WRC Rally Acropolis Greece 2021

[MentalParadox]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E-6VHpjXEAEtY4_?format=jpg&name=small

So in Belgium we were held to a ridiculous standard of safety, but in Greece they can do this. Okay. This safety thing is all theater, everyone knows it but no one will ever admit it.

[AnttiL]

Tänak hit a bump so hard that the onboard camera reseted (or broke)

[240RS]

With Evans clearly out of the fight for top positions now, can't see Neuville taking chances. That may give Ogier the freedom to control the championship race all the way. It's now a case of when. . .where. . . he takes the title.

[jonkka]

Sordo gets jumpstart penalty of 10 secs... Just when he posted a good stage time...

[Lead]

Great progress rally by rally by Bulacia, beating his experienced teammate on SS3.

EDIT: And also is faster than Solberg.

[NOT]

Ss3 is pauaed due to spectators could be cancelled as well

[Rallyper]

Great progress rally by rally by Bulacia, beating his experienced teammate on SS3.

EDIT: And also is faster than Solberg.

Bulacia has progressed very well whole season. This is a "slow" rally so it´s even easier to shine. But he could very well be a coming champion

[Got Mail]

Bulacia has progressed very well whole season. This is a "slow" rally so it´s even easier to shine. But he could very well be a coming champion

He's a very impressive young man with a big future. His main competition next year maybe his younger brother, Bruno, who is equally impressive. And maybe slightly quicker...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Chris Ingram leads WRC3 after SS3.

[Jarek Z]

Chris Ingram leads WRC3 after SS3.

... and is only 1 second slower than Bulacia.

[Essaj]

WRC - FIA World Rally Championship
@ThierryNeuville
is having trouble re-starting his car after the tyre fitting zone. He should have left over 15min ago.

[TypeR]

how is this possible with Hyundai..

[AnttiL]

how is this possible with Hyundai..

The quality is amazing!

[TypeR]

Evans also out for today?

[bomber21]

Inexperienced people are present in the mountains and they stand in inappropriate places. Organizers must take action ASAP.

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/HMSGOfficial/status/1436277729163415553

power steering failure for Neuville

[AnttiL]

Inexperienced people are present in the mountains and they stand in inappropriate places. Organizers must take action ASAP.

If you are there, tell them. We could see stages cancelled...

[TypeR]

Neuville moving!

can't imagine how much he was over the speed limit :D

[Fredouye]

Some photos from SS3https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/4d895dab3ee0448f9d8620e98fd9568b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/45a8fbb670b487f7582b013f7249d084.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/3d26fa003a11029e8d8d5efc48779422.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/b5056f575a9d2afe104984ce4bc0bcc8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/0ed3a096db41c3e0ad702a191f8de3c2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/2839566733d77cc3adb78b7a631931b6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/548e022d5559e1f9d1f56ce10632b5a5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/4e32948c8a73ac50f139d2127f31c878.jpg

[TypeR]

before Evans and now Rovanperä saying that can't drive in Ogier's lines..
that the difference, he is 7x WDC :D

[jonkka]

before Evans and now Rovanperä saying that can't drive in Ogier's lines..
that the difference, he is 7x WDC :D

Even so, Rovanpera is faster...

[flat_right]

before Evans and now Rovanperä saying that can't drive in Ogier's lines..
that the difference, he is 7x WDC

But if Rovanperä is faster, so there is no need? Or why would it be important...

[AnttiL]

But if Rovanperä is faster, so there is no need? Or why would it be important...

It's cleaner in the line.

[flat_right]

It's cleaner in the line.

Okay, that's true. But still, the lines are quite equal then if one car behind, you can do faster.

[Essaj]

So Evans stuck in 4th gear and Neuville no power steering. Quite a long afternoon for those two

[AnttiL]

Okay, that's true. But still, the lines are quite equal then if one car behind, you can do faster.

Most of the time the second car will be in the first car's line, and then they have better grip. The first car is plowing all the time.

[seb_sh]

cars dropping like flies

[jonkka]

cars dropping like flies

It's Acropolis, it's to be expected.

[TypeR]

Neuville
https://www.upload.ee/image/13461842/53-535648_popeye-the-sailor-man-clip-art-popeye-cartoon.jpg

[EstWRC]

Thiery saying they had difficulties and problems whole morning before PS failure....

[MentalParadox]

Thierry in absolute agony... I hope they let Martijn drive the road sections to let him rest.

[Lead]

Gryazin is nowhere with Ford.

[seb_sh]

It's Acropolis, it's to be expected.

i thought this year it's not really acropolis and it's too smooth and all that blabla :D

[Essaj]

Solberg stopped? GPS not moving

[Sulland]

Gryazin is nowhere with Ford.

Very few are with the Rally2 on gravel.
New and improved parts on the way according to Anders Grondal. His hair has turned gray over this car ;-)

[TypeR]

organisers haven't managed to change the starting times, big gap between Ogier and Rovanperä

[TypeR]

Neuville faster than Tänak on SPL1 :D

seems like, managed to repair the car

[EstWRC]

to me it seems the cleaning effect isnt actually that big like expected before the rally, if at all on some parts/stages

which is good we have now close gaps from 1st to 3rd and Sordo isnt also far behind

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Impressive fix for Neuville - well done that crew !

