[WRC] Rally Mexico 2020

[er88]

Evans coming back on Tanak.

[AnttiL]

quite a straight stage for Mexican standards and thats where Ott now lost all the time againt Evans

Not really so straight, most of it is quite technical actually, but it has a couple of very fast/straight sections.

[EstWRC]

im actually surprised Ott can hold on so far

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier 2s faster...

[AnttiL]

Ogier coming fast

[EstWRC]

SUNINEN has also gained time back

[er88]

Ogier stamping his authority on this rally if he keeps this pace up for the rest of the stage

[EstWRC]

Not really so straight, most of it is quite technical actually, but it has a couple of very fast/straight sections.

there was this more flat out secction in the middle, and there is where others gained against Tänak

on twisty he wins a lot

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Go Teemu !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier showing who's boss.

[cali]

Ogier is destroying everybody now!

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[krissucool]

Where the fuck is Tänaks finish time on the stage?

[EstWRC]

Ogier is destroying everybody now!

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

He is unbelievable on this rally every year!!! amazing

[stefanvv]

Ogier showing who's boss.

One other Sebastien said years ago - "I always win here"

[KKS]

Ogier finally get with this car. Destroying times

[satukata]

I´m really positive surprised!! Go Teemu and Ford!!

[flat_right]

Where the fuck is Tänaks finish time on the stage?

If I heard it correctly it was 16:53.0

[mknight]

Some people were saying Ogier is finished after Sweden.....

Anyway right now he drives the Toyota much neater than his teammates and much neater than all Hyundais. In Sweden it didn't seem to be the fastest way, but here with loose gravel outside of the line and less engine power it seems to be a different story.

[KKS]

I´m really positive surprised!! Go Teemu and Ford!!
But for safety get +2 fire extinguisher... for pre-caution)

[cali]

Remember Ogier has the best starting position. Still, very impressive driving

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

Some people were saying Ogier is finished after Sweden.....

Anyway right now he drives the Toyota much neater than his teammates and much neater than all Hyundais. In Sweden it didn't seem to be the fastest way, but here with loose gravel outside of the line and less engine power it seems to be a different story.

exactly!

[Allez Andruet]

The empire strikes back. That was just beautiful from Ogier.

[PLuto]

No, Official notice board never had such decision.

You should know that social media messages are not official truth.

This is not info for official notice board. Believe me, it was really cancelled. And for sure my sources are different than social media messages...

[EstWRC]

credit to Suninen as well, the boy is doin amazing job so far

[Rallyper]

Why can´t they just shut their mouths when a driver goes over the finishline?

We want to hear their comments, don´t they get it? Man!! All Live... :(

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why can´t they just shut their mouths when a driver goes over the finishline?

We want to hear their comments, don´t they get it? Man!! All Live... :(

Use the No Comms option.

[Allez Andruet]

credit to Suninen as well, the boy is doin amazing job so far

It was about time!

[KKS]

Veiby destroying all in RC2

[Ucci]

The empire strikes back. That was just beautiful from Ogier.

I was waiting for this looong time. Ogier deserves this after all bad times he went through...

[EstWRC]

I was waiting for this looong time. Ogier deserves this after all bad times he went through...

what bad times? his own decision to go to Citroen?

[mknight]

what bad times? his own decision to go to Citroen?

How do you rate Tanak's decision to go to Hyundai atm?

[doubled1978]

Good from Teemu, not going to give up 2nd without a fight...

[KKS]

How do you rate Tanak's decision to go to Hyundai atm?
same direction, but with less consequences

[EstWRC]

How do you rate Tanak's decision to go to Hyundai atm?

good, more interesting

it would have been more boring if he had stayed in Toyota

[mknight]

good, more interesting

it would have been more boring if he had stayed in Toyota

Before Sweden you were saying that last year it was definitely not Toyota having an advantage...good that you see the obvious now.

[satukata]

Ogier showing now who is champ and Toyota best car too atm.

[EstWRC]

Neuville nearly missing the dog https://twitter.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1238833676508712960?s=20

[mknight]

Neuville nearly missing the dog https://twitter.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1238833676508712960?s=20

Actually looks like the dog thought that his owner wants him to stop the car. (he let go off him to wave just as the car came).

[Damian Baldi]

Suninen is doing a great job. Could he get the 2nd place?

