[ERC] Barum Czech Rally Zlín 2024

[Mirek]

Timetable: https://www.czechrally.com/wcd/docs/2024/bcrz_2024-itinerary.pdf

[Jarek Z]

It's time for Barum Rally! :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NH_sioW4Qy8

[PLuto]

Entry list for Star Rally Historic, support event for historic cars, was published - https://www.czechrally.com/en/24909-documents-star-rally

I think it will be nice competition and big fun.

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GUOv5diXEAAal1d?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GUOv5ddXEAA-49U?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GUOv5dbW0AA80vY?format=jpg&name=large

[PLuto]

I can recommend you to check also this link, where is full entry list including national field - https://www.czechrally.com/24832-dokumenty

[RS]

Pech in a Škoda, that's a first?

[Mirek]

Pech in a Škoda, that's a first?

Yes and a funny one because he has always portraied himself as someone fighting against Škoda (up to quite ridiculous levels).

[Mirek]

Entry list for Star Rally Historic, support event for historic cars, was published - https://www.czechrally.com/en/24909-documents-star-rally

I think it will be nice competition and big fun.

Also the new roads in stage Bunč will be fun. Thanks for all your effort!


For others - the organizers managed to find some never used roads for this years variant of Bunč stage. It's macadam, gravel, narrow asphalt and a lot of dirt and mud.

[Jarek Z]

Llarena says he want to win, but is he serious?

“We want to fight for the victory in Barum, I think we can do that but let’s see how the [weather] conditions are,” Llarena said. “If it’s dry like last year we did some really good times with the old Škoda Fabia R5, the old, old one. We were fighting on a lot of stages with guys like Jan Kopecký and the other guys who are also really fast. For sure it will be tough.”

source:
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28348_Roma-podium-signals-Llarena-s-return-to-form-in-ERC

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Llarena says he want to win, but is he serious?

“We want to fight for the victory in Barum, I think we can do that but let’s see how the [weather] conditions are,” Llarena said. “If it’s dry like last year we did some really good times with the old Škoda Fabia R5, the old, old one. We were fighting on a lot of stages with guys like Jan Kopecký and the other guys who are also really fast. For sure it will be tough.”

source:
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28348_Roma-podium-signals-Llarena-s-return-to-form-in-ERC

He clearly has a big return of confidence after switching to the new team with Michelin tyres and a podium Rally di Roma.

[PLuto]

I think everybody wants to win. If you dont want to win, you dont need to compete...

[Andre Oliveira]

Pech in a Škoda, that's a first?


Yes, but it is a 1st generation unit.

https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/86113-barum-czech-rally-zlin-2024/

[Jarek Z]

Didn't he like Citroen?
https://www.ewrc-results.com/image/892195/?entry=4061082&car=0

[PLuto]

Pech was testing Citroen (austrian team, Grossgatterer was using it in austrian championship) on rallysprint in Plzen, retired with fuel pump issue. Everybody was waiting which car he will choose for Barum Rally. His choice for the oldest Skoda Fabia R5 is quite a surprise for everybody.

[RS]

Has Pech given up on the Focus? I must say it would be nice to see him compete on a level playing field.

[Jarek Z]

Martins Sesks is missing again...

[PLuto]

Has Pech given up on the Focus? I must say it would be nice to see him compete on a level playing field.

With WRC car, he cannot score points in Czech championship (for second year). Until now he was driving Focus WRC on czech roads and I think he will start with it also in last round in Pacejov. But for next season he is thinking about starts with Rally2 machinery...

[PLuto]

Martins Sesks is missing again...

He has stopped his participation in ERC (especially as only tarmac events remains) and is concentrating to collect budget for another start with Puma.

[PLuto]

German photographer Jorg Ullmann is a winner of photocompetition from last year - https://www.czechrally.com/en/27117n-the-main-prize-of-the-photo-contest-goes-abroad-for-the-sixth-time

[PLuto]

Fifteen-time world champion in motorcycle road racing Giacomo Agostini will start in Zlín as part of Bugatti Grand Prix with Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza. This car is 11 years older than 82 years old Agostini.

https://www.czechrally.com/en/27124n-fifteen-time-world-champion-agostini-at-the-start-of-the-bugatti-grand-prix

[Jarek Z]

Eric Cais doesn't expect much this year:
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28422_Don-t-count-on-home-ERC-heroics,-says-Czech-charger-Cais

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Armstrong hopeful for Barum after Roma struggle...

https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28433_Late-Rome-surge-gives-ERC-s-Armstrong-Zl-n-hope

[saco0o]

difficult to imagine other driver winning here. the only way to stop Kopecky from winning there is by having another global pandemic and not having a rally event in Ceska, like in 2020 haha
just kidding, i think Pech won 11 years ago on a Mini? saw something on the web the other day, but one year earlier Kopecky had won too. the guy is unstopabble

[Mirek]

difficult to imagine other driver winning here. the only way to stop Kopecky from winning there is by having another global pandemic and not having a rally event in Ceska, like in 2020 haha
just kidding, i think Pech won 11 years ago on a Mini? saw something on the web the other day, but one year earlier Kopecky had won too. the guy is unstopabble

Kopecký didn't win a single rally in Czech championship this year. Stříteský won two and Březík one. I'm not saying that Kopecký can't win but so far the young guys have managed to beat him every time.

[saco0o]

Kopecký didn't win a single rally in Czech championship this year. Stříteský won two and Březík one. I'm not saying that Kopecký can't win but so far the young guys have managed to beat him every time.

true! but Kopescky was on the podium on these 3 events, right? these 3 will come hot for next round! hope one of them can beat Jan this time! That would be really awesome

[Mirek]

This year there are six Czech drivers who have a chance of podium - Kopecký, Stříteský, Mareš, Březík, Cais and Pech. It will be interesting and I don't dare to make predictions.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This year there are six Czech drivers who have a chance of podium - Kopecký, Stříteský, Mareš, Březík, Cais and Pech. It will be interesting and I don't dare to make predictions.