[240RS]

Ogier has managed his pace very well today. And yet he had the supposed disadvantage of running first on the road. Assuming he holds station overnight, this will be his rally to lose. Even with what has been an equally impressive drive from Rovanpera.

[drive]

Fri action https://youtu.be/4jlsd2HIoas

[AnttiL]

organisers haven't managed to change the starting times, big gap between Ogier and Rovanperä

A regroup would be needed for that

[Rallyper]

so when will SS6 start then?

[bomber21]

17.55 Greek time

[Rallyper]

Ogier is in another universe...
Now saunatime. See ya tmrw.

[TypeR]

What the f are the fans doing there and swinging Loubet's car..

[denkimi]

Congratulations on ogier's 8th title.

I hope he continues for another year.

[erikli2]

Wtf are they doing? Get out of the way and let the cars pass

[wwbroe]

Neuville was on his way to besttime untill Loubet blocked him

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loubet to the end finally... what a mess.

[er88]

Perfect drive from Ogier. Amazing. Cruising to his 8th title....

Combine Ogiers talent and the misfortune of others and it's no wonder nobody is near him in the championship. Bit miffed he's scaling back from doing full seasons when he is still THIS good.

[TypeR]

https://www.upload.ee/image/13462383/IMG_20210910_184258.jpg

[Fredouye]

A few shots from SS5

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/dc0bc01fca3d34f5e5d234f3e3345a94.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/4adcd06a30fe6cb498bfba2fd7a2a280.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/aa6fc410e29da27b7354a1cfc4f46362.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210910/c64bda788adbf58cba3a4ba126484034.jpg

[dupanton]

https://www.upload.ee/image/13462383/IMG_20210910_184258.jpg

With that difference that Elena was smart and that guy is hanging on the side the suspension is broken...

[AnttiL]

Neuville got a nominal stage win for SS6

[greencroft]

I know I may be biased being from the UK, but it is great to see Chris Ingram and Ross Whittock getting such a great run so far on this rally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Chris Ingram leads WRC3 - no bias, fact.

https://www.ewrc-results.com/results/71264-eko-acropolis-rally-of-gods-2021/?s=329402&sct=1681

[macebig]

That's outside assistance for Loubet... Pretty sure that's a good enough reason for exclusion... See if stewards pick it up...

[pantealex]

That's outside assistance for Loubet... Pretty sure that's a good enough reason for exclusion... See if stewards pick it up...

outside assistance is allowed in stages...
(spectators can help you if you drive out of the road etc.)
but no one can give you any "parts" but short towing and pushing a car is allowed

[bomber21]

Does anyone know why we have so few helicopter cameras? I got a bit bored and dizzy watching almost only onboards…

[RallyFan13]

Videos from Leg1!
https://youtu.be/ge2dhR2_75Y

[hari]

Some pictures from Friday: http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_acropolis_rallye_2021.html

http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/1.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/2.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/3.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/4.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/5.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2021/acropolis2/6.jpg

[NOT]

Saw 2 stages today a fast left hander where you could tell who is who depending on the line and a very scary fast jump... Impressed by ogier tanak bulacia. Also got the impression that hyundai has a stronger engine than toyota

[dimviii]

same for me too
Ag Theodoroi both times .Our spot was a fast part about 130-140km/h uphill after from a 150m straight,and at the top of uphill left fast corner with imidiately downhill.Blind spot that you can see who trust notes/setup.Some cars jumped while cornering and entering the downhill.
Ogier is Master,clean lines,never hesitate,never braking early,never correct at entry or midcorner.
At our point was both times the best pass by far.Everybody else did various mistakes.Ogier also different lines from the others.
Kalle very good too.
Tanak too much wide at my spots.
Evans hesitations,was clearly he didnt trusted his setup.
Gryazin all over the place.
Mikkelsen nice pass,as Bulacia.Very nice pass from Oliver
Impressed from Ingram,while we didnt saw the fastest pass,he was every time correct at his line,not corrections,not hesitations too.

[denkimi]

That's outside assistance for Loubet... Pretty sure that's a good enough reason for exclusion... See if stewards pick it up...
I believe taking someone in a moving car without helmet or straps, even without a seat is more problematic than it being outside assistance.

[Yugo_para_siempre]

I enjoyed SS6 a fast long left hander after a straight.

Very beautiful passes from many drivers.

But as said, Ogier what a master he was.
Due to the smooth surface and loose at this corner, as 1st car he had clearly lower grip, but he placed the car perfectly in the entry and from this point onwards he was sliding with all his 4 wheels straight, with two very very small oversteer corrections.
He shaped a perfect arc.

Rovanpera almost the same.

Tanak very brutal, beautiful but with more corrections.

Fourmaux very spectacular oversteer.

