[WRC] Safari Rally Kenya 2025

[EstWRC]

ok nothing to watch here anymore, this is total Toyota party now

its ridiculous how much the Hyundais loose on the mud section

[deephouse]

So we can assume Toyota 1-2-3-4

[drive]

any ideas what is this paddle for?

https://i.ibb.co/cSqtXtDM/paddle1.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/d4QHNSs0/paddle.jpg

[CeskyOndra]

That's awful

[EstWRC]

puncture for Kalle

[NoBudgetWRT]

any ideas what is this paddle for?

Wipers?

[COD]

Young guys make mistakes and these things happen, but he should have been faster than Sesks in Sweden.

Agree about Sweden, Monte and Safari are just drive and learn events for him.

He has to up the pace when we enter the events he has experience from and then everything up to now will be forgiven

[CeskyOndra]

Btw, hankook total disaster on gravé

[TypeR]

Kalle, Kalle.. why push so hard, it's Kenya

Right

[meh]

As Hyundais basically compete with Rally2 cars, then there must be something more interesting going on.

Zaldivar again 5th O/A, faster than Neuville, just 4.8 sec slower than Tänak. Zaldivar was in so hurry to the stage end that forgot the tiny thing like boycotting the stage-end interviews :)

[Rallyper]

In a way I think Safari is boring.

[EstWRC]

anyone knows if tomorrows stages also have these muddy sections?

[Eli]

In a way I think Safari is boring.

It would’t be if Hyundai would actually put up a fight….their performance now starting to look like their ridiculously stupid livery and clown like overalls…

[denkimi]

What's wrong with neuville? I see he had a puncture on the first one, but he remains slow after. Is something broken?

[deephouse]

The car is 1993

[Rallyper]

It would’t be if Hyundai would actually put up a fight….their performance now starting to look like their ridiculously stupid livery and clown like overalls…

For sure that´s one of the reasons. Lack of competition.

[meh]

Rovanperä losing time again, another puncture?

[EstWRC]

more dry stage and Tänak actually quite descent against Toyotas

[meh]

A proper stage win for Taka

[B group]

Hankook:o

[CeskyOndra]

Evans only rear wheel drive towards the end?

[denkimi]

It's best ogier isn't here. He would have to praise pirelli for their excellent quality compared to hankook.

[TypeR]

Lol.. that didn't age well..

https://www.rallit.fi/kalle-rovanperalta-tyly-hyundain-tahtikuskeille

[archie106]

Bad luck for Kalle, puncture when going off the road to avoid a herd of zebras. (from DirtFish YT livestream)

[meh]

To not have stage-end interview saved quite a lot of money for Solberg this time I guess (got stuck behind Dominguez)

[AndersX]

VW pulling out was really all of sudden, nobody saw this coming. But Hyundai threat of leaving already for a few years now. Their team have so much controversy over the years, changing so much people and having only 3 titles on their belt in 15 years just give people think, that they are not trusted everything they say. Also by the time they are competing in WRC anyone would think that they already learn some things, but it seems the same story keeps turning over and over again.

And imagine to work in the company you know would be closed and you would be out of job. Motivation level and spirit of employees definitely affect thing in Hyundai already now.

[WRC1]

It would’t be if Hyundai would actually put up a fight….their performance now starting to look like their ridiculously stupid livery and clown like overalls…

if livery makes a car faster, than Hyundai should be 2hours in front of Toyota....and Ford some mor 3 hours in front of Hyundai

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fan boys ! :D

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

[Morte66]

Kalle, Kalle.. why push so hard, it's Kenya

Right

Thierry, Elfyn and Seb are the only grown-ups, and even they have moments of madness.

[CeskyOndra]

Thierry and Martijn were apparently feeling unwell during the morning. Both didn't get much of a sleep and felt sick in the night. The reason was probably their hard work on the car when Sun was shinning a lot and there were high temperatures. Yeah they were all the day in the rush because of penalties

[tbazsi95]

TOP 2 dancing �� along at Safari Kenya ��
Elfyn Evans is leading the rally and Kalle Rovanpera is second (+1.37m). 3 morning stages 2 punctures ��
https://www.instagram.com/p/DHf6K1cI-jO/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Thierry Neuville @thierryneuville

It was a really tough morning for us. I think we pushed too hard yesterday, working on the car under the sun. Martijn and I have both been very sick all night — we didn’t sleep at all and felt terrible during the morning loop. On top of that, the conditions out there were pretty challenging. We’ll try to rest during the service break and hopefully feel better for the afternoon loop.