It sounds like it'll be hard for the ERC regulars to score well against the tough local competition.

[PLuto]

This year there are six Czech drivers who have a chance of podium - Kopecký, Stříteský, Mareš, Březík, Cais and Pech. It will be interesting and I don't dare to make predictions.

I dont believe in Pech so much...

[PLuto]

Václav Pech is testing

https://i.imgur.com/70P3HUXl.jpeg
https://i.imgur.com/yQlpW9wl.jpeg
https://i.imgur.com/fw6rTtKl.jpeg

[Andre Oliveira]

Mads will not start.

[Lead]

Does Paddon have chance against locals?

[Jarek Z]

I don't think so. He said several times, that he doesn't like bumpy tarmac rallies very much.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Does Paddon have chance against locals?

At last years rally he was lying 6th overall when he took a wheel off. His best stage time was 4th fastest.

[PLuto]

Mads will not start.

Unfortunately, it is true. Mads will not start due to health issues. There were discussions with some drivers to replace him in a car, most closer it was with Tomas Kostka, but on Monday they definitely decided that they will not start. Which means also McRae will not start as his start was connected to the start of the team with two cars...

[PLuto]

Video from official test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZ9WFZDgXEE

[PLuto]

Another video from test with big moment of Daniel Polasek

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_BfHYMBAE0

[PLuto]

Passats de canto video from test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Otshg0Xsgxo

[486]

Also the new roads in stage Bunč will be fun. Thanks for all your effort!


For others - the organizers managed to find some never used roads for this years variant of Bunč stage. It's macadam, gravel, narrow asphalt and a lot of dirt and mud.

Dobrý den!

Any recommendation for this stage? Looks to me that the "old-new" sections are the 2nd quarter, and the last quarter of the stage. Both downhill. I am wondering if any of you around here has any reference of the types of roads to expect on those sections. In high (maps) view, the 2nd quarter looks rather slow, but the 4th quarter looks much faster. The weather forecast expects showers around, which might have some implications....


Thank you very much.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

He clearly has a big return of confidence after switching to the new team with Michelin tyres and a podium Rally di Roma.

More on Llarena...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/erc/why-an-erc-champion-has-finally-refound-his-form/

[Jarek Z]

More on Llarena...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/erc/why-an-erc-champion-has-finally-refound-his-form/

MRF press office clicks "Dislike" ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

MRF press office clicks "Dislike" ;)

Pirelli and Michelin were never going to take any challenge to their rally dominance lying down. MRF had a good run for a while and got some great publicity, but it was never going to last.

[PLuto]

Pirelli and Michelin were never going to take any challenge to their rally dominance lying down. MRF had a good run for a while and got some great publicity, but it was never going to last.

That is not completely true. MRF were competitive. But since that time it looks like Michelin and Pirelli made big steps in development...

[PLuto]

Another video from test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSNN36k33Dg

[PLuto]

Photogallery from autograph session - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=czechrally&set=a.885815770247879

[Jarek Z]

Total domination of Skoda Fabia on the Rally2 field:
Cars of category Rally2 / R5: 33
Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 – 18,
Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo – 1,
Škoda Fabia R5 – 6 ,
Hyundai i20 N Rally – 3,
Ford Fiesta Rally2 MKII – 2,
Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 – 2,
Citroën C3 Rally2 – 1

source:
https://www.czechrally.com/en/27125n-insight-into-statistics-according-to-the-list-of-registered-crews

[Jarek Z]

All 15 stages will be broadcasted live on the sports station O2 TV Sport:
https://www.czechrally.com/en/27133n-o2-tv-sport-will-offer-all-stages-of-the-barum-rally-live

[PLuto]

A door and then a flat? ERC’s Stratieva can’t wait to zoom back to Zlín - https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28449_A-door-and-then-a-flat?-ERC-s-Stratieva-can-t-wait-to-zoom-back-to-Zl-n

[PLuto]

Paddon: All eyes on Franceschi in ERC title defence - https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28455_Paddon:-All-eyes-on-Franceschi-in-ERC-title-defence

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Cais fastest in Qualifying so will start first on the road. He's happy as rain appears to be forecast. I hope he has some good luck here for a change and get the elusive win on his home event.

https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28456

[486]

Cais fastest in Qualifying so will start first on the road. He's happy as rain appears to be forecast. I hope he has some good luck here for a change and get the elusive win on his home event.

https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28456

I guess it is going to be quite thrilling till the very end, since unpredictable intense rain might show up at any time. I don´t know for sure, but I believe that any road position has pros and cons......the first on the road may find less dirt (although anti-cuts may be around), the latest to depart will have the advantage of tire choice management........Don´t catch me on that please, I am no expert on the subject.

[Jarek Z]

Even Cais himself doesn't know which starting position is better:

“I don't know completely [the best starting position] because of the rain," he said. "For sure, you have a small part where it's better to have a clean road, but you have to think also about a lot of kilometres."
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28456_Local-ace-Cais-sets-the-pace-in-ERC-s-Czech-qualifier

[gaudino69]

mes images du shakedown Barum Czech Zlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc3I4DAned0&t=48s

[Mirek]

Some rain is innevitable. It will be interesting.


Dobrý den!

Any recommendation for this stage? Looks to me that the "old-new" sections are the 2nd quarter, and the last quarter of the stage. Both downhill. I am wondering if any of you around here has any reference of the types of roads to expect on those sections. In high (maps) view, the 2nd quarter looks rather slow, but the 4th quarter looks much faster. The weather forecast expects showers around, which might have some implications....


Thank you very much.

Sadly I don't know those new roads myself but for sure the long gravel section must be all spectacular. Also the last section, which is also new, shall be very dirty from forest workers.


Does Paddon have chance against locals?


He is also handicaped by Hyundai. The car is for sure a sort of limiting factor.

[Mirek]

The city stage is delayed because of an accident of one of the historic cars.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Cais with a 20s penalty (Late 2 mins at TC) ... he just cant catch a break on his home rally. :(

[PLuto]

Video from QS/shakedown

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuurkWG8W50

[PLuto]

Qualifying Highlights

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wucyT0in3x0

[dimviii]

where is the Hungarian fast guy?
Budget prolems?Have i missed something?