Thierry very very fast but not perfect slide, a little bit understeer.

[Myrvold]

I'll do my usual rally-post. The one I seem to write in every rally thread this year.

Though life being a Loubet-fan.

I have no idea why I'm a fan of him, it just happened...

[NOT]

Well the subhuman organisers closed pavliani 4 hours before the start instead of 3 despite saying in the official program that they will close it 3 hour before... So my day is ruined... God i hate this country so much.

[Fredouye]

Have you tried to enter the stage from start or finish ? We went through the start at ~ 5:10, a lot of cars were entering the stage.

[NOT]

I. Was there at 5.01. they did not let me go through

[Fredouye]

Sorry for you, your recce and pictures were a great help.

[TypeR]

Ogier/Sordo/Evans:
2H, 3S
Loubet:
2H, 4S
Tänak/Serderidis:
1H, 4S
Neuville:
3H, 3S
Evans:
2H, 3S
Rovanperä:
3H, 2S
Fourmaux:
6S
Greensmith:
5S

[TypeR]

road smoother than tarmac in some places :D

[EstWRC]

Tänak still struggling, no improvements compared to yesterday with the car

i wonder if he had a mistake between split 1 and 2....Kalle took 5 secs out of him there and it has remained the same the whole stage now

[cali]

Tänak still struggling, no improvements compared to yesterday with the car

i wonder if he had a mistake between split 1 and 2....Kalle took 5 secs out of him there and it has remained the same the whole stage nowYeah second split which was the muddy part I guess.
Kalle did really well considering his tyre choice. By speed he will unstoppable in this rally.

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[wwbroe]

Massive time for Kalle, also Mikkelsen very fast on this one

[Sulland]

Every stage I see Mr Serderidis on the latter parts of stages, I wonder if he will live to see the stageend.
He looks completely destroyed in the heat.

[Rallyper]

Morning.

[Sulland]

Morning.
How is it in Østhammar this morning?

[Rallyper]

How is it in Østhammar this morning?

Foggy. 15 degrees. Perfect day following rally. But need to paint some windows... also.

And Norway somewhere? How is it?

[EstWRC]

Ogier with problems? losing 7 secs to Sordo in split 2

[Fredouye]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210911/27bd93ea4624655b20a866bf9599b4c4.jpg

SS7, a dream landscape :)

[EstWRC]

Ogier with problems? losing 7 secs to Sordo in split 2

nope. has taken time back now

[satukata]

Gryazin very slow every stages.

Suninen was much faster with same car.

[EstWRC]

splits all over the place from some of the drivers on this stage

[Sulland]

Foggy. 15 degrees. Perfect day following rally. But need to paint some windows... also.

And Norway somewhere? How is it?

Sent PM

[Rallyper]

Kalle is flying!

[EstWRC]

everything clicking for Kalle

havent heard complaing about the feeling or car, nailed the tyre choice this mornin

[wwbroe]

No second split for Ingram?

Edit: it showed up finally

[Rallyper]

Oliver and Rossel very fast in RC2

[Sulland]

Oliver and Rossel very fast in RC2Stagewin here, even with good starting position, shows the new I20 seems to have good potential.

[TypeR]

Stage going already, but no live.. ffs again

[Portimao]

Amateurs

[bomber21]

Still nothing…

[Mirek]

It's been working for couple of minutes now.

[rp]

They have to refuel the plane...

[Mirek]

Greensmith spun on heli footage.

[EstWRC]

dont get the logic of Tänak with his tyre choice, in the morning took only 1 spare and softs, now takes 2 spares with hards

[Rallyper]

Kalle big moment...

[EstWRC]

what the hell has he eaten this time, this is just crazy peformance

[Rallyper]

We knew Kalle one day would be in this position years ago, but it´s still unbelievable...

[Ds3]

It is very convenient when your teammate Ogier fights for a world title, you give yourself free rein.

[bomber21]

Let’s see Eleftherohori now, it used to be a hard stage causing many punctures.

[wwbroe]

What happened with Solberg?

[wwbroe]

Very good stagetime for Kajta

[Mirek]

Loubet trying to crash couple of times at the stage end...

[BigWorm]

Loubet trying to crash couple of times at the stage end...

He seems to have pretty poor car control generally

[NOT]

My pictures from friday... rally ended early for me unfortunately... but it was a good fun day.

https://imgur.com/a/AIwYXoe

[Mirek]

He seems to have pretty poor car control generally

Now Neuville went off in the same corner. Serderidis was wide too. Evans stalled for a second there too and nearly hit a sick dog afterwards. The finish section brings some dramas to everyone.

[Sulland]

What happened with Solberg?

From Twitter
❌ We've gone off less than 2km from the end of the famous Bauxites stage - we're okay, but there's some damage on the car. Will see if we can fix it and return again tomorrow..

[BigWorm]

Now Neuville went off in the same corner. Serderidis was wide too. Evans stalled for a second there too and nearly hit a sick dog afterwards. The finnish section brings some dramas to everyone.

