[WRC] FORUM8 Rally Japan 2024

[Andre Oliveira]

It looks Mikkelsen is confirmed in Japan.

[mknight]

No Rovanpera also confirmed.

Wonder if there is an element of not "benching" Katsuta from manu team on a Japanese rally.

He did well in CER and also did quite well last two times in Japan. But still he is no Rovanpera.

Losing both titles to a Korean manu on home soil would be extremely bad optics in that country.

[Morte66]

I didn't watch Japan last year, but I'm currently watching the replays.

The commentators keep talking about how it's not Rovanpera's kind of road.

Katsuta looks very handy when he's not crashing.

Tanak also looks good in the M-Sport.

The wet weather was a real spectacle on day one. And I really like these stages, it might be my favourite rally of 2023 given that Monte was a bit tame. Looking forward to 2024.

[focus206]

No Rovanpera also confirmed.

Good news for Hyundai. Also good news for Tanak, one less competitor that could keep him out of the top 3 he needs for Saturday.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak: If Neuville is “smart" there is "no chance" to win WRC title...

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/tanak-if-neuville-is-smart-there-is-no-chance-to-win-wrc-title-/10665347/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So no Rovanpera as he's already done his half-a-season (7/13 Rounds). This is pretty amazing considering how Ogier has done so many extra rallies to try to help Toyota.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-to-miss-rally-japan-season-finale/

[1988senna]

so why will rovanpera skip Japan? what's his plan in that week

[Morte66]

so why will rovanpera skip Japan? what's his plan in that week

He is doing a half-season this year because he wants some time off, so he contracted for a certain number of rallies (six or seven?). Earlier this year he did Poland at the last minute to cover for Ogier who crashed badly in practice, so now he's done what was agreed.

As for his plan... Kick back, I guess.

[becher]

So no Rovanpera as he's already done his half-a-season (7/13 Rounds). This is pretty amazing considering how Ogier has done so many extra rallies to try to help Toyota.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-to-miss-rally-japan-season-finale/

For sure Ogier hasn't suddenly abandoned his part time plan for any other reason now did he?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

He is doing a half-season this year because he wants some time off, so he contracted for a certain number of rallies (six or seven?). Earlier this year he did Poland at the last minute to cover for Ogier who crashed badly in practice, so now he's done what was agreed.

As for his plan... Kick back, I guess.

But he has binned it on 3 of the rallies he did for Toyota this year.

And he's doing the Killarney Rally in a historic Toyota Starlet around the time of Rally Japan.

[Morte66]

Still watching Japan 2023 replays. I'm up to Sunday morning and suddenly everybody is cruising to the finish except Katsuta. It's gone a bit dull. Well well.

Munster looking very useful in WRC2, which is a bit jarring.

[Steve Boyd]

And he's doing the Killarney Rally in a historic Toyota Starlet around the time of Rally Japan.That Starlet might be old but it certainly isn't historic - it's got a 2.5 litre Millington in it!

[Morte66]

And he's doing the Killarney Rally in a historic Toyota Starlet around the time of Rally Japan.

So he's repping Toyota that week, then. :)

[Morte66]

Still watching Japan 2023 replays. I'm up to Sunday morning and suddenly everybody is cruising to the finish except Katsuta. It's gone a bit dull.

Yep, boring contest on Sunday. Promising roads though -- narrow and very slippery in some places. A bit of real competition in there on a Sunday could get dramatic.

The onboard video feed was awful for most of the rally, it broke up more than two average rallies. I want to think they'll do something to improve that this year, but...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rallying UK @RallyingUK

INGRAM: Chris Ingram Set to Compete in Rally Japan with Castrol MEM Rally Team.

British rally champion Chris Ingram, fresh off his 2024 title win, is gearing up to compete in the FORUM8 Rally Japan, marking the final round of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship. Ingram will drive a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 under the Castrol MEM Rally Team, showcasing Castrol's iconic colours in this high-stakes event set in Japan's Aichi and Gifu prefectures.

🔹 Ingram, a seasoned WRC competitor with 22 rally events under his belt since his debut in 2013, brings experience from two top-10 finishes and multiple podiums in WRC2 and WRC3. The British driver is also a former European Rally Champion.

🔹 2024 has been a standout year for Ingram, with four rally victories and leading positions in every event he's entered, solidifying his reputation in British rallying.

🔹 This Rally Japan appearance will be Ingram’s first WRC2 entry with the Castrol Toyota and his first FIA World Rally Championship event in Asia.

🔹 Ingram's co-driver, Alex Kihurani, is familiar with the Japanese event, having competed in Rally Japan in 2022, which may provide an edge in navigating the local terrain.

Chris Ingram said: “To be given the opportunity to represent Castrol and its iconic colours and compete in Rally Japan in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 is absolutely incredible.

“Being trusted with this opportunity shows the progress the whole Castrol MEM Rally Team, Alex [Kihurani] and I have made in less than a year.

“We will remain fully focused on delivering an exceptional performance on what will be our first WRC2 entry with the Castrol Toyota and my first long-haul FIA World Rally Championship start.”

Donald Smith, Castrol Global Sponsorship Manager, said: “We are very pleased to announce that Chris [Ingram] and Alex [Kihurani] will be heading to Japan in the Castrol liveried Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.

“Since we launched the Castrol MEM Rally Team earlier this year we have had great interest from the Japanese rally fans, and we look forward to bringing the team to Japan and engaging with the Japanese rally fan base.”

Ingram’s upcoming competition in Japan underscores his swift rise in rallying and strengthens the Castrol MEM Rally Team’s international presence as they look to make a strong impression at Rally Japan.

[Jarek Z]

Congratulations to Chris Ingram on winning the British Rally Championship!

https://britishrallychampionship.co.uk/ingram-claims-british-rally-championship-crown/
https://www.bbc.com/sport/motorsport/articles/c93qqv75ge9o

So now he is:

★ Motorsport UK Young Driver of the Year 2012

★ FIA ERC3 European Rally Champion 2016 & 2017

★ FIA Junior European Rally Champion 2017

★ FIA European Rally Champion overall 2019

★ British Rally Champion overall 2024

Good luck in Japan! :)

[Steve Boyd]

Great news for Chris getting a run in Japan. The BRC success has clearly meant a lot to his sponsors but I wonder how much the ERC fan vote for the livery also helped to get him this run? Stuff like that can mean a lot to people in charge of marketing budgets. I think that whoever was behind the retro livery is also due some praise.

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ga9WooYX0AALp1p?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ga9WooYWUAAp-Vy?format=jpg&name=large

[240RS]

Interesting entry listed at 30: Didier Auriol/Denis Giraudet

[Jarek Z]

21 Toyotas. Nice! :)

[mousti]

Interesting entry listed at 30: Didier Auriol/Denis GiraudetYes indeed .. And my countryman Fumal with the Alpine RGT there aswell, quite surprising.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn 2406APNFAG met Tapatalk

[philippebugalski]

Is it only me that lacks the hype and interest for this rally? IMO stages are nothing more than mediocre, although very challenging for the co-drivers with the ammount of turns.
Very very few or if any fans could be seen following the rally except for the big fan zones and tv screens - seems quite ''dead'' if that is the right word.
I get that Japan is the home of the strongest manufacture team there is and is a huge market for the promoter, but other than that and if I'm not mistaken since the comeback of rally japan in the last 2 years there were serious security breaches with civil car almost crashing with someone and then the zero car accident (if any of those happened somewhere else I doubt that the event would be on the calendar again).

However let's see what this year brings :D

[deephouse]

Is it only me that lacks the hype and interest for this rally? IMO stages are nothing more than mediocre, although very challenging for the co-drivers with the ammount of turns.
Very very few or if any fans could be seen following the rally except for the big fan zones and tv screens - seems quite ''dead'' if that is the right word.
I get that Japan is the home of the strongest manufacture team there is and is a huge market for the promoter, but other than that and if I'm not mistaken since the comeback of rally japan in the last 2 years there were serious security breaches with civil car almost crashing with someone and then the zero car accident (if any of those happened somewhere else I doubt that the event would be on the calendar again).