[486]

Francheschi had a scary moment on the first one of the moment...in a really fast one.... But Jan settling the pace again...

[Mirek]

Francheschi had a scary moment on the first one of the moment...in a really fast one.... But Jan settling the pace again...

Březík does ;) But this is his stage every year. He lives next to it (so does Cais).

Anyway Březová is not where the rally is going to be decided.

Next stage is hort but very difficult.

[486]

Indeed, this one is not the trickiest.

Here impressed with the top speed of some of the "old" Fabias. They seem to keep up with the RS very well.

[Jarek Z]

Březík does ;) But this is his stage every year. He lives next to it (so does Cais).

Are they neighbors? ;)

[Mirek]

Are they neighbors? ;)

Almost, from the same small town.

[Jarek Z]

Even Cais himself doesn't know which starting position is better:

“I don't know completely [the best starting position] because of the rain," he said. "For sure, you have a small part where it's better to have a clean road, but you have to think also about a lot of kilometres."
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28456_Local-ace-Cais-sets-the-pace-in-ERC-s-Czech-qualifier

Now he says that the first position is not good:
"A lot of cleaning, bit sad with the starting position. It's incredible for me to be first for the spectators, but it is a little bit of a pain."

[dimviii]

Pech very slow

[Morte66]

Cais nearly caught Wagner overall, despite the 20s penalty.

[Mirek]

Pech very slow

He has very old car and he didn't drive it in any event before. Next year it might be more interesting with him as the rumors say he would drive a top Rally2 car in the championship. Anyway he's not getting younger...


Puncture for Marczyk and no more spares left.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

where is the Hungarian fast guy?
Budget prolems?Have i missed something?

If you mean Csomos he hasn't been in ERC since his crash on Canarias. He's just done rounds of the Hungarian championship.

[RS]

Great stage this one, it's like a rollercoaster at the end.

[Mirek]

Puncture and a small off for Březík

[Mirek]

Double puncture for Armstrong. He has to retire :(

Rain on Bunč now.

[Jarek Z]

The puncture lottery has started very early - punctues for Armstrong, Marczyk and Březík. All on stage 4. And now the longest stage Bunc is waiting...

[Morte66]

Shame for Armstrong.

I am trying to work out what the rain can do, and how it will change the cleaning on the famous gravel section, and what happens if it stops before or part through the stage, and... I think I'll open a bottle of wine. It's almost 11 a.m. here, that's not so bad.

[Mirek]

Molle crashed shortly after the start of SS4 and they say the ambulance was dispatched.

The stage is going to continue. Hopefully it was not serious.

The rain on Bunč is gone now.

[486]

Looks like Bunč is being delayed. Over-crowded?

[Mirek]

Looks like Bunč is being delayed. Over-crowded?

I guess it was to keep the field compact after the previous stage accident.

[Mirek]

Llarena was off in a ditch but managed to get back on the road. Marczyk has problems with transmissions and run part of the stage on 2WD only.

[Mirek]

Kopecký changing wheel. Březík spun on the same spot as Llarena. Stříteský finished with puncture as well.

Mabellini with puncture.

[Morte66]

Cais gained 15 places and over 10 seconds on the lead this morning, with most of the top competition suffering spins or punctures.

[Jarek Z]

Kopecky had puncture, changed wheel on the stage and lost over 2 minutes. No win for him this year.

[Jarek Z]

Molle crashed shortly after the start of SS4 and they say the ambulance was dispatched.

The stage is going to continue. Hopefully it was not serious.

Amaury Molle after SS4:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/media/86113-barum-czech-rally-zlin-2024/4405/

[Mirek]

Pech also lost over one minute. No reason why atm.

Btw. there have been already 6 crashes on SS4.

[CeskyOndra]

Imagine it rains.. That would be such a mess! There are few thunderstorms moving in the region, really unpredictable weather

[saco0o]

off topic: for the czech fellows here ... does it bother you to hear "czech republic" ?
i understand the country was renamed (czechia? in english).

[Morte66]

off topic: for the czech fellows here ... does it bother you to hear "czech republic" ?
i understand the country was renamed (czechia? in english).

I was in Prague in May. Almost everybody I talked to (in English) referred to "the Czech lands".

[Mirek]

Pech was off on Bunč: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjh7XbMxPoc

[Mirek]

off topic: for the czech fellows here ... does it bother you to hear "czech republic" ?
i understand the country was renamed (czechia? in english).

It wasn't renamed. Just a second shorter name was officially allowed for use.

There is no definitive answer though. Some people like me don't mind or actually prefer Czechia. Some others hate it.


I was in Prague in May. Almost everybody I talked to (in English) referred to "the Czech lands".

I'v been living in Prague for 20 years and I have never heard anyone saying that :)

[Mirek]

Franceschi super crazy moment in the famous Březová corner!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfeAgbBZI-I

[486]

Yesterday there was an epic thunderstorm with torrential rain, but it was late evenning, around 20:00-21:00.

[Mirek]

Jirásek off, SS3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJOwPIRYR-c&t=5s

Jírovec Jr. crashed behind flying finish of SS5: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/oBaQIWPehf8

[Morte66]

I'v been living in Prague for 20 years and I have never heard anyone saying that :)

This was mostly tour guides and so on, often in historical places. I suppose it makes sense when they talk about the history of "the Czech Lands" through the Holy Roman Empire, Habsburg Empire, Czechoslovakia and the present.

The only Czech I learned was "Dobry Den", "Ahoj" and "Kozel". So I will defer to the experts...

[Mirek]

This was mostly tour guides and so on, often in historical places. I suppose it makes sense when they talk about the history of "the Czech Lands" through the Holy Roman Empire, Habsburg Empire, Czechoslovakia and the present.

Ah, yes, it is indeed commonly used in relation to the Bohemian kingdom within the Habsburg empire but nobody uses it for description of today's state.

