[WRC] Central European Rally 17-20.10.2024

[meh]

Ogier's crash: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBV6nvsuCPG/?igsh=MXZsNHJnM2JsdDRmdg%3D%3D (sorry If a repost)

https://x.com/DirtFishRally/status/1847951536342585801/photo/2 - the rear-right wheel off

[Backa]

Ogier is getting old but Neuville, Tanak and Evans are also at age when drivers usually start to decline a little. I think fact that this year he need to "catch up" due to missed rallies makes him little more desperate and more error-prone.

It feels Neuville is either simply quite lucky this year and/or he is good at understanding at which stages it makes sense to be more risky and where it's better to just accept less points. I keep my fingers crossed for him and hope this comment will not age like milk.

Two Poles in top 10 overall and 18-years old Hubert Laskowski is 4th in WRC3. I hope to see this guy in rally1 someday.

[Morte66]

It is interesting that there is enough slack in the telephone cable to knock the pole down without breaking it.

[Mirek]

Btw Why no gravel crews on last stage?

There was no time for them pass. The schedule is tight on Sunday with no mid-day break.

[Morte66]

This whole season Ogier has been over the limit. I remember so many moments from him that he has gotten away with.

Guess his luck is finally running out

I remember it was a bit like this in his last year at Citroen, when he was trying to do more than was realistic and he would have offs that you expect from a new guy.

[Kras]

It used to be different. Ogier getting away with it most of the times. Maybe he likes it more when he's the one being chased than the one who is doing the chasing. With Neuville it seems it's the complete opposite.

Manufacturers championship not over I think?

Rovanpera was also getting away with everyting for 2 whole season and this year not so much. Weird season indeed

[meh]

Ogier is getting old but Neuville, Tanak and Evans are also at age when drivers usually start to decline a little.

We can say that there is lack of competition in the WRC, but listed guys have provided us really nice battles. In most cases it is not known in advance who is going to win. If we take them away, let's in 2-5 years perspective - what we have left? Rovanperä. For new guys, such as Pajari, it still takes some cooking before they are ready to think about fighting with Rovanperä.

[jonkka]

It is interesting that there is enough slack in the telephone cable to knock the pole down without breaking it.

Those cables sag considerably and aren't usually tightly attached to poles (instead just run through a hoop).

[Eli]

We can say that there is lack of competition in the WRC, but listed guys have provided us really nice battles. In most cases it is not known in advance who is going to win. If we take them away, let's in 2-5 years perspective - what we have left? Rovanperä. For new guys, such as Pajari, it still takes some cooking before they are ready to think about fighting with Rovanperä.

If you look at our pickems this year, you can see how many times we actually predicted the right winners on all rounds, as much as I don’t like the new point scoring system, there’s no denial it added extra pressure (& competition) to all the crews, making the rally outcome, more unpredictable.

[deephouse]

We can say that there is lack of competition in the WRC, but listed guys have provided us really nice battles. In most cases it is not known in advance who is going to win. If we take them away, let's in 2-5 years perspective - what we have left? Rovanperä. For new guys, such as Pajari, it still takes some cooking before they are ready to think about fighting with Rovanperä.

If we take away Neuville, Tanak, Evans, Ogier.. We stuck with Munster, Serderidis, Mikkelsen. One of those three would challenge for the title. :D

[Kras]

I hope Neuville, Tanak and Evans keep competing for many more years

[Morte66]

Nice one, Mares.

[meh]

WRC2 field - quite surprised that Greensmith has been out of the picture.

[wwbroe]

WRC2 field - quite surprised that Greensmith has been out of the picture.
The whole weekend he was nowhere

[deephouse]

Will Tanak get any call?

[Kras]

Will Tanak get any call?

Alrdy on airplane mode :cool:

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If we take away Neuville, Tanak, Evans, Ogier.. We stuck with Munster, Serderidis, Mikkelsen. One of those three would challenge for the title. :D

Fourmaux.

[wwbroe]

Mikkelsen fast on splits compared to Adrien

[macebig]

Glory run from Mikkelsen? Seems like it...

[meh]

Glory run from Mikkelsen? Seems like it...

just not ashamed by Fords

Seems that Taka takes the fight with Tänak seriously

[wwbroe]

Besttime for Taka, very good performance from him this rally

[meh]

Tänak too slow against Taka (2nd split 1.5 down) and against Evans as well.

[Kras]

Alrdy on airplane mode :cool:

Guess not...

[meh]

Tänak losing most of the Sunday points and no PS points...

From potential 12 points to 4 points.