[EstWRC]

Hyundai playing games? Neuville even not at the start

[KKS]

Neuville?

[flat_right]

I think between Ott and Evans

[EstWRC]

nightmare weekend for msport as well

[Mise]

At this rate we could see a WRC3 driver in podium.

[KKS]

throttle pedal sensor problem? I guess Evans have similar some time ago...

[Rally Power]

I was waiting for this looong time. Ogier deserves this after all bad times he went through...

No one prevent him of being faster in MC and Sweden.

Btw, besides winning MC, Mexico and Turkey last year with Citroen, he was on the title figth untill the last event; will he be able to do the same with Toyota?

[TypeR]

what an ass move from Gus/Ford.. just start before Tänak..
I bet Wilson will get an sms from Tänak after the finish.. and Gus some nice words.. :D

[EstWRC]

Ott is very close to Gus....

[dimviii]

Hyundai playing games? Neuville even not at the start
why they didnt do it at previous stage?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans lost out with the extra sweeping. Thanks Hyundai.

[meh]

Neuville drive for the argument "who is the fastest Hyundai" and "I could win this Rally"

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Teemu going quite well again.

[EstWRC]

Suninen coming good again

[KKS]

Tanak will be 2nd at the end of a day

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier just controlling now - no risks.

[stefanvv]

Neuville nearly missing the dog https://twitter.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1238833676508712960?s=20

Neuville nearly what :D?

[EstWRC]

Teemu lost a lot in the end, 13 secs gap with Ott now

[meh]

Beginning of the stage is like made for Tänak.. but in Toyota.

[Essaj]

That jump is HUGE

[Negaiss]

That jump is HUGE

yeeeah, it's BIG.

[meh]

The jump is pointless, no-one want to risk there and damage car

[AnttiL]

The jump is modified for this year and now they have to brake a lot. Last year it seemed the cars don't even get airborne at all.

[Deutschexpat]

This stage, ROVANPERÄ does the sweeping for EVANS, NEUVILLE,etc.

[EstWRC]

kinda boring day so far, not that i expected to be very interesting

[flat_right]

I wonder has any interviewer asked from Ott what is bothering him that he doesn't feel comfortable in the car and can't push. He has said this many times but no info.

[spiderem]

Ogier on Sunday drive mode, Suninen massive jump at the end :)
Lots of big rocks everywhere, some punctures this afternoon for sure.

[EstWRC]

i like this reports https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXvQ1XT-hRE&feature=youtu.be

lol at gryazin

[Deutschexpat]

I wonder has any interviewer asked from Ott what is bothering him that he doesn't feel comfortable in the car and can't push. He has said this many times but no info.

Let's check the stats: Since and including stage 7, OTT has won 3 stages and has been out of the top 3 of any stage only once. That's damn consistent over 8 stages. And now he is just 6.6 seconds down on 2nd.

[AnttiL]

But still he says he's not comfortable.

[krissucool]

Let's check the stats: Since and including stage 7, OTT has won 3 stages and has been out of the top 3 of any stage only once. That's damn consistent over 8 stages. And now he is just 6.6 seconds down on 2nd.

Yes, but he has the best starting position against all his main rivals (who could realistically beat him with spped) for all these stages except Ogier today and Ogier really pushed on only 1 of these stages where he thrashed everybody.

Not to say that Ott is driving slow but he is not doing anything impressive either (which we are so accustomed to from last 2 years). He is just doing what he should at minimum with this starting position.

Also, looking at the time differences, I would assume if road positions would be reversed, Evans would be beating him by at minimum the same margin Ott is beating him now. Probably bigger.

[flat_right]

I wonder has any interviewer asked from Ott what is bothering him that he doesn't feel comfortable in the car and can't push. He has said this many times but no info.

So in All Live this question was actually asked and the answer was basically that it is because of shortage of kilometers in the car. As Hyundai is a bit different he hasn't learned all the tricks. Probably also what is the best setup for him in this car. I think with more km's, more understanding, setting the car up like he wants, learning the tricks and also development, he should be fine in couple of rallies. Hopefully it is not late then.

[KKS]

i like this reports https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXvQ1XT-hRE&feature=youtu.be

lol at gryazin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiHRYZNbG-Q

[KKS]

Doggy was OK :)
https://twitter.com/OSCAR_WRC1/status/1238833676508712960

[Oliverk]

Teams are in an meeting now to suspend Rally Mexico from this moment.