[Morte66]

Pretty sure that's rain on Llarena's windshield.

[Mirek]

There is heavy rain on SS9 which starts in about two hours.

EDIT: Hailing now on SS9.

[dimviii]

Cais now 4,2 from Stritesky.
Amazing pace,and all front runners at same car/tyremake

[Mirek]

Cais now 4,2 from Stritesky.
Amazing pace,and all front runners at same car/tyremake

Stříteský has Hankook tyres ;)

[Mirek]

If the rain starts already for the next stage it will be crazy. The first section is famous for tons of crashes when wet from previous years. You all know those old Barum videos where cars crash one after another, some into each other...

A little prediction. If the weather gets crazy I expect Stříteský to take it safe because he won't risk his national title chances. Cais has nothing to loose in the championship so he would likely try to push no matter what.

[dimviii]

Stříteský has Hankook tyres ;)

yes my bad.
is ss 8 dry?

[Mirek]

yes my bad.
is ss 8 dry?

Seems still dry but rain expected every minute...

First raindrops reported from the hill in the middle of the stage.

[Mirek]

Now it's raining heavily also on SS7.

It's raining on SS8.

Unfortunately the Rally.tv footage crashed now.

[Lead]

The most interesting stages to start and WRC+ goes down...

[Morte66]

The most interesting stages to start and WRC+ goes down...

Oh for crying out loud.

[CeskyOndra]

Storms in Czechia hits different..

[Mirek]

There are fallen trees on SS9. Hope they can run the stage at all.

[Mirek]

Footage back. Raining heavily.

[Morte66]

Looks like Cais has lost it all again due to tyre choice.

[Lead]

This Rally TV is such a letdown

[Mirek]

This Rally TV is such a letdown

It may be due to the storm. When trees are falling it's serious and may cause there interruptions.

[Mirek]

Some roads are literally under water around Bunč stage.


EDIT: Seems that Hankoook works wonders on wet again like in the past here (with Jakeš for example).

[archie106]

Filip Mares is on Hankook though and he was much slower than Wagner, so not sure its the tyres, unless Mares had a terrible stage

[Mirek]

Big off for Kopecký in the downhill but continues.

[Morte66]

Kopecky went so far off the road he looked to be staring around trying to find the way back.

[Mirek]

Fortunatelly nobody was standing there.

[Mirek]

Paddon changing wheel on stage.

[Morte66]

Paddon stopping for picnic.

[RS]

Did Wagner have wet tyres?

[Mirek]

Did Wagner have wet tyres?

I think two in cross pattern just like some others.

[Lead]

Stritesky didnt have rain tyres? Then his time here is insane

[Mirek]

Stritesky didnt have rain tyres? Then his time here is insane

No, he didn't.

[486]

Towards the finish line in Bunc, huge storm and trails overflowing the road........

[Lead]

I believe they will cancel the stage

[CeskyOndra]

No, he didn't.

That might be wrong? Can't believe the time without rain tires tho...

[Mirek]

That might be wrong? Can't believe the time without rain tires tho...

They said on RallyTV that they could confirm that from the stage finish.

[486]

Would they announce trough the webpage, in bulletin section? Does anyone know?

[Mirek]

Would they announce trough the webpage, in bulletin section? Does anyone know?

What would they announce?

Rally3 leader Kowalczyk crashed on SS8.

[486]

What would they announce?

Sorry, I missed the quote (wet hands), I meant if/when Bunc gets cancelled...

[Mirek]

Sorry, I missed the quote (wet hands), I meant if/when Bunc gets cancelled...

We will know that from the result systems. Both rally-base.com or ewrc-results.com will have such info in time for sure.

[CeskyOndra]

We will know that from the result systems. Both rally-base.com or ewrc-results.com will have such info in time for sure.

There is just a chaos, no one knows on the stage what to do

[486]

We will know that from the result systems. Both rally-base.com or ewrc-results.com will have such info in time for sure.

Děkuju /Thank you

[Mirek]

It looks like the stage will run.

[Mirek]

Ufortunately it's canceled after all.

[Morte66]

Just cancelled per rally.tv

[erikli2]

Stage cancelled, they couldn't say it before it was supposed to start ��*♂️

[Doon]

Absolutely pathetic. Are we watching F1 now? Just get on with it.

[Mirek]

Absolutely pathetic. Are we watching F1 now? Just get on with it.

Man, our member Walach just texted me from the stage that the gravel part is completely destroyed by flooding. Prior to that there were reports of at least ten fallen trees on the road.

So please next time don't post pathetic bullshit without knowhing a shit.

[Doon]

So what? It’s a a rally. Drive to the conditions. Rallying has become extremely cautious recently.

[Morte66]

Well, that was a day.

I basically always support a driver, but I haven't been following ERC so I have no "regular". I went for Cais because he's the local boy, and he immediately got the 20s penalty. Then today he made up 10s in the morning and it looked entirely possible he would lead at the end of the day. Then he lost a load of time in the wet on SS8 without suitable tyres, and now the last stage is cancelled which probably does him a favour since he still hasn't got the tyres.

What could possibly happen tomorrow?

I'm enjoying this rally.

[Doon]

One stage had no footage, next stage cancelled. No wonder rallying doesn’t get many fans.

[Mirek]

So what? It’s a a rally. Drive to the conditions. Rallying has become extremely cautious recently.

Just stop it. You can do better.

[486]

Ufortunately it's canceled after all.
Thank you, no problem. It just happens. A Marshall told me that will run for sure, but didnt allow me to go with the car (dont know why) so I walked 45 min for nothing, and back now, but I dont complain. The locals did everything they could, I saw cut removed tress, but the FIA clerk say nogo. I am afraid the safety standards has changued, and it is not like before. It is ok. Thanks to all posting.

[Jarek Z]

Rally3 leader Kowalczyk crashed on SS8.

Yes, Filip Kohn is the new leader of ERC3 and if it continues like that he will win Fiesta Rally3 Trophy too (Barum is the last round):
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28469_Kowalczyk-KO-leaves-Kohn-on-the-brink-of-ERC3-success

[focus206]

Weather forecast for tomorrow? More rain possible? Hopefully no more cancelled stages.

