fill it up, and now they decided to show the Future Star Pajari and another local guy Huttunen.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Greensmith was planning on a WRC drive later this year anyway, it's not like it was a gift, it was just that he got his WRC drive already now.


So why no Crown Oil on the car like Portugal if he's paying for this Finland drive ?

https://farm66.static.flickr.com/65535/47991852486_9300ec025d_b.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA4FFHkXsAAYgjf?format=jpg&name=large

GG: "Thank you @msportltd for putting your trust in me by giving me this opportunity in the @OfficialWRC."

[KKS]

Best vid of Meeke's SD moment I have seen so far is this one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibFUATF4kb0
Really nice vid, espesially that narrow, fast, S-es . Nice!


there is also a slow motion of the landing on the start of the Michelin vid, but it cuts out too early:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IMnclLBZVY
Meeke even have sparks when wheel touching that rocks O_o

[KKS]

How much deep they dig into the ground?

According to this
https://youtu.be/1IMnclLBZVY?t=22
https://youtu.be/1IMnclLBZVY?t=73
that posts not digged by a 1cm and can easily been wrecked without any massive damage to the car

[KKS]

So why no Crown Oil on the car like Portugal if he's paying for this Finland drive ?

https://farm66.static.flickr.com/65535/47991852486_9300ec025d_b.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA4FFHkXsAAYgjf?format=jpg&name=large

GG: "Thank you @msportltd for putting your trust in me by giving me this opportunity in the @OfficialWRC."
It's a replacing M-Sport run, not a his own paying rally. M-Sport can choose everyone, but pick a Greensmith

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/1Pxo_PW4zBQ

[KKS]

Another flatout at forest section
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Pxo_PW4zBQ

[T16]

Another flatout at forest section
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Pxo_PW4zBQ

Wow, that’s big boy’s stuff right there. Proper fast.

[KKS]

Morning guys, I never wake-up so early even in 'work' days. Cup of coffee and looking forward for a day full of high-speed battles!

[HarriK]

Good morning! Not so much spectators at the end of Ss2 parking zone. Now 2km before finish and then to Ässämäki.

[KKS]

Finnish rally radio https://areena.yle.fi/radio/ohjelmat/yle-radio-suomi?_c=yle-radio-suomi-jyvaskyla
Will be useful for stageend comments from downfield cars

[KKS]

Michelin Motorsport (https://twitter.com/Michelin_Sport)
Day 1 - morning: #Tyre (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tyre?src=hashtag_click) infoAll Michelin @OfficialWRC (https://twitter.com/OfficialWRC)
drivers with 5 MICHELIN LTX Force M6 (Medium)

[dimviii]

Neuville almost 0,5sec/km at stage 1 .

[Essaj]

Neuville almost 0,5sec/km at stage 1 .

Lost almost all of it on the opening split

[KKS]

New FiestaR5 now really crap +12sec for split1

[tomhlord]

Sure, it's only SS2, but Hyundai looks to lose time to Toyota and Citroen in top speed.

[er88]

Great first time by Tanak despite road position.
Maybe expected Jari to be a little bit quicker given how far back he is (but good time nonetheless).
Neuville won't be happy at all.
Breen fastest Hyundai despite the car being too soft and great to see Lappi on the pace.
Meeke did a good job having never driven the stage before.

Good to have the WRC back after that summer break, fingers crossed for a great rally with lots of close battles

[KKS]

Pietarinen crashed on a compression after small crest, and than while Camilli passed his car - he cross the road 1sec before rallycar on fullspeed O_o

[KKS]

first split for VWR5 and he was killing fast! Strong engine will payoff on this roads

[RS]

first split for VWR5 and he was killing fast! Strong engine will payoff on this roads

Fabia R5 evo with new engine looks strong too - surprise to see Loubet ahead of Gryazin otherwise.

I guess that's Pieterainen's chances with Skoda over :(

[Eli]

It looks like the only thing to beat Toyota this weekend is another Toyota.

[mknight]

It looks like the only thing to beat Toyota this weekend is another Toyota.

Think it will be closer on second passes, but hard to see anyone beating Tanak as it looks now.