[wwbroe]

Taka taking the 12 points today

[EstWRC]

Again a wrong tyre choice from Tänak like every time this year

Unbelievable

[Kras]

Tänak losing most of the Sunday points and no PS points...

From potential 12 points to 4 points.

If these weren't team orders, then its the suppidest thing he did all season

[TypeR]

Failure Sunday for Tanak today..

[Rallyper]

Failure Sunday for Tanak today..

Guess he had to manage manufacturers points as well...

[trykmann]

If these weren't team orders, then its the suppidest thing he did all season

It has to be. Just playing the team game and not focusing on the drivers title anymore.

[meh]

By points, Evans won the rally.

[Eli]

So basically, again, Neuville’s to lose.

[Kras]

The last rally could have been exciting, now Neuville can just cruise. Such a shame

[trykmann]

So basically, again, Neuville’s to lose.

It's a long shot now. If Neuville gets 0 points in Japan, then it is still difficult to get over 26p points with this system.

[EstWRC]

Great win for Tänak on tarmac with a Hyundai. Made no mistakes this weekend and very good speed also overall.

I’m expecting him to be quite lost again in Japan, so far he hasn’t been good there at all by speed wise

[Eli]

By points, Evans won the rally.

Like I said, they need to mend it so the winner takes maximum points, yes Ott took it carefully today but Evans finishing second accumulating more points than first? That ain’t right.

[deephouse]

So basically, again, Neuville’s to lose.

This year is more Ogier's to lose

[macebig]

Neuville has won this. Even if he doesn't finish in Japan, there is very little chance Tanak gets 26+ points from the Toyotas and Fourmaux. Constructor's is still open.

[TypeR]

Say what you want, but smells like messages again for Tanak.. no way he would have been this slow otherwise.. while Neuville cruised thru today and got more points.

[EstWRC]

Say what you want, but smells like messages again for Tanak.. no way he would have been this slow otherwise.. while Neuville cruised thru today and got more points.

i agree

[macebig]

Nah, feels like the hard tyre came alive for the PS. No coincidence Mikkelsen,Evans and Katsuta had the best times with 3+ hards on car each...

[trykmann]

Based on the driving it seemed Tänak wasn't pushing.

[Jarek Z]

Sebastien Ogier explains his crash. He says he didn't have his gravel crew on this stage:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFFIgOdYhbc

[AE1WRC]

Guys if Toyota loses the manufacturer's title It'll probably be because of the mistakes of their 2 World Champion driver's mistakes this year. Normally Seb and Kalle are the 2 drivers that can get away with anything but not this year that is combined 6 mistakes this year. Definitely not good numbers for such drivers.

BTW I have not seen Ogier with that emotion before. He was literally pissed off. That is 3 rallies in a row that he makes mistakes and I believe age (thus concentration) is the main factor for this (I don't think it is pressure)

[deephouse]

Seems like you all just can't accept it. Look. Tanak have already one title. Neuville hasn't. Ogier have too many. Neuville hasn't any. And this year he will deserve it fair and square.

I'm personaly rooting for anybody who hasn't got any of them currently, and Evans out of contention I hope Neuville will take it. Why? Because if both titles will be taken by Hyundai, maybe, just maybe the bosses and that bloke Cyril will reconsider again and stayin the championship a while. It's crucial for the whole picture.

[wwbroe]

Sebastien Ogier explains his crash. He says he didn't have his gravel crew on this stage:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFFIgOdYhbc

Nobody had gravel crew on this stage, so just searching for excuses

[focus206]

How big is the gap between Neuville and Tanak into the last round? 25 points?

[Backa]

Say what you want, but smells like messages again for Tanak.. no way he would have been this slow otherwise.. while Neuville cruised thru today and got more points.

Biggest issue with theories like that is that it make Ott looks like submissive weakling ready to be pushed over.

When we assume Ott is competitive person fighting for championship, he would simply ignore those messages. Happened many times in F1, Hamilton in Abu Dhabi 2016, Verstappen in Singapore 2015 etc.

[wwbroe]

Seems like you all just can't accept it. Look. Tanak have already one title. Neuville hasn't. Ogier have too many. Neuville hasn't any. And this year he will deserve it fair and square.

I'm personaly rooting for anybody who hasn't got any of them currently, and Evans out of contention I hope Neuville will take it. Why? Because if both titles will be taken by Hyundai, maybe, just maybe the bosses and that bloke Cyril will reconsider again and stayin the championship a while. It's crucial for the whole picture.