[Doon]

Just stop it. You can do better.

The problem is, that the Rally TV didn’t show or tell us why the conditions were so bad. It’s just a case of “Cancelled”. Rallying is supposed to be an all weather sport. It’s all gone a bit “health and safety first”, which means cancelling every stage where a slight problem occurs

[KKS]

The problem is, that the Rally TV didn’t show or tell us why the conditions were so bad. It’s just a case of “Cancelled”. Rallying is supposed to be an all weather sport. It’s all gone a bit “health and safety first”, which means cancelling every stage where a slight problem occurs

If we "ignore" safety risks, which very high in that condition, you can read that 10 fallen trees on stage was lay down!!! Rally isn't MTB.

[saco0o]

difficult to imagine other driver winning here. the only way to stop Kopecky from winning there is by having another global pandemic and not having a rally event in Ceska, like in 2020 haha


well well well look at me, biting my tonge

[Lead]

The problem is, that the Rally TV didn’t show or tell us why the conditions were so bad. It’s just a case of “Cancelled”. Rallying is supposed to be an all weather sport. It’s all gone a bit “health and safety first”, which means cancelling every stage where a slight problem occurs

Im all up for difficult and challenging conditions, but if, for example, evacuation road is blocked by fallen tree and ambulance cant get there on time in case of accident...
We have to be smart here.
But of course better communication would be great.

[Morte66]

Weather forecast for tomorrow? More rain possible? Hopefully no more cancelled stages.

Dry, warm, sunny or light overcast. Maybe some light rain from 20:00 onwards.

...according to the weather forecast website that has let me down on every rally this year.

[RS]

well well well look at me, biting my tonge

It’s not over until the fat lady sings but it seems unlikely.. Kopecky himself commented today that with two young kids and a wife at home he doesn’t want to take such risks anymore.

[Morte66]

In ERC, do they change the running order tonight? Or do they carry the same order all the way through?

[Mirek]

The problem is, that the Rally TV didn’t show or tell us why the conditions were so bad. It’s just a case of “Cancelled”. Rallying is supposed to be an all weather sport. It’s all gone a bit “health and safety first”, which means cancelling every stage where a slight problem occurs

I told you already. Just stop digging that hole.

[Mirek]

In ERC, do they change the running order tonight? Or do they carry the same order all the way through?

They change it but TBH I don't remember if they reverse top 10 or 15.

[Mirek]

Dry, warm, sunny or light overcast. Maybe some light rain from 20:00 onwards.

...according to the weather forecast website that has let me down on every rally this year.

I see some chance of storms tomorrow early morning and afternoon. We'll see.

[Mirek]

Official statement. There were u to 40 cm deep puddles and ruts with water still flowing on the gravel part of the stage.
https://app-cdn.sportity.com/e52f6b0d-bdc1-43de-806e-077fc16e05ee/654c1073-2dc6-4166-8efb-b1c5936fc0c6_03%2014%20Communication%20no%2011.pdf

[486]

Official statement. There were u to 40 cm deep puddles and ruts with water still flowing on the gravel part of the stage.
https://app-cdn.sportity.com/e52f6b0d-bdc1-43de-806e-077fc16e05ee/654c1073-2dc6-4166-8efb-b1c5936fc0c6_03%2014%20Communication%20no%2011.pdf

I saw then, even outside the "gravel part". My mistake was not realizing before that there was no hope. It was not that bad in comparison with Portugal 2000, but nowdays the policy has changed, in the same way we dont send anymore men to the Moon taking the risks that were taken back them.

In same places they dont run anymore stages at night. Here still does not seem to be the case. Lets enjoy it while it lasts!

[Doon]

Its almost like we’ve all forgotten the spirt of rallying

[Doon]

A 40 cm rut is not that deep. Especially for a rally2 car. Modern cars can cope with far more.

[Doon]

Seriously, that is far better than I expected from the fuss that people have been making. Rallying is on he downward spiral if it’s cancelled for this.

[saco0o]

is there a free radio in english for erc? i remember being able to listen a few years ago

[486]

Dobrý den / good day;
Tyre choice for the morning could be interesting. Here in Semetín, it is drying after overnight rain, but the more enclosed parts are still very damp.

[Mirek]

Seriously, that is far better than I expected from the fuss that people have been making. Rallying is on he downward spiral if it’s cancelled for this.

Rally2 cars are irrelevant because thoy are not the limit. Rally5 and other lower tier 2WD cars have to be able to pass. Ambulance hass to be able to pass. Safety cars have to be able to pass. And this is asphalt rally, not a gravel one so every car is prepared accordingly with low ride height, asphalt semi-slick tyres etc.

Just stop that nonsense. If someone crashed bad and ambulance wasn't able to get to him you would be first to write another shit on the web.

[Mirek]

Dobrý den / good day;
Tyre choice for the morning could be interesting. Here in Semetín, it is drying after overnight rain, but the more enclosed parts are still very damp.

Rain reported from Pindula.

[Mirek]

Kopecký lost a lot of time in the last downhill but didn't comment on anything wrong. Laszló and Jirásek were off on the famous jump.

EDIT: It looks like Albert von Thurn and Taxis was just a lot faster in the last slippery downhill thanks to having all rain tyres.

Double puncture for Franceschi (!), weird that it RR and FL.

Cais FL puncture.

Stříteský RR puncture.

Mabellini RR puncture.

Paddon has no wet tyres. Could loose a lot on Pindula.

[Morte66]

The punctures. So many.

[486]

Kopecký lost a lot of time in the last downhill but didn't comment on anything wrong. Laszló and Jirásek were off on the famous jump.

EDIT: It looks like Albert von Thurn and Taxis was just a lot faster in the last slippery downhill thanks to having all rain tyres.

Double puncture for Franceschi (!), weird that it RR and FL.

Plenty of media guys located on the outer of the bend, those running a waiver, saw very very close.