The only real surprise so far is Suninen who is a bit slower than expected I'd say. Also not very good from JML given his road position.

[Eli]

Think it will be closer on second passes, but hard to see anyone beating Tanak as it looks now.

The only real surprise so far is Suninen who is a bit slower than expected I'd say. Also not very good from JML given his road position.

Kris can take the fight to Tanak, as long as he doesn't crash...hopefully will stay a clean fight for the most part (if not the entire weekend).

[er88]

Lol Breen. Despite being tough on himself he's driving well.

Meeke and Tanak impressing

[mknight]

Anyway the differences are tiny compared with last year, for basically everyone.

One small stall can cost the same as you build up during the whole day.

[mousti]

JanPro is Janne Tuohino not Paasonen, ffs Jon Desborough.

[Eric]

Impressive drive by Breen. Mikkelsen also seems to start to get a grip of the i20. Maybe its starting to be more nice to the "normal" way of driving, and not the Neuville way? Still early, but strange to see Neuville slowest.

[mknight]

Impressive drive by Breen. Mikkelsen also seems to start to get a grip of the i20. Maybe its starting to be more nice to the "normal" way of driving, and not the Neuville way? Still early, but strange to see Neuville slowest.

I think roadpositions 3-6-10 have something to say. With the changes it's probably like a different car on these kind of stages. Also Neuville is the only one that didn't drive in Estonia (even though Breen had old car there).

[Eli]

Impressive drive by Breen. Mikkelsen also seems to start to get a grip of the i20. Maybe its starting to be more nice to the "normal" way of driving, and not the Neuville way? Still early, but strange to see Neuville slowest.

Perhaps Neuville has gotten used to the i20 being slow and adjusted his mindset to it....the last (& only) podium for him was back in 2013 with the last gen. Fiesta...hopefully he'll do better on the second pass.

[Got Mail]

Lindholm stopped?

[Thousandlakes]

Lindholm is in to ditch...shame

[er88]

Anyway the differences are tiny compared with last year, for basically everyone.

One small stall can cost the same as you build up during the whole day.I'd presume partly down to all the top guys having done these stages twice now before (bar Meeke).

[Mirek]

Nicely surprise by Loubet so far!

[mknight]

Perhaps Neuville has gotten used to the i20 being slow and adjusted his mindset to it....the last (& only) podium for him was back in 2013 with the last gen. Fiesta...hopefully he'll do better on the second pass.

IMO it's both that he didn't drive this changed car more than one day on a test combined with road position.

[Got Mail]

1811

Didn't lose too much time considering..

[Norm75]

I think roadpositions 3-6-10 have something to say. With the changes it's probably like a different car on these kind of stages. Also Neuville is the only one that didn't drive in Estonia (even though Breen had old car there).
I'd say coming into a new team, with a new car and not having driven the first half of the year in a wrc car, to be in front of his championship contender team mate is still quite impressive so far.

[Eli]

IMO it's both that he didn't drive this changed car more than one day on a test combined with road position.

You're probably right.

[tomhlord]

Toyota, followed by Citroen, followed by a mix of Hyundai and M-Sport. The two strongest engines out front.

Super close though, one half spin will change the order.

Nice to see Lappi 'return' to the WRC.

[mknight]

Gryazin crashing in first few stages on 3rd rally in a row?

[mousti]

https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/67550272_2280471668740575_4871418023849754624_n.jp g?_nc_cat=101&_nc_oc=AQkZlNrJaVONAqKTeN9EdTGuaDVx5-2t_SBJp0v038rZAoZewEccy53YIw8jsxQ_pgmC6Rz6HOdzyUnI jbxkLWBy&_nc_ht=scontent-bru2-1.xx&oh=b2f8c0068670834601bee7102bdbeab5&oe=5DDF1E24

[Mirek]

Toyota, followed by Citroen, followed by a mix of Hyundai and M-Sport. The two strongest engines out front.

I don't think that this goes down to the engine performance. Usually the slower and more technical stages the higher influence of the engine on the overall performance and vice versa.

[tomhlord]

I don't think that this goes down to the engine performance. Usually the slower and more technical stages the higher influence of the engine on the overall performance and vice versa.

The two cars with the highest top speed, in that case.