[EstWRC]

Team are in an meeting now to suspend Rally Mexico from this moment.

little correction, Sunday would be cancelled, todays stages would run.

[Oliverk]

little correction, Sunday would be cancelled, todays stages would run.

From this moment. Means not tomorrow.

[EstWRC]

From this moment. Means not tomorrow.

i doubt they will cancel the afternoon loop

E: sorry OliverK seems you read postimees, i read delfi and thats why the difference

[AnttiL]

Would suck but I understand their concern.

[SubaruNorway]

Østberg's plane tomorrow was cancelled so he's going home today

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ETF_JjKWoAAeMk9?format=jpg&name=large

[br21]

Greensmith goes out from service, so seems rally continues

[Andre Oliveira]

https://www.facebook.com/100007667403414/posts/2471709529761270/?d=n

[EstWRC]

Greensmith goes out from service, so seems rally continues

kalle too now

e: also Evans

[dimviii]

So no power stage for Neuville

[dimviii]

Erik Veiby
@VeibyErik
I wonder how @OfficialWRC
can continue #RallyMexico when rest of the world is closing boarders? @DirtFishRally
@autosport
Norway airports closes on Monday at 8:00...hurry home boys

[Simmi]

https://www.dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-mexico-to-finish-early/

One more loop and then wrap it up. Went to Mexico last year. Would be pretty scary to be so far away and not sure if you can get home.

[EstWRC]

great job again dirtfish!

[EstWRC]

#Tyre Info - WRC - SS16➡️SS21

Ogier & Evans & Suninen & Greensmith: 4 Michelin LTX Force H4 + 1 Michelin LTX Force M6

Rovanperä: 4 H4 + 2 M6

Tänak & Neuville: 5 H4

[EstWRC]

not a word about the topic on ALLLIVE so far although you could see Toyota guys packing things

[Portimao]

Sunday's loop cancelled.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Here we go... last rallying for a while it seems.

[Erki]

Are they wrapping it up after SS18? Would make sense really.

[doubled1978]

https://www.dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-mexico-to-finish-early/

One more loop and then wrap it up. Went to Mexico last year. Would be pretty scary to be so far away and not sure if you can get home.

Shame, but understandable in the global circumstances....kind of incredible we got this far.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Are they wrapping it up after SS18? Would make sense really.

After SS21.

[EstWRC]

Evans almost off again at the same place as in the morning

[mknight]

Evans wide on first corner of the stage just like in the morning.... one would think he would learn.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Did Neuville really say his later start this morning was only due to a car issue ?

[spiderem]

If Oliver says 1 more time "fantastic" on ALLlive, I switch him off.

[AnttiL]

After SS21.

It's crazy that the last stage for a long time will be Rock & Rally (what used to be Street Stage Leon before)

[AnttiL]

Did Neuville really say his later start this morning was only due to a car issue ?

I think he said it was tactical at the end of Derramadero stage end interview

[Erki]

After SS21.

Just wasting time IMO.

[EstWRC]

Suninen equal with Tänak on second split

[Rallyper]

Why cancel? Flights going on all over the world, just like that. Just take a look at flightradar24...

They are there, wouldn´t the drivers be allowed to come home? 14 days quarantine, yes. But they´ll get it anyway...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Go go go Teemu !

[Rallyper]

Oliver Solberg has good roadmemory...

[EstWRC]

amazing Teemu

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Teemu what you had for lunch ?!

[krissucool]

Tänak snailing it? Really slowed down on the second part.

[AnttiL]

Go Suninen!

[AnttiL]

Crazy to think that podium positions could be decided on a futile stage such as Rock & Rally (previously known as Street Stage Leon)

[Allez Andruet]

Suninen KOs Tänak here.

[meh]

Tänak and Hyundai is mismatch.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak not happy with the feeling but Teemu now slowed.

[EstWRC]

mistake from Suninen thats why

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Such a shame.

[AnttiL]

Tänak was really unhappy. Missing the Yaris?

[BigWorm]

Spin from Teemu

[BigWorm]

Such a shame.

Not over yet!

[mknight]

Tänak and Hyundai is mismatch.

Back to standard for more than last 3 years at Hyundai. When one driver is happy, then some other driver is unhappy and the other way around. Very rarely all 3 drivers are happy at same time.