The downhill is still not dry with plenty of dirt.

Mabellini all over the place with very apparent lack of grip.

[486]

And Armstrong very commited. Positive surprise with the Fiesta being up there.

[Mirek]

Pindula is wet in the forest, damp elsewhere and dry in some opened areas.

[Mirek]

Franceschi likely out because of another puncture :(

[Morte66]

Franceschi likely out because of another puncture :(

That is going to be a really big deal in ERC championship. He's already dropped a round in Sweden. He needs to get it around the loop and back to service somehow if he possibly can.

[RS]

It's getting nice and close for the podium places!

[Mirek]

Franceschi now officially retired :(

Now on Pindula all top 6 places taken by locals. This year the ERC regulars are not able to keep up.

[Mirek]

SS Halenkovice is dry but there is lot of dirt.

[Mirek]

Neubauer had wet Pirelli and dry Michelin on the car at the same time :D

[486]

Neubauer had wet Pirelli and dry Michelin on the car at the same time :D

LOL!!!
It must be to remember/recover the former spirit, which has been discussed latelly. XD

[RS]

Pech has been much better today, getting used to the car?

[dimviii]

Wagner also very good pace so far

[486]

Pech has been much better today, getting used to the car?
And beig today more difficult (at least the start).

[manthey]

Neubauer had wet Pirelli and dry Michelin on the car at the same time :D2 tyres pirelli and 2 michelin crossed?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Franceschi now officially retired :(
.

At least this has equalised the bad luck of punctures for the main Title contenders.

Paddon may go slight favourite now with his previous experience of (winning) Rali Ceredigion.

[Mirek]

By the way the leading 2WD driver Ján Kundlák literally grew up as a Richard Burns Rally player.

[Jarek Z]

At least this has equalised the bad luck of punctures for the main Title contenders.

Paddon may go slight favourite now with his previous experience of (winning) Rali Ceredigion.

Yes, Paddon will still have a slight advantage in the championship after this rally. Now he has 7 points over Franceschi:

1. Paddon - 89
2. Franceschi - 82

The Frenchman scores 0 points in Barum and Paddon probably 1 or 2 (he is currently 15th and I don't believe in a good result on a Power Stage from him). That means that Paddon can increase his advantage to 8 or 9 points with 2 rounds to go.

Championship standings:
https://www.fiaerc.com/result-and-standings?menu=championshipStandingComponent&eventId=463

Plus Paddon won Ceredigion 2 years ago:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/final/73463-get-connected-rali-ceredigion-2022/

[486]

What about the last one in Poland? If the round resembles the characteristics of Barum it is not the favourite terrain of Paddon, performance-wise.

[Mirek]

What about the last one in Poland? If the round resembles the characteristics of Barum it is not the favourite terrain of Barum, performance-wise.

Actually Rajd Slaski is quite similar to Barum.

[Jarek Z]

Actually Rajd Slaski is quite similar to Barum.

Yes, it's a typical tarmac rally in Central Europe. So in theory it should be better for Franceschi.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What about the last one in Poland? If the round resembles the characteristics of Barum it is not the favourite terrain of Paddon, performance-wise.

True but Paddon could have a decent lead going into the last rally and could just need a no-risks finish in the points.

[Jarek Z]

A nice video from a dirty right corner. A lot of savings, some crashes and a rescue action at 2:11. Have a look at the guy in a dark blue T-shirt and a red cap. He apparently expected problems on this corner and even brought his own gloves! And what an amazing performance - it only takes him 3 seconds to get to the crashed car and start the rescue action! ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdelFuX4WaU

[486]

Finally this last loop starts with, apparently, no gamble with the tyre choice....which means that later on, on the powerstage, still could be surprises... :-D

[Mirek]

A nice video from a dirty right corner. A lot of savings, some crashes and a rescue action at 2:11. Have a look at the guy in a dark blue T-shirt and a red cap. He apparently expected problems on this corner and even brought his own gloves! And what an amazing performance - it only takes him 3 seconds to get to the crashed car and start the rescue action! ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdelFuX4WaU

SS Kateřinice. This stage was brought back last year after almost 30 years. This time it was different but this corner was same. Last year it cought out Kopecký and Cais as well.

[486]

A nice video from a dirty right corner. A lot of savings, some crashes and a rescue action at 2:11. Have a look at the guy in a dark blue T-shirt and a red cap. He apparently expected problems on this corner and even brought his own gloves! And what an amazing performance - it only takes him 3 seconds to get to the crashed car and start the rescue action! ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdelFuX4WaU
Hahaha;
Actually, I am also carrying gloves in my backpack.

[Jarek Z]

Hahaha;
Actually, I am also carrying gloves in my backpack.

Are you also in a rescue team? :)

[Jarek Z]

Day 1 + 2 Highlights | ERC Barum Czech Rally Zlín - short summary of the first leg:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsdW2XHckeA

[486]

Are you also in a rescue team? :)
No, it is only the famous "old/former" rallye spirit. LoL! :-D

[Mirek]

Laszlo spun on mud. Neubauer also spun.

Kopecký said he was trying the new long gearbox in this section.

[RS]

Kopecky trying new long gearbox.

[486]

Kopecky very tidy here. Pech slightly more agressive but following the line.

[486]

And Llarena clearly pushing...

[486]

And Llarena clearly pushing...
And Mares even more! :-D

[486]

And Mares even more! :-D
And Brezik on the limit :-0

[Mirek]

Březík puts everything on Pindula and has 3 wets + 3 dry tyres.

[RS]

And Llarena clearly pushing...

Llarena has been quite impressive this weekend. The best non-Czech aside from Wagner who is almost Czech.

[Mirek]

Stříteský spun behind the finish and reversed to the stop control :D

[RS]

I guess this stage should be good for Kopecky's gearbox.

[Mirek]

Because Pech speaks only Czech here is a short summary. "We don't have anyone to catch and Kopecý is out of our reach, so we don't push anymore."

Kopecký said the standard gearbox has top speed 185, the new one 196-197.