[CeskyOndra]

Its raining heavily already om the first stage

[EstWRC]

Everybody with 4 softs and 2 hards

[CeskyOndra]

It's a question of time right now, I remember Tanak having bad luck in 2022 here! Could be opposite this year :)

[TypeR]

Its raining heavily already om the first stage
Easy stage win for Kalle coming up.. he is king in such conditions..

[CeskyOndra]

The rain is gonna fall before Toyotas even come..

[meh]

It's a question of time right now, I remember Tanak having bad luck in 2022 here! Could be opposite this year :)

In this situation, I remember different things - Tänak is not fan of mud, he is not good in mud, and he is driving a "the quality is amazing" Hyundai, they may stop to clean mist from the windscreen from INSIDE the car.

[meh]

Holy f'ck the weather and the conditions...

[CeskyOndra]

It still looks okey in the first kilometres, but then its a proper Safari

[dimviii]

https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/485994717_680208664357227_8052526184685350495_n.jp g?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=GlShcj0SoOoQ7kNvgENcWoF&_nc_oc=Adk1DPrmlQczirjnAFUt8lV0Kbbx4Ra2v4-Fad2dbJpU_dBVZ0wocUO1nHCcXJRm2Dg&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-bru2-1.xx&_nc_gid=t-8ge9qHQdmm_yxXMY1_iA&oh=00_AYHA8-lgZpm9wrSh-BCZ1PqW7uMOrY6K2pFlBp0lhGuxEw&oe=67E389E5

[EstWRC]

This is hyundais nightmare

[CeskyOndra]

Hyundais will be surely wipping windscreen with gloves once again

[Rallyper]

This is gonna be hard times for the drivers... :/

[TypeR]

Let's hope they don't red flag the stage.. :D

[BlueStrike]

Let‘s see if Hyundai has managed to invest in proper heating at some point in the last three years.

[CeskyOndra]

This is the worst road position for Munster I would say

[meh]

Tänak has already had something interesting, lost 13.6 sec in the first split to.. Serdenidis.

[EstWRC]

Tänakw with a huge loss

[CeskyOndra]

What tanak did there? Is there raining?

[EstWRC]

Martin cleaning the windshield...

[BlueStrike]

I think I just saw Jarveoja wiping the windscreen from the heli.

Unbelievable.

[CeskyOndra]

That car looks totally out of control

[EstWRC]

That car looks totally out of control

that looked so bad, no grip and traction at all with the car

[TypeR]

Total disaster driving from Tanak..

Takamoto Cactusta

[CeskyOndra]

No words LOL

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Martin cleaning the screen too !

[EstWRC]

lol, this team is just so amaetur

i saw Martin cleaning Tänaks windshield the same way

[CeskyOndra]

Instead of solving the problem, they just have some kind of limping tool

[linni]

According to GPS maps Rova is catching Ott up very soon.

[TypeR]

Abibubu should be sacked immediately.. only talking..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans spun

[EstWRC]

Abibubu should be sacked immediately.. only talking..

with 5 years they havent solved the windshield issue...

[archie106]

Kalle broken rear suspension!

[Tauri_J]

Ott has always been terrible in these kind of conditions

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What a stage, proper Safari conditions.

[linni]

Rova broken rear left suspoension.

[CeskyOndra]

Oh Kalle! Has to repair it!

[archie106]

Very short road section to SS15, so there is a decent amount of time to try and repair it

[CeskyOndra]

That won't be a problem for Kalle

[EstWRC]

Ott has always been terrible in these kind of conditions

i dont know, he was good at wales rally when it was also muddy

its more to do with the car IMO and i suspect they stopped few times to clean the windshield

[Tauri_J]

Kalle is fucked.

[Tauri_J]

Thank god its a dry stage

[TypeR]

Kalle is fucked.
I bet it's still stronger than Hyundai :D

[denkimi]

Kalle is fucked.
He has 1.30 avantage on kalle. Could be enough.