Greensmith best so far

[rp]

From Twitter
❌ We've gone off less than 2km from the end of the famous Bauxites stage - we're okay, but there's some damage on the car. Will see if we can fix it and return again tomorrow..

Hyundai´s i20 N Rally2 is not ready at all and neither is Solberg! Not this kind of mistakes, when you have already retired yesterday. It´s still a long way to go & not sure that he will ever reach Kalle´s level...

[jonkka]

Greensmith best so far

Easy to get corner well when one is as slow as Gus is.

[Rallyper]

I think Oliver needs a more experienced codriver, who can advice him to charge where to charge and calm down where needed.

[EstWRC]

Why the hell Ott didn’t you put softs here

Unbelievable

[jonkka]

Why the hell Ott didn’t you put softs here

Unbelievable

Ogier with three Hard tyres is way faster so it's not only about tyres.

[TypeR]

Why the hell Ott didn’t you put softs here

Unbelievable
carrying 2 softs just in case.. :D

Ogier will pass him easily..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak with a veiled comment, 'Nothing is unfortunate'...

[rp]

I think Oliver needs a more experienced codriver, who can advice him to charge where to charge and calm down where needed.

Definitely! It´s weird that they took so unexperienced codriver. There is always some experienced codriver to help them (this time Denis Giraudet), but it´s not the same thing...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Incredible time again by Kalle.

[Mirek]

Hats off for Rovanperä. Incredible pace through the morning loop!

[ipe]

Kalle on fire! Great driving.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Stage red flagged due to fans.

[rp]

" AcropolisRally organisers have told fans more stages will be cancelled if spectators do not obey marshal's safety instructions. Please stay safe ⚠️, listen to the safety messages and enjoy the rally."

There is huge amount of spectators, but it´s not looking good...

[NOT]

"Lets organise a WRC event after 8 years and 2 years of lockdowns... also lets not provide enough access points to the stages so spectators only have limited options"

what could possibly go wrong ????

tomorrow tarzan has only 1 access point... good luck with that.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E-_8UEoXoAU1kSm?format=jpg&name=medium

[EstWRC]

Seems generally the Hyundai’s are struggling here more compared to toyotas.

[AnttiL]

I think Oliver needs a more experienced codriver, who can advice him to charge where to charge and calm down where needed.

Like Seb Marshall was

[AnttiL]

Hats off for Rovanperä. Incredible pace through the morning loop!

I need more hats to take off!

[TypeR]

Finally people can be where they want!
Don't tell them what to do :D :D

[Tauri_J]

Reminds me of rally Poland. No dangerous place to spectate there, according to Polaks.

[Mirek]

Finally people can be where they want!
Don't tell them what to do :D :D

The issue is that it's not them who will get to the court if things go wrong and it's not them who will wake up every morning seeing himself driving into the crowd...

[macebig]

Μorons...
https://www.facebook.com/175723209118696/posts/4563911276966512/

[bomber21]

Subhumans.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak in Media Zone:
"We were just slower [in SS10], but no other issues really. Everything is okay and there was no drama. We'll do our best and let's see what happens later."

[TypeR]

Ogier/Fourmaux/Greensmith:
5H
Loubet/Rovanperä:
4H, 2S
Evans/Sordo:
4H, 1S
Tänak/Neuville:
2H, 3S
Serderidis:
3H, 2S

[wwbroe]

Sordo not so fast on splits

[jonkka]

Sordo not so fast on splits

He is a minute down on Ogier so he's got no reason to risk.

[TypeR]

he should be much closer to Ogier's pace tho.. if some mistake or puncture happens w Ogier

+21.7 to Ogier..

[seb_sh]

Great speed but also some close calls for Rovanpera.

[TypeR]

Bulacia 6.9s faster than Mikkelsen, gap down to 3.2s in overall only

[RS]

Bulacia 6.9s faster than Mikkelsen, gap down to 3.2s in overall only

Presumably they won't allow him to finish ahead of Andreas.

[NOT]

I want bulacia in a WRC

[bomber21]

This day is a little boring. No drama, no punctures, no offs, no changes in the standings.

[AnttiL]

This day is a little boring. No drama, no punctures, no offs, no changes in the standings.

You guys have been spoiled with too dramatic rallies. It’s definitely not boring watching those guys push it to the limit stage after stage. It’s just driver and car quality that we don’t get offs or issues

[NOT]

You guys have been spoiled with too dramatic rallies. It’s definitely not boring watching those guys push it to the limit stage after stage. It’s just driver and car quality that we don’t get offs or issues

no, the stages were cleaned a lot by the rollers and are less technical than those close to athens when the rally last run in the wrc... thats why we had less offs.

The stages around Lamia are very very rough... thats what made them special and we had lots of retirements... now this element is gone.

I do not complain though... its easier to see who is who in fast conditions. avoiding punctures takes no skill.

[Mirek]

Loubet went off again in the same spot as in the first run, lol.

[rp]

It seems that Loubet is not learning at all. A half spin and a stall on the same place as during the 1st run...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wow Tanak is flying.

