[WRC] Rally Sweden 2025

[Andre Oliveira]

https://rallysweden.com/en/competitors/documents/

[Rallyper]

Shakedown looks interesting...

[Andre Oliveira]

Lol Pirelli

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/c9bb532c-fd32-49ed-bef6-72f8fe6df545/15b38be5-8851-400e-98b3-bf9b857c8b23_Supplementary%20Regulations%20Rally%2 0Sweden%202025.pdf

https://scontent.fopo4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/462648943_1136765071373936_4663954650506207937_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=9f807c&_nc_ohc=Rh4hupQjiWkQ7kNvgEeeFjo&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fopo4-2.fna&oh=03_Q7cD1QGYkFHnKsz44nzA6LjPGiYBT0v7zEE62WI9xlAZ Pvz3gQ&oe=6783BA51

[wyler]

Lol Pirelli

https://app-cdn.sportity.com/c9bb532c-fd32-49ed-bef6-72f8fe6df545/15b38be5-8851-400e-98b3-bf9b857c8b23_Supplementary%20Regulations%20Rally%2 0Sweden%202025.pdf

https://scontent.fopo4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/462648943_1136765071373936_4663954650506207937_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=9f807c&_nc_ohc=Rh4hupQjiWkQ7kNvgEeeFjo&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fopo4-2.fna&oh=03_Q7cD1QGYkFHnKsz44nzA6LjPGiYBT0v7zEE62WI9xlAZ Pvz3gQ&oe=6783BA51

and compact dynamics also...

[Dimitris]

Rally is facing strong opposition from the local Sami communities, saying that it will affect reindeer grazing. 14/18 stages are in those areas.

https://www.powerslideblog.com/wrc-news/rally-sweden-facing-opposition-from-locals

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/470732656_1110178013898396_3397183933901430885_n.j pg?stp=dst-jpg_s640x640_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=ipOWUKQxvrwQ7kNvgEaEkbq&_nc_oc=Adj1TmBM_-Ss0bFqz5uJhFTQ5sPVrTNrMirkXoO0YUmu63uoz4kehRO5c31m _L3LoWr12u3ufv9YXKCw7Chuq81-&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fopo4-2.fna&_nc_gid=Azz_4xRj2E1BhhN6sjX0pqh&oh=00_AYB4YI6nAi1xO--r2GsYbv2V3sQsqwTFaqmNGnIgvOA-Ug&oe=676B6A44

[Sulland]

Rally is facing strong opposition from the local Sami communities, saying that it will affect reindeer grazing. 14/18 stages are in those areas.

https://www.powerslideblog.com/wrc-news/rally-sweden-facing-opposition-from-locals

"Good" to see that the Swedish version of the Sami population, have found out how to make money from the Swedish society.
In Norway we have the same type of discussions with our indigenous people up north.
On our side of the border it has to do with wind power farms they say will destroy their reindeer possibility to find food.
This even though the swedish reindeer copes fine with the same turbines across the border.

They are just after money, and if you start giving them some, they want more and more.
hopefully the county of Västerbotten will see this, and overrule their request.

[Rallyper]

The organizer should have done an agreement once and for all, so no upcoming problems would appear every third year...
Sami population doesn´t own land, only reindeers...

[sete]

I hope they will find agreement and everything goes smooth,cause im planning to be there:-)
My second visit of Sweden rally. First was in 2019

[becher]

"Good" to see that the Swedish version of the Sami population, have found out how to make money from the Swedish society.
In Norway we have the same type of discussions with our indigenous people up north.
On our side of the border it has to do with wind power farms they say will destroy their reindeer possibility to find food.
This even though the swedish reindeer copes fine with the same turbines across the border.

They are just after money, and if you start giving them some, they want more and more.
hopefully the county of Västerbotten will see this, and overrule their request.

You realize minorities are part of society and tax payers as well?

[skarderud]

You realize minorities are part of society and tax payers as well?Its not exactly that, its politics mostly, and economic second, its just 7 sami families that are alowed to own reindeers, not the others, and they dont pay taxes, because they refuse to count the deers. "You dont tell how much money you have in your bank" one said. Øøøø, yes you do, every year actually.

Its not easy this one, sulland is spot on, sadly enough.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[Dimitris]

Sesks and Serderidis will do Sweden

https://it.motorsport.com/wrc/news/wrc-m-sport-schierera-martins-sesks-al-rally-di-svezia/10687038/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sesks and Serderidis will do Sweden

https://it.motorsport.com/wrc/news/wrc-m-sport-schierera-martins-sesks-al-rally-di-svezia/10687038/

Link disappeared...

[skarderud]

Seems the sami-Villages trying to blackmail the rally sweden organisation, demanding 1.000.000 pr 10km to use the road where the reindeers could be.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[M3 Jambo]

There hasn't really been any any updates since the story broke late last year. Having booked flights, and paid a hefty deposit on accommodation, should I be worried? Does anyone have any more info.

[Rallyper]

There hasn't really been any any updates since the story broke late last year. Having booked flights, and paid a hefty deposit on accommodation, should I be worried? Does anyone have any more info.

No, I would´nt be worried. I´ll get back to you after searching for more news.

Edit: As said earlier there´s only individual persons, as members of Sami groups, that are giving troubles. negotiations are atm not possible with those samis who are opposing the event.
The County Adminstrative Board atm having the issue on their table. But it should be considered as the normal procedure of getting all the authorisations. And would eventually lead to authorization.

So to summary; just a few gready samis want to prohibit 14 of 18 stages bcs they didn´t get enough money i recent agreements. It´s noteable that they don´t own the land only using land for pasturage of their reindeers...

If the CAB decides something else than authorize the event, they should oppose the common will of the local society.

[afmotorsportmedia]

https://rallyjournal.com/intense-financial-dispute-behind-the-scenes-of-rally-sweden/

[M3 Jambo]

No, I would´nt be worried. I´ll get back to you after searching for more news.

Thanks, much appreciated Rallyper.

https://rallyjournal.com/intense-financial-dispute-behind-the-scenes-of-rally-sweden/

The rallyjournal article is encouraging, while no deal is in place 'the rally will run' Would probably say that anyway though!

[Rallyper]

Thanks, much appreciated Rallyper.

https://rallyjournal.com/intense-financial-dispute-behind-the-scenes-of-rally-sweden/

The rallyjournal article is encouraging, while no deal is in place 'the rally will run' Would probably say that anyway though!