[Kras]

Kalle fixed it it seems

[Tauri_J]

Pajari slower than Serderidis lol

[archie106]

1 minute penalty for Kalle showing on ewrc, late at TC

edit - penalty removed

[Kras]

Also a ratchet -strap suspension fix... Not looking good for him

[linni]

Taka front right puncture.

[EstWRC]

how come they are all loosing so much to Munster?

[NoBudgetWRT]

Neuville in road mode

[archie106]

Neuville puncture front right

[Tauri_J]

Ott going flatout but time is terrible

[linni]

Neuville puncture front right

The same for Ott.

[Tauri_J]

Oh Kalle, seems you were pushing too much

[archie106]

And Katsuta, and maybe Serderidis. There must be a rock/rut somewhere that they are all hitting.

[denkimi]

I don't think I have ever seen so many punctures, like ever. It's amazing we haven't seen any retirements due to lack of spare tyres.
Or are they allowed to drive on flats on liaison here?

[EstWRC]

Tänak up to second place then

[CeskyOndra]

Unbeliveable drama!

[trykmann]

Tänak up to second place then

More karma for Kalle.

[Kras]

Safari is just a coinflip event. I don't understand the appeal

[Fast Eddie WRC]

M-Sport 1-2 on the stage :D

[jonkka]

Munster scored his second stage win... har har...

[Kras]

Evans looks hreat so far, but if anyone can choke with a 3 min lead, it's him

[CeskyOndra]

Will Kalle stay infront of Neuville? Even thought Kalle wont repair his car, we know that Thierry ran out of spares and was in road mode last few kms..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Teammates first, rivals second...

Elfyn Evans gave Kalle Rovanperä a helping hand as he attempted to repair his broken suspension.

https://x.com/DirtFishRally/status/1903441503504015778

Top man Elfyn.

[focus206]

Evans the only one without problems... with Kalle being a shadow of the hybrid-era Kalle, and with Hyundai being amazing quality again, who can even take the title away from him.

[archie106]

Teammates first, rivals second...

Elfyn Evans gave Kalle Rovanperä a helping hand as he attempted to repair his broken suspension.

https://x.com/DirtFishRally/status/1903441503504015778

Top man Elfyn.

THIS sort of thing is why rallying is the best sport.

[Rallyper]

Now I don´t think Safari is boring any more... :)

[240RS]

Safari is just a coinflip event. I don't understand the appeal

Like Colin McRae once said, you only succeed on this event when you understand it. So far, too many drivers seem to have been sucked into wars when patience may have served them better.

[meh]

Protocol does not lie - the best non-M-Sport car was 3rd lost 2.14 sec/km for a 17.31km stage. If you could put that to the crystal ball prediction you could sound a bit crazy, but here it is :)

[CeskyOndra]

Evans the only one without problems... with Kalle being a shadow of the hybrid-era Kalle, and with Hyundai being amazing quality again, who can even take the title away from him.

Exactly. It's 3rd round, but Elfyn is fastest, most reliable, quite lucky and has a big advantage

[deephouse]

If Evans will won title, he will beat not just Tanak or ''Ogier'' (like Neuville), but also Rovanpera. Also there is one more event added, so I think the job will be even harder (if we can call Saudi Arabia even an event).

[denkimi]

It certainly looks to be a more interesting season than most had anticipated with rovanpera returning.

But so far it also kinda validates my idea that kalle was lucky to have an absolutely dominant car but no equal teammates during his champion years.

[focus206]

If Evans will won title, he will beat not just Tanak or ''Ogier'' (like Neuville), but also Rovanpera. Also there is one more event added, so I think the job will be even harder (if we can call Saudi Arabia even an event).

Evans also has something that Neuville didn't have last year: a Toyota...

[COD]

Like Colin McRae once said, you only succeed on this event when you understand it. So far, too many drivers seem to have been sucked into wars when patience may have served them better.

I agree. Rallying has its roots as endurance sport, we need a variety, not just flat out all the way events

I just saw a quote from the great late Timo Mäkinen on why Europeans used to struggle to win Safari back in the old days: ”the Europeans just come here and drive too fast”

[deephouse]

I don't get how Hyundais always fall apart here but on rough Greece they do good.

[EstWRC]

Neuville pushing to get past Kalle

[TypeR]

Neuville to 3rd place after this stage..