+1

[wwbroe]

How big is the gap between Neuville and Tanak into the last round? 25 points?

26 i think

[EstWRC]

26 i think

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GaVU517XgAAQJeu?format=jpg&name=large

[focus206]

26 i think

I still can't keep in mind this year's point system. Neuville had +29 before the rally, lost 5 points on Saturday, which makes it +24... Neuville finished behind Tanak in Super Sunday, so +23, but got 2 points on PS against 0 from Tanak... so +25? I better wait for someone with the standings.

[AE1WRC]

This is still looking good for Neuville despite his heart stopping moments he made it out of this rally in a relatively good position.

One thing is for sure , for the first time ever we will see the championship won in a Hyundai.

[focus206]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GaVU517XgAAQJeu?format=jpg&name=large

Ok, 25 confirmed. Tanak can still win it if Neuville retires, especially on Sunday.
If in Japan Tanak gets 25 points and Neuville 0, who wins the title?

[AE1WRC]

Ok, 25 confirmed. Tanak can still win it if Neuville retires, especially on Sunday.
If in Japan Tanak gets 25 points and Neuville 0, who wins the title?

Number of events won between the two

[Morte66]

Exciting rally for lots of people but strangely underwhelming for me.

It was very important and dramatic for the championships, but my R1 guy Evans was really out of that and my R2 guy Pajari was in R1. So mostly I just wanted to watch the stages.

I liked the Thursday/Friday stages, especially at night. Saturday stages were a bit meh, but the weather spiced them up in the morning. Sunday was meh as well.

Katsuta was lucky his off was harmless, and he very did well after. People will forget him approaching a corner too fast in this rally while nobody will ever forget Ogier doing it.

Pajari did fine, I think. I hope he does WRC2 again next year and doesn't get pushed into WRC1 yet, I think it's too early.

[focus206]

Number of events won between the two

So far, 2 wins each, so if Tanak gets the +25 points over Neuville by winning overall, he'll be champion.
If Neuville retires in Japan, it doesn't seem impossible for Tanak to get 25 points somehow, he certainly has the pace as shown this weekend.

[AE1WRC]

So far, 2 wins each, so if Tanak gets the +25 points over Neuville by winning overall, he'll be champion.
If Neuville retires in Japan, it doesn't seem impossible for Tanak to get 25 points somehow, he certainly has the pace as shown this weekend.

Let's see what happens. We have to also take into the consideration that Kalle (most likely) will enter Japan so he will also spice things up regarding the positions. Neuville still has the edge given his speed in Japan over Ott. However Ott really surprised me this weekend that he can really do good things on Tarmac with Hyundai

[Eli]

Let's see what happens. We have to also take into the consideration that Kalle (most likely) will enter Japan so he will also spice things up regarding the positions. Neuville still has the edge given his speed in Japan over Ott. However Ott really surprised me this weekend that he can really do good things on Tarmac with Hyundai

It’s his first Tarmac win since Ypres 2022, and now equaling Thierry for the number of wins, another trivia detail, Ott has now won the same events Thierry won last year, Sardegna & Central European Rally.

[denkimi]

neuville can basically cruise the whole rally in japan. he only needs to be 6th on saturday and get to the finish on sunday.

[wwbroe]

neuville can basically cruise the whole rally in japan. he only needs to be 6th on saturday and get to the finish on sunday.

He has to take points for manufactureres as well, at least Cyril will ask him to do so

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I really enjoyed this rally back on tarmac.

A great battle with very close times at the top, lots of drama every day, some driver nightmares, one very good comeback, and all on tricky but beautiful stages. Bravo CER.

[Danny0405]

In lower classes, Chatillon obtains the First significant RC3-class win for Renault against Ford.

And for the Beyond Rally program between the 3 women, very difficult for the 3 with a lot of technical issues (1 retirement on Friday for Schönborn, 2 on Saturday and Sunday for Jyrkiainen), 1 off for Baudet (retirement on Saturday).
Decision tonight normally between Schönborn and Baudet (Jyrkiainen was off the pace even before technical issues) … should be Schönborn IMO by a slight margin considering the whole weekend (same rythm than Baudet in the stages they competed together and better management of the weekend).

[dimviii]

I still can't keep in mind this year's point system. .

Τanak with same 22 points as Taka.lol

[mknight]

Two passes on powerstage today.

First spot looked great last year, but was completely killed off by anti cuts again. (Right before the junction where the track went right last year).