Recent post edited.

[Rallyper]

The issue with permissions today is that the sami villages have internal argumentations which results in accusations also on the organiser. It´s political.
The commentary from the County Administrative Board is their decision will be from the present applications they already have.
https://www.vk.se/2025-01-15/nytt-yttrande-ytterst-bekymmersamt-be9d2?pak=8HLL0LaLSV3hP5dTnV___HGTiJlNLkFeuQGu6m/xV13FuxcPSNl0rm1nIcqLDHnuli8wgPtXiZa8i2pPzhYWBnXwM 96S8K7AVOPcUu

[Andre Oliveira]

Pontus Tidemand makes WRC2 comeback at Rally Sweden with JC Raceteknik

https://mcusercontent.com/d769feddf093bc73a8feb78f1/images/b400b31d-41bd-1693-8b83-d7c99a448e58.jpeg

Junior-WRC and WRC2 Champion Pontus Tidemand is set to make his WRC2 comeback at the Swedish round of the World Rally Championship, Rally Sweden, in Umeå from February 13–16, driving for JC Raceteknik.

Tidemand, who won the WRC2 championship title in 2017, will be making his first WRC appearance since 2020, when he claimed the WRC2 silver medal. Partnering with JC Raceteknik, he will compete in a Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 alongside Norwegian co-driver Jørgen Eriksen.

The Rally Sweden entry wasn’t part of Tidemand’s original plans but came about after a visit to JC Raceteknik’s headquarters in Kil recently when the topic of the rally came up.

This will also mark Tidemand’s first Rally Sweden since the event moved from Värmland to Umeå. To prepare, he will compete in the Swedish Championship opener, North Rally Boden, the weekend before Rally Sweden.

Although this is his first WRC2 start since 2020, Tidemand remains the most successful driver in the class's history, boasting 14 victories.

Pontus Tidemand:

“I stopped by Joel [Christoffersson, Team Manager at JC Raceteknik] late last week, and he mentioned they had a Skoda available for Rally Sweden. I hadn’t even considered competing before that, but once he brought it up, I couldn’t resist. And here we are. I’ve never competed in Umeå before, but I’ve been there to watch. Rally Sweden is always special. I’ve taken a step back from it, but I did drive it 10 years in a row in Värmland, and it went pretty well back then. We’ll be racing the North Rally in Boden as preparation. It’s always good to have a rally under your belt before Rally Sweden. I’ve competed in the WRC for many years and don’t feel I have anything left to prove. But we’re coming with a great car, a great team, and a longer rally format suits me well. When it’s time to compete, you always get fired up. Still, this is mostly about the experience and the joy of it all."

Joel Christoffersson, Team Manager at JC Raceteknik:

“We are thrilled to have three cars at the start of Rally Sweden, and having Pontus on the team is incredibly exciting. Hopefully, he can contribute a lot with all his experience. We’re starting with the Swedish Championship in Boden with three cars, and the very next week we head into Rally Sweden—it’s a fantastic feeling. This is the first time for the team that we’re fielding so many cars in both a WRC and an SM event. We’re absolutely pumped and ready to make the most of it.”

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhgBVwxW4AAJ2hk?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhgBVwzWUAAYkfT?format=jpg&name=large

[deephouse]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhgBVwxW4AAJ2hk?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhgBVwzWUAAYkfT?format=jpg&name=large

Looks like it's more and more possibility that Hyundai will not field 4th car at all. 80 million budget and acting like this.

[EstWRC]

5 Estonians in the list! Nice

[ferrial]

Sad to see that Jürgenson drives Fiesta, which isn’t a competitive car.

[TypeR]

Sad to see that Jürgenson drives Fiesta, which isn’t a competitive car.
Very surprising indeed...

M-Sport puts out the prize and doesn't give him Skoda or Toyota..

He needs seat time in rally2 car and I think he has a very good opportunity for that, especially with those ,,extra rallies'' he got for good results last year and fia star programme..

[AndersX]

Looks like it's more and more possibility that Hyundai will not field 4th car at all. 80 million budget and acting like this.

You can notice how news about Genesis programm slowly increase in volumes recent months. I would think that the change of the attention and marketing/pr focus clearly indicates that they do not give a ...... about rally any more - too little pond for their ambitions, even though their own approach had led to different PR disasters, where losing almos secure WMC in the last meters of 2024 was just an exclamation mark!

[Rallyper]

Latest news from local newspaper Västerbotte. Kuriren:

Samis still think it´s crime of hatred and they also claims lack of economic compensations from organiser since first three rallies. There has been two statements as answers to the County Administrative Board where two sami villages giving two different answers. One private sami is on his own and playing king of the Umeå area, shattering the samis organisations internally. (Link 1)

Guys, it´s a mess right now. However it´s the County Adminstartive Board who decides authorisation of the rally, but they are not having the answer to the organiser yet...(link 2)

These are locked but for only less than 3 Euros you get a subscribe for 14 days, and articles will be readable.
https://www.vk.se/2025-01-17/ilska-i-nytt-yttrande-kritiserar-bade-kommunen-och-rallyt-305ee
https://www.vk.se/2025-01-17/lansstyrelsen-gar-att-lamna-in-ansokan-tidigare-0b99b

[Jarek Z]

I think that most people don't even know who Sami people are. I also heard about them for the first time only last year:
https://sweden.se/life/people/sami-in-sweden

Are they all against rallying?

[deephouse]

You can notice how news about Genesis programm slowly increase in volumes recent months. I would think that the change of the attention and marketing/pr focus clearly indicates that they do not give a ...... about rally any more - too little pond for their ambitions, even though their own approach had led to different PR disasters, where losing almos secure WMC in the last meters of 2024 was just an exclamation mark!

I had already a feeling when Cyril came onboard, that he would drive them out of rallying completely, since he isn't passionate about that sport enough (sadly those guys at the top listen to him, so he clearly hold the keys, no matter how many of guys here think he is just a puppet). There is too much facts, that proves my theory.

[Rallyper]

I think that most people don't even know who Sami people are. I also heard about them for the first time only last year:
https://sweden.se/life/people/sami-in-sweden

Are they all against rallying?

It´s a mixed situation.
My guess every sami would be positive if they get enough money from Local community and organiser. Noteable is that hardly any reindeers are in the neighbourhood area for the rally. Samis, however have general permissions to let reindeers exist in forests where the rally have stages.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

"And those who remain in the business have long since replaced the skis with snowmobiles, AWD vehicles and helicopters...'