[EstWRC]

what Teemu said i didnt get it?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

DirtFish @DirtFishRally
All #WRC cars have now begun the afternoon loop of stages, which could be the last if Sunday does not go ahead.

[TypeR]

That Hyundai must be a PITA car to drive with.. Tänak has never said anything like that while driving with Toyota or Ford..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

OFFICIAL

https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/rally-guanajuato-mexico-confirms-revised-schedule/

[TypeR]

as Neuville has only driven the Hyundai for so many years and has no other experience.. it is only capable of getting silver medals..

[KKS]

Why cancel? Flights going on all over the world, just like that. Just take a look at flightradar24...

They are there, wouldn´t the drivers be allowed to come home? 14 days quarantine, yes. But they´ll get it anyway...
+100500 If you have tickets for Mon/Tue you can't leave on Sun, simple there no free seats and you will return on Tue and go for 14days isolation... stupid. Only private-jet got benefit from this

[Rallyper]

OFFICIAL

https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/rally-guanajuato-mexico-confirms-revised-schedule/

:( :(

[Allez Andruet]

Re: Tidemand

Becs: What is he saying?
Oliver: He's not saying anything.

[meh]

None of drivers mentioned the fact, that this is the final loop. Is it really possible that they didn't know it yet?

[Evian]

Is the final stage also power stage? SS21 is only 1.62km. I didn't see any news about power stage.

Sent from my Mi Note 10 using Tapatalk

Edit: According to the document KKS shared there will be no PS...

[EstWRC]

i have a feeling this Suninen-Tänak fight will go until the last stage

which would be awesome

[KKS]

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1.5-Bulletin-5-Mx20-1.pdf

[KKS]

Is the final stage also power stage? SS21 is only 1.62km. I didn't see any news about power stage.

Sent from my Mi Note 10 using Tapatalk
No Power Stage

[pantealex]

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1.5-Bulletin-5-Mx20-1.pdf

Surpised that non of you read rally notice board:

SS21 is last one. No Power Stage.

[Tarmop]

Umh, mismatch or not, i think it is too early to tell. Some stages in Monte, some stages in Sweden (and a nice 2.), third rally running. Could be the opposite, once the season starts again...if it starts.

[meh]

No Power Stage

Bad news for Neuville.

[dimviii]

Bad news for Neuville.

and for Ogier.Showed that he could take easily these 5 points.

[dimviii]

as till ss 16

1. Ogier 37 + 25 = 62
2. Evans 42 + 12 = 54
3. Neuville 42 + 0 = 42
4. Rovanperä 30 + 10 = 40
5. Tänak 20 + 15 = 35
6. Suninen 11 + 18 = 29

[Evian]

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1.5-Bulletin-5-Mx20-1.pdf

Surpised that non of you read rally notice board:

SS21 is last one. No Power Stage.I checked the notice board after I saw the article on WRC, but it wasn't posted then.

Sent from my Mi Note 10 using Tapatalk

[jonkka]

I checked the notice board after I saw the article on WRC, but it wasn't posted then.

It was but for some reason bulletins don't show up in chronological order.

[meh]

There is one good thing with Tänak - he wasn't happy at all and was almost with the same speed with happy Neuville. If he can finally sort it out... or is it possible with this car at all.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville must feel gutted about being the sweeper for his big rival Tanak.

[Tarmop]

*the car that is a WDC runner-up and teams champion.

[KKS]

Neuville on a flyer

[mknight]

*the car that is a WDC runner-up and teams champion.

The main reason for being manu champ is the epic fail of the 2nd/3rd Toyota drivers last year.

[Tarmop]

blabla.

There is some truth in it though, but still...conclusions are made too early, just too bad that we can write this season or first half of it off.

[Rallyper]

Tanak going for 2nd!!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No Suninen splits again on WRC website ?

[krissucool]

No Suninen splits?

[KKS]

Suninen lost half of gap already on 1st split

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No Suninen splits?

They've missing or wrong most of the time.

[EstWRC]

exactly the same pattern as in the morning

Suninen equal on first stage but loses a lot then on the next two

[KKS]

Seems another mistake from Suninen on 1st split. +2.9/+2.9/+3.2/+2.9

[dimviii]

on the next one 21,8 km long,Suninen lost 6,8 sec at morning pass

[Deutschexpat]

The main reason for being manu champ is the epic fail of the 2nd/3rd Toyota drivers last year.