Second pass in spectator zone 41, was great. Braking slow turn, medium turn and fast one with lots of action. Came 35 mins before and could sit in first row with view of everything.
You could basically tell stagetimes by following where people lift off for the fastest corner. Mikkelsen seemed to push most, but Katsuta looked perfectly smooth and so did Solberg.

Overall the powerstage is great for spectators since you can park in the middle and are walking distance from many spots, just the anti-cuts were a tad excessive. Also basically only stage where cellnetwork wasn't overloaded, could watch RallyTV without any issues.

Extremely few people on powerstage overall and not many on saturday either. The big parking spots were like 1/3 full at best in CZ like 2/3.

[focus206]

Does anybody have the "what if" point standings using last years' points system? Just to see out of curiosity how it would look like.

[deephouse]

Does anybody have the "what if" point standings using last years' points system? Just to see out of curiosity how it would look like.

I calculated before CER and Neuville would have even more gap. I will post as soon as I made new one.

[CeskyOndra]

It's a long shot now. If Neuville gets 0 points in Japan, then it is still difficult to get over 26p points with this system.

Basically, Tanak has to be 1. or 2. after Saturday. If not, it is gone for him.

[focus206]

Basically, Tanak has to be 1. or 2. after Saturday. If not, it is gone for him.

I think it's quite probable Tanak could be 1st or 2nd on Saturday. Who could be in front of him? I can only think of Kalle. Neuville has to cruise around. Evans, not with this weekend's speed. Fourmaux, I don't think so. Ogier? If he'll bother showing up in Japan, I don't think he'll push hard to take the title away from his buddy.

[meh]

Basically, Tanak has to be 1. or 2. after Saturday. If not, it is gone for him.

It was already pretty much gone long time ago, but it was gone with today's powerstage. If Neuville finishes the rally, it is hard to believe he gets less than 6 points. For his own title, he just needs to cruise through, but there is also a need to get the title for the team.

[EstWRC]

It was already pretty much gone long time ago, but it was gone with today's powerstage. If Neuville finishes the rally, it is hard to believe he gets less than 6 points. For his own title, he just needs to cruise through, but there is also a need to get the title for the team.

this!

Tänak had the chance to bring the gap down under 20 points but totally missed it. I was so disappointed in that.

[CeskyOndra]

I think it's quite probable Tanak could be 1st or 2nd on Saturday. Who could be in front of him? I can only think of Kalle. Neuville has to cruise around. Evans, not with this weekend's speed. Fourmaux, I don't think so. Ogier? If he'll bother showing up in Japan, I don't think he'll push hard to take the title away from his buddy.

Kalle, Elfyn (last year's winner, hasn't win any rally this year yet), Seb (has to go for manufacturers), Katsuta really solid here last year.

[CeskyOndra]

Maximum points you can lost in manu title finishing always 3-4 in every competition (Saturday, Sunday and PS) is 18.. If I'm calculating it well. That means, If Neuville is cruising and Toyota is faster than Tanak, its gonna be very very close.

[CeskyOndra]

Funfact: Tanak Evans and Neuville have the same amount of podiums (6)

[deephouse]

2578

I made it. Old point system calculated. I only included Rally1 cars since other ones isn't important, too much work. It seems like they really hit the right solution, because almost all places are the same, only points are slighty different.

But we never know if this is relevant, because most of them probably wouldn't even push on sundays.

[Eli]

Overall a good rally, thought that it'll be hampered by being two weeks earlier than last year (was eager to see rain), clearly, was tricky enough, glad we have it for 2025, now if the promoter (whoever that may be) please make sure we don't have 7 consecutive gravel events, because this weekend proved once again, how nice it is to see these rally cars in tarmac spec, and how close the competition could be on the black stuff.

[meh]

Tänak had the chance to bring the gap down under 20 points but totally missed it. I was so disappointed in that.

He was a few tenths away from the 12 points, but ended up with 4 points for Sunday in total.

He said (to Estonian media), that he did not have tires for that due to wrong tire-choice. I assume from that statement that some hards could be good.

Also, he said, that it was clear without a team message that it is important to get the points of for the manus title. He did not seem to stress or struggle with the driver's title topic.

[masa90]

He was a few tenths away from the 12 points, but ended up with 4 points for Sunday in total.

He said (to Estonian media), that he did not have tires for that due to wrong tire-choice. I assume from that statement that some hards could be good.

Also, he said, that it was clear without a team message that it is important to get the points of for the manus title. He did not seem to stress or struggle with the driver's title topic.


Yeah he basically said the aim is the teams title. Sounded like he had already forgotten the drivers title.