So they arent against the modern world then.

[Rallyper]

"And those who remain in the business have long since replaced the skis with snowmobiles, AWD vehicles and helicopters...'

So they arent against the modern world then.

Even helicopters. So can´t be environmental issue. Only a matter of money.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Even helicopters. So can´t be environmental issue. Only a matter of money.

I suppose you cant blame them taking this chance to make some extra money. Those helicopters arent cheap to run... ;)

[Rallyper]

I suppose you cant blame them taking this chance to make some extra money. Those helicopters arent cheap to run... ;)

Well, it´s the way they do it and this is not first time they do it. Not only for the rally, I mean.

[samcuddy123]

It’s completely crazy they’re trying to hold a major body at ransom for money effectively. All while having to keep fans in the dark because they still can’t confirm anything until it has been dealt with.
Plenty of people like me who have booked flights & hotels and are only just finding out about this :/ .

[DocMS]

Can anyone advise in the Rally Sweden pass for this year. I received the physical pass which doesn't have QR code and an email with a QR code. Do I need both to gain access?

Sent from my SM-S906B using Tapatalk

["Username"]

Any chance of the rally being cancelled due to warm weather?

[Tauri_J]

Any chance of the rally being cancelled due to warm weather?

I know theres less snow around Umea and winter has been really shitty even in Arctic circle but theres literally zero chance of that happening.

Right now snow depth is 30-50cm and ice layer is very thick

[afmotorsportmedia]

Taken from Rally Sweden Facebook:

Rally Sweden wants to cooperate with the entire region around Umeå
The Rally Sweden World Cup competition runs over 300 kilometers of special distances, touching over 250 landowners and the majority of the same villages.
Today, the County Board in Umeå gave the clear sign for the rally. The work with the stretches for the year has in many cases been aired in public channels and social media where unfortunately it has often been an indecent tone. A climate that Rally Sweden is distancing from.
- The objectionable statements that have been put forward and the hopes that have been written really make me sad. There is nothing that Rally Sweden stands behind. Having a dialogue and negotiation where both parties can present their arguments is one thing. But sitting and trolling behind the keys and jumping on people is not acceptable, says Anna Nordkvist, CEO Rally Sweden.
Shut down the net hatred
Both the international and the national motor sport are working hard against the net in various projects to challenge the climate that is often presented on the Internet's social forum.
- It's just to put it down. There is no one who gains anything by throwing things out that way. Everything that usually I see is that it is referred to an already incorrect source and then the hate just builds further. Our goal is for Rally Sweden to be an experience for everyone, everyone who loves rally, but also for those who just think it is fun with a frantic event that comes to Umeå, says Anna Nordkvist.
Protect the culture, animals and climate.
The days 13-16 February this year's Rally Sweden will be run. It will be the fourth time that the World Championship competition is held in the region with Umeå as the central venue.
- Rally Sweden visits Umeå and the region about one week per year with four clean competition days and during that week we want to work with landowners and cleaners to make sure everything works in the best way during the competition, but also before the rally in all planning and after the competition about restoration of roads and other things, otherwise it does not work, but above all we must be accepted by those we have to borrow the land from, says Erik Åström, Event Director for Rally Sweden.
Please consider the wildlife.
Rally Sweden is one of Sweden's largest recurring sports events. A competition that has a large audience, both inside the Red Barn event arena and out in the woods along the tracks.
- Rally is fantastic to look out in the forest along the competition distances. But it is also important that you as an audience know that you are a guest in nature. Therefore, it is important not to stress any animals that you see and of course not to destroy and trash down. I really ask everyone to show respect, says Erik Åström and continues.
- I hope that we can now focus ahead on what lies ahead and that this weather holds up. It guarantees very good conditions for Rally Sweden 2025.

[Rallyper]

I don´t know what´s been said in social media except from this forum and I fully agree that unpropriate net hate is not acceptable.

However there are obviously people in the Umea surrounding who don´t want the rally unless they get a lot of money.

It shouldn´t be that way, but understandable the organizer won´t make statements in plain language. In Sweden we are so afraid getting on the wrong side of context...

[Rallyper]

Organizers application for Rally Sweden granted by the County Administrative Booard, yesterday.

[Krigen]

Move the rally back to Värmland where it has traditions and belongs.. The stages are also much better.. And be prepared too drive it after the conditions like it was before, and like the monte is.

[CeskyOndra]

Move the rally back to Värmland where it has traditions and belongs.. The stages are also much better.. And be prepared too drive it after the conditions like it was before, and like the monte is.

You want rally Sweden with no snow?

[Rallyper]

One of the sami villages have today appealed the County Administrative Boards approval of the stages in Rally Sweden.

The local paper have seeked representants from the village, but haven´t got in contact with any of responsible members from the samis.
Probably they are only awkward to the whole event, and my personal estimation is that they are going nowhere with their behaviour.

The appeal will most probably be rejected.

[satnav]

One of the sami villages have today appealed the County Administrative Boards approval of the stages in Rally Sweden.

The local paper have seeked representants from the village, but haven´t got in contact with any of responsible members from the samis.
Probably they are only awkward to the whole event, and my personal estimation is that they are going nowhere with their behaviour.

The appeal will most probably be rejected.

Just reading about this whole sage between the lines, do you think the Sami villagers will let the rally go ahead without disruption and not be a real nuisance to everyone and cause disruption as they seem determined by their behaviour up to now.

[afmotorsportmedia]

Just reading about this whole sage between the lines, do you think the Sami villagers will let the rally go ahead without disruption and not be a real nuisance to everyone and cause disruption as they seem determined by their behaviour up to now.

Been thinking this too, hopefully everything runs smoothly.

[CeskyOndra]

Hi guys, I'm flying to Sweden next month for the first time. I have a lot of experience with spectating events like Croatia, Portugal, Poland etc. but I've never been on snow. Could anyone give me some advice about the rally "traditions", where are the best places to spectate, if there are some dangers I have to be aware of and if there is an okey mobile signal for watching results or live. thanks a lot!

[masa90]

Going to attend Rally Sweden live for first time since 2019. Few questions: is there rule about no bags allowed to umeå sprint/red barn arena/service still in place?

Has there usually been any extra/classic cars on display in service park or red barn?

Is there route now finalised? Such short time to event and somehow the whole situation seems kinda concerning.