However let's see what this year brings :D

That's more or less the fact that the event is held as the last round, also champion was always decided before tthat round, so nothing to gain there and the sport still being European-centric in popularity, no one bother to come so far away to see nothing special. This year will be different, since 3 championships will be decided there. About next year, maybe we can also assume it will be better, since Saudi is the last round, but I think that the last round should be somewhere in Europe, so the chanches of better visibility would increase, and I think Saudi will never do that, no matter the money.

[becher]

I agree that the last round should ideally be in europe, bit I for one found it nice to watch a rally on friday/saturday evening/night.

[Morte66]

Is it only me that lacks the hype and interest for this rally? IMO stages are nothing more than mediocre, although very challenging for the co-drivers with the ammount of turns.

I especially like the stages, they're tight and twisty and hilly and have consequences for going off. They demand precision. They remind me of Corsica, which I miss.

But, it's a matter of taste and all that.

[stavrosGDB]

Ahhh,Corsica...miss it too.

[Jarek Z]

Meanwhile in the British press:
https://www.facebook.com/chrisingramrally/posts/pfbid08cE8wuoQraE9mbDR71Jnz9jS3j8mGzVB3aFkf2Nh88Mg Hkt8LRoCgwwU19ZwYef3l

[Fast Eddie WRC]

With Neuville "massively risk averse" Hyundai needs Mikkelsen to step up...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-needs-mikkelsen-to-step-up-in-japan/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Who is the most pressure on, Hyundai or Toyota ? Not us says Latvala...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/toyota-pressure-is-on-hyundai-not-us-in-japan/

"The key thing for Toyota is it’s completely in control of its own destiny. It trails Hyundai by 15 pts, but if it claims maximum points across the weekend it will outscore Hyundai by at least 17 pts."

[Morte66]

The weather forecast looks dry this time.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

M-SPORT FORD WRT: M-Sport Ford Gears Up for the WRC Finale at Rally Japan

M-Sport Ford World Rally Team prepares for an intense conclusion to the 2024 World Rally Championship with Rally Japan, promising high stakes, challenging conditions, and fan-fuelled excitement. The team, featuring the Ford Puma Rally1 pairings of Adrien Fourmaux/Alex Coria and Grégoire Munster/Louis Louka, is set to compete in the picturesque Aichi and Gifu regions.


Adrien Fourmaux and Alex Coria aim for a strong finish, building on a successful season that included multiple podiums and stage wins. .Fourmaux sees this rally as a full-circle moment, aiming for an asphalt podium despite limited prior experience at Rally Japan.

Grégoire Munster and Louis Louka bring valuable knowledge from competing in Rally2 classes, including a WRC2 class win at Japan in 2022. Munster, fresh off a career-best fifth-place finish at the Central European Rally, seeks to cap the season with a strong performance in familiar terrain.

As the championship reaches its conclusion, Rally Japan promises to be a fitting spectacle to crown a season of remarkable competition and determination for M-Sport Ford and the WRC.

Richard Millener, Team Principal, said:

“It’s been a long, but positive season for the team and it’s always a privilege to round off the season here in front of the passionate Japanese fans. I’m hopeful Adrien can make up for his short event here last year and finish the season in style with another podium chase. Grégoire has had a really good first full season in Rally1 and he has good results here in the past so there is no reason he cannot be looking to equal, or better his career best result to date this weekend.

“It will be a hard weekend with only tyre fitting zones on two days, and tricky stage conditions, but we know the Puma can be strong when it’s like this - so let’s see what we can do for one final weekend this year!”

Adrien Fourmaux said:

“Japan is the last rally of the season, we want to finish the great season we’ve had with a nice result, especially on Tarmac. There are some really tricky, technical roads here and it is quite narrow in places, and the forests can be quite dark this time of year.

“Because it’s a long-haul event, no one has done any testing in preparation, so it’s going to be interesting to see where we can be compared to the others. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the culture again, we didn’t get the result we wanted last time so hopefully this year we can combine success with a great experience of the country.”

Grégoire Munster said:

“Japan is a rally I like a lot, I have been quite competitive here in the Rally2 category in the last couple of years. Plus it is really nice to come to Japan and enjoy another culture. I always notice the love of motorsport and rally here is as big, or even bigger, than in Europe so it’s nice to experience the atmosphere. There are a lot of nice ceremonies, especially the prize giving in the stadium, where a lot of fans gather which is really cool.

“Regarding the stages, there are some new stages on the itinerary this year which will be exciting and the weather conditions are always challenging in Japan during this season. So anything can happen!”

[stavrosGDB]

Gryazin with Initial D livery for rally :D

[skarderud]

Mikkelsen won his last race in VW, he would be a legend if he wins in japan:)

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[Krigen]

Rallying UK @RallyingUK

INGRAM: Chris Ingram Set to Compete in Rally Japan with Castrol MEM Rally Team.

British rally champion Chris Ingram, fresh off his 2024 title win, is gearing up to compete in the FORUM8 Rally Japan, marking the final round of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship. Ingram will drive a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 under the Castrol MEM Rally Team, showcasing Castrol's iconic colours in this high-stakes event set in Japan's Aichi and Gifu prefectures.

🔹 Ingram, a seasoned WRC competitor with 22 rally events under his belt since his debut in 2013, brings experience from two top-10 finishes and multiple podiums in WRC2 and WRC3. The British driver is also a former European Rally Champion.

🔹 2024 has been a standout year for Ingram, with four rally victories and leading positions in every event he's entered, solidifying his reputation in British rallying.

🔹 This Rally Japan appearance will be Ingram’s first WRC2 entry with the Castrol Toyota and his first FIA World Rally Championship event in Asia.

🔹 Ingram's co-driver, Alex Kihurani, is familiar with the Japanese event, having competed in Rally Japan in 2022, which may provide an edge in navigating the local terrain.

Chris Ingram said: “To be given the opportunity to represent Castrol and its iconic colours and compete in Rally Japan in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 is absolutely incredible.

“Being trusted with this opportunity shows the progress the whole Castrol MEM Rally Team, Alex [Kihurani] and I have made in less than a year.

“We will remain fully focused on delivering an exceptional performance on what will be our first WRC2 entry with the Castrol Toyota and my first long-haul FIA World Rally Championship start.”

Donald Smith, Castrol Global Sponsorship Manager, said: “We are very pleased to announce that Chris [Ingram] and Alex [Kihurani] will be heading to Japan in the Castrol liveried Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.

“Since we launched the Castrol MEM Rally Team earlier this year we have had great interest from the Japanese rally fans, and we look forward to bringing the team to Japan and engaging with the Japanese rally fan base.”

Ingram’s upcoming competition in Japan underscores his swift rise in rallying and strengthens the Castrol MEM Rally Team’s international presence as they look to make a strong impression at Rally Japan.

His swift rise in rallying :D

[EstWRC]

Dirtfish Recce interviews https://youtu.be/amgYOrJ9MZs?si=QejWTBbSBilo8D_M

[Rallyper]

Last Pickems this year. Just over 15 hrs before closing Rally Japan pickems. Make your Pickems guys!!

Pickems closint time is 1100 hrs CET tomorrow.

[CeskyOndra]

Last Pickems this year. Just over 15 hrs before closing Rally Japan pickems. Make your Pickems guys!!

Pickems closint time is 1100 hrs CET tomorrow.

The game for the win is ON!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

His swift rise in rallying :D

VERY swift !! :)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gc5YOD6WoAAzMRI?format=jpg&name=medium

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gc5CYbNXgAAzFmx?format=jpg&name=medium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

SS1 start list
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gc5o9L_aIAAdJWm?format=jpg&name=small

[EstWRC]

Kajito is so weird

[Rallyper]

Mikkelsen technical problems already...

Edit: "Empty of fuel..."

[Rallyper]

Let´s hope Hyundai measured wrong volume only on one car, then.

[240RS]

Kajito is so weird

I have to agree. Never quite worked out whether it's an attempt at humour, which gets watered down by culture/language differences. Or whether it's a driver who is bored he can't quite compete with the best in his category???

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Let´s hope Hyundai measured wrong volume only on one car, then.

Probably a fuel pump or surge problem on Mikkelsen's car.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice stage win by Fourmaux for M-Sport.