For everyone wondering, finnish news said that Kalle WILL NOT DRIVE IN JAPAN. He used "extra rally" in Poland so this is missing because of that. Lets see if the report is correct.

[TypeR]

Yeah he basically said the aim is the teams title. Sounded like he had already forgotten the drivers title.

For everyone wondering, finnish news said that Kalle WILL NOT DRIVE IN JAPAN. He used "extra rally" in Poland so this is missing because of that. Lets see if the report is correct.

Sounds unbeliveable..
as being a 2x champ with Toyota and not going to Japan..

But we'll see it officially on 28th of Oct, when enterlist comes out

[masa90]

Sounds unbeliveable..
as being a 2x champ with Toyota and not going to Japan..

But we'll see it officially on 28th of Oct, when enterlist comes out


Yeah lets hope that he is there. Here is the link to yle.fi (which is finnish national broadcaster)

https://yle.fi/a/74-20119036?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_content=ralliradio

[macebig]

No way. Toyota will throw everything and the kitchen sink for a Rally Japan victory and exhausting any possibility for the Constructor's. Plus, they usually do an end of season event and announcements for next year after the rally. Can't see how missing their apparent top rally driver can be justified.

[focus206]

Yeah he basically said the aim is the teams title. Sounded like he had already forgotten the drivers title.

For everyone wondering, finnish news said that Kalle WILL NOT DRIVE IN JAPAN. He used "extra rally" in Poland so this is missing because of that. Lets see if the report is correct.

I thought the reason Kalle was not at CER was because of the Poland "extra rally" already

[masa90]

Yeah this seems surprising for me aswell, but hard to know.

[CeskyOndra]

Taka said he is going for a push like never before, so it would make sense that Kalle will be there and Katsuta won't be scoring any points to have the possibility risk everything

[turdzi]

Ogier got another life lesson that you are not your own boss and you can do whatever you like and some you have to think of a team. He ignored the first warning ⚠️ and got punished stage later. Thankfully Taka saved the day otherwise TGR were completely f...

[TypeR]

Ffs all that hybrid related stuff..
Rememver Mikkelsen had problems with hybrid light shut down, then co-driver did some reset and that sh1tbox started working.
But.. hours and hours later fia masterminds found our that such thing isn't allowed and gave him 1min penalty..

Although the penalty itself didn't change anything atm, but wtf.. they think that such shltshow brings more people to wrc..?

[Morte66]

they think that such shltshow brings more people to wrc..?

I don't think that even crosses their minds. "We are the committee, we make the decisions".

[manthey]

Yeah lets hope that he is there. Here is the link to yle.fi (which is finnish national broadcaster)

https://yle.fi/a/74-20119036?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_content=ralliradio

It was yet stated he has a contract with a max number of events

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/why-rovanpera-hasnt-been-asked-to-do-cer/

[meh]

For 18 stages we had 6 different stage-winners and all manus got it "checked":
* Ogier 6x
* Evans 3x
* Tänak 3x
* Katsuta 3x
* Neuville 2x
* Fourmaux 1x

[focus206]

Ogier says he's a team player...
https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/central-europe-only-asked-more-title-questions/

“I have to be honest, I think like most of us racing drivers, we are very egotistical. You always think about yourself first. That’s the way it works and that’s the way you go forward in this business,” the eight-time champion shared.

“But I have to say very honestly that over time, year after year, I have become more and more of a team player and I really enjoy this situation, also because I feel really good in this team. They gave me really a great car first of all and also an opportunity to really adjust my schedule like I want. And I think we are working well together and as much as I can give back, I try to do it.
That’s why the manufacturers’ championship is important for me, now more than ever, and I’m excited to be in this battle.”

[EstWRC]

Lol

https://x.com/adrienfourmaux/status/1848357452930056228?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No way. Toyota will throw everything and the kitchen sink for a Rally Japan victory and exhausting any possibility for the Constructor's. Plus, they usually do an end of season event and announcements for next year after the rally. Can't see how missing their apparent top rally driver can be justified.

Latvala:
“Yes, I asked Kalle if he could join (in Japan), but Kalle said, ‘try to handle it on your own, boys,’ so he’s not going this time."

:disturb:

[becher]

Goes to show how quickly Rovanperä became their most priced asset, otherwise a 22 year old wouldn't be able to strongarm Toyota into only a half season and just say "no thanks" at their important home rally.

[TypeR]

It also depends who asks him this favour.. maybe not nicest, but kind of expected answer from him to Latvala.. :D

Doubt that he would have answered that to Toyoda :D (although he isn't the president anymore, but still)

[Rallyper]

I think there´s somth more in this story about Kalle vs. Toyota...
Money?
Disagreements?
Kalle don´t want to do WRC anymore?