Is there gonna be any rally magazine or spectatorguide??

[Rallyper]

Just reading about this whole sage between the lines, do you think the Sami villagers will let the rally go ahead without disruption and not be a real nuisance to everyone and cause disruption as they seem determined by their behaviour up to now.

Yes, I can´t imagine they would try to disrupt the rally once it has started.

However these Sami actions happened before the rally, should notice the organizer to take relevant steps coming years to mitigate from this to happen again.

[DocMS]

Going to attend Rally Sweden live for first time since 2019. Few questions: is there rule about no bags allowed to umeå sprint/red barn arena/service still in place?

Has there usually been any extra/classic cars on display in service park or red barn?

Is there route now finalised? Such short time to event and somehow the whole situation seems kinda concerning.

Is there gonna be any rally magazine or spectatorguide??https://rallysweden.com/strackor/?fbclid=IwY2xjawIIRDlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHbRhzE3b3a2n aZVVqYJrxbxipyYdYU4wwRZoF6bOckNJXijLKAlUHmCOBg_aem _mHpU7dM2K04O9z_rMVOb3w

Route is now published



Sent from my SM-S906B using Tapatalk

[Negaiss]

Serderidis ir really kiking it on a local level. Only 2:30 mins behind leader (Lappi with old Skoda R5) on 22 kms first stage of Arctic Lappland rally. What a driver.

[wyler]

Serderidis ir really kiking it on a local level. Only 2:30 mins behind leader (Lappi with old Skoda R5) on 22 kms first stage of Arctic Lappland rally. What a driver.

while rovanpera already off into a snowbank...

[denkimi]

while rovanpera already off into a snowbank...
https://x.com/RallyeSport/status/1885250062739026036?t=usilYwqa_COhzwOxXWmJDQ&s=19

He had to avoid a spectator on the road.

[rallyfiend]

Serderidis ir really kiking it on a local level. Only 2:30 mins behind leader (Lappi with old Skoda R5) on 22 kms first stage of Arctic Lappland rally. What a driver.

So what? He's what rally has always had: gentleman drivers having the time of their lives!

[CeskyOndra]

Kalle slower than Rally2 cars now, is it because of road position?

[Rallyper]

Kalle slower than Rally2 cars now, is it because of road position?

Guess it´s Hankook tires.

Did have some indication from my friend in Finland that big difference from Pirellis... He is now in Rovaniemi.

[Thousandlakes]

Tuukka Kauppinen has shown very impressive speed in Arctic Rally so on. Even Lappi is behind him after 4 stages. Awesome Kid. Interesting to see how fast he will be in Sweden.

[CeskyOndra]

Guess it´s Hankook tires.

Did have some indication from my friend in Finland that big difference from Pirellis... He is now in Rovaniemi.

Is it that bad? Kalle absolutely nowhere near the front..

[dupanton]

Guess it´s Hankook tires.

Did have some indication from my friend in Finland that big difference from Pirellis... He is now in Rovaniemi.

0,9s/km, a WRC driver told me...

[Rallyper]

0,9s/km, a WRC driver told me...

Smth like that I heard, too...

[CeskyOndra]

Sounds like a big problem there. If it's that bad we could see a Rally 2 car on podium in Sweden..

[Vincemon1285]

No because Rally2 also have Hankook in Rally Sweden.

[Tauri_J]

There must be something else going on.

[TypeR]

Lol.., mysterious wrc drivers know and tell friends exact 0.xx numbers how much faster or slower new tyres are :D

They are testing, not competing with local guys..

[drive]

did Rovanpiera got Pirelli on ss7 and ss8? Arctic Lapland Rally...

[Tauri_J]

No, hes driving with Dmacks.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

3/4 Stage wins this morning for Kalle and he now leads overall.

[Backa]

No, hes driving with Dmacks.

Why he is not using Hankooks?

[CeskyOndra]

Why he is not using Hankooks?

I think that was sarcasm.

[dupanton]

Lol.., mysterious wrc drivers know and tell friends exact 0.xx numbers how much faster or slower new tyres are :D

They are testing, not competing with local guys..

Don't have to believe me and it was after a test where he run both tyres.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle only 16th on SS11, then fastest on SS12. Must just be testing.

[wwbroe]

Kauppinen wins the rally in font of Kalle and EP

[SubaruNorway]

Did he loose all studs or?

[EstWRC]

It’s just pure testing. His times were the same way all over the place in December at that rally where he was competing with Fourmaux

[TypeR]

Did he loose all studs or?
Just sportsmenship. Gave away enough time to let the real winner get the victory :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle explains about his Arctic Rally times being due to the WRC-spec Hankooks shorter studs...

https://rallyjournal.com/kalle-rovanpera-remains-tight-lipped-on-big-question-i-wont-comment-on-that-any-further/

[Morte66]

I am curious to see where Bertelli ends up this year.

Last year, he beat 4 of the 8 drivers entered for manufacturer points in WRC1. He went faster than Munster, and Rovanpera / Tanak /Katsuta lost to him by going off. So he finished right in the middle of the WRC1 order.

If he stays on the road again this year, I wonder if he can come above halfway.

[TypeR]

Well.. Munster was way faster than him on most stages(where he didn't have problems). Bertelli was 6th in wrc2 class..
Top15 overall maybe..

[deephouse]

Maybe we can all agree, that those black liveries on Toyotas are way better than Bertelli liveries across his cars. Only his racesuit does seem decent, but the car... Well, it looks like it's wrapped in base colours and even that is made poorly. Maybe he will surprise and have this year even uglier.

[focus206]

Maybe we can all agree, that those black liveries on Toyotas are way better than Bertelli liveries across his cars. Only his racesuit does seem decent, but the car... Well, it looks like it's wrapped in base colours and even that is made poorly. Maybe he will surprise and have this year even uglier.

Last year he had the black GR livery like all the works Toyota, so it might just be that again.

[WRC1]

Maybe we can all agree, that those black liveries on Toyotas are way better than Bertelli liveries across his cars. Only his racesuit does seem decent, but the car... Well, it looks like it's wrapped in base colours and even that is made poorly. Maybe he will surprise and have this year even uglier.