[focus206]

It's clear that if nothing happens to Neuville, he'll get the title. No way he doesn't get at least 6 points, even cruising around.
But if something does happen that causes a DNF without super rally, then Tanak should be able to take it. He needs 25 points and with no Neuville and no Kalle, he has only Evans and best buddy Ogier to think about. I hardly see Fourmaux or Katsuta staying ahead of Tanak.
After so many years, I can hardly envision Neuville being champion, even though he deserves it. So my prediction is Neuville DNF due to technical trouble, Tanak gets the title and some fans will say that a driveshaft failure or a fuel pump failure was the driver's fault :D

[spyros]

Its the last rally this year but a few posts here.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Probably a fuel pump or surge problem on Mikkelsen's car.

FIA World Rally Championship @OfficialWRC

A fuel surge issue caused drama for Andreas Mikkelsen & Torstein Eriksen on SS1.

[meh]

It's clear that if nothing happens to Neuville, he'll get the title. No way he doesn't get at least 6 points, even cruising around.
But if something does happen that causes a DNF without super rally, then Tanak should be able to take it. He needs 25 points and with no Neuville and no Kalle, he has only Evans and best buddy Ogier to think about. I hardly see Fourmaux or Katsuta staying ahead of Tanak.
After so many years, I can hardly envision Neuville being champion, even though he deserves it. So my prediction is Neuville DNF due to technical trouble, Tanak gets the title and some fans will say that a driveshaft failure or a fuel pump failure was the driver's fault :D

You seem to forget that Hyundai wants manus title. In case there is DNF for Neuville, I think there are some messages going to Tänak to get the manus title home. From Hyundai point of view it does not matter who wins the drivers title as it is their driver anyway.

[meh]

Its the last rally this year but a few posts here.

Time-zone mismatch for europeans. Also I was not ready to discover, that the first stage is already Thursday lunchtime and missed my pickems...

[trykmann]

You seem to forget that Hyundai wants manus title. In case there is DNF for Neuville, I think there are some messages going to Tänak to get the manus title home. From Hyundai point of view it does not matter who wins the drivers title as it is their driver anyway.

What if Mikkelsen has problems or is not able to be competitive? Will then Hyundai let Neuville cruise through the rally?

[focus206]

You seem to forget that Hyundai wants manus title. In case there is DNF for Neuville, I think there are some messages going to Tänak to get the manus title home. From Hyundai point of view it does not matter who wins the drivers title as it is their driver anyway.

Could be, but in the scenario of Neuville DNF, I'd be surprised if Ott doesn't at least give it a push on Sunday to try and get the necessary points for the drivers title. And if he's 1st or 2nd at the end of Saturday, I think he'd have very good chances. Anyway, lots of ifs, we will see.

[TypeR]

Could be, but in the scenario of Neuville DNF, I'd be surprised if Ott doesn't at least give it a push on Sunday to try and get the necessary points for the drivers title. And if he's 1st or 2nd at the end of Saturday, I think he'd have very good chances. Anyway, lots of ifs, we will see.
In this scenario (Neu DNF), I would bet 2 beers, a burger and some bitcoins(if I had) that Tanak wouldn't be allowed to score more than 24 points :) :) :)

[focus206]

In this scenario (Neu DNF), I would bet 2 beers, a burger and some bitcoins(if I had) that Tanak wouldn't be allowed to score more than 24 points :) :) :)

The only ones who could stop him from doing so are likely Evans and Ogier. And I'm not so sure about best friend Ogier. Hyundai has no power of "not allowing" anything, unless you think they'll sabotage Tanak's car and lose the manu title on purpose :D

[COD]

Time-zone mismatch for europeans. Also I was not ready to discover, that the first stage is already Thursday lunchtime and missed my pickems...

I like that they compete all over the world, but with most of the following in Europe, the finale should be in Europe as well

[Eli]

I like that they compete all over the world, but with most of the following in Europe, the finale should be in Europe as well

Or at the very least (& I’m sorry for banging for ages on this), put some night stages, especially when you consider it’s a tarmac rally… even if they had a couple for today and a couple for tomorrow, it would at least make the pill a bit less bitter to swallow.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The longest day of this Rally Japan with no mid-day service and starting with the longest stage of the weekend. Tough start.

[TypeR]

Japanese precision... SS2 already delayed

[Eli]

Japanese precision... SS2 already delayed

This isn't Rally Deutschland ;)

[Peperoma]

What's happening?

[jonkka]

Post Marshal is bored too, yawning in global tv...

[PLuto]

What's happening?

Who knows. But stage is running now.

[TypeR]

Nice smooth broadcast :)

[SubaruNorway]

Neuville's engine sounding rough?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Japanese precision... SS2 already delayed

The precision is all coming from the drivers, plus the concentration. This is a real test of both.

[TypeR]

Ogier already down by a calendar.. +9 on split 4

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier stopped ?!

[TypeR]

Ogier stopped?

[becher]

Ogier stopped.

[jonkka]

Puncture for Ogier, it seems.

[Eli]

Thought it might happen, wouldn’t put Ogier 1st in the pickems, he’d win, sticking my neck out, putting him first, puncture on the first stage…just not my year :(
Hopefully 2025 will be better.

[TypeR]

Second stage and Toyota has only Evans and Katsuta left.. battling for the manus title..

Very poor strategy from Toyota not bringing Kalle to Japan..
As he forked up half of his starts/points.

[jonkka]

Second stage and Toyota has only Evans and Katsuta left.. battling for the manus title..

Very poor strategy from Toyota not bringing Kalle to Japan..
As he forked up half of his starts/points.

Kalle was already drafted in one extra time for Poland so he wouldn't have come. Also Kalle would have started too far back and suffered from road pollution.

[TypeR]

Sry for 2nd reply, but..

Broadcast shait, Evans shait, Forumaux shait, Mikkelsen shait..

Pajari coming with similar pace as Mikkelsen

E: Ogier also in that list

[Peperoma]

Sry for 2nd reply, but..

Broadcast shait, Evans shait, Forumaux shait, Mikkelsen shait..

Pajari coming with similar pace as Mikkelsen

Does have Fourmaux slow puncture pro Ford don't have a best morning?

[Eli]

Sry for 2nd reply, but..

Broadcast shait, Evans shait, Forumaux shait, Mikkelsen shait..

Pajari coming with similar pace as Mikkelsen

E: Ogier also in that list

Ogier probably happy this is the last event with Pirelli… here’s hoping for Hankook to do it better for the next 3 seasons.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fourmaux just blamed the leaves.

[PLuto]

Kalle was already drafted in one extra time for Poland so he wouldn't have come. Also Kalle would have started too far back and suffered from road pollution.

Exactly. Kalle knows very well why he is not going to Japan. Not starting in the front should make him less chances for good result.

[Eli]

And Katsuta with a puncture too, Pirelli at their best ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No way Toyota are going to catch Hyundai now on pace.

[PLuto]

And Katsuta with a puncture too, Pirelli at their best ;)

Lets wait for Hankook next year ;)

[DrLill]

Neuville could drive one hand out of the window and still finish on the podium now..

[jonkka]

No way Toyota are going to catch Hyundai now on pace.

On pace, maybe not but Hyundai are not immune to punctures either.

[CeskyOndra]

And Katsuta with a puncture too, Pirelli at their best ;)

Katsuta knows where he did it, so probably he just clipped something, really easy to clip anything. And Ogier maybe too, but he won't admit it.

[TypeR]

Mega time from Mikkelsen.. +54sec..

Shouldn't be in rally1 car

[PLuto]

Mega time from Mikkelsen.. +54sec..

Shouldn't be in rally1 car

was out of road

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC2 cars in the top 5 !

[ipe]

Impressive time by Gryazin

[focus206]

Wow, already massive gaps after the first proper SS. Good news for Tanak that Ogier, Fourmaux and Katsuta are already quite behind. For Neuville, whether he's 1st or 6th is academic for the driver's title, he needs to finish.

[becher]

Well Ogier surly is clipping stuff left right and center, he was lucky not to have a puncture on SS3 either.

[CeskyOndra]

Neuville technical issue..

[SubaruNorway]

I was sure i heard the engine sounding different on the first stage

[CeskyOndra]

If he repairs it somehow, then ok.. If he has to carry it trough the afternoon, he will hardly get any points

[focus206]

Everything falling into place for Tanak...

[SubaruNorway]

I'm afraid this could be something internal

[CeskyOndra]

If its more internal it could mean no restart on Sunday which would've been fatal

[saco0o]

ohhh boyyy, go tanak!!!!!!