What do you finnish guys living around Jyväskylä say? Are there local rumours? Pantealex etz?

[Morte66]

I think there´s somth more in this story about Kalle vs. Toyota...

Really? I think it is exactly what it seems. He wanted a half-year. He arranged a half-year. He is doing a half-year. There is a contract. Both parties are sticking to it.

[mknight]

Not all drivers could say no to come help their manu team fight for title on home rally though.

If I was to put something into it, it shows how much Toyota needs to be on good terms with him.

Ogier still says he doesn't want full season and dislikes the new point system, also recent mistakes might suggest he is declining. Evans (again) showed himself to be unable to challenge for title. Both remaining title contenders are signed for Hyundai.

TLDR: Toyota really needs Kalle to drive fulltime next year. So much it is not worth risking that by trying to save manu title.

[meh]

Most likely Rovanperä has the legal right to say no. But if the team has asked for help, I wonder how well "the no" will be remembered in Japan.

[Mirek]

Watching the onboards on rally tv. They have great camera placement in Neuville's car.

[Mirek]

It's interesting to see on the onboards how the hybrids allows them to have very long first two gears. With that having no hybrid is definitely most painful on asphalt in slow junctions where there is far better traction than on gravel. It's also a bit funny that they run one gear lower than Rally2 on the same places while going faster in the same time.

Anyway they will need to tune their engines a lot different without hybrid. Same for the gearboxes.

[AE1WRC]

IMO after that win in Poland, the team does not put any requirements on Kalle anymore. He said half a year and plus he is closing the season 4/7 with good numbers ( No 1 in stage wins plus rally leaders) despite the screw ups but probably better than Ogier

I think he is sending a message to Seb and the team with regards to Fast Eddies comment. IMO, he may be claiming that "I am the better option than Seb". Next season and 2026 he is back full time since he said himself at the end of last season.

[becher]

I think there´s somth more in this story about Kalle vs. Toyota...
Money?
Disagreements?
Kalle don´t want to do WRC anymore?

What do you finnish guys living around Jyväskylä say? Are there local rumours? Pantealex etz?

I don't want to spread rumors, but when I first heard of his half season and how he explained it, I started thinking if it could be due to an illness.

But through the season it really looked just like he wanted less commitments for once, considering he was basically bread to be a driver and for sure lost some of his childhood.

[AE1WRC]

Imagine doing rally all the time since 8 years old. Kalle only finished primary school (I believe). That's how committed he was. Now he is a double world champion so I immediately understood why he wanted to "recharge the batteries" and I respected the decision.

[CeskyOndra]

There is a one serious question guys - why would a 22 years old and 2 times world champion pick WRC in the future over other motorsports? Is he going to do one-two full time seasons and then again part time or even retire? WRC is sadly not the most famous motorsport and a young guy like him will definitely try to become the best in other series..

[Morte66]

There is a one serious question guys - why would a 22 years old and 2 times world champion pick WRC in the future over other motorsports? Is he going to do one-two full time seasons and then again part time or even retire? WRC is sadly not the most famous motorsport and a young guy like him will definitely try to become the best in other series..

He's due to do full seasons in 2025/26 on his current contract with Toyota. After that, is... ...after that.


For what it's worth: I think he'll carry on in WRC1 if there's a WRC1 to carry on in. I would not be surprised if he takes another break at some point from 2027 onwards.

[AE1WRC]

If he wins back to back again in 25 and 26 and have 4, honestly I don't see him continuing the sport at least full time unless he feels that the championship is spiced up again. If he wins 2 more, he will be in my top 3 all time no doubt and Kalle said in 2022 FIA gala to Loeb that I quote "your record will be safe for now I would say" so he doesn't seem to continue this sport that long like others have done.

[deephouse]

He will have a test drive in F1 car, I read somewhere. I think it will be redbulls, since he is sponsored by them. But we all know now already Toyota is becoming partner with Haas and maybe he want to try that challenge.

[manthey]

He will have a test drive in F1 car, I read somewhere. I think it will be redbulls, since he is sponsored by them. But we all know now already Toyota is becoming partner with Haas and maybe he want to try that challenge.

also Hypercar with Toyota on Wec

[drive]

Does anyone know what happened to estonian co-driver Kuldar Sikk during CER? I've seen reports that he was involved in a crash and had bad spinal injuries.