[Jarek Z]

I guess this stage should be good for Kopecky's gearbox.

To the point of even scaring him ;)

"New gearbox is working fine, it is a little bit scary, because max speed is about 200 km/h. We have to analyse data after the weekend."

[RS]

Good time by Llarena, Mares attacking.

[Mirek]

The differences at 2-3-4-5th place before the power stage are too smal for comfort but in the same time too large to be caught on speed alone. Maybe Březík could be in disadvantage due to his tyre choice.

[486]

Stříteský spun behind the finish and reversed to the stop control :D
He passed by flying also pushing, even pretending to be conservative :-D. Impressive the whole weekend.

[Mirek]

During the intro they had wrong video for the PS. The onboard section was last years's route which was somewhat different to 2024.

[Mirek]

I guess this stage should be good for Kopecky's gearbox.

The best stage of the whole rally for the long gearbox is the PS.

[saco0o]

A nice video from a dirty right corner. A lot of savings, some crashes and a rescue action at 2:11. Have a look at the guy in a dark blue T-shirt and a red cap. He apparently expected problems on this corner and even brought his own gloves! And what an amazing performance - it only takes him 3 seconds to get to the crashed car and start the rescue action! ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdelFuX4WaU

so many cool cars doing this event. the promoter always has the chance to broadcast so many awesome things during a rally weekend, but they choose not to hehe nice video

[RS]

I’m getting ‘video unavailable’ for the power stage?

[saco0o]

cais doing really good eh
loads of skodas in czechia, loads of fiestas and citroens in ulster rally haha

[RS]

I’m getting ‘video unavailable’ for the power stage?

Now working.

[Mirek]

Now working.

I got several errors during the rally but it was always working again after restart.

[WRCStan]

When was the last Hankook win at this level?

[Mirek]

Kopecý stalled the engine in one corner.

[RS]

They waste too much time showing the startline and slow-mo replays when there are cars on stage.

[RS]

Paddon’s time was really good, although Czech Champ doesn’t have PS points i assume?

[Mirek]

Paddon’s time was really good, although Czech Champ doesn’t have PS points i assume?

No, we don't have PS.

[Mirek]

And finally Dominik Stříteský wins! Quite likely he will also be the Czech champion this year.

Also first ERC victory for Hankook.

[RS]

Congratulations to Stritesky, he’s maturing really well.

I feel Cais has a Barum win in him, his pace was really good!

Kopecky still had a good speed but the puncture and spin did for him this time (the last time?)

Amongst non-Czechs a very good performance by Wagner and Llarena.

[htr]

First Hankook victory Rally Hungary 2019 Frigyes Turán.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Reigning ERC champion Paddon only finished 13th, but with Franceschi bowing out on Sunday morning (and recording his second non-score of the season with just one dropped score allowed) Paddon is now in the championship box-seat with just two rounds in Wales and Poland remaining.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/erc/advantage-paddon-in-erc-title-race-as-franceschi-retires-from-zlin/

[Morte66]

My experiment watching ERC to get my tarmac fix went off fairly well.

I liked the stages. Things happened, and positions changed. The faster ERC cars and drivers were good enough to enjoy, despite not being quite at the WRC1 level.

The driver I picked (Cais) did well, which is always nice, though I think he might have won without getting the 20s penalty and running dry tyres in a rainstorm.

I think I'll probably watch more ERC. Maybe I should pick a regular driver to support, or should I continue to pick a local for each rally? ERC does seem to be more of a local thing than WRC...

[486]

Just in the control before the final podium, taking a look to the crossed tyre arrangements. I have seen slicks (!). Due to over wear....

[Mirek]

Just in the control before the final podium, taking a look to the crossed tyre arrangements. I have seen slicks (!). Due to over wear....

Březík?

[Mirek]

0:53 big crash of Rally3 leader Kowalczyk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOLs0I9Ozjo

[Walach]

Oh so the infamous shiny tarmac at Rajnochovice stage claimed another victim, Kowalczyk was really impressive.

[saco0o]

0:53 big crash of Rally3 leader Kowalczyk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOLs0I9Ozjo

haha 0:35 whats wrong with that car sound?

[saco0o]

I think I'll probably watch more ERC.

nice! in my opinion ERC is always more interesting to watch/follow because it has this 'vibe' of being more sport than enterteinment, with no million bucks factory teams, no big egos or 'stars', no team principal trying to appear on the cameras. its just rally drivers in rally cars doing some stages, fighting for the win. thats the spirit of rallying for me. WRC doesnt feel like that anymore (in my view). always happy to dee people enjoying ERC

[Mirek]

haha 0:35 whats wrong with that car sound?

I don't hear anything strange.

[gaudino69]

mon best of de ce très très chaud rallye

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMlPQbcojU0

[PLuto]

where is the Hungarian fast guy?
Budget prolems?Have i missed something?

He was in Zlin, but only as a spectator. And his codriver as team manager for young guns in ERC4. After crash in Canarias they have decided to start only at their national championship. And yes, it is mainly because of budget.

[PLuto]

off topic: for the czech fellows here ... does it bother you to hear "czech republic" ?
i understand the country was renamed (czechia? in english).

Personally I dont like Czechia, for me it is always Czech republic. But politicians are deciding...

[Kenneth]

off topic: for the czech fellows here ... does it bother you to hear "czech republic" ?
i understand the country was renamed (czechia? in english).

Not really renamed, both Czechia and Czech Republic always were and still are official names. What changed is that Czechia is now prefered name in official communication.

Ultimately it doesn't matter what form is used, but many Czechs prefer Czech Republic as they are used to it.

[PLuto]

So what? It’s a a rally. Drive to the conditions. Rallying has become extremely cautious recently.