[saco0o]

ah cmoon theres what? 18 R5s and just ONE topping Sami! where is help when Oli must need it!!? hahah

[PLuto]

ah cmoon theres what? 18 R5s and just ONE topping Sami! where is help when Oli must need it!!? hahah

I was surprised that Skoda "hired" only Gus to help to Oliver...

[rallyfiend]

I was surprised that Skoda "hired" only Gus to help to Oliver...

I guess with Oliver going to Toyota Rally2 next year, Skoda maybe give less of a shit....

[denkimi]

Neuville's problem is not fixed. So he will have to hope others crash if the wants any point from saturday.

[mousti]

Mikkelsen off again..

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[EstWRC]

Oh boy.

Tänak suddenly has a real chance

[Eli]

Sorry I went to sleep for a few hours, what issue did Neuville have?

[Eli]

Oh boy.

Tänak suddenly has a real chance

Shhhhh, let it play out and see where they end up on Sunday.

[EstWRC]

Shhhhh, let it play out and see where they end up on Sunday.

Well I said only a chance and it’s still only a chance.

Sunday could save Thierry big time.

if only the gap would be 15 points instead of 25 now.

[denkimi]

Neuville still has a good chance to scrape some saturday points.

[EstWRC]

Neuville still has a good chance to scrape some saturday points.

ATM he is 40 seconds from one point. The gap will go bigger with two stages to left.

Ok there is always drivers who go off and retire but he really must hope on that tomorrow

But stil if he even get 0 tomorrow then Sunday points are a huge saver for him.

[CeskyOndra]

Neuville will be at best 3-4 minutes behind 7th place after Friday. Which is still possible to catch with a Saturday left.

[CeskyOndra]

The times given to RC2 cars on SS5 doesn't seem fair to me for Neuville. Road is definitely drying up and all Rally 2 cars loosing just 29 seconds is not OK. That could play a big role in championship.. My opinion.

[TypeR]

Another delay?

[rallyfiend]

Guess they're making up time to close the gaps caused by Mikkelsen accident. The cars were coming through in weird intervals

[Eli]

Well I said only a chance and it’s still only a chance.

Sunday could save Thierry big time.

if only the gap would be 15 points instead of 25 now.

Even 22 would make it more acheivable

[CeskyOndra]

How is this thread so dead guys

[spyros]

How is this thread so dead guys

Lack of interest....

[trykmann]

It seems Tänak has starting to feel comfortable with the car. This year the drivers title seems to be still out of reach, but the speed gives positive expectations for next year. With the current situation the manufacturers title is wide open and we will have an exciting weekend ahead, where Neuville also has to push and can't just cruise to the finish.

Now the CER powerstage seems even more painful from Tänaks perceptive.

[WRC1]

No way Toyota are going to catch Hyundai now on pace.

to say that after 1 real stage is not really smart as we have seen...

[EstWRC]

It seems Tänak has starting to feel comfortable with the car. This year the drivers title seems to be still out of reach, but the speed gives positive expectations for next year. With the current situation the manufacturers title is wide open and we will have an exciting weekend ahead, where Neuville also has to push and can't just cruise to the finish.

Now the CER powerstage seems even more painful from Tänaks perceptive.

Agreed. He should have gone more on CER power stage. 20 point gap would have been something else.

But the biggest problems are really Finland and Sweden actually where he binned.

But yeah I agree. Seems he has found something with the current car and I hope with the new he finds even more speed next year.

At least there is now excitement regarding the championship fight and Neuville can’t definitely cruise the next two days

[CeskyOndra]

to say that after 1 real stage is not really smart as we have seen...

He said "on pace", which was true. Tanak was the fastest, Ogier and Katsuta are nowhere.

[spyros]

Has Tanak any chance to take the title?

[WRC1]

He said "on pace", which was true. Tanak was the fastest, Ogier and Katsuta are nowhere.

fastest on stage3, 2nd fastest on stages 4/5/6 and 3rd fastest on stage 7 is "nowhere" interesting...

[Eli]

How is this thread so dead guys

Because we slept for 4 & a half hours tops and their live coverage keeps cutting out to a roatting map, really wish they would change the location of the rally, starting to miss Obihiro at this point.

[Eli]

Has Tanak any chance to take the title?

Not as long as Thierry's car still running on Sunday, and even then it's a mammoth effort.

[Päss1928]

Has Tanak any chance to take the title?

With Thierry's issues, it grew from maybe 1% to 3-5%. Still a longshot, but worth a shot.

[CeskyOndra]

fastest on stage3, 2nd fastest on stages 4/5/6 and 3rd fastest on stage 7 is "nowhere" interesting...

They are nowhere in overall classification still.

[Rallyper]

How is this thread so dead guys

People in western Europe usually don´t be up in the night. Me neither.
A lot of snow here and having to deal with it first thing in the morning.

[focus206]

How am I not surprised to see Tanak 1st and Neuville down with mechanical trouble... almost written in the stars. Let's see if the village team will be able to fix Thierry's car for Saturday.

[denkimi]

So if i'm correct, as things stand now Hyundai wins the title.
15 + 10 for toyota, 18 + 4 for hyundai.

[Mackie]

How is this thread so dead guys

My heart broke a bit after Mikkelsen's off. 😭 And the time is wrong...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just finished watching last night's action I recorded 'as live'. What drama !

It's so tough on Neuville that engine issue when he's driven so well all season. Losing the title this way would be so harsh.

I hope it gets fixed and he can score the few points he needs on Sunday.

[CeskyOndra]

So if i'm correct, as things stand now Hyundai wins the title.
15 + 10 for toyota, 18 + 4 for hyundai.

18+6 for H, Neuville takes 6th place because only 2 Toyotas are counting

[CeskyOndra]

Just finished watching last night's action I recorded 'as live'. What drama !

It's so tough on Neuville that engine issue when he's driven so well all season. Losing the title this way would be so harsh.

I hope it gets fixed and he can score the few points he needs on Sunday.

Just Imagine that it can't be fixed. That would be a total disaster

[486]

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x99knxw

Looks like turbo wastegate problems for Neuville. In theory better to have peripheric issues than internal....

[deephouse]

Neuville is now around 2 minutes from 10th place. And although there is drivers who lose around 50seconds in front of him to Tanak on every stage, there is still a chance that he could scrape some point or two (if the car will be fixed). But no matter if Tanak win or not, if Neuville score at least 6 points, he will be crowned anyway. But rally isn't over till it's over.

Man Mikkelsen. Lost of words. Again. He really isn't the right one for that car. But I'm afraid he will not be good anywhere. Oh I mean probably only in Rally2 Skoda, but Hyundai will definetely fire him.

Gryazin excellent drive. He is just mastering the stages. And if he win this event he will finish on podium. Pajari great drive too, very calm and really lucky too to have guys behind him with such troubles. I think Solberg is biting his nails at home really hard right now.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

fastest on stage3, 2nd fastest on stages 4/5/6 and 3rd fastest on stage 7 is "nowhere" interesting...

I meant no pace could catch back the time lost to the punctures.

Toyoya needed the Hyundai's to have issues and they have, but Tanak is still there.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Highlights if you slept through...

https://youtu.be/UvCGJHKuVcs?si=Txw7ctUd0aITcXax

[TypeR]

Mikkelsen im fromt of Neuville on tomorrows startlist.. Will he take penalties and let Neuville go first? As Mikkelsen doesn't have anything to catch tomorrow

[Päss1928]

Neuville is 7:41 behind Tänak
WRC2 loses about 2km/s to WRC1 in this rally, which makes it realistic for Neuville to gain about 200s tomorrow in 100km of stages.
3m20s gain would place him 8th at the moment. If 2 crews in front of him fall out (quite realistic imo), he would be 6th by the end of Saturday which is 6 points already. Then just cruise on sunday and it's done, plus he would only need to beat Munster to get 1 additional point from Sunday. And all of it is only relevant if Tänak stays ahead and is fast on Sunday. Still a very slim chance for Tänak.

[Backa]

Neuville is 7:41 behind Tänak
WRC2 loses about 2km/s to WRC1 in this rally, which makes it realistic for Neuville to gain about 200s tomorrow in 100km of stages.
3m20s gain would place him 8th at the moment. If 2 crews in front of him fall out (quite realistic imo), he would be 6th by the end of Saturday which is 6 points already. Then just cruise on sunday and it's done. And all of it is only relevant if Tänak stays ahead and is fast on Sunday. Still a very slim chance for Tänak.