[wwbroe]

What a time for Tanak

[EstWRC]

Look at the difference when Ott got the car little more working for him

[NOT]

tanak should be the man that Hyundai should listen for the new car... Neuville got his chance for a long time now and he was busy crashing on super specials and handing over cheap titles to ogier.

[Mirek]

Bulacia back in the lead.

[dupanton]

I think Oliver needs a more experienced codriver, who can advice him to charge where to charge and calm down where needed.

With such a detailed notes, no way a codriver can add advice in between the notes.
I think he has to work on less detailed notes, will be better for codriver and driver imo. Certainly when everyhing comes even faster in a wrc car.

[TypeR]

Nice one, Bulacia!

Passed Mikkelsen in overall

[Rallyper]

With such a detailed notes, no way a codriver can add advice in between the notes.
I think he has to work on less detailed notes, will be better for codriver and driver imo. Certainly when everyhing comes even faster in a wrc car.

Sorry. Big wrong from you.

Don´t underestimate experience, arguing only about pace notes. Have you ever driven a rallycar? If not, you can´t even judge what a experienced codriver can offer.

[Mirek]

Sorry. Big wrong from you.

Don´t underestimate experience, arguing only about pace notes. Have you ever driven a rallycar? If not, you can´t even judge what a experienced codriver can offer.

Dupanton is rally co-driver. Of course, he can judge.

[Rallyper]

Dupanton is rally co-driver. Of course, he can judge.


I wouldn´¨t say that is an argument at all, Mirek.
I´ve been both driver and codriver in the past and know, as many other experienced rallying people, what important advices a right chair guy can give a hotspur youngster in stages.

[macebig]

Driver of the 0 car wrote that everything was clear when he passed the stages and people went crazy when the WRC cars showed up, alerting Mouton and the rest of the FIA delegation...

[AnttiL]

I agree with both ideas. Reducing note detail and adding a more experienced co-driver could be a good idea.

Co-driver's advice is not given only during the stage, it's also during recce, between stages, reactions in sudden situations during stage (remember how Nagle kept Breen calm in Ypres and Estonia when they caught a car on stage). Also remember what Marshall said to Solberg after they completed the first stage of Arctic. Solberg was already critical of his performance and Marshall said something like "hey, it was your first stage in this car". This kind of comments are important. However, at the same time I don't know what's the relationship between Solberg and Johnston.

Another example is when Suninen changed Salminen to Lehtinen, he used to be really mean at Salminen for small things, but towards Lehtinen there was respect.

[Mirek]

I wouldn´¨t say that is an argument at all, Mirek.
I´ve been both driver and codriver in the past and know, as many other experienced rallying people, what important advices a right chair guy can give a hotspur youngster in stages.

the thing is that you made a completely needless and baseless attack on him.

[dupanton]

Sorry. Big wrong from you.

Don´t underestimate experience, arguing only about pace notes. Have you ever driven a rallycar? If not, you can´t even judge what a experienced codriver can offer.

I don't underestimate experience at all. As I understood your comment, it was mainly calming him down on the stages that you suggested. For that, I don't think the codriver can have time.
Big respect to Aaron, the pace he has to say his notes is impressive.

About putting less detail in the notes, that is just a guess from me. But personally, I don't think all the "tightens" don't contribute to his notes. But I could be wrong there.

And yes, I've been in a rallycar :p https://www.ewrc-results.com/coprofile/170644-anton-dupan/

[RallyFan13]

Videos from Leg 2
https://youtu.be/VkoqEkRebW4

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/fI_0IYZXqHc

[EstWRC]

It seems that Loubet is not learning at all. A half spin and a stall on the same place as during the 1st run...

im sorry if i offend his fans but i hope he quits after this year or at least goes to rally2 class....this machine is too powerful for him and the guy is going backwards with the development

[EstWRC]

WHY WE SHOULD COME TO EXPECT LOEB-LIKE ROVANPERÄ DOMINANCE

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/why-we-should-come-to-expect-loeb-like-rovanpera-dominance/

what Loeb fans think?

[EstWRC]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4_J1WIDSnA

[AnttiL]

im sorry if i offend his fans but i hope he quits after this year or at least goes to rally2 class....this machine is too powerful for him and the guy is going backwards with the development

Yes, if someone needs a reset or a step backwards, it's him

[dimviii]

Oliver Solberg
@OliverSolberg01
A short update from me ��: We’ve got the car back to service, but unfortunately won’t be restarting tomorrow.

Thanks to the team here for working flat out the whole time Flexed biceps and a big thanks to all of you for your support and nice comments, it especially means a lot right now

[KiwiWRCfan]

Animated visualisation. While top 6 quickly became railway tracks further down the field there is a lot of movement
After watching animation you can click on one or more drivers names to highlight their progress.
If drivers avatar is a car you can click to open larger version of photo
https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/7234217/

[AnttiL]

Good morning. Exciting day ahead!

[Rally Hokkaido]

Good afternoon from Japan. Yes, a tricky stage coming up and there is a small amount of rain falling now.