So ture

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Inevitable now Tanak to take 2nd.

Unless there's some drama the places are virtually certain.

[Katvala]

Last day of rallying in probably months.

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

Seems another mistake from Suninen on 1st split. +2.9/+2.9/+3.2/+2.9

i thought this as well, he held the gap from first split on

[Rally Power]

No Power Stage

For sure all those involved in the rally are naturally wishing to go home ASAP, but once it was decided to complete the 2nd leg why didn’t they turn today’s last proper stage (SS18) into the power stage?

[KKS]

For sure all those involved in the rally are naturally wishing to go home ASAP, but once it was decided to complete the 2nd leg why didn’t they turn today’s last proper stage (SS18) into the power stage?
Cuz regulation says that last stage of a rally = power stage. So they must run SS21 as Power, but seems didn't want that for some reason.

[jonkka]

Cuz regulation says that last stage of a rally = power stage.

That can be amended, given the extraordinary circumstances. But regs also state that it must be preceded by 40 min regroup which is impossible atm - and it should also be televised, as per regs, which SS18 seems to be.

[petttu]

Cuz regulation says that last stage of a rally = power stage. So they must run SS21 as Power, but seems didn't want that for some reason.

But how about rally GB 2018? Then it was the stage 20 out of 24. Usually the last, but can be changed.

[Rallyper]

Power stage or not. SS18 will be last one for me in this rally...

Hope for some more before Rally Finland...

[AnttiL]

Cuz regulation says that last stage of a rally = power stage. So they must run SS21 as Power, but seems didn't want that for some reason.

This is not true

[jonkka]

This is not true

First part of it is true. Regulations state that:

50.2 CHARACTERISTICS
This stage will:
– Be the last stage of the rally

[AnttiL]

Yes, but we have seen that the power stage can be driven earlier in the rally (Wales 2018 or some earlier examples)

[jonkka]

Yes, but we have seen that the power stage can be driven earlier in the rally (Wales 2018 or some earlier examples)

That's why I stated that only first part is true. Regulations also note that stage must be chosen in conjunction with the FIA and Promotor, meaning it is possible to deviate from regs if need be.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Oof Evans... careful !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville wow... or did Evans have bigger issue !?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak gets 2nd.

[the sniper]

I've noticed that a couple of times this weekend, Tanak's look of disgust when they open the door and he hasn't yet got his hat out of the door pocket. That was the most obvious one yet! :D

[KKS]

Suninen overdrives himself

[EstWRC]

real shame about that mistake from Ott yesterday

although i doubt he would have kept Ogiers pace today but it would have been interesting fight for the win

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Seems Ogier will match Loeb for 6 Mexico wins... but in 4 different teams.

[EstWRC]

Seems Ogier will match Loeb for 6 Mexico wins... but in 4 different teams.

he would even win with a bicyle here, he is just that good on this rally.

his performance with citroen last year here was even more impressive for me.

[Rallyper]

So what you guys saying is that Ogier would´ve won even if Ott and Neuville had no problems? Doubt that. Ogier would´ve been 3rd...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So what you guys saying is that Ogier would´ve won even if Ott and Neuville had problems? Doubt that. Ogier would´ve been 3rd...

I didnt say that. Just the fact he will win.

[Rallyper]

I didnt say that. Just the fact he will win.

Under these circumstances, yes. I think both Ott and Thierry has been faster in rough speed, here in Mexico.

However hypothetical discussion from my side.

[the sniper]

Gryazin lucky, had a problem with the car and ended up spinning coming off the jump!

[EstWRC]

Under these circumstances, yes. I think both Ott and Thierry has been faster in rough speed, here in Mexico.

However hypothetical discussion from my side.

they were faster because Ogier wasnt pushing today

but we will never know the answer

[Rallyper]

Good night my friends. This was all for me this round. See you sooner than I believe we will ... ;)

[KKS]

Yes, but we have seen that the power stage can be driven earlier in the rally (Wales 2018 or some earlier examples)
from 2018 sporting regs:

13.3.2 CharacteristicsThis stage shall:
- Be the last stage of the rally.
- Be run at a time in agreement with the Promoter and the FIA.
- Be run as a stage of the event for all classified competitors.
- Be representative of the rally.
- Be preceded by Media Zone and a regroup of at least 30 minutes. Arts. 42.5.2 and 48.2.2 do not apply forthis Media Zone and this regroup.
- Be timed to the elapsed millisecond.
- Be chosen in consultation with and after the approval of the FIA and the Promoter.
All points are OK, but could be totally ignored by last one. So why 1-6 exist while they could not implemented? This is strange one.
And BTW what a reason of WRGB18 not run power stage as last stage?