[EstWRC]

Katsuta has changed a wheel or smth, 2 minutes loss

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Horrendous conditions at the last part of the stage.

[deephouse]

So Hankook seems gets tarmac and snow tyres right, and gravel completely wrong. Back to drawing board.

[archie106]

I wouldn't pass judgement on the gravel tyres yet. After recce the drivers said that the roads are a lot rougher than they have been since safari returned to the championship. It may be that the conditions are making things look a lot worse.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville fastest so far with sick engine !

[CeskyOndra]

No Idea how Neuville managed to get this to P3 LOL... Hopefully the issue is fixable in service

[EstWRC]

Tänak with a very good time, even with the muddy end didnt loose that much as on previous stages

[drive]

so Tanak Neuville will be 2 3...

[drive]

I wouldn't pass judgement on the gravel tyres yet. After recce the drivers said that the roads are a lot rougher than they have been since safari returned to the championship. It may be that the conditions are making things look a lot worse.

they hold quite well for few km even withour air....

[archie106]

Evans ran out of washer fluid, couldnt see!

[denkimi]

Hyundai 2 and 3. Amazing.
Also only 1 retirement in rc1 so far.

[CeskyOndra]

Tomorrow will be dry, right?

[meh]

Solberg for stage win O/A? :)

edit: was 3.7 sec from 1st in split 7 but lost more towards end

[EstWRC]

Tomorrow will be dry, right?

i really hope so

[drive]

Evans hit something on last stage
https://i.ibb.co/KzDGqsk8/Capture-2025-03-22-17-03-06-995.png

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Dry early, showers in time for the PS according to my weather app.

[CeskyOndra]

Solberg for stage win O/A? :)

edit: was 3.7 sec from 1st in split 7 but lost more towards end

He took a masive cut near the end, saving more than 20 seconds IMO.

[Rallyper]

He took a masive cut near the end, saving more than 20 seconds IMO.

No way he did. But he was the one who took the slippery road like the RX master he is. Gained loads of seconds there.

[Rallyper]

He took a masive cut near the end, saving more than 20 seconds IMO.

No way he did. But he was the one who took the slippery corners at thee end like the RX master he is. Gained loads of seconds there.

[Jarek Z]

Also only 1 retirement in rc1 so far.

But have you seen this list? ;)
https://www.facebook.com/RallyTroll/posts/pfbid0zY7u9R8eTqb6RGiNfUUjUiMsPfMMw4DqA6Mb8MP9j9ag gLxWbS27rRKACWAT5BcZl

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Live service area interviews:
https://www.youtube.com/live/CDhR5vkGSN4?si=WO2KZlZ8QoZ-KPX7

[saco0o]

random thoughts: safari and acropolis always make me think "who would drive a hatchback irl in these conditions? not me. us trophy truck or dakar car minimium"

[deephouse]

And who would drive SUVs on normal tarmac roads? not me and shouldn't no one.

[drive]

Evans hit something on last stage
https://i.ibb.co/KzDGqsk8/Capture-2025-03-22-17-03-06-995.png

anyone seen what did Evans hit?

[saco0o]

And who would drive SUVs on normal tarmac roads? not me and shouldn't no one.

haha agree 110%

[Morte66]

I look at the safari and think "shouldn't they be in landcruisers?"

[focus206]

I look at the safari and think "shouldn't they be in landcruisers?"

That's what Dodge thought when in the early 80's they sent works Ramchargers to the Safari Rally. Of course they got beaten by the "tiny" Datsun, Peugeot and Opel. But hey, 2 of the 4 Dodge finished the event.

https://scontent-mxp2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/93695819_3170604906335558_7287003335876411392_n.jp g?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=kC-E9ksqxdUQ7kNvgGMO5L5&_nc_oc=AdlQ0vaulYToHsL5UxAz-fuJT1V84K_vBZoSRVWGvA5XUeuNABLgisRuMUaVjz57zBo&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-mxp2-1.xx&_nc_gid=UIBl5bsuMx-g6JAWurUj7w&oh=00_AYHPqMz4mFGvcS-eLMNZ0e_t1XBrpTAPBJct01JOBA0NZw&oe=6806B31D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

All that matters and ever mattered was the brand winning... the brand claiming their 'car' won The Safari Rally. No rally car is anything to do with the road car equivalent but the just Manufacturer's name getting the kudos.