Are Neuville's car issues expected to be solved today?

Rally Japan has great looking stages but it shouldn't be last rally in season. Broadcast issues, not good timezone for majority of fanbase, fan-empty stages... I understand last rally makes sense to be outside Europe due to logistics issues of worldwide series but changing Japan and Chile spots would be better, especially that Chile have some of that Wales Rally GB feeling.

[trykmann]

Neuville is 7:41 behind Tänak
WRC2 loses about 2km/s to WRC1 in this rally, which makes it realistic for Neuville to gain about 200s tomorrow in 100km of stages.
3m20s gain would place him 8th at the moment. If 2 crews in front of him fall out (quite realistic imo), he would be 6th by the end of Saturday which is 6 points already. Then just cruise on sunday and it's done, plus he would only need to beat Munster to get 1 additional point from Sunday. And all of it is only relevant if Tänak stays ahead and is fast on Sunday. Still a very slim chance for Tänak.

I think Neuville has to give some push on Sunday for the manufacturers points, otherwise it might be difficult to Hyundai to maintain the lead. I don't think Mikkelsen will be able to be faster than the Toyota drivers on Sunday.

[denkimi]

I think Neuville has to give some push on Sunday for the manufacturers points, otherwise it might be difficult to Hyundai to maintain the lead. I don't think Mikkelsen will be able to be faster than the Toyota drivers on Sunday.
If things stay as they are now, toyota is still 14 points behind after saturday.

It's up to the toyota's to push, hyundai can take it safe.

[SubaruNorway]

Japan is a bit like if you have seen one corner you have seen them all, lacking some scenery to see, gets a bit monotone

[AndersX]

Japan is a bit like if you have seen one corner you have seen them all, lacking some scenery to see, gets a bit monotone

Japan boring, Latvia boring, CER boring etc, etc - we can not have just Fin and Monte 14x per year. Look at F1 - all the modern Tilke built tracks are all boring.

But I agree, final event must be in Europe. Next year Saudi will be even worth - no spectators whatsoever.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rally Japan is a really tough tarmac driving challenge and this is a justified test to have for the best drivers in the world. it's also the home of Toyota and many rally fans who deserve to see their heroes.

The main issue is the timing of the event (it shouldn't be the season finale).

The fact that it's stages dont make for exciting tv viewing is a shame but cant really be helped.

[Morte66]

Pajari is in the WRC2 second place he needs with about a minute gap on either side of him. You know what to do, young man.

[WRC1]

Japan boring, Latvia boring, CER boring etc, etc - we can not have just Fin and Monte 14x per year. Look at F1 - all the modern Tilke built tracks are all boring.

But I agree, final event must be in Europe. Next year Saudi will be even worth - no spectators whatsoever.


I agree...Japan is boring (for RallyTV viewers) CER is boring (for everybody) in general it is really difficult to find a exciting Tarmac Rallye nowdays, maybe Croatia is not bad, but San Remo (Tarmac) Catalunya and Tour de Corse, that was exciting ....I am not a fan of Tarmac Rallyes anyway, and if they are so boring as CER or Japan with Millions of AntiCut Obstacels it gets completly bad...

Sardinia, Acropolis, Cyprus, Portugal, Poland are never boring!

[turdzi]

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x99knxw

Looks like turbo wastegate problems for Neuville. In theory better to have peripheric issues than internal....

Definitely. Therry said that he is not afraid of a engine faulier. It looks like som sort of electronical fault like fly by wire, throttle position sensor or turbo wastegate course engine sounds fine it is just lacking power.

[EstWRC]

Tire choice https://x.com/rallyesport/status/1860090418849063119?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[EstWRC]

And they did the trick.

Mikkelsen late out of service and Neuville starts first

[satnav]

And they did the trick.

Mikkelsen late out of service and Neuville starts first

I think we all knew that was for happening

[TypeR]

They wouldn't do it on purpose.. maybe they just forgot to put the timer on for Mikkelsen and made a mistake going out from service..

[becher]

And they did the trick.

Mikkelsen late out of service and Neuville starts first

It benefits their manufacturers championship, no surprise there.

[jonkka]

It benefits their manufacturers championship, no surprise there.

In what way? Neuville is too far behind to pass anyone.

[becher]

In what way? Neuville is too far behind to pass anyone.

Neuville can score manu points for saturday, and can realistically rise up the order if a Toyota or Ford has problems, Mikkelsen can't because he retired on friday.

But of course cue the tin foil hats for certain partisan people.

[drive]

Monster Munster 😀

[jonkka]

Neuville can score manu points for saturday, and can realistically rise up the order if a Toyota or Ford has problems, Mikkelsen can't because he retired on friday.

Neuville will score the same amount of points as long as he won't bin it, Mikkelsen letting him run first doesn't affect that in any way. Neuville is 6th in manufacturers and next place up is Munster almost six minutes ahead of him.

[EstWRC]

Neuville up one place already.

McErlan out

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Where did that come from Gregoire.. amazing time !

[EstWRC]

Solans also gone

Two places for Thierry with one stage

[CeskyOndra]

Solans also gone

Two places for Thierry with one stage

Doesnt matter. He would've passed them later anyway probably.

[saco0o]

ah cmooon two R5s already out =[
thats not how you help ott and solberg haha jeeez

[becher]

Munster is doing very well today.

[AndersX]

Munster is doing very well today.

Bcs in 1 SS he was not the slowest R1 car? His interviews show some confidence growth, though. That is a good sign.

[saco0o]

arai beating sami again! good.... GOOD!
(not overall tho, sure. but its only the begining of the day)

[satnav]

What is going on at the start of stage 12, a van coming out against Evans

[jonkka]

What is that Nissan truck doing on start line, headed wrong way and blocking Evans?

[satnav]

Evans still not started the stage

[jonkka]

Something is fucked up and no info what.

[CeskyOndra]

cancelled. wow. congrats japan. ruined the fight for the win.

[Backa]

Nissan involved in WRC manus battle is something I didn't expect tonight.

[EstWRC]

How the hell can still public cars get on the stage when there is a rally.

Totally unacceptable

[WRC1]

if this is NOT Toyota Country....this Rally should be cancelled....boring, they have no control over safety and the timing for most of the fans in Europe is shit....there is New Zealand/Australia, they offer perfect Rallyes....completly useless Rally

[rallyfiend]

if this is NOT Toyota Country....this Rally should be cancelled....boring, they have no control over safety and the timing for most of the fans in Europe is shit....there is New Zealand/Australia, they offer perfect Rallyes....completly useless Rally

Geez, you want Japan cancelled because of timing, but suggest to go to NZ or Australia that have either a worse timezone or the same?!

Pick a complaint....

Maybe stick to the ERC if the notion of timezones is too complicated for you on a WORLD championship.....

[EstWRC]

Video of the situation https://x.com/gundog0923/status/1860188775659487267?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

Imagine Evans had started and they had come
Together in that corner.

Like I said, unacceptable

[denkimi]

Video of the situation https://x.com/gundog0923/status/1860188775659487267?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

Imagine Evans had started and they had come
Together in that corner.

Like I said, unacceptable
Either the local people aren't informed enough, or the punishment isn't hard enough.

[jonkka]

Either the local people aren't informed enough, or the punishment isn't hard enough.

Or they don't care. My road, my right do old people think.

[WRC1]

Geez, you want Japan cancelled because of timing, but suggest to go to NZ or Australia that have either a worse timezone or the same?!

Pick a complaint....

Maybe stick to the ERC if the notion of timezones is too complicated for you on a WORLD championship.....

NO, timing is only the cherry on the cake....Safety is really bad! It is NOT accepable when a "normal" Road car is driving on a already running Special Stage, this can happen in a 3rd class Village event, but NOT in WRC, and it happend last year as well...for a good rally, like NewZealand or Australia, i will stay awake all night, but Japan is simply not good...boring Stages, bad Safety

[EstWRC]

Basically title done for Neuville unless something really odd happens tomorrow

[Eli]

Basically title done for Neuville unless something really odd happens tomorrow

It was always going to be a long shot after that power stage in CER, the only way it won't go to Neuville is if he does a Monte-Carlo/Sweden/Catalunya 2017

[EstWRC]

It was always going to be a long shot after that power stage in CER, the only way it won't go to Neuville is if he does a Monte-Carlo/Sweden/Catalunya 2017

Nah. It’s the zero points from Finland not CER power stage

[Eli]

Nah. It’s the zero points from Finland not CER power stage

True, well... there's always next year, and the gravel events of are in a different mix so that should make things more interesting, & also the fact most crews haven't been to Canaries; So that coupled with Paraguay & Saudi Arabia will make it more challenging for next year.