[Rally Hokkaido]

Loubet out before the stage start!

[wwbroe]

Loubet out before the stage start!
Yes, apparently he returned to service.

[Rally Hokkaido]

Wow, it's a mud bath!

[TypeR]

morning!

Ogier/Greensmith:
2H, 3S
Fourmaux/Evans/Rovanperä:
3H, 2S
Tänak/Neuville:
5S
Sordo:
6S
Loubet/Serderidis:
2H, 4S

[MartijnS]

Yes, apparently he returned to service.

We are on our way to the second stage and just saw him driving on his way back to Lamia.

[EstWRC]

i dont get it now, what happened with him? i just woke up

[wwbroe]

Great shots from Neuville

[wwbroe]

i dont get it now, what happened with him? i just woke up
I don't know what happened, but returning to service

[ZequeArgentina]

I want bulacia in a WRC

He is still very young and little experience (or none) in a lot of rallies. Almost new to tarmac . Why the news to rush? He is doing great and learning fast


Enviado desde mi iPhone utilizando Tapatalk

[TypeR]

Fourmaux also having problems.. repairing car on road section..

[Essaj]

Kalle still flying :D

[TypeR]

seems like done deal :D

Rovanperä 4s faster than Tänak on split 1

[TypeR]

Kalle humiliating others.. 10.4s faster on split 2

[EstWRC]

this is one of the best peformance i have ever seen, unbelivable

[jonkka]

Impressive times from both Rovanpera and Tanak. Rest are just cruising?

[EstWRC]

Tänak Ott - Järveoja Martin

"For us, it's okay, but we are carrying some electrical issue so I am trying to manage at the moment. It's far from perfect."


:rolleyes:

[TypeR]

Forumaux got 3min penalty and Evans moved 6th overall

[wwbroe]

Mikkelsen back in front in WRC2

[Lead]

https://youtu.be/fI_0IYZXqHc

A close one from Bulacia.

[wwbroe]

Longest stage of the rally underway (33,2 Km)

[Rallyper]

I don't underestimate experience at all. As I understood your comment, it was mainly calming him down on the stages that you suggested. For that, I don't think the codriver can have time.
Big respect to Aaron, the pace he has to say his notes is impressive.

About putting less detail in the notes, that is just a guess from me. But personally, I don't think all the "tightens" don't contribute to his notes. But I could be wrong there.

And yes, I've been in a rallycar :p https://www.ewrc-results.com/coprofile/170644-anton-dupan/

We all know what experience can do. That´s what I meant. So many times it has proved to be good. Appearantly Oliver needs some advices , even on stages, but also beside.

[Rallyper]

No splits on SS14.

[wwbroe]

No splits on SS14.
I can see them;)

[wwbroe]

Mikkelsen making the difference in this one

[EstWRC]

wipers didnt work for Tänak once again?


leys hope it doesnt rain on PS then

[wwbroe]

It wasn't raining on this one, so why put wipers?;)

[TypeR]

It wasn't raining on this one, so why put wipers?;)
Previous stage..

[wwbroe]

Previous stage..
Ok, he did mention electrical issues, was he referring to the wipers?

[EstWRC]

Fourmaux second on the stage, lost just 2.2 to Ott

[TypeR]

25min stage and Fourmaux lost 2s to Tänak..
but Ford is so sloooow, undriveable.. right?

[wwbroe]

And taking 12 sec to Evans, putting him again ahead of Evans

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Impressive by Fourmaux even with a cleaner road.

[wwbroe]

No more splits for Kajtanowizc?

Edit: is was another glitch, now they are showing

[jonkka]

And taking 12 sec to Evans, putting him again ahead of Evans

That'll be but momentarily, Evans will push on PS as he's got nothing to lose.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Adrien FOURMAUX
Here the images of my 2nd fastest time on SS14 :


Adrien FOURMAUX
Update : too late to be on live !
@Becsywecsy wait for me please !

:D

[wwbroe]

That'll be but momentarily, Evans will push on PS as he's got nothing to lose.

That is correct, but never the less a very good drive by Adrian

[AnttiL]

25min stage and Fourmaux lost 2s to Tänak..
but Ford is so sloooow, undriveable.. right?

With good road position and slow tehcnical stage, they can manage this. Remember Suninen on SS1 of Sardegna 2020? Still, it was impressive from Adrien as an inexperienced driver with more of a tarmac specialist profile.

[Mirek]

He is still very young and little experience (or none) in a lot of rallies. Almost new to tarmac . Why the news to rush? He is doing great and learning fast

I was quite impressed by him on Rally Bohemia this year. Sure it wasn't perfect but few foreigners from non-asphalt countries did so well here on their first attempt. He has definitely a lot of potential.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Visualisation updated to SS14. P1 to P6 are pretty static but a lot happening from P7 to P15
https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/7234217/

[Fredouye]

Some pictures from Pavliani 1/2, and from Tarzan 1.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/c731b57339fb56a169607fb99145ea67.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/1b8cf2d361a35b05161ade6356f5449d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/26a3b4f5d1b16a13a1e3c7ebf2ed075c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/f21995b124a5c30885f0b09ea697fc81.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/e8a3a851eb93b53ef59d680458d8b46e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/3bf5f79c66b2490863d3869ebd3af836.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/069d0ed469a641af97973c933ccbdb28.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210912/94e33224a9c9cf299b844ac491c9c4bf.jpg

[Mirek]

Gryazin, Bulacia, Mikkelsen to open the PS.