But if anyone it's Toyota that deserved it and the reputation as tough and reliable. Those Totota HiLux were indestructible.

[becher]

That's what Dodge thought when in the early 80's they sent works Ramchargers to the Safari Rally. Of course they got beaten by the "tiny" Datsun, Peugeot and Opel. But hey, 2 of the 4 Dodge finished the event.

https://scontent-mxp2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/93695819_3170604906335558_7287003335876411392_n.jp g?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=kC-E9ksqxdUQ7kNvgGMO5L5&_nc_oc=AdlQ0vaulYToHsL5UxAz-fuJT1V84K_vBZoSRVWGvA5XUeuNABLgisRuMUaVjz57zBo&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-mxp2-1.xx&_nc_gid=UIBl5bsuMx-g6JAWurUj7w&oh=00_AYHPqMz4mFGvcS-eLMNZ0e_t1XBrpTAPBJct01JOBA0NZw&oe=6806B31D

Munari drove one!

[CeskyOndra]

McErlean is just a great surprise

[EstWRC]

Kalle again with problems

https://x.com/dirtfishrally/status/1903668964741296139?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[CeskyOndra]

Kalle with serious problems, has not check to the TC yet

[TypeR]

Evans gaining another point ,,thanks'' to Kalle's problems

[NoBudgetWRT]

Rovanpera seems to drive back to service

[TypeR]

Tanak lost the pace again..

[CeskyOndra]

That's distaster for Rovanpera. Katsuta lucky once again.. And now properly

[CeskyOndra]

Tanak lost the pace again..

This stage is pretty hard on the car and easy to make a mistake

[CeskyOndra]

Kalle Rovanpera has now retired from Safari Rally Kenya 2025..

[TypeR]

This stage is pretty hard on the car and easy to make a mistake
+8.8s to Katsuta, who went a little off is big loss.. but oh well, that's how it is

[Eli]

Kalle Rovanpera has now retired from Safari Rally Kenya 2025..

I had a feeling my faith in him was misplaced in the pickems.

[EstWRC]

Tanak lost the pace again..

so far this season his super sundays have been disappointments, i expect nothing less than super sunday win from him today

[CeskyOndra]

I had a feeling my faith in him was misplaced in the pickems.

I had a feeling that something will happen to him but I didnt want to risk and not putting him there

[elmerim]

So Elfyn will take a two-minute win without single fastest time? On proper stage.

Don't get me wrong, from fan side love the event. I find the fight of tenths on high speed events with clear tire choises actually quite damn boring sometimes, too close to circuit racing with learning all the stages by heart and one stall on friday can decide the whole event. OK the wider field of drivers fighting on the win nowadays gives something.

Edit: nope there were fastest times yesterday, must've misread the graphic on the screen.

[jonkka]

So Elfyn will take a two-minute win without single fastest time? On proper stage.

He has three SS wins, two from long stages?


I find the fight of tenths on high speed events with clear tire choises actually quite damn boring sometimes, too close to circuit racing with learning all the stages by heart and one stall on friday can decide the whole event.

Each to their own. I live for those tight battles and I've watched Safari with one eye only, not really firing up for it.

[B group]

Solans roll and continue

[deephouse]

WRC should have some endurance events but others should be way more shorter in case of stages (I mean less distance, less differences in times = more battles), also it would be more kind to many people watching it, since almost everyone have work duties on thursday and friday.

[EstWRC]

wtf is going on with Tänak on super sundays this year

fast only on first stage of the day and then no speed at all suddenly, was also the case in sweden

[TypeR]

wtf is going on with Tänak on super sundays this year

fast only on first stage of the day and then no speed at all suddenly, was also the case in sweden
From 2nd to 4th in 10kms.. (Sunday)

[CeskyOndra]

I dont know but these points are important for Tanak, Evans will be by a huge margin in front

[deephouse]

Did you forgot what he did on the last round of 2024 while having good position to win the event (and also chance of stealing the glory from Neuville)? I think he is playing safe. Since Forumaux don't have anything to lose I assume he will be the only one to push today.