[philippebugalski]

How the hell can still public cars get on the stage when there is a rally.

Totally unacceptable

And for the 2nd time in 3 years civil car appears on stage in Japan, last year 0 car stopped in the middle of the stage and they started it almost causing huge accident.

How many chances will they be given?
Ridiculous

[CeskyOndra]

Honestly, Tanak for me is a big favourite for the 2025 title. We don't know the form of Kalle.

[trykmann]

Honestly, Tanak for me is a big favourite for the 2025 title. We don't know the form of Kalle.

I have the same feeling. He has been showing good pace in the second part of the season and the jokers should also have a positive impact on the performance.

[EstWRC]

So the person who drove on stage did it with purpose

https://x.com/powerslidemedia/status/1860244638428180607?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[Simmi]

Apart from a big long tunnel, I can't think of a single redeeming feature this event has. Absolutely awful to watch. You can't tell me this is the best Japan has to offer.

[skarderud]

What happened to Mikkelsen? Technical issue?

That car in stage is a disaster for rally Japan.
Its a country that the ceo of the railway has to apologize public if the train is more than 2 minutes late.
Errors is not anything they looks easy on.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[ictus]

What happened to Mikkelsen? Technical issue?

I'm guessing they are just "saving" the car for sunday

[240RS]

Neuville has been quietly impressive this weekend.

The problem early in the event has brought a different appreciation of his mindset. Clearly focussed and sensible in his approach. Not once has he appeared out-of-control. I wasn't particularly rooting for anyone this year, but I feel, now, he deserves the championship fully.

[Eli]

And for the 2nd time in 3 years civil car appears on stage in Japan, last year 0 car stopped in the middle of the stage and they started it almost causing huge accident.

How many chances will they be given?
Ridiculous
Well they just signed until 2028…so at least 3 more…

[Eli]

Honestly, Tanak for me is a big favourite for the 2025 title. We don't know the form of Kalle.

If Kalle will be on the same form as he was in Poland this year, he’ll be the one to beat.

[Morte66]

Honestly, Tanak for me is a big favourite for the 2025 title. We don't know the form of Kalle.

I wouldn't go as far as "big favourite", but I think he's a "serious contender" now he's looking comfortable in the Hyundai.

[EstWRC]

Today overall https://www.ewrc-results.com/leg/85538-forum8-rally-japan-2024/?leg=2

So 11 points between Neuville and Tänak at the moment in overall.

[Eli]

Today overall https://www.ewrc-results.com/leg/85538-forum8-rally-japan-2024/?leg=2

So 11 points between Neuville and Tänak at the moment in overall.

So basically, Ott needs to win everything tomorrow and hope Neuvillle doesn't acheive any points...better luck next year I guess.

[focus206]

Neuville did what he could today, catching all Rally2 cars. Per usual, unlucky that no Rally1 had any sort of problem when he has issues, like in Latvia. Now he would need a couple points more from Sunday to be sure, we'll have to see how much Tanak will push.
Could Hyundai tell them both not to push, would that be enough for the manufacturer title?
In any case, I wouldn't be surprised if Neuville has more issues tomorrow, that's just his luck. If he gets a DNF, Tanak will need only 7 points out of Sunday.

[stavrosGDB]

If this was happening on another rally besides monte and japan the consequences would be very very bad.
https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/fia-warns-consequences-for-japan-after-repeat-safety-issue/

[Eli]

Neuville did what he could today, catching all Rally2 cars. Per usual, unlucky that no Rally1 had any sort of problem when he has issues, like in Latvia. Now he would need a couple points more from Sunday to be sure, we'll have to see how much Tanak will push.
Could Hyundai tell them both not to push, would that be enough for the manufacturer title?
In any case, I wouldn't be surprised if Neuville has more issues tomorrow, that's just his luck. If he gets a DNF, Tanak will need only 7 points out of Sunday.

A lot of if''s and but's for tomorrow, but unless Neuville has engine faliure or breaks his steering arm/suspension tomorrow it's hard for me to see him drop the ball on this one, and even if he does, Tänak still needs those 25 (minimum) points, so....I do hope for Hyundai's sake, they get both titles, so if they do decide to retire at the end of '25/'26 at least it's not a clean sweep from Toyota throughout the 2020's.

[Eli]

If this was happening on another rally besides monte and japan the consequences would be very very bad.
https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/fia-warns-consequences-for-japan-after-repeat-safety-issue/

Come on, if Toyota weren’t in this championship and we had another non-Japanese manufacturer instead they (the rally) would get the boot at this point.

[stavrosGDB]

I agree..

[AE1WRC]

This is looking much better for Thierry now. All he needs is an average sunday and the championship is his. I think he made a good recovery for now to minimise the loss.

[AE1WRC]

If Kalle will be on the same form as he was in Poland this year, he’ll be the one to beat.

Facts. That mf came with zero prep to Poland for the first time and smoked everyone. As much as I want excitement unfortunately on the pace alone nobody ain't beating him except Ogier. However I believe he will change his approach next year(similar to 2023) since he is returning full time.

On Tarmac he is still IMO better than Ott. Thierry and Seb in some tarmac rounds have been better than him only so that makes him still top 3 on Tarmac as well.

[philippebugalski]

Well they just signed until 2028…so at least 3 more…

Yeah I know...
Let's be realistic, we all know that it is impossible for promoter to bash them out as it is a huge market and a home to the manufacturer that is currently keeping WRC alive - but they create a bad and completely wrong image tolerating this type of security breaches.

[meh]

If he gets a DNF, Tanak will need only 7 points out of Sunday.

To get 7 points from Sunday is quite a task this time:
* Toyota drivers have nothing to lose, they can go all in
* Fourmaux can also be in the mix
* Tänak has the worst road position, you need to take even Mikkelsen into account as he has the best road position.

Ironically, the most hated thing - the point-scoring system is/was - is the decider on the last rally, on the last day, and probably on the last stage. And this is valid for every title.

[focus206]

To get 7 points from Sunday is quite a task this time:
* Toyota drivers have nothing to lose, they can go all in
* Fourmaux can also be in the mix
* Tänak has the worst road position, you need to take even Mikkelsen into account as he has the best road position.

Ironically, the most hated thing - the point-scoring system is/was - is the decider on the last rally, on the last day, and probably on the last stage. And this is valid for every title.

I think that if Tanak wants, he can get 7 points out of 12 on Sunday. 3rd for Sunday + 3rd on PS should mathematically do the trick, am I right?

I've read that Toyota is 11 points behind Hyundai right now. So, what do they need to win the title? 1st-2nd on Sunday points + Hyundai scoring max 1 point? I ask because Hyundai might ask Tanak and Neuville to only push for a couple of points and bring both cars home with the title.

[denkimi]

Facts. That mf came with zero prep to Poland for the first time and smoked everyone. As much as I want excitement unfortunately on the pace alone nobody ain't beating him except Ogier. However I believe he will change his approach next year(similar to 2023) since he is returning full time.

On Tarmac he is still IMO better than Ott. Thierry and Seb in some tarmac rounds have been better than him only so that makes him still top 3 on Tarmac as well.
Rovanpera did 7 rallies while having the best road position and crashed 3 times. He will have to do better next year if he wants to be champion again.

[AE1WRC]

Rovanpera did 7 rallies while having the best road position and crashed 3 times. He will have to do better next year if he wants to be champion again.

I agree with you that he needs to do better but better at keeping the car on the road only.

1)Finland accident was inevitable. If the best driver on the world couldn't avoid that rock than no one would have. I agree about the Sweden and especially Portugal.

2) Y'all realize that Kalle never "really" utilised his road position advantage except Safari (well also sweden but he damaged his radiator early on Friday). There were times I told myself that Bro could have done a better job from first on the road (Portugal he was really struggling. Finland and Latvia were not perfect as well on Friday). He became unbeatable on Saturdays. So I don't wanna hear this road position "advantage". He proved last 2 years in most rallies he can be in front from 1st on the road.