[rp]

It seems that Greensmith´s stage win did not happen in Greece...

[EstWRC]

Great rally from Bulacia, congrats

[jonkka]

It seems that Greensmith´s stage win did not happen in Greece...

Hands up anyone who is surprised! Anyone? Anyone at all?

[rp]

Great rally from Bulacia, congrats

Very good indeed!

[SubaruNorway]

This must be the 2nd most boring powerstage of the year, disappointing rally in general

[Mirek]

This must be the 2nd most boring powerstage of the year, disappointing rally in general

I respectfully disagree (though I admit I didn't watch all stages).

[TypeR]

Fourmaux spun and that's why the time loss.. damn. Did a really nice stage otherwise..

[Portimao]

Hyundai team after Dani finished didn't look happy at all

[EstWRC]

Tänak not pushing, +2.6 secs down in split 1

[AnttiL]

I respectfully disagree (though I admit I didn't watch all stages).

I also liked this rally. However I'm surprised that none of the factory cars retired or even went to super rally (only Loubet did both)

[EstWRC]

Kalle going for all in

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Steady Kalle just get the win !

[EstWRC]

i cant believe it...Tänak again with problems

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Awesome performance by Kalle.

[Mirek]

The Gods of the Rally of the Gods. What a performance from Kalle and Jonne!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great points for Toyota here... and Finland to come next.

[AnttiL]

The Gods of the Rally of the Gods. What a performance from Kalle and Jonne!

On first try, like Juha Kankkunen!

[doubled1978]

Great from Rovanpera, brilliant performance….

[wwbroe]

Really superb rally by Kalle, second victory this year, and Finland coming up.

[Franky]

This must be the 2nd most boring powerstage of the year, disappointing rally in general

Think the boring feeling stems more from the quality of the WRC field. Like someone said about M-Sport before. There's WRC, then WRC1,5 before WRC2. Far too little variety with just two proper manufacture entries.

[mknight]

Yep stages were nice and very different character during the 3 days.
Too few competetive WRC entries and those that usually spice it up a bit either didn't run (Katsuta) or didn't spice anything (Sordo).

Most important result by Rovanpera so far. Finally getting good result on rough/slow gravel. That was the main missing part last season. Only top 1-2 on tarmac is missing now for complete package.

Complete Hyundai disaster this rally.

[focus206]

Easy championship for Ogier. Even if he was slower and less consistent than he is, just too many troubles for his competitors this season, usually not even for their own fault. Shame, because it could have been a more exciting championship. But he is still the best of the current drivers, even though man of the rally is clearly Kalle, perfect weekend.

[Devillersvideo]

My best of this particular rally with mud and dry gravel

https://youtu.be/nqx3I2ujZpk

21662166

[JoostSchouten]

My video (Rallymedia) is online too!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxCciWlTIFA

What a lovely rally to watch when you are finally at the stage ;) Because that was sometimes quite difficult because of muddy access roads.
But the weather and surface changes made it a very nice rally.

[SubaruNorway]

Think the boring feeling stems more from the quality of the WRC field. Like someone said about M-Sport before. There's WRC, then WRC1,5 before WRC2. Far too little variety with just two proper manufacture entries.

I was thinking more about the stages, smooth as a dancing floor in many places doesn't suit this rally. I don't really have anyone to root for in WRC anyway

[bomber21]

Acropolis Rally will be in the calendar for 2023 as well.

[RallyFan13]

Acropolis rally 2021 Highlights
https://youtu.be/bm85RzZ_w4U

[bomber21]

When you are watching from TV, you want crashes, offs, punctures, drama.

When you are watching from the stages, you want none of the above, you just want to see action from as many as possible cars.

[NOT]

the rally was ok... it was not very spectator friendly this year, with limited options and you could not watch many stages.

the super special was a travesty... and the service park was conjested for no reason... they could leave the spectators some free roaming instead of having them on a narrow trail... the distance between the spectators and the service tents was way too big... you could fit 2 lorries between them.

as a rally it was ok with 3 full days of fighting for the win, but i think it was too easy.

also some access roads could use some road rollers as well.

next year it should be better.

[AnttiL]

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-acropolis-rally-k-rovanpera-i-was-able-drive-my-own-pace-0

[EstWRC]

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-acropolis-rally-k-rovanpera-i-was-able-drive-my-own-pace-0

interesting why Ott wasnt present.