[sti123]

Does anyone know what happened to estonian co-driver Kuldar Sikk during CER? I've seen reports that he was involved in a crash and had bad spinal injuries.

He was doing gravel crew work for Ott, most likely crashed somewhere.

[becher]

There is a one serious question guys - why would a 22 years old and 2 times world champion pick WRC in the future over other motorsports? Is he going to do one-two full time seasons and then again part time or even retire? WRC is sadly not the most famous motorsport and a young guy like him will definitely try to become the best in other series..
I think he will end up like Loeb, considering other options but in the end sticking to what he is best at, not at least because he will probably discover that no other form of motorsport can give him the same as rallying.

He doesn't come across as someone who is hunting fame.

[Rallyper]

Still I find it kind of mysterious that he doesn´t want to help his employer winning. Even when not having the obligation to do it.

I don´t see him as an unreasonable person...

[Backa]

Still I find it kind of mysterious that he doesn´t want to help his employer winning. Even when not having the obligation to do it.

I don´t see him as an unreasonable person...

Half season is half season, I don't see anything unreasonable with him not entering. You can like your job and even company you are working for and still reject overtime request.

[Rallyper]

Half season is half season, I don't see anything unreasonable with him not entering. You can like your job and even company you are working for and still reject overtime request.

That is, in my opinion, a very simplified conclusion.

He doesn´t have a 9-5 work, he isn´t underpaid, he is a professional, hired for something and paid after that. Having its own contract as an excuse doesn´t fit the situation at all.

[deephouse]

I think he will end up like Loeb, considering other options but in the end sticking to what he is best at, not at least because he will probably discover that no other form of motorsport can give him the same as rallying.

He doesn't come across as someone who is hunting fame.

I kinda have a feeling he is bored of WRC since he is on completely other level than the rest of the field. Maybe he take this year as a potential seek for future, where he want to go, maybe to try something different. He is very talented driver, but that doesn't mean he will do well outside of rallying. He is actualy in the right team to do so, since Toyota is present on many different motorsport projects. We saw recent Ekstrom (former Audi driver) situation, where he didn't have other option but to leave the team, since Audi is directing all his money and powers into F1 project, so his options for racing could end. Rovanpera is young, talented and why not to pursue something different, if he have opportunities. Also he could have enough time to learn drive elsewhere, completely different situation than all other drivers, who retire after 40s, when I think some ability may reduce (except Dakar, those guys will drive well until they couldn't walk anymore).


Still I find it kind of mysterious that he doesn´t want to help his employer winning. Even when not having the obligation to do it.

I don´t see him as an unreasonable person...


Toyota Ogier/Evans/Katsuta is pretty good lineup to do a job. If we compare it to rival Hyundai Neuville/Tanak/''3rd crash prone, 7x puncture, 3x offs, hybrid on-off, penalty and completely off-paced driver''.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Plus he lost the Team big points with offs on 3 of the events he did do (Sweden, Portugal, Finland).

If he was exhausted and chilling at home or on holidays this year I could understand it. But he's been doing all kinds of Motorsport and going to Ireland for rally soon so why not help Toyota on their home event at a crucial time.

[becher]

A hobby rally is not the same as a whole week of work for a WRC event.

[Rallyper]

A hobby rally is not the same as a whole week of work for a WRC event.

You have to decide your priorities...

[mknight]

Toyota Ogier/Evans/Katsuta is pretty good lineup to do a job. If we compare it to rival Hyundai Neuville/Tanak/''3rd crash prone, 7x puncture, 3x offs, hybrid on-off, penalty and completely off-paced driver''.

Numbers:

This year Katsuta 4 crashes in 11 starts = 36% crash rate vs Mikkelsen 1 crash in 4 rallies = 25%

Or in other words:
Katsuta 2 crashes in last 3 rallies, last crash before that 2 rallies ago,
Mikkelsen 1 in last 3, last crash before that a year and 4 rallies ago.

In CER:
Katsuta 0 punctures, Mikkelsen 1
Katsuta 1 off, Mikkelsen 1 spin
Hybrid on/off with penalty is now drivers fault? Tell that to Tanak

Off pace with 3rd spot on first day and 2nd fastest on PS.

W/e just make up random stuff.

[AE1WRC]

I think he will end up like Loeb, considering other options but in the end sticking to what he is best at, not at least because he will probably discover that no other form of motorsport can give him the same as rallying.

He doesn't come across as someone who is hunting fame.

I also thought that. At the end this might happen also since his best chance to be successful in his career is Rally and REALLY has the potential to be the GOAT of the sport.