[mknight]

Meeke wide into bank, but looks like no dmg.

[er88]

Meeke lost a bit in last sector by running wide. Good time by Mikkelsen - he says he lost a second in there as well

[er88]

Latvala finding the groove in here

[Mirek]

Great time by Breen!

[er88]

Fantastic to see Breen doing these times already in the Hyundai.

[COD]

Pietarinen crashed on a compression after small crest, and than while Camilli passed his car - he cross the road 1sec before rallycar on fullspeed O_o

Saw the video, looks like something broke on Pietarinen’s car. The car goes off completly on strange line. Road goes right and car goes left

[GravelBen]

Breen is on it! Making me a little worried that he will get too carried away and stack it. Lappi going well too.

[KKS]

as for me - standard 'wrong setup' after landings. Same as Sordo at 2006

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDB-Eu2i_Ko

[wia5958]

Adamos gamble paying off so far. Early days yet though car is clearly capable now. Just wonder if that huge Chile crash is what's holding Neuville back.

[mknight]

Adamos gamble paying off so far. Early days yet though car is clearly capable now. Just wonder if that huge Chile crash is what's holding Neuville back.

Last year after SS4:

5. Paddon 8. Neuville, 30. Mikkelsen

this year after SS4:

5. Breen, 7. Mikkelsen, 9. Neuville

[wia5958]

Last year after SS4:

5. Paddon 8. Neuville, 30. Mikkelsen

this year after SS4:

5. Breen, 7. Mikkelsen, 9. Neuville

New car to Breen first wrc event in 8 months and beating both full time factory drivers at min. Speaks for itself pretty much I think

[mknight]

New car to Breen first wrc event in 8 months and beating both full time factory drivers at min. Speaks for itself pretty much I think

Championship points don't care how much you drove before, it's the result that counts. In that case it is a draw atm.

From driver performance point Breen is more impressive.

[wia5958]

Championship points don't care how much you drove before, it's the result that counts. In that case it is a draw atm.

From driver performance point Breen is more impressive.

That's the point I was making

[KKS]

SS5 - it was a crazy stage! Oh man, thoose jumps

[rhm]

Let's wait to the end of the rally before evaluating anyone's performance. Great to see Breen going well so far, long way to go, team orders may come into the final result come Sunday.

[er88]

Puncture for Meeke

[RS]

Greensmith doing pretty well vs his Finnish team mate.

[mknight]

Puncture for Meeke

Same wheel as the one he touched the bank with on previous stage, might be related?

[er88]

Same wheel as the one he touched the bank with on previous stage, might be related?Yeah could be. I would've thought they might have changed that wheel before this stage as a precaution, but if it looked fine maybe not

[rhm]

Didn't drop much time? Very fortunate to get it just before service.

[er88]

Jari and Meeke with puncture. Maybe same corner/stone

[er88]

Another good time from Craigy Breen.

[mknight]

Well I don't think it will be Toyota 1-2-3 in the evening tbh. It was on the first passes that they always were much faster and now the differences are small.

[KKS]

Jari and Meeke with puncture. Maybe same corner/stone
And again, no other have puncture there, but 2/3 Toyotas are. Again possibly problems with a rims

[KKS]

Weird tyre wear on Camilli Fiesta, seems like inner side quite worn

[er88]

Loubet has got potential - impressive times this year at points.

[Got Mail]

Loubet has got potential - impressive times this year at points.

Despite his age, this will be the 5th time he has done this event.

So lots of experience compared to some.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak still the man here even cleaning the road. Different class.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Good road position yes, but still an excellent morning's drive by Breen back the the WRC !

[er88]

Yeeees Breen!! Great drive and liking the Hyundai

[Morte66]

Latvala squeezed in ahead of Meeke. I'm hoping Meeke will get it back on the repeat stages this afternoon, thanks to reduced cleaning for Latvala and increased familiarity for Meeke.

Seems like a good morning for a lot of the WRC drivers, except Neuville and Suuninen. Neuville got faster, and Suuninen had damaged aero, but the time lost is going to cost them both road position for the rest of the rally.