Every, really every livery is better than Toyotas ugly black cars with stickers...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Looks like my old 2019 DR 2.0 is still ahead of the (WRC) game ! #Hankook ;)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GjH8XFnW0AAs4sx?format=jpg&name=medium

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GjH7JRTXEAACla6?format=jpg&name=medium

[Steve Boyd]

Kalle explains about his Arctic Rally times being due to the WRC-spec Hankooks shorter studs...

https://rallyjournal.com/kalle-rovanpera-remains-tight-lipped-on-big-question-i-wont-comment-on-that-any-further/The stud design is specified by FIA, and hasn't changed since last year. Nothing to do with Hankook.

[EstWRC]

After his tests for Sweden, Elfyn Evans also speaks of a very different feeling between the Pirelli and the Hankook #WRC

"At the start of the year, there is a lot to learn about the new Hankook tyres, and Sweden is no exception. So far, the feeling is very different from before, and we have to adapt to get the most out of it."

[EstWRC]

I wouldn’t be surprised if we see again weird stage times and huge time differences even at rally Sweden. It seems that whoever gets the package working first again will be the huge winner

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GjK5e4DbIAMudQv?format=jpg&name=medium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

M-Sport Sweden preview:

https://www.m-sport.co.uk/single-post/pumas-prepared-for-rally-sweden-s-snow-and-ice-conditions

[MichaelH]

Does anybody know at what distance the jump appears on the Andersvattnet stage on Friday next week? I am travelling over from the UK and looking for an idea of which spectator area to go for on this stage

[Dimitris]

Route Preview with info about all the stages

https://www.powerslideblog.com/wrc-route-previews/rally-sweden-2025-route-preview

[stavrosGDB]

Mpravo Dimitri!

[SubaruNorway]

Does anybody know at what distance the jump appears on the Andersvattnet stage on Friday next week? I am travelling over from the UK and looking for an idea of which spectator area to go for on this stage

I'm not going myself so haven't looked at it much, but i saw someone mentioned at 6min in this, doesn't look like much a jump to me, more like a 15-20m drop jump probably.
https://youtu.be/Y_zYfA6Y-0w?si=-X5QBF52ggjXzwQH

Got kind of tired of this event, the sami people and new shakedown made me not feel the urge to go all that way and spend lots of money at what must be the most expensive event now with prices rising with something like 50% since first event in 22.

Itinerary is too much stress also, i struggle to enjoy it.

Rant over.

[Dimitris]

Mpravo Dimitri!

Thanks!

[Lead]

I'm not going myself so haven't looked at it much, but i saw someone mentioned at 6min in this, doesn't look like much a jump to me, more like a 15-20m drop jump probably.
https://youtu.be/Y_zYfA6Y-0w?si=-X5QBF52ggjXzwQH

Got kind of tired of this event, the sami people and new shakedown made me not feel the urge to go all that way and spend lots of money at what must be the most expensive event now with prices rising with something like 50% since first event in 22.

Itinerary is too much stress also, i struggle to enjoy it.

Rant over.

I feel you, similar story here.

[Rallyper]

I'm not going myself so haven't looked at it much, but i saw someone mentioned at 6min in this, doesn't look like much a jump to me, more like a 15-20m drop jump probably.
https://youtu.be/Y_zYfA6Y-0w?si=-X5QBF52ggjXzwQH

Got kind of tired of this event, the sami people and new shakedown made me not feel the urge to go all that way and spend lots of money at what must be the most expensive event now with prices rising with something like 50% since first event in 22.

Itinerary is too much stress also, i struggle to enjoy it.

Rant over.

Well yes, Tor, you might be right. I never been to Umea on the rally at all, myself. It´s a bit different for us nerds.
However it needs to remind that average Joe needs to have his fun as well. He doesn´t even travel from abroad. He might live in the neighbourhood, and enjoys the rally from his point of view.
Let´s not bash the rally itself. Also for all people working hard for a rally that maybe doesn´t suit all the fans.

[Krigen]

Not been the same since moving from Värmland...

[Rallyper]

Not been the same since moving from Värmland...

Agree to that. But what can you do?

[Rallyper]

A bit OT, but this is how to drive RWD Volvo 940. Patrik Flodin yesterday in Swedish Championship. 11th o/a.
And no reindeers and Sami problems, 200 km from Umeå.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5JYt8MqW5I

[CeskyOndra]

Looks like that the weather is playing into Evans's hands. Seems like -20 is possible on Friday

[Krigen]

nothing i\m afraid :I

[Tauri_J]

Looks like that the weather is playing into Evans's hands. Seems like -20 is possible on Friday

Thats great. Creates more equal playing field.

[masa90]

Lets just hope they actually run the Rally like normal. Really concerning news about the fighting, complaints and reindeers stuff.

[Rallyper]

Lets just hope they actually run the Rally like normal. Really concerning news about the fighting, complaints and reindeers stuff.

Well, it shouldn´t be any worries any more. It´s my opinion.

[tbazsi95]

Lorenzo Bertelli will not participate on the Rally Sweden.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DF5M2QZNCau/

[spyros]

Any news about the wheather, are there any fresh snow? I believe that Evans will benefit from starting order.

[EstWRC]

Recce interviews https://youtu.be/aKoDRcW3NlA?si=yVVdlCsIdSBI64ZC

[Rallyper]

Any news about the wheather, are there any fresh snow? I believe that Evans will benefit from starting order.

Looks like only cold and sunny with no more snow.

[EstWRC]

As I understand then perfect conditions for Saturday and for Friday the first stages have a little bit snow and not so much ice and the gravel might come out but overall a a very good conditions and almost perfect.

[Morte66]

Any news about the wheather, are there any fresh snow? I believe that Evans will benefit from starting order.

Fourmaux said in the recce interviews that the first two stages on Friday have snow on and the third is ice, but Saturday is all ice.

Low odds of precipitation in the forecast.

Road position always matters, but I think it'll be less important than average in this rally.

[CeskyOndra]

Conditions are great tho. Friday is the snowiest and the slowest one, there are some tight sections with quite a lot of loose snow. But there are some high and quite soft snowbanks from where might get snow pulled to the road from the first cars and it can become quite messy in places

[EstWRC]

Can’t wait it to begin already. Conditions seem perfect for drivers unlike last years fiasco, just pure speed event.

Hyundai with the new car, Sesks in da haus, 5 Estonians in the start list.

Bring it on!

[CeskyOndra]

Can’t wait it to begin already. Conditions seem perfect for drivers unlike last years fiasco, just pure speed event.

Hyundai with the new car, Sesks in da haus, 5 Estonians in the start list.