[EstWRC]

I dont know but these points are important for Tanak, Evans will be by a huge margin in front

exactly, this is a chance to get points back from Evans, but instead of that he is just cruising around or whatever the problem is.

[Kras]

I would i expect Sordo to drive like this on Sundays, not Tanak.
It's not the drive of an aspiring champion. Almost seems like hes scared

[rallyfiend]

Maybe Tanak knows what problem Evans has.

why break the car now?

[trykmann]

exactly, this is a chance to get points back from Evans, but instead of that he is just cruising around or whatever the problem is.

I think he just wants to get the second place and bring the car home. This event is so tricky and the risk of breaking the car is quite high.

[linni]

exactly, this is a chance to get points back from Evans, but instead of that he is just cruising around or whatever the problem is.

RallyTV: Tänak commented the last stage went soft and broke very quickly.

Edit from Estonian press: Tänak - we took this morning easily, main goal is to bring the car to finish.

[EstWRC]

I think he just wants to get the second place and bring the car home. This event is so tricky and the risk of breaking the car is quite high.

Yes that’s what he also said to media now

[archie106]

To me it makes sense for Ott to drive slowly. The Hyundai is fragile and at least finishing 2nd means he doesn't lose too many more points to Elfyn. If Ott were to retire, it would make a championship win very unlikely. He'll still pick up 3-5 points from Sunday (at least) so a very good result considering his car problems.

[linni]

SS20 seems delayed.

[CeskyOndra]

Could be because of traffic jam

[EstWRC]

To me it makes sense for Ott to drive slowly. The Hyundai is fragile and at least finishing 2nd means he doesn't lose too many more points to Elfyn. If Ott were to retire, it would make a championship win very unlikely. He'll still pick up 3-5 points from Sunday (at least) so a very good result considering his car problems.

so Neuville doesnt care then?

[EstWRC]

so reported that Evans also had same kind of issue than Rovanperä in the morning

lucky this time

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great SS battle between Taka and Fourmaux... 0.3s !

[CeskyOndra]

Looks like Tanak is satisfied with 2 points at minimum from Super Sunday.

[EstWRC]

Looks like Tanak is satisfied with 2 points at minimum from Super Sunday.

yep, shame, i think has easily the speed to be the fastest

0.6 secs between three guys before last stage in sunday standings!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans also just has to bring it home for the overall win and yet another one for Toyota, the kings in Africa.

[archie106]

so Neuville doesnt care then?

Neuville seems happy to push a little more than Tanak, however I don't think Neuville is pushing particularly hard either.

[meh]

Taka and Fourmaux are pushing for the win with brain-off, and hats off for the speed they provide.

Tänak watching realistically, 2 points from Sunday are on the table, if there is a feeling and will, something more to catch from the powerstage.

We don't know the concerns with the car etc.

I don't get the crumpy-demanding theme here, I'm pretty sure Tänak is doing the best he can at the moment, and for us, it is just to watch and follow the situation.

[Kras]

This Neuville - Tanak dynamic looks increasingly like a 1st and 2nd driver setup. If Neuville ends up pushing on PS and Tanak doesn't it will look even worse

[EstWRC]

This Neuville - Tanak dynamic looks increasingly like a 1st and 2nd driver setup. If Neuville ends up pushing on PS and Tanak doesn't it will look even worse

i will bookmark this

[meh]

This Neuville - Tanak dynamic looks increasingly like a 1st and 2nd driver setup. If Neuville ends up pushing on PS and Tanak doesn't it will look even worse

Based on your logic, Fourmaux is the actual no 1? :)

[Kras]

Formaux is not a realistic title threat. If Ott lets Neuville outscore him by 5 points in a rally where hes almost 3 min ahead....

Also he can't get scolded for bining it since he doesn't hold any overall points. And we know Neuville doesn't get scolded ever

[mknight]

This Neuville - Tanak dynamic looks increasingly like a 1st and 2nd driver setup. If Neuville ends up pushing on PS and Tanak doesn't it will look even worse

Neuville won them the drivers title last year.
Tanak lost them the manu title.

Difficult decision whom to prefer.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Everyone moaned at the previous points system and wanted the overall results to get the best score. Now some moan when drivers save their overall points over the big risk of going for SS / PS points !