[Rally Power]

And BTW what a reason of WRGB18 not run power stage as last stage?

The organizer insisted on having Great Orme as final stage but once it was a tarmac stage it didn’t cope with item 4 of PS rules.

Btw, great show from Tanak and Neuville on this one and congrats to Suninen; even if he wasn’t able to keep Tanak behind, this has been his best rally for a long time.

[meh]

I wonder is the location for Suninen on maps real or not? He seems quite far away from the place where he should be.

[KKS]

I wonder is the location for Suninen on maps real or not? He seems quite far away from the place where he should be.
freeze with 34 kph speed

[KKS]

Ott on a very bad mood all day.

[KKS]

Ogier start this rally with statement: "This rally shouldn't happen" and finish with same...

[pantealex]

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/5.7-Provisional-Classification.pdf

Final results (Provisional but all cars are free from Parc Ferme)

[pantealex]

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/5.7-Provisional-Classification.pdf

Final results (Provisional but all cars are free from Parc Ferme)

https://www.rallymexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/5.9-Final-Classification.pdf

Final ones

[mknight]

So what you guys saying is that Ogier would´ve won even if Ott and Neuville had no problems? Doubt that. Ogier would´ve been 3rd...

Yes Ogier would have won even if they didn't have problems. Neuville had problems while behind Ogier.

On Saturday without road position disadvanrage Ogier pushed on first stage beating everyone by 8s+ and could cruise rest of the day. Almost like some Polo days.

[Ucci]

Anyway, what has happened has happened. I understand the decison made by FIA & organizer, the situation in the whole world is extremely sirious.
I'm verry happy for Ogier (althouhg I haven't placed him so high in my pickems), he finlly succeeded.
I do not see the situation for Tanak so bad (unsatisfied with the car), second place is a top result.
Suninen-very positive, at least a patch for disaster with Lappi.
Evans-according to predictions he was not playing any ''prominent'' role in this event.

Now- keeping fingers crossed and hope for COVID-19 to stop spreading.

[dimviii]

"It is clear that this is not a victory like the others," said Sébastien Ogier at the microphone of Olivier Gaspard, RTBF's special envoy to Mexico. For me, this rally should not have taken place , I was unfortunately one of the only ones to push in this direction before the start. Despite everything, I tried to do the job and to concentrate on the race, but protecting human lives, that comes first , and of course before the rally. I hope that coming, we will not cause any additional problems here. For me, the priority now is to get home as soon as possible and take care mine in these difficult times. Hopefully the critical situation the world is going through will improve as soon as possible. After that, we will go back to rallying as soon as possible. "

https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_ogier-pas-une-victoire-comme-les-autres-ce-rallye-n-aurait-pas-du-avoir-lieu?id=10457982

[dimviii]

what kind of issues?


Elfyn Evans
@ElfynEvans
Not an easy weekend @RallyMexico
but 4th place after opening the road all of yesterday is not so bad. Felt I drove pretty well up to lunchtime today but we had some issues and I just couldn’t take the fight to Ott. Yaris WRC felt good for our first rally on gravel @TGR_WRC
#EE33

[Tarmop]

Yaris has had many issues that need roadside repairs and aren`t made public. Probably something we will never know like before.

[AnttiL]

Both Evans and Suninen had brake issues on the afternoon loop. Elfyn said he lost all brakes towards the end of Derramadero and Suninen had only three brakes on the super specials (already earlier?).

Good podium from Suninen, another solid top5 result from Rovanperä which could have been a podium without the puncture.

Ogier and Tänak showing that they have found confidence in their new cars, but at least Tänak not as dominant as in Toyota.

And another "what could have been" for Neuville, but we must remember that motorsport needs combined performance of driver and vehicle. Both of them must succeed.

[flat_right]

Ogier and Tänak showing that they have found confidence in their new cars, but at least Tänak not as dominant as in Toyota.