Bring it on!

Let's go! I will be giving you the latest informations about the stage conditions :)

[Morte66]

I think the €64000 question is: will Tanak's dry tarmac setup from Monte translate to clean ice, studded tyres, and the updated car? If it does, he's going to be a monster.

[CeskyOndra]

I think the €64000 question is: will Tanak's dry tarmac setup from Monte translate to clean ice, studded tyres, and the updated car? If it does, he's going to be a monster.

I mean, when the conditions are great, he is also great. Can't see any reason why he can't compete for the win. He has been always very fast on this rally with all cars.

[focus206]

Hyundai with the new car


Do we know what are the major changes for the new car?

[Tauri_J]

SUSPENSION then everything else

[Rallyper]

Goooood mooorniiing rallyfreaks!!

It´s time for Rally Sweden. Let the best man win!!

[Rallyper]

Olympic gold medalist Anja Paerson is one of the marshalls in the rally on SD.

[EstWRC]

Tänak saying the ice is braking already

[spyros]

Tänak saying the ice is braking already

If so i think its Evans rally.

[flat_right]

Why are Pickems for Sweden closed already? I usually post after shakedown and now they are closed. Is it possible to open again?

[EstWRC]

If so i think its Evans rally.

Doesn’t mean it’s on stages like that. This shakedown isnt representative at all

[Rallyper]

If so i think its Evans rally.

Don´t compare this SD to the stages...

[Ds3]

Serderides, at his pace, is contributing to the release of a lot of greenhouse emissions. Let Greenpeace take matters into its own hands.

[Negaiss]

Why are Pickems for Sweden closed already? I usually post after shakedown and now they are closed. Is it possible to open again?


OMG !!!!! Realy ?? Situation is the same for me. It has always been open after shakedown. Meeeh. I was so ready and was analysing a lot. Damn

[Negaiss]

OK, it actually was said - Deadline: Thursday January 13th 9:00 CET. But we can jokingly argue, tha we meant it will colose on January 2026, because january 13 of 2025 was already passed before the Pickems opening post he he.

[CeskyOndra]

I'm not the organizer, but I would let the guys who didn't make their pickems time to make it. The closing time was changed after years and not everyone is reading the title every time.

[EstWRC]

Tänak fastest on his second run

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sesks fasteron SD than the 2 M-Sport drivers and Munster really slow. I hope he does better in the rally.

[EstWRC]

Neuville fastest on his 4th run already

[HarriK]

Katsuta small moment
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/dyp9Inq0Ev8

[erikli2]

Tidemand showed some better pace than he's done the last few years. He was pretty competitive in the last round of the Swedish championship, hopefully he can make a good result.

[spyros]

Rovanpera cant break 2:09, weird.

[Rallyper]

Rovanpera cant break 2:09, weird.

Consistent testing...

[EstWRC]

Shakedown

https://youtu.be/4Ma83wXg1Vk?si=pXxhj9IWK06-G252

https://youtu.be/XjzOS3uvPTE?si=umDzFPQyDttskfRW

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville fastest on his 4th run already

And Sesks 2nd fastest... could be promising for him with his road position.

[EstWRC]

Shakedown

https://youtu.be/TW3wkE_6PJQ?si=ds5zGPUUHDIWRnsm

[tbazsi95]

Pro One Media's picture from yesterday:
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02d6JabVDKgxMBRgGsv9 HFs22AERCfxHmFWuubt7nzRWArriPTkWxqAWArS77DME9pl&id=100027689934933

[EstWRC]

Kalle about his struggles with Hankook

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-opens-up-on-driving-style-struggles/

[TanaKa]

Serderides, at his pace, is contributing to the release of a lot of greenhouse emissions. Let Greenpeace take matters into its own hands.
Ha,Ha,Ha,Ha,,,Good comentary...Strong..

[hari]

Some pictures from Shakedown and Service: https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_rallye_schweden_2025.html

https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/sweden/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/sweden/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/sweden/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/sweden/4.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/sweden/9.jpg

[TanaKa]

Loctite..???:eek:

[EstWRC]

Shakedown by Passats

https://youtu.be/gIIC3xh8SUs?si=HKhaGC0u35hEyvWx

[EstWRC]

Do we know what are the major changes for the new car?

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/what-hyundai-focused-on-with-its-rally1-upgrades/

[CeskyOndra]

This stage is going to be better for front runners guys, It's been like that every year, there is an ice base

[tbazsi95]

Shakedown
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TW3wkE_6PJQ

[TypeR]

Stage 5.16km long and split on 4.3km :D

[EstWRC]

Seems first is the best place to be again like on shakedown

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sesks faster on SD than the 2 M-Sport drivers and Munster really slow. I hope he does better in the rally.

No sign of it tonight...

[CeskyOndra]

No sign of it tonight...

Every car makes the road worse and worse. It is clearly visible from the stage live. Pajari and Sesks clearly overdriving, but they kinda have to in these conditions.

[Morte66]

OK, with no Gryazin, I'm going to support Linnamae in WRC2. He gave my man Sami Pajari a good run on a few rallies last year, and I respect that.

[EstWRC]

If tomorrow is the same case that the first is the place to be then Evans is in really good hands

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice to see Pontus Tidemand again and he might keep Solberg honest.

[dupanton]

edit: nevermind, they are back

[Tauri_J]

Ford looks absolutely heavy and dreadful to drive on ice/snow

[deephouse]

So still not a sign of command centre? Or that was it. That greeting at the start of the rally.

[jcevc]

All three Hyundai crews and Evans with 1 spare, all others with 2 for first loop.

[TypeR]

60km loop with unknown tyres and they risk with 1 spare :D

But let's see! Hope it will be interesting day :)

[Rallyper]

Morning guys. Now we´ll see what brings out men from boys...

[wwbroe]

Morning guys. Now we´ll see what brings out men from boys...
Morning guys

[Rallyper]

wrc.com doesn´t work for me... to busy server?

Edit: now working at my place.

[spyros]

Morning guys, anyone know if 1st stage run last year ( cant check it now ) to compare the times?

[wwbroe]

First on the road seems good position

[wwbroe]

Morning guys, anyone know if 1st stage run last year ( cant check it now ) to compare the times?
It was run last year, but a little bit shorter last year

[EstWRC]

Evans with clear advantage here

[TypeR]

Taka fastest on first splits.. a bit dangerous :D

[EstWRC]

Nice one Tänak considering his position

[EstWRC]

I wouldn’t be surprised if tanager gets faster for late starters at one point

[Rallyper]

Katsuta is too fast for his experience...