Q:
Tell us about starting the car before the Power Stage…
MJ:
He tried to! It looked like it was game over but then it started and that was the last time. We switched it off and then it would not start anymore, so really it was the last time. There was three seconds to the start and he was still touch some buttons, this was not so good for the rhythm and maybe that cost some time.

[scn]

I watched all the cars on 7 stages, on fast, selected spots. I could watch 9 stages, but not all cars and not on fast spots.
Spectacle with 4th, 5th and 6th gear was extraordinary. Top of the top.
I did not expect to say it so early in his career, but Kalle was fastest on eye and ear. On fast sections the least lift-off. And on one 6th gear section the only one with absolutely no lift-off. To the ear he is the same as Loeb. To the eye he is sometimes exactly like Loeb, sometimes like a typical Finn. Surely a future champion.
The rally was very good, all stages are very very technical, fantastic to drive and, except Elatia, pass through beautiful places. Probably they are some of the best in the world. But it was not Acropolis the way we knew it. Tarzan, the ex-"toughest stage in Europe and probably in whole world", is now smoother than Finland. The same applies to Pavliani and Eleftherohori. Having driven Eleftherohori during ERC years, I dare say that it was multiple times tougher in ERC than the Eleftherohori I passed with my everyday car this year after two passes of the WRC rally. This is the reason there were no flat tyres, no dramas, no retirements. Someone called it boring. Maybe it was for you that watched it on laptop. Surely it was not boring for the spectator, but I don't remember it being boring for the spectator in its previous form either. Time will tell if the "road-roller" choice is good for the survival of the rally. I keep my doubts. As a driver, I would prefer this "road-roller" form, by far.

P.S. SSS is exactly as NOT said: a travesty.

[AnttiL]

Rossel disqualified!

https://twitter.com/anttil_wrc/status/1437136177086205952?s=21

[mknight]

Rossel disqualified!

https://twitter.com/anttil_wrc/status/1437136177086205952?s=21

Same part that was out of spec in Sardinia already (different serial number).

In addition he was also for fined for having brake cooling fans different than homologated.

[scn]

Rossel disqualified!

https://twitter.com/anttil_wrc/status/1437136177086205952?s=21

They say that in Sardinia they weighed this part with this Serial No and found it OK. And in Greece they found it 240 grams heavier. I can't help but remembering when they weighed my car in one scrutineering and found it 20 kilos more than it actually was. I hope they are not the same stewards and not the same level of machinery...

[spyros]

I watched all the cars on 7 stages, on fast, selected spots. I could watch 9 stages, but not all cars and not on fast spots.
Spectacle with 4th, 5th and 6th gear was extraordinary. Top of the top.
I did not expect to say it so early in his career, but Kalle was fastest on eye and ear. On fast sections the least lift-off. And on one 6th gear section the only one with absolutely no lift-off. To the ear he is the same as Loeb. To the eye he is sometimes exactly like Loeb, sometimes like a typical Finn. Surely a future champion.
The rally was very good, all stages are very very technical, fantastic to drive and, except Elatia, pass through beautiful places. Probably they are some of the best in the world. But it was not Acropolis the way we knew it. Tarzan, the ex-"toughest stage in Europe and probably in whole world", is now smoother than Finland. The same applies to Pavliani and Eleftherohori. Having driven Eleftherohori during ERC years, I dare say that it was multiple times tougher in ERC than the Eleftherohori I passed with my everyday car this year after two passes of the WRC rally. This is the reason there were no flat tyres, no dramas, no retirements. Someone called it boring. Maybe it was for you that watched it on laptop. Surely it was not boring for the spectator, but I don't remember it being boring for the spectator in its previous form either. Time will tell if the "road-roller" choice is good for the survival of the rally. I keep my doubts. As a driver, I would prefer this "road-roller" form, by far.

P.S. SSS is exactly as NOT said: a travesty.


I agree 100% excelent post.

[AnttiL]

The rally was very good, all stages are very very technical, fantastic to drive and, except Elatia, pass through beautiful places. Probably they are some of the best in the world. But it was not Acropolis the way we knew it. Tarzan, the ex-"toughest stage in Europe and probably in whole world", is now smoother than Finland. The same applies to Pavliani and Eleftherohori. Having driven Eleftherohori during ERC years, I dare say that it was multiple times tougher in ERC than the Eleftherohori I passed with my everyday car this year after two passes of the WRC rally. This is the reason there were no flat tyres, no dramas, no retirements. Someone called it boring. Maybe it was for you that watched it on laptop. Surely it was not boring for the spectator, but I don't remember it being boring for the spectator in its previous form either. Time will tell if the "road-roller" choice is good for the survival of the rally. I keep my doubts. As a driver, I would prefer this "road-roller" form, by far.

P.S. SSS is exactly as NOT said: a travesty.

Good questions indeed. I think this became the rally with least retirements in the whole season so far. Only one factory car from each team (Evans, Neuville, Fourmaux) had an issue which cost time but was fixed on the road section, and then Loubet's customer car broke, with likely older parts than on factory cars.

I'm personally undecided, whether the roads should have been rougher or not. There's good sides to both versions.