Agree with Ogier but for Tänak, based on what he said many times during the rally, it isn’t true.

He said he can only drive on a comfortable level and can’t push.

[AnttiK7]

Ogier and Tänak showing that they have found confidence in their new cars, but at least Tänak not as dominant as in Toyota.

Ott's pace was very good considering it's still early days for him at Hyundai. Taking that into account and the by now notorious difficulty to get accustomed to an i20, it's quite impressive actually. Plus it's only a bit over a month since he had the mother and father of shunts of all time.

But about the showing confidence thing...he didn't exactly exude confidence in his car during the rally. And I'm not only talking about stage end interviews, but in certain type of sharp corners, to my eye he was visibly struggling and "hesitating" on the stages. Difficult to describe, but at times the driving looked a bit forced. Not in a huge way, but enough to prevent him from going into domination mode like with Yaris. In contrast, Seb looked serene, relaxed and completely in control all weekend. But then again, he always tends to be in Mexico...no matter if he drives the yardstick of the series or an utter shitbox, makes no difference.

[dimviii]

https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2020/photos/rally_guanajuato_mexico_2020/hfr_dsc_4461.jpg
https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2020/photos/rally_guanajuato_mexico_2020/hfr_dsc_5010.jpg

[SubaruNorway]

Evans lost a brake duct at the front

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/4Z61SiXQR68

[AnttiK7]

Three completely different events, three times three Yarises in top 5. Not the reliability record many were probably expecting after 2019. Definitely not from the car, nor from Rovanperä for that matter, who honestly was quite crash-happy with the Skoda in 2019. Ironically, it seems like Yaris has now become a bulletproof tank and Hyundai's reliability is looking increasingly suspect, especially after a rather disastrous and embarassing Mexico. Not counting Latvala's private drive in Sweden, last major car related failure/problem was Tänak in Turkey last September?

Now in Mexico, on one of the first stages Ogier hit a cliff face hard on the inside of the corner, with the wheel turned open (I think), which usually spells disaster. But the Yaris took the impact like nothing happened at all, I was amazed.

I know it's still a bit early days for conclusions, but given especially how Mexico has pretty much been a disaster for Toyota in previous years, it does start to seem like the tide has finally turned. Given the speed of the car, this is very bad news for the opposition. Of course, if we still get some more WRC rallies in 2020, that is.

[AnttiL]

Ott's pace was very good considering it's still early days for him at Hyundai. Taking that into account and the by now notorious difficulty to get accustomed to an i20, it's quite impressive actually. Plus it's only a bit over a month since he had the mother and father of shunts of all time.

But about the showing confidence thing...he didn't exactly exude confidence in his car during the rally. And I'm not only talking about stage end interviews, but in certain type of sharp corners, to my eye he was visibly struggling and "hesitating" on the stages. Difficult to describe, but at times the driving looked a bit forced. Not in a huge way, but enough to prevent him from going into domination mode like with Yaris. In contrast, Seb looked serene, relaxed and completely in control all weekend. But then again, he always tends to be in Mexico...no matter if he drives the yardstick of the series or an utter shitbox, makes no difference.

You are correct. I should have used the word "pace" instead of "confidence". I also marked Tänak's comments about not being comfortable during the weekend.

[AnttiL]

Tänak's quote from the press conference


It has been a very demanding weekend. I would say I haven’t felt completely confident to push in the stages. I have been trying to approach in a way to stay out of trouble. Friday morning proved already that there is no way we were going to make it through by pushing. The car is definitely fast. It has a lot of potential but there are many things which I need to learn and some things quite specific. I am sure we have a lot of work to do and, finally, we have some experience on gravel.

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-s-ogier-mexico-big-challenge-every-time

[wyler]

also tanak:

Rally México 2020 - End of the rally

����
I am pleased to add another second place to my results for Hyundai Motorsport.
I feel that I have pushed as hard as I could this weekend, my first proper gravel rally with the team and in the Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC.
We had the performance to win this weekend; the incident on Friday morning was my mistake, and I accept full blame for that.
We then just tried to get the most out of the rest of the event, and could slowly, slowly make up time and positions.
It’s been a demanding event for many reasons, and mentally quite tough, but we have another podium to our name, which is good.
Stay safe everyone and take care of your loved ones during these difficult times, I really hope that it will be over soon!
Ott

[BigWorm]

Ironically, it seems like Yaris has now become a bulletproof tank and Hyundai's reliability is looking increasingly suspect, especially after a rather disastrous and embarassing Mexico. Not counting Latvala's private drive in Sweden, last major car related failure/problem was Tänak in Turkey last September?