[Negaiss]

Solberg might catch Serderidis on stage.

[spyros]

what happened to Sami?

[denkimi]

Katsuta is too fast for his experience...
It's his 8th rally sweden. For kalle it's his 6th time.

What you're trying to say is he's going too fast for his talent. :-p

[bandit12]

Katsuta is too fast for his experience...

Well.. he has more experience then half of current R1 drivers

[TWRC]

what happened to Sami?

Hit snowbank and the tyre popped off the rim

[jonkka]

Hit snowbank and the tyre popped off the rim

Very innocent looking incident at that, barely touched the bank.

[wwbroe]

Solberg might catch Serderidis on stage.

He started four minutes behind Jourdan

[wwbroe]

But Solberg is about 3 minutes faster, so could be close after all

[denkimi]

Serderidis must be one of the absolute worst gentleman drivers ever.

[Rallyper]

It's his 8th rally sweden. For kalle it's his 6th time.

What you're trying to say is he's going too fast for his talent. :-p

Well, my bad english in the hot moment.
However, experience should make you know when to go fast and when to take it easy.
I might have to eat it, but Katsuta will not make it to the end.
Remind me... ;)

[SubaruNorway]

That jump at 6min in the recce video wasn't much like i mentioned

[Negaiss]

Of course it is good to see one more Rally1 and Thanks him for sponsoring Munster. Maybe there was no more M-Sport without Serderidis funding, but Yes - his is the worst gentleman driver ever.

[Rallyper]

That jump at 6min in the recce video wasn't much like i mentioned

I have a note around 10:10 on the video from SS3. Let´s see.
(Could be at around 6:20 for the drivers. Just circulate...)

[wwbroe]

Fourmaux faster then Evans on this one, at least halfway trough

[jonkka]

Of course it is good to see one more Rally1 and Thanks him for sponsoring Munster. Maybe there was no more M-Sport without Serderidis funding, but Yes - his is the worst gentleman driver ever.

Munster isn't that hot either.

[Jewy46]

Good time from Josh! Fastest of the M-Sport drivers.
Shows he has potential.....Despite what some might say! ;)

[wwbroe]

Kalle loosing 6.9 on Adrien, not so good

[denkimi]

Of course it is good to see one more Rally1 and Thanks him for sponsoring Munster. Maybe there was no more M-Sport without Serderidis funding, but Yes - his is the worst gentleman driver ever.
i knew there was at least one even worse and i found the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8V-oBIcppk&t=75s

[spyros]

It seems Evans found back his lost speed without hybrid unlike Kalle.

[EstWRC]

The new Hyundai at the moment doesn’t seem much of an improvement on a loose surface and seems it suits Fourmaux the most who hasn’t had any say in the development. Lol

[spyros]

Fourmaux faster than Ott its a bit strange.

[TypeR]

The new Hyundai at the moment doesn’t seem much of an improvement on a loose surface and seems it suits Fourmaux the most who hasn’t had any say in the development. Lol
Maybe it's actually good for him.. he got in the car and now has to adapt to it. So far he has done good job.

[wwbroe]

Sesks fastest Ford on this one, unless Serderis will be faster:D

[EstWRC]

Maybe it's actually good for him.. he got in the car and now has to adapt to it. So far he has done good job.

Actually I think this is the case. He doesn’t over do with the setup which Thierry and Ott do I think.

But ok it’s just two stages so far.

[wwbroe]

Linnemae made a mistake

[EstWRC]

Shame about Linnamae but he is doing good so far nevertheless

[wwbroe]

Really unlucky for Linnemae, he was going wide and hit the one rock that was on the road:(

[wwbroe]

Stage 4 live now

[wwbroe]

Another 5 sec lost for Kalle compared to fastest time by Adrien

[jonkka]

Tanak's lost a minute - or timing glitch.

EDIT: Glitch.

[EstWRC]

Fourmaux schooling his world champion teammates hardly again

Seems to me it will be the case all year long

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gjrre8TWoAAKeNL?format=jpg&name=medium

[EstWRC]

Interesting that Thierry said there was a Marshall who was waving and him and Ott both lost massively in the end there

[EstWRC]

The others after them don’t loose as much. This will be interesting case now

[Lead]

Serderidis was pushing like crazy and went into snowbank :(

[wwbroe]

Serderidis was pushing like crazy and went into snowbank :(:D

[wwbroe]

Oliver crazy sideways driving

[Negaiss]

Serderidis was pushing like crazy and went into snowbank :(

Yep, that how it is then you are on the limit fighting for win !

[doubled1978]

Interesting first loop, that last stage looked awesome to drive, lovely roads and nice ice condition.
Some surprises, McErlean was better than I expected, Munster and Sesks worse than I expected.
Rovanpera’s pace, or lack of it is the most surprising for me.
Adapting, both car and driver to the characteristics of the Hankook tyres is clearly quite tricky but I do sometimes wonder if some of the drivers are focussing almost too hard on making the car perfect and telling themselves they can’t go fast if it isn’t. Maybe I’m not correct, but it does feel like that sometimes.

[AndersX]

I told you all that McErlean has a potential. There were signs in his earlier outings on fast lose surface.

Sesks - i would think he takes it steady, with very little seat and PET time, after messing up Chile, he can not have another DNF (day). Slight off in the first corner last night was also a warning. In his interviews he says that he would take it gradualy. I think more realistic times should be expeced tomorrow. Seat time matters here.

Formaux - seems that Hyundai has pulled the right loto, finally. This will be an interesting season.

Kalles struggles: as prognozed, lack of the overall focus. Top level sports gods do not excuse it. At this level smallest distraction is a deviation.

[Mackie]

I told you all that McErlean has a potential. There were signs in his earlier outings on fast lose surface.

What I find the most interesting is the fact that he hasn't made that many mistakes. It seems he is building his speed without overstepping his boundaries.

[doubled1978]

I told you all that McErlean has a potential. There were signs in his earlier outings on fast lose surface.

Sesks - i would think he takes it steady, with very little seat and PET time, after messing up Chile, he can not have another DNF (day). Slight off in the first corner last night was also a warning. In his interviews he says that he would take it gradualy. I think more realistic times should be expeced tomorrow. Seat time matters here.