And with Hyundai's deficit to Toyota already they have to take finishing 2-3 and cant risk losing one of them with an off or damaging the car. Safari is just different.

[Kras]

Neuville won them the drivers title last year.
Tanak lost them the manu title.

Difficult decision whom to prefer.

Fair point. They have a right to manage their team however they like. I'm just saying what it looks like to me, in spite of the image they are trying to project

[TypeR]

Neuville won them the drivers title last year.
Tanak lost them the manu title.

Difficult decision whom to prefer.
If Tanak had won, then(I am quite sure) they would have been all DSQ'd (not only some pocket money penalty), because at the end they were againt the rules.

But let that be.

[CeskyOndra]

My bet is on Fourmaux to win PS and Super Sunday

[linni]

My bet is on Fourmaux to win PS and Super Sunday

Unless some team orders.

[CeskyOndra]

Unless some team orders.

Why? Hyundai need points and be infront of Katsuta

[archie106]

Two front punctures for McErlean?

[meh]

That is interesting, Serdenidis praising Romet Jürgenson at the end of the rally, but what are the precise reasons?

[TypeR]

That is interesting, Serdenidis praising Romet Jürgenson at the end of the rally, but what are the precise reasons?

Jurgenson was doing recce there and maybe helped with extra information or sth else

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Well done Greg, good job in the circumstances.

[becher]

If Tanak had won, then(I am quite sure) they would have been all DSQ'd (not only some pocket money penalty), because at the end they were againt the rules.

But let that be.
I can sell you a premium tin foil hat if you want.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Taka off, there you go risking it.

[meh]

Taka is done before 1st split.

edit: Too early to say "done", the car pushed back to the wheels and going again.

[Danny0405]

Taka off, there you go risking it.

Was pretty sure considering how close to the limit he was in the morning

[Rallyper]

Disaster for Katsuta. Going again.

[CeskyOndra]

Disasterous Sunday for Toyota again.. Helping Evans with points tho

[archie106]

Pajari up to P4?

[meh]

That is interesting, that they let Neuville go already, there is a risk to get stuck or disturbed by dust from Taka

edit: did not get any problems, but Taka's car engine sounds quite sick, not sure he can reach to the service again with that.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Taka's car might not make it back.

[TypeR]

Will Lindstrom tell Pajari to take penalty..? To get more points for main team

[Morte66]

If Taka can get back, will Pajari be doing some sort of late check-in to get behind him?

[meh]

For Tänak 3rd from PS should be available without crazy push

[TypeR]

Abibubu said that he told guys not to push.. but Neuville still pushed..

Tanak +1.1 on split 1

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It wasnt a push or he would've beaten Fourmaux.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Good job on Sunday by Hyundai and especially Fourmaux who came back really well.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great win by Evans, really smart fast driving with no mistakes and protecting the car.

It's looking like it could be his year at last.

[Rallyper]

I must say Evans is showing masterclass. Big congrat!

[Eli]

First time in their careers they take back to back victories no?
Huge congrats to Evans & Martin! & what a turn around for Hyundai, last event with that car and seemingly last Safari Rally Kenya and their best one yet.

[Rallyper]

Did Taka make it to the service?

[CeskyOndra]

Kalle 7th in championship after 3 rounds. Is this real? He is lucky that Croatia isn't afterwards, there would be a lot of dirt on the road, Canarias might be clean.

[CeskyOndra]

That was one of the most deserved podium I have ever seen. Evans mature drive with no mistakes, Tanak and Neuville even though having an unrealible car, making it to the podium. Incredible effort by Hyundai in the end.

[denkimi]

Does anyone has the standing after kenya?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This is the Welshman's first victory on the Safari Rally.

He becomes the first British driver to win the rally since Colin McRae in 2002.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Does anyone has the standing after kenya?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GmudaWnWgAAOg1h?format=jpg&name=large

[Morte66]

I didn't especially enjoy watching the rally, but I'm very happy with the result as an Evans fan.

I think Toyota management has to take a look in the mirror, after letting Katsuta push hard with Rovanpera retired and Katsuta's lack of reliability. IMO they should have ordered him to bring the car home. He managed to finish behind Pajari, whom I've noticed people calling underwhelming.