3) I believe he had a weird season. We agree that he needs to do better and despite he won 4. This by itself alone shows how great the bro is.

[Jarek Z]

It's good to see a rally car again on the official page of Castrol:
https://www.facebook.com/castrol/posts/pfbid02ivUt9kYUBEwsgyvHwmPmx5sGHABZL9BNWS3LTD6GmvT jjpRDdJb1ArhUnLKPY1o2l

[AE1WRC]

It's good to see a rally car again on the official page of Castrol:
https://www.facebook.com/castrol/posts/pfbid02ivUt9kYUBEwsgyvHwmPmx5sGHABZL9BNWS3LTD6GmvT jjpRDdJb1ArhUnLKPY1o2l

Reminding me the Corolla WRC in the late 90s.

[AE1WRC]

I think that if Tanak wants, he can get 7 points out of 12 on Sunday. 3rd for Sunday + 3rd on PS should mathematically do the trick, am I right?

I've read that Toyota is 11 points behind Hyundai right now. So, what do they need to win the title? 1st-2nd on Sunday points + Hyundai scoring max 1 point? I ask because Hyundai might ask Tanak and Neuville to only push for a couple of points and bring both cars home with the title.

It is a tricky situation. Only thing I know is that in rally it is never over until it is fully over.

[deephouse]

Even if Mikkelsen have the best road position, he will probably either be slow as hell or bin it completely. I try to convice myself otherwise but everytime he prove it just the way I first mention. That car just don't suit him.

That event should be moved in summer time, when there is more beautiful scenery, but I think manufacturer wants to that it's "the great finale". And probably in a warm weather the event wouldn't provide any real challenge, I think. That's why CER, Japan and Croatia are held in a time when there is a high chance of rain or some surprise of snow. But having 4 tarmac events with almost same conditions it just give us really bad impression. Catalunya and Tour de Corse actualy looked great in a warm weather.

[486]

Reminding me the Corolla WRC in the late 90s.

And talking about remembrances, Didier Auriol Didier and Denis Giraudet are having a great time leading among the local national championship.

https://www.facebook.com/fia/videos/30-years-later-david-auriol-and-denis-giraudet-are-back-in-japan-into-their-4wd-/8746936175419799/

[trykmann]

Facts. That mf came with zero prep to Poland for the first time and smoked everyone. As much as I want excitement unfortunately on the pace alone nobody ain't beating him except Ogier. However I believe he will change his approach next year(similar to 2023) since he is returning full time.

On Tarmac he is still IMO better than Ott. Thierry and Seb in some tarmac rounds have been better than him only so that makes him still top 3 on Tarmac as well.

The Poland perfomance was spectacular regarding the lack of preparations. Still you have to consider the weak competiton there. Neuville started first on the road, Ogier didn't participate and Tänak hit a deer. Only Evans was a serious rival there.

[MikeD]

Tomorrow is quite simple:

Tänak will hit 230 points ... if he finished Sunday in 1st place and wins the Powerstage.
Neuville will hit 230 points ... if he stays Sunday in 7th place and wins the Powerstage.

But both CANNOT win the Powerstage, so it looks like the Powerstage will decide the outcome. It's defetinately a nail-biter :) ...

====

Btw: I have the biggest WRC foto collection in the world, and are currently putting it up on my Twitter account @CoolRacingFotos. Everything is setup really nicely. PLEASE HAVE A LOOK :-)

I am currenly almost done with the Ford collection 1973-2024 ytd. where the first 74 picture-pages (with data and 6 photos for each car per page).

Here is a link to the Ford WRC collection 1973-2024 uploaded on Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/74426833@N06/albums/72177720321580056/

Here is a link to the Hyundai WRC collection 2000-2024 uploaded on Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/74426833@N06/albums/72177720320877700

Here is a link to the SEAT WRC collection 1973-2006 uploaded on Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/74426833@N06/albums/72177720320878316

I would love for someone to take over all the other WRC collections for Toyota WRC + Citroën WRC + Peugeot WRC + Audi WRC + SEAT WRC + Renault WRC + Datsun / Nissan WRC + Subaru WRC + Porsche WRC + FIAT Abarth WRC + Mazda WRC + VW Volkswagen WRC + Mitsubishi WRC + Talbot WRC + MINI WRC + several more ... and the reason is that I am in hospice dying of cancer, and it would be a pity if this unique collection - made over 31 years will go to waste.

Apart from the collections are made per car brand, there is of course also collections made per EACH YEAR, which are also quite nice. The current example for 2024 is below.


Write me at gp2journalist@gmail.com if you want all the colletions.

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[focus206]

Tomorrow is quite simple:

Tänak will hit 230 points ... if he finished Sunday in 1st place and wins the Powerstage.
Neuville will hit 230 points ... if he stays Sunday in 7th place and wins the Powerstage.

But both CANNOT win the Powerstage, so it looks like the Powerstage will decide the outcome. It's defetinately a nail-biter :) ...


You are using last year's points system. Sunday points this year are independent from the overall classification.

[Backa]

Assuming both will finish tomorrow and secure points from End of Saturday classification, Ott has now 218 points and Thierry has 229.

In case of equal points, Ott became 2024 champion.

If Thierry will finish rally, Ott pretty much needs to finish 1st in either Sunday Overall or Power Stage and at least be 2nd in another one of those classifications.

Even then, if Thierry ends 6th or better in Sunday Overall or ends 4th or better in Power Stage, he will be out of Ott's reach. 7th in Sunday Overall and 5th in Power Stage also do the job.

Only option for title to be decided before Power Stage is for Ott to retire before it. If Thierry will crash, Ott still needs at least 7 points out of 12 possible to get. Being 4th in both Sunday classifications would not give him that.

Hopefully next season's points system will be little less complicated.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GdFnhzIXUAAh--3?format=jpg&name=medium

[Eli]

Even if Mikkelsen have the best road position, he will probably either be slow as hell or bin it completely. I try to convice myself otherwise but everytime he prove it just the way I first mention. That car just don't suit him.

That event should be moved in summer time, when there is more beautiful scenery, but I think manufacturer wants to that it's "the great finale". And probably in a warm weather the event wouldn't provide any real challenge, I think. That's why CER, Japan and Croatia are held in a time when there is a high chance of rain or some surprise of snow. But having 4 tarmac events with almost same conditions it just give us really bad impression. Catalunya and Tour de Corse actualy looked great in a warm weather.

They could (would be hard I’m sure) & should return Rallye Deutschland & the Tour de Corse to the championship, I’m aware I’m in a minority here but I really loved seeing both rallies through TV (& in real life) & the great thing is; both rallies would look beautiful in any kind of weather & I’m sorry to disappoint people here but Deutschland was a real challenge even without the rain, & we had plenty of editions to prove that, I’m truly sorry ADAC & the government over there aren’t willing or simply can’t, finance it.

[AE1WRC]

The Poland perfomance was spectacular regarding the lack of preparations. Still you have to consider the weak competiton there. Neuville started first on the road, Ogier didn't participate and Tänak hit a deer. Only Evans was a serious rival there.

That is a fair point. Him vs Tanak in that rally would have been insane. I still feel we haven't seen both of them go toe to toe. Finland 2022 you can say but Kalle was more focused on finishing and getting points for the championship at that point. Croatia (As always) 2022 power stage was also exciting regarding that.

My point is that Kalle is still getting better and still very young (which is scary when we think about it and the other top level drivers will eventually start to decline in a year or two) and I feel like we haven't seen him in the most complete form in Tarmac. The interesting question I have is, will his (successful) time in circuit be beneficial for tarmac rallies in the future ?

[deephouse]

Guys, did anyone looked at that last long stage today ss15 (before Toyota stadium).

Based on Gryazin's strange comments I really wonder if he got contacted somehow by Hyundai team or N himself to drop so much time, since Niko wasn't in real danger by second placed rally2 crew. Really those comments was weird. Like he say something too much and to me looks like it actualy he let him pass by.

It will make sense if somehow he got some reward for doing this or maybe he is in talks for potential future at the H team.

[becher]

I really don't understand the hate for this events roads, did you guys not see the onboards? These roads are super exciting to watch through onboard footage. Same goes for Croatia, CER is not so exiting onboard but neither are all the slow to medium speed gravel events.