Formaux - seems that Hyundai has pulled the right loto, finally. This will be an interesting season.

Kalles struggles: as prognozed, lack of the overall focus. Top level sports gods do not excuse it. At this level smallest distraction is a deviation.

You’re right, I am probably being too harsh on Sesks, he does need some seat time, so let’s see how he goes tomorrow and Sunday.
McErlean I haven’t really seen enough of to know, he seems to have a quite nice way of driving the car, I hope he can be fast with more experience.
Fourmaux doesn’t surprise me, I could see from early on he was good, just needed to get rid of the makes, which he seems to have done.
Kalle, yeah maybe he is distracted….hopefully he sorts everything out and we get the usual guy back soon!

[Rallyper]

I think Kalle has big pressure. He just gonna go and grab the WDC, everone thought.
I admit I had Kalle 1st in Pickems, but it seems harder than expected.
Let´s wait and see.
Fourmaux is the star.
Evans doing the job.

[CeskyOndra]

Kalle is a surprise tho, but If he is able to stay in touch with the lead, he can benefit from his starting position tomorrow and catch it back.. And Fourmaux.. He is a real championship contender bmo !

[PLuto]

We will see how it will be with Kalle. There are different factors - one year break (but not full), new tyres, big pressure. But I think there is also one more factor - I am saying it from beginning, but I think he was the best driver in WRC who has adapted well to the hybrid system and was able to use its advantage. And now without hybrid...

[denkimi]

Or maybe he had a far superior car with his only real competitor being Evans, who struggeled with the hybrid.

The season is still long. We'll see how it ends.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Interesting that Thierry said there was a Marshall who was waving and him and Ott both lost massively in the end there


The others after them don’t loose as much. This will be interesting case now

Any news or driver comments about getting time back ? They can look at the onboards and see the marshall.

[EstWRC]

Any news or driver comments about getting time back ? They can look at the onboards and see the marshall.

Seems not but like I said, they both lost 3 seconds there. Tänak was down 2.9 in last split and then suddenly 6.2 at the finish. Same with Thierry

Even Josh didn’t loose as much

[Backa]

Some surprises, McErlean was better than I expected, Munster and Sesks worse than I expected.

Sesks is talented driver deserving rally1 seat but results in Poland & Latvia lead to people having quite big expectations on him that would be hard to met this year. Not only those rallies were most suited for him from "fast gravel specialization" perspective but also his WRC rivals not competed on those roads for years while he was in ERC.

McErlean from other hand is underestimated, due to sponsors allowing him to jump over drivers like Solberg or Gryazin in rally1 seat queue.

While I rate Sesks higher, I don't expect them to be too far from each other.

[EstWRC]

Tänak saying that he hoped more from the morning and basically he can’t get the tyre and setup work together at the moment, they must find something for tomorrow morning.

Says the spikes are good on Hankook but the pattern isn’t the best, especially when it’s snowy it doesn’t was the snow away.

[Backa]

I think he was the best driver in WRC who has adapted well to the hybrid system and was able to use its advantage. And now without hybrid...

I hope that's the case, I like him but risk of decade of his Loeb-like dominance scares me. If lack of hybrid doesn't suit him, then it will make WRC more exciting.

[PLuto]

Hankook doesnt have so much experience with studded tyres and snow events from the past...

[TypeR]

Haven't noticed before, but from Fourmaux's pedal camera I saw that gas pedal has a ,,side wall'' on right side..

[jonkka]

McErlean from other hand is underestimated, due to sponsors allowing him to jump over drivers like Solberg or Gryazin in rally1 seat queue.


Seat queue? There is no such thing.

[wwbroe]

Small off for both Fourmaux and Rovanpera

[TypeR]

Neuville really flying on this one..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville with his usual comeback after a bad set-up at the start.

[240RS]

McErlean from other hand is underestimated, due to sponsors allowing him to jump over drivers like Solberg or Gryazin in rally1 seat queue.

While I rate Sesks higher, I don't expect them to be too far from each other.

Interesting that McErlean has gone faster than Evans AND Rovanpera through the first three splits of SS 5 !!!

[Danny0405]

Think we’ll have to wait the end of the afternoon to have a better idea, especially if tyre management is needed

[EstWRC]

Seems Neuville got the things clicking

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Taka had his sushi at lunchtime !

[wwbroe]

But Taka even faster underway, maybe taking the lead of the rally

[denkimi]

I think the road position advantage is reversed here from the morning.

[wwbroe]

Taka new leader

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wow what a jump up by Taka !

[Morte66]

Holy cow.

[Morte66]

Evans has done well so far, but I think opening the next stage will also hurt, and the one after that will hurt a bit less. So he's up against it. But if he could end the day third or fourth and within 10 seconds, then with the running order for tomorrow...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I wish they'd shown their tyres at the stage and to see any differences in studs missing.

[wwbroe]

Evans taking the lead again, just 3.6 sec between top 3

[tbazsi95]

"Me and my bestie when we want to experience group B rally but we’re Gen Z"
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGBEN3AsnoE/

[denkimi]

I think the road position advantage is reversed here from the morning.

And now we're back to position adavantage for the front runners.

[EstWRC]

Tänak clearly holding the tires if you watch his sector times. Going up and down

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice learning by McErlean so far. Promising for the future.

[AndersX]

So, all the early pessimists about McErlean, must send him PM: "I am sorry, Josh, I was not familiar with your driving!" 😃

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle summarises the tyre situation:

"Let's see at the end of the loop. I think we drivers are rotating our tyres bit differently. Definitely not an easy loop to optimize the tyre usage, but I hope ours are good for the final two of the day"

[jonkka]

So, all the early pessimists about McErlean, must send him PM: "I am sorry, Josh, I was not familiar with your driving!" ��

Guy is 8th overall, almost a minute from the lead and only ahead of Pajari (who blew tyre) Munster (who is hopeless).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice push by Tanak and got away with it. He leads.

[EstWRC]

Tänak very lucky there

[denkimi]

Nice close fight between toyota and Hyundai so far.

[wwbroe]

Top 5 within 9.9 sec, everything is still open

[TypeR]

After SS6:

Solberg Oliver
Edmondson E.
"I lost engine power in the beginning, then I had no engine 6km from the end. It sounded like it came back, I don't know."
Solberg on SS6 :D
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQcFv0XD_ZCW4Ez1dYxM372LxxMf8ZBN KEFLw&s