It is very nice to judge from the computer sitting on the chair and drink coffee. There was big thunderstorm around that stage. There were plenty of marshalls and safety crews on the stage trying to save the stage. They were going through trying to clean most dangerous places and cut the fallen trees. Thats why we were waiting under the very last moment as we really wanted to save the stage. It took us 30 years to be able to run this road and we are not sure it will be possible. But condition on stage was really horrible. But main reasons for cancellation were two. One part (also mentioned in CoC info) had really big holes deep around 40 cm. But they were full of water, so when you are going to that place, you cannot see that holes. And second reason were fallen trees. Our people went through stage and cutted the fallen trees and move them to the side. But when next safety car was going, they have found another fallen trees. So our people again went to cut them. And on one spot, when they were cutting that tree, another tree has fallen 10 m from them. It is nonsense to risk health of drivers in this situation...

[Jarek Z]

Kopecký is not sure if we will see him in Zlin next year:
"Thank you to my team, family, fans. I'm not sure if I will come again next year."

[Jarek Z]

Filip Kohn wins the first edition of ERC Fiesta Rally3 Trophy. The main prize is a fully-supported drive in a Ford Fiesta Rally3 on WRC Central European Rally. Congratulations!
https://www.fiaerc.com/a/news/w28482_ERC-Fiesta-Rally3-Trophy-title--really-big--for-Kohn

[PLuto]

I saw then, even outside the "gravel part". My mistake was not realizing before that there was no hope. It was not that bad in comparison with Portugal 2000, but nowdays the policy has changed, in the same way we dont send anymore men to the Moon taking the risks that were taken back them.

In same places they dont run anymore stages at night. Here still does not seem to be the case. Lets enjoy it while it lasts!

But there is one difference. Rally Portugal was gravel event (so different suspension, different tyres etc), but Barum is tarmac rally with few smooth gravel parts.

[PLuto]

is there a free radio in english for erc? i remember being able to listen a few years ago

Unfortunately, rally radio is over since the change of promoter.

[Mirek]

Passat de Canto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IftwgGal1DU

Btw. a fun fact. The historic event was won by Jaroslav Vančík who is the team boss of Dominik Stříteský :)

[dimviii]

Same Vancik who prepares engines?

[Mirek]

Same Vancik who prepares engines?

Yes, in Passat de Canto video he's driving the BMW M3 at the very end.

[Jarek Z]

Yes, Paddon will still have a slight advantage in the championship after this rally. Now he has 7 points over Franceschi:

1. Paddon - 89
2. Franceschi - 82

The Frenchman scores 0 points in Barum and Paddon probably 1 or 2 (he is currently 15th and I don't believe in a good result on a Power Stage from him). That means that Paddon can increase his advantage to 8 or 9 points with 2 rounds to go.

Championship standings:
https://www.fiaerc.com/result-and-standings?menu=championshipStandingComponent&eventId=463

Plus Paddon won Ceredigion 2 years ago:
https://www.ewrc-results.com/final/73463-get-connected-rali-ceredigion-2022/

I underestimated Paddon. He has 14-point advantage over Franceschi now:
https://www.fiaerc.com/result-and-standings?menu=championshipStandingComponent&eventId=463

[PLuto]

I underestimated Paddon. He has 14-point advantage over Franceschi now:
https://www.fiaerc.com/result-and-standings?menu=championshipStandingComponent&eventId=463

He got 4 points for rally (also thanks to penalty for Albert) and 3 for powerstage.

[486]

Březík?

Sorry for the late reply (driving back under really heavy thunderstorms).
Even Stříteský seemed to me with one diagonal substantially more worn out than the other.

Nowadays seems the crossed approach to be preferred instead of same configuration in the same axle. Wondering what they teach nowadays in the driving schools. :look:

[486]

But there is one difference. Rally Portugal was gravel event (so different suspension, different tyres etc), but Barum is tarmac rally with few smooth gravel parts.

I see your point.

The situations may not be comparable, and belong to different epoch. I also had my feet in Portugal 2001 (sorry, it was 01, and not 00 as I wrongly mentioned before). The fact that was gravel, and not tarmac, indeed did not helped that much, because the road gets much more damaged. Tarmac is more resilient to the thunderstorms. Anyway, the situation there, it was that cars started to get stuck in the stages. Even with our help they would not be able to continue. For than instance, only 4wd cars made it to the finish line. All of the 2WD cars officially entered and run by manufacturer, either got stuck, even adopting "Dakar" technics and tactics, or accumulated so much delay that could not continue by regulation. I don´t recall complains for those manufacturers, it was assumed as normal rallying events. Organizers could not make that much, because the situation was overwhelming. Conventional rescue cars and emergency services (other than forest GNR (Portuguese police) 4x4 vehicles) could not generally operate, ambulances, for that instance. Helicopters could not fly due to the low clouds. All in all, it is clear that we are in a new epoch, where old/former standards don´t apply anymore, due to several reasons, with pros- and cons- and either we like it or not.

Last but not least, I want to stress again that it was my impression on the stage under the heavy rain that organizers, and locals, did a huge effort to avoid cancelling the stage. FIA regulations driving rallye events closer to a track-alike-show are debatable, of course, but t is really apparent that the real rally culture in Barumka is impressive. Strong legacy. Admirable. Congratulations.

[486]

Passat de Canto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IftwgGal1DU

Btw. a fun fact. The historic event was won by Jaroslav Vančík who is the team boss of Dominik Stříteský :)

Heheh, then Latvala is getting inspired on him. He was extremely happy at the end, not dissimulating it a bit.

[Mirek]

Sorry for the late reply (driving back under really heavy thunderstorms).
Even Stříteský seemed to me with one diagonal substantially more worn out than the other.

Nowadays seems the crossed approach to be preferred instead of same configuration in the same axle. Wondering what they teach nowadays in the driving schools. :look:

I don't know when it actually started but first time I remember someone used it was Juho Hänninen on Rally Monte Carlo 2009 or 2010.

[PLuto]

Few nice video shots from Barum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMlPQbcojU0

[486]

I don't know when it actually started but first time I remember someone used it was Juho Hänninen on Rally Monte Carlo 2009 or 2010.

Wow, that´s a good memory. Long time ago. The same Juho latelly co-driving J.M. in the Toyota Rally2 at the home event....is not it? Another character.