The claim that tarmac rallies are only challenging with bad weather is laughable. When you F* up on dry tarmac at high speed, there is no coming back, do the same on a lower grip surface and you got a chance.

Are people just bored if there aren't enough punctures and mechanicals mixing up the order?

["Username"]

I think Kalle is lacking motivation, I mean he has been racing since he got out of his diapers and has achieved everything he(or his father) has ever dreamt of. That is what happens when kids from a very young age have been fulfilling their parents dreams. That's why he skipped this season. I doubt he will have the real hunger to challenge for the title next year. But we will see.
As for Thierry I really wish he takes the championship finally, it would be sad and devastating if something goes wrong tomorrow. He has been almost perfect and survived all those difficult rallies. And Ott.. IMO if he wins the title tomorrow it would be undeserved somehow. And I am not even a fan of Thierry, has to be said.

[AE1WRC]

I really don't understand the hate for this events roads, did you guys not see the onboards? These roads are super exciting to watch through onboard footage. Same goes for Croatia, CER is not so exiting onboard but neither are all the slow to medium speed gravel events.

The claim that tarmac rallies are only challenging with bad weather is laughable. When you F* up on dry tarmac at high speed, there is no coming back, do the same on a lower grip surface and you got a chance.

Are people just bored if there aren't enough punctures and mechanicals mixing up the order?

Facts. I love the stages of Japan and the only way you don't get cooked on dry tarmac is if the road has a big field (like some in CER). Even the best ones cannot avoid high speed dry Tarmac incidents at all times. For e.g Loeb (Corsica 2018), Ogier (CER 2024), Rovanpera (Croatia 2021), Tanak (Corsica 2017).

[Eli]

I really don't understand the hate for this events roads, did you guys not see the onboards? These roads are super exciting to watch through onboard footage. Same goes for Croatia, CER is not so exiting onboard but neither are all the slow to medium speed gravel events.

The claim that tarmac rallies are only challenging with bad weather is laughable. When you F* up on dry tarmac at high speed, there is no coming back, do the same on a lower grip surface and you got a chance.

Are people just bored if there aren't enough punctures and mechanicals mixing up the order?

No it’s simply the lack of (good) coverage of the event, the hours (again, night stages anyone?) & to topple that it’s the last rally of the season so it’s a bitter pill to swallow, add to that the fact that Japan has so many beautiful places, in all their landscapes, is this the best they can do? Where not even a helicopter can go through because these are such dense forests, I get the fact it’s Toyota and everything but I’m sorry, they should come up with a better rally & I’m sure they are more than capable as they’ve shown us back in 2004-2008,2010. That’s my 2 cents anyhow, agree or don’t but I simply think it’s a shame, and no, having Saudi Arabia as a season finale isn’t a fix to this situation…and yes, Australia when it was last run in 2018 was better, although again, like many here, I too think the season should end in europe, a penultimate event in Asia (or anywhere outside the old continent) is respectable enough. Sorry for the long rant, hope that answers your question.
P.S
I love tarmac rallies and in my eyes 2022 was an absolute delight having 5(!) of them in one season. Would bring any of them (Ypres, Corsica etc.) back in a heartbeat, and yes, a Tarmac event in August is really called for.

[AE1WRC]

I think Kalle is lacking motivation, I mean he has been racing since he got out of his diapers and has achieved everything he(or his father) has ever dreamt of. That is what happens when kids from a very young age have been fulfilling their parents dreams. That's why he skipped this season. I doubt he will have the real hunger to challenge for the title next year. But we will see.
As for Thierry I really wish he takes the championship finally, it would be sad and devastating if something goes wrong tomorrow. He has been almost perfect and survived all those difficult rallies. And Ott.. IMO if he wins the title tomorrow it would be undeserved somehow. And I am not even a fan of Thierry, has to be said.

Kalle imo still has motivation but not as much as he had in 2022 when he was chasing that first title. I said this before if he wins another back to back (he has 2 full time seasons in his contract) titles I really doubt that he continues and will not do a full time season unless he sees the championship begins to become exciting again.


However I completely disagree about Ott not deserving. He also deserves but I also want to see Thierry winning this title.

[Eli]

Kalle imo still has motivation but not as he had in 2022 when he was chasing that first title. I said this before if he wins another back to back (he has 2 full time seasons in his contract) titles I really doubt that he continues and will not do a full time season unless he sees the championship begins to become exciting again.


However I completely disagree about Ott not deserving. He also deserves but I also want to see Thierry winning this title.

I think it would be a really hard (& bitter) pill for Thierry to swallow if Ott wins it, but he really, really, really needs to drop the ball on this one to bin it, I’m aware anything can happen but I honestly don’t see Tänak becoming a double world champion tomorrow morning. Whoever takes it, I do hope Hyundai seals the deal, if only for the nice “2024 World Champions, dedicated to our Craig Breen” on their cars for next year.

[AE1WRC]

I think it would be a really hard (& bitter) pill for Thierry to swallow if Ott wins it, but he really, really, really needs to drop the ball on this one to bin it, I’m aware anything can happen but I honestly don’t see Tänak becoming a double world champion tomorrow morning. Whoever takes it, I do hope Hyundai seals the deal, if only for the nice “2024 World Champions, dedicated to our Craig Breen” on their cars for next year.

Absolutely the last sentence is very meaningful and nice. Hopefully they put this to their cars next year

[deephouse]

BTW guys I know this is off topic but in the future when the older generation drivers (Thierry, Ott and Elfyn) retires, who can we see to promote to the top level. Obviously we would have KR (?), Sami, Sesks, Oliver. Who else ?
HOT TAKE:
What are your opinions about Ali Turkkan and the recent Rally1 news about him in dirtfish. I believe he is the fastest in WRC 3 but still needs to be more consistent but I like that guy's potential to be at the top level. In Turkish championship he is smoking everyone who is driving a Rally2 car by driving only Rally3 on both Gravel and Tarmac.

Rossel, Gryazin, Munster (big IF), maybe some new Japanese driver since Toyota is aiming at long future here. And maybe some Italian if Lancia will produce some sort of success. But I think that it will be sure at least two french and two finnish drivers in the field 🤣 I'm not so sure about those drivers who skip some steps and immediately attack the Rally1 field with payed seats. Almost never work.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Anyone who hates watching this rally (live) then just follow the times and watch the highlights packages which show off the best of the action.

[dimviii]

#11
flag
Neuville Thierry - Wydaeghe M.
Hit a chicane at 18.2km

[EstWRC]

Mega gaps after Mikkelsen and Neuville

[NoFear85]

#11
flag
Neuville Thierry - Wydaeghe M.
Hybrid issues before the stage

[TypeR]

Munster bad (as always), but Taka also totally nowhere.. like with r5 car


Okay, sorry.
E: ca +20sec loss.. Taka: ,,strategy'' ��

[Fast Eddie WRC]

A dream start to the final day for Neuville and Hyundai.

[EstWRC]

Tänak lost only 2 seconds with that muddy section.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fuckkkk Tanak

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Thierry is Champion

[EstWRC]

Congrats Thierry Neuville!

[satnav]

crazy

[satnav]

Congrats Thierry Neuville

[TypeR]

Very embarassing, Tanak..
Why the fuck would he push on that limit..

[jonkka]

Hyundai loses 18 points from Saturday with that. What a blow.

[satnav]

Ott only knows one pace , he was never going to take it easy

[EstWRC]

Very embarassing, Tanak..
Why the fuck would he push on that limit..

So many mistakes this year and fucked up also the manu title

[erikli2]

Well deserved win for Thierry and Martijn!

[COD]

Why did Ott have a long look at Martin? Wrong note? Something else?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

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

[jonkka]

With that loss, Toyota is currently ahead in manufacturers.

[SubaruNorway]

I was just saying those cars where not in a good place, wonder if he got distracted

[Eli]

It was always a long shot, shame it screwed Hyundai in the manufacturers like that, better luck ( &hopefully) less mistakes from Tänak for 2025. Either way it'll be the first time there's a #1 on the car.

[EstWRC]

Why did Ott have a long look at Martin? Wrong note? Something else?

After the crash he said “there was nothing” and I think he meant with that the gravel crew had nothing in the notes

He hit the slippery part on the right and after that was history