Hyundai had good speed on day 1 but then they started falling apart. I wonder how much of that speed was down to the twisty day 1 stages suiting them better than Toyota, and how much was just recklessness. But they played it well from day 2.

[AndersX]

Real Safari - roots of real rallying. Hope they will keep Safari in calendar.

Evans - WDC in making. Mother fortune has turned her sight on him. As much as I would like Tanak get the 2nd-one, Evans really deserves it - no complaining, always head down, logical carrier decisions. Rooting for Evans.

McErlean - top 3 driver in making. Give him 2 seasons. Very good start of the season for super-under-experienced driver who ought to deliver (doubt that he would get another year if massively failed).

Pajari - be patient, good driver. As a Finn, he will get 10-15 years to develop and start to deliver, if it wont work - will be appointed as Team Manager (in whatever brand run from Fin).

Hyundai - without any surprises.

Kalle - will be ok, even Jordan did not win first season back from pause. 😁

[Danny0405]

Did Taka make it to the service?


Not yet at parc fermé apparently, is stopped for a 10 minutes now after a First 30s-penalty for having been late at the podium stop.

[Danny0405]

Not yet at parc fermé apparently, is stopped for a 10 minutes now after a First 30s-penalty for having been late at the podium stop.

Moving again.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Gus Greensmith @GreensmithGus

SAFARI RALLY KENYA WRC2 WINNERS 2-YEARS IN A ROW !!!

[Danny0405]

Katsuta will retire apparently, not being able to join the parc.

[TypeR]

Smart idea from Lindstrom to let Katsuta push on PS...
Feel bad for Taka.. another big thing to swallow and clear his mind..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Taka's car might not make it back.

Katsuta retiring on the Safari Rally's final road section drops him out of the top five in the championship standings.

[denkimi]

After 3 rallies, rovanpera en katsuta have 31 and 25 points. Ogier, having done only 1 rally has 33 points.

[106 sport]

After 3 rallies, rovanpera en katsuta have 31 and 25 points. Ogier, having done only 1 rally has 33 points.

For this reason, he (Ogier) must to be in Gran Canaria next april.

[trykmann]

After 3 rallies, rovanpera en katsuta have 31 and 25 points. Ogier, having done only 1 rally has 33 points.

I wonder in what condition is Kalle's mental state in this situation. He has been mostly winning during his career so far and hasn't experienced such hard times. Neuville, Evans and Tänak have all had their difficult periods, but are still up there competing for titles.

[Humber]

I wonder in what condition is Kalle's mental state in this situation. He has been mostly winning during his career so far and hasn't experienced such hard times. Neuville, Evans and Tänak have all had their difficult periods, but are still up there competing for titles.

2021 - Rovanpera had 3 (4 if 6th at Safari included) sub-optimal results in a row and came back and won his first WRC events in Estonia & Acropolis. Things did not always go his way in Rally 2 as well - the big accident in Argentina for example.
2024 - Was win it or bin it. Sweden 39, Portugal 31, Finland accident. Plus 4 wins in Kenya, Poland, Latvia and Chile

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It's a new ball game for Kalle in many ways after his break last year. There's the changes in the Rally1 Cars, the new Hankook tyres and a new points system.

Kalle will take his time to adapt but I'm sure it wont affect his mentality. He never took winning for granted and he'll stay humble and just give his best as before.

[tbazsi95]

Behind the scenes: Helicopter broadcasts
https://www.tiktok.com/@tropicairkenya/video/7484659359952145719

[240RS]

Behind the scenes by Dirtfish

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=etQcqhPLuM0&pp=0gcJCdgAo7VqN5tD

[deephouse]

https://rallyjournal.com/hyundai-boss-delighted-with-teams-new-strategy-was-it-too-much-for-toyota-driver-to-handle/

I wonder if he would be so loud again, if their technical side failed completely (there was so much of them, really), or other wouldn't hit the trouble. I also believe that they shoot themselves (again) with "new car" in the foot so they rather bring here "old one" with 100 problems than 300 with new one. Also so non comparable with only Adrien and Taka pushing on sunday. I don't know but having full time 3rd driver who is more than ever hungry for win and (proven on all three rallies) more prone to disaster while doing it I wouldn't call best strategy yet. When they will lose both championship they will blame Toyota for not being fair with 4-5 cars in the field.