Breen looks like he belongs.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Latvala, Lappi & Mikkelsen surprisingly good considering they have been lacking confidence in themselves or their cars lately.

Neuville was a big disappointment. I really expected a lot better from him and his position. Ogier solid but still showing no sign of being able to fight Tanak on speed.

Suninen cant really be judged too harshly until the aero is fixed.

[rhm]

Top 8 covered by 24 seconds, all to play for still.

[erikli2]

Massive crash for Badiu who's been taken to hospital. Tukiainen won't be getting any further this week either.
Pictures:

https://twitter.com/alekslesk/status/1157261451788247040?s=09

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wow Meeke !

[Morte66]

Bloody hell Kris

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Now Lappi matches him !

[tomhlord]

Latvala on it too!

[EstWRC]

Really kris? It isn’t cleaning?

I’d like to see you first on the road

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Latvala leads.

[Morte66]

Oh, it really looks like strong cleaning on this stage. The later they start, the faster they go.

[stefanvv]

Really kris? It isn’t cleaning?


Not for him

[steve.mandzij]

Yes Jarriiiiii! Looks like he lost some tenths in the last split but I'm nearly crying with joy :D

[EstWRC]

Not for him

He said that Ott hasn’t much cleaning to do

That’s what I meant.

[KKS]

Breen: "Fuucking bonnet is open".
Classics from Craig

[stefanvv]

Yes Jarriiiiii! Looks like he lost some tenths in the last split but I'm nearly crying with joy :D

So did Lappi, Meeke must've done something different there.

[Eli]

Breen: "Fucking bonnet is open".
Classics from Craig

Lost quite a bit of time because of it...now 10 seconds behind...damn

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Incredible... 0.5sec between the Toyota's after 7 stages !

[Thousandlakes]

This is fantastic battle. 4 guys inside 2 seconds. Very pleased about Lappis and Latvalas pace.

[stefanvv]

He said that Ott hasn’t much cleaning to do

That’s what I meant.

Ah ok, I missed his comment, my audio is distorting.

[steve.mandzij]

So did Lappi, Meeke must've done something different there.But the time on the split tab must be wrong, because he took 5 tenths from meeke overall.

[denkimi]

Now lets see who will crash first, latvala or meeke.

[KKS]

Henning has broken rim for nothing at SS7

[stefanvv]

Now lets see who will crash first, latvala or meeke.

I wish to think they already spent this with the slow punctures.

[Marcco]

SS7 - 20.04 km - TOP3 within 0,1 sec - Proper pace there!

[stefanvv]

That FX camera on Ogier's car.

[er88]

Some huge stones for Meeke and Mikkelsen there

[stefanvv]

Lappi is doing great

[EstWRC]

What a battle !!!

[Mirek]

Tänak, Meeke and Lappi in zero after SS8 and Latvala is 0,6 ahead of them :)

[EstWRC]

Lappi had a hairy moment at our place, scary

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA-ENPzWwAAQlST.jpg

[dimviii]

Neuville almost always faster as the rally progress.He has to work on it.

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9Ey1CXYAAYAXP?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9Ey1IXoAAxmeQ?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA95h1IXkAMvLvL?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9UGkKXkAENPQR?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9vJWpXkAAtUQ5?format=jpg&name=small

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Woah Lappi !

[Mirek]

If Lappi continues like this he will crash soon.

[er88]

Two huge moments for Lappi. Calm down man

[stefanvv]

Jeez

[dimviii]

'''tight lines'''
https://twitter.com/LPaanala/status/1157292102541291521

[the sniper]

Urria 2 delayed a long time as firstly a spectator had some kind of heart issue which required an ambulance. Subsequently someone has fallen and seemingly broken their leg on the path between Hirvonen's jump and the spectator car park, which is a rough path through the trees. Paramedics gone to fine them, van parked on the stage.

[dimviii]

https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/67798722_2600588906659818_6405610608615489536_n.jp g?_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=AQlqtiCnAzB2d39CZM0H1Denf5b6018W6JzeCqiqVXl M5ZnqIKVoRDVTHxgV57zm2Wg&_nc_ht=scontent-bru2-1.xx&oh=114449cc8faf67ab194af6efa77b4aa2&oe=5DE7D2C7