[dimviii]

Numbers:

This year Katsuta 4 crashes in 11 starts = 36% crash rate vs Mikkelsen 1 crash in 4 rallies = 25%

Or in other words:
Katsuta 2 crashes in last 3 rallies, last crash before that 2 rallies ago,
Mikkelsen 1 in last 3, last crash before that a year and 4 rallies ago.

In CER:
Katsuta 0 punctures, Mikkelsen 1
Katsuta 1 off, Mikkelsen 1 spin
Hybrid on/off with penalty is now drivers fault? Tell that to Tanak

Off pace with 3rd spot on first day and 2nd fastest on PS.

W/e just make up random stuff.

Katsuta that you use as a benchmark to compare for Mikkesen,has a wrc seat because of mr Toyoda.

[deephouse]

Numbers:

This year Katsuta 4 crashes in 11 starts = 36% crash rate vs Mikkelsen 1 crash in 4 rallies = 25%

Or in other words:
Katsuta 2 crashes in last 3 rallies, last crash before that 2 rallies ago,
Mikkelsen 1 in last 3, last crash before that a year and 4 rallies ago.

In CER:
Katsuta 0 punctures, Mikkelsen 1
Katsuta 1 off, Mikkelsen 1 spin
Hybrid on/off with penalty is now drivers fault? Tell that to Tanak

Off pace with 3rd spot on first day and 2nd fastest on PS.

W/e just make up random stuff.

So Lappi didn't even drive this year?

[doubled1978]

I think he will end up like Loeb, considering other options but in the end sticking to what he is best at, not at least because he will probably discover that no other form of motorsport can give him the same as rallying.

He doesn't come across as someone who is hunting fame.

Toyota offers him the potential to try anything in motorsport more or less, they have a WEC programme, have a new GT3 car coming, Super Formula, GT500, and now with the sponsorship of HAAS F1, I certainly wouldn’t be shocked if he did an F1 test.
It would be something truly amazing if he went to WEC for instance and became a world champion in that discipline, maybe that’s his goal?
In rally there was nothing between Loeb and Ogier for me, both true greats, but Loeb was definitely better at circuit racing than Ogier. Ogier tried very hard to get a drive in the Toyota WEC team, but it didn’t come to pass.

[meh]

Does anyone know what happened to estonian co-driver Kuldar Sikk during CER? I've seen reports that he was involved in a crash and had bad spinal injuries.

So Tänak's gravel crew crashed on Monday morning. How did he the rest of the rally? Hard to believe that he did not have a gravel-crew.

[EstWRC]

Nice high quality vid https://youtu.be/BcQLv982HH4?si=Bat1xdg22DRNbvIg

[Mirek]

Nice high quality vid https://youtu.be/BcQLv982HH4?si=Bat1xdg22DRNbvIg

Mostly taken on boring places though :(

[CeskyOndra]

Mostly taken on boring places though :(

Thats because its extremely difficult to get any great place, marshals everywhere and you can basically stay only behind the tape which is often 10 meters of the road.

[philippebugalski]

Thats because its extremely difficult to get any great place, marshals everywhere and you can basically stay only behind the tape which is often 10 meters of the road.

Exactly, seen a lot of praise for this event but imo totally dissapointed as a spectator for the second year here. 8th WRC event in the past 2 seasons and never seen fewer people on the stages (except for those in fan zones).
Marshalls poorly educated, tapes everywhere 10,20,30,40 meters from the road.
On the PS we found a good spot and got approval from every safety car there is plus Michelle - then came some marshall and made a total chaos with police involved because of our position and they moved us to the fan zone.

The rally it self was good and competitive but for me as a spectator it was nightmare again.

[Morte66]

Thats because its extremely difficult to get any great place, marshals everywhere and you can basically stay only behind the tape which is often 10 meters of the road.

I remember thinking whilst I watched the rally on rally.tv that I couldn't see a lot of spectators. Maybe they were all off-camera.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The CER is in very 'civilised' countries and safety and organisation are bound to be more stringent. Plus most of the roads used were in wide-open areas so the fans had to be kept well back. We saw several drivers going way off onto the grass and the spectators needed to be out of the way.

[Mirek]

I remember thinking whilst I watched the rally on rally.tv that I couldn't see a lot of spectators. Maybe they were all off-camera.

Last yeat the first day in Czechia was quite a punk so I expected to be the other extreme this year. I wasn't there but places I would like to visit look quite ok on the onboard from my favourite Strašín stage.

[ReRe]

My gallery from CER 2024 here: https://eu.zonerama.com/TomasR/Album/12300328