The Yaris seems a lot better now. We shall see with Hyundai, for what I remember they've had technical issues in Mexico every year since the new regulations but have looked solid elsewhere (Mexico is still a specific event). Toyota have at least gotten over their problems here, while it's obvious Hyundai haven't.

[the sniper]

Headline rather misleading here "SOMBER OGIER APOLOGIZES FOR POTENTIAL ‘HARM’ FROM RALLY": https://www.dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ogier-in-conflicted-mood-over-rally-mexico-win/

“A victory is a victory of course but this one feels completely different to any others because for me this rally should have not happened,” he said.

“For me, protecting human life should go first and I hope we didn’t bring any harm here to the Mexican people.

He actually says: “At least I want to apologize to them that I couldn’t spend time and give autographs and pictures like every year."

[Damian Baldi]

Martín Suriani who was leading the RC5 class most of the race, have abandoned after SS13 because an accident while they were going to SS14.

The young guy did it really well, and he said there could be good news coming from Renault Sport soon.

[dimviii]

when Solberg broke the sump
https://twitter.com/OliverSolberg01/status/1239428607904227328


Suninen moment catch

https://nsa40.casimages.com/img/2020/03/16/200316064049111964.jpg

[denkimi]

Headline rather misleading here "SOMBER OGIER APOLOGIZES FOR POTENTIAL ‘HARM’ FROM RALLY": https://www.dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ogier-in-conflicted-mood-over-rally-mexico-win/

“A victory is a victory of course but this one feels completely different to any others because for me this rally should have not happened,” he said.

“For me, protecting human life should go first and I hope we didn’t bring any harm here to the Mexican people.

He actually says: “At least I want to apologize to them that I couldn’t spend time and give autographs and pictures like every year."
I wonder if he would have said the same if he wasn't if he wasn't in the lead.

Its very convenient for him to stop the rally right there.

[AnttiL]

At least he said it already before the rally.

[Mintexmemory]

I wonder if he would have said the same if he wasn't if he wasn't in the lead.

Its very convenient for him to stop the rally right there.

Ogier, like Hamilton, has nothing to prove and a status that goes beyond a wannabe. Chapeau!

[dimviii]

I wonder if he would have said the same if he wasn't if he wasn't in the lead.

Its very convenient for him to stop the rally right there.

Οgier this time was right about the virous.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Some people will slag Ogier whatever he says or does. Pathetic.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Anyone else here returned from Mexico? Shame the event was cancelled for the sunday... I'm back in Australia and now in a 14 day quarantine.. we didn't see any issues with COVID-19 but can understand the stress families and friends had back at home with people at the rally and the fact things moved fast with flight bans, travel and safety.

Otherwise, another fantastic weekend in Leon and highly recommend those who haven't been go in 2021!

[NielsH]

Got back yesterday. Glad they did not cancel it Thursday, heard some talk about that. Really liked the event, think it should be on every rally fans bucket-list.

https://www.rally-photo.net/wp-content/gallery/2020-rally-mexico/IMG_3697s.JPG

https://www.rally-photo.net/wp-content/gallery/2020-rally-mexico/IMG_4507s.JPG

https://www.rally-photo.net/wp-content/gallery/2020-rally-mexico/IMG_4575s.JPG

https://www.rally-photo.net/wp-content/gallery/2020-rally-mexico/IMG_4804s.JPG

And a few more: https://www.rally-photo.net/photo-galleries/nggallery/gallery/2020-rally-mexico

[KiwiWRCfan]

great gallery Niels, thanks for posting the link. Also enjoying looking at your galleries from the mid 00's

[EstWRC]

dirtfish has made a report again about Tänaks lake visit in 2015 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcnglXDNO94

[EstWRC]

Suninen vs Tänak Autódromo https://youtu.be/DFbInJ0Gqtc
Neuville vs Rovanperä SS6 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bonp0fiAXxo

[EstWRC]

full onboard of Tänaks El Chocolate run https://www.wrc.com/en/archive/videos/?videoId=137500