[WRC] Central European Rally (16-19.10.25)

[Eli]

Hey everyone,
After more than 6 long years, I’m going (finally!) to see a rally and while I have been in Rallye Deutschland last time it was held, I understand this is quite different. I was hoping you could give me some tips for the rally, I’ve already booked a hotel in Passau, and my goal is to try and see as much as possible. If anyone here has been in the rally in it’s 2 editions and can share any information that’ll be very helpful!

[Dimitris]

My CER route preview ��

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

The new Czech stages this year look mega, as do the stages on Sunday.

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G1hXqLYXwAA3F7i?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G1hXqLcWMAAUK6o?format=jpg&name=large

[Simmi]

Are Slowly Sideways still running in support of this? Can't find any info on their timetable if so.

[kudy]

yes, here is itinerary

https://www.adac-sport.com/Slowly_Sideways_at_Central_European_Rall_381/docs/3_Zeitplan_SSW.pdf

[GlennM]

Hi all,

Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1Y87dP-bOgNVVyOOYZoIO6dFyn7U6gv4&ll=48.95688708519015%2C13.673247384406007&z=9

[GlennM]

Hey everyone,
After more than 6 long years, I’m going (finally!) to see a rally and while I have been in Rallye Deutschland last time it was held, I understand this is quite different. I was hoping you could give me some tips for the rally, I’ve already booked a hotel in Passau, and my goal is to try and see as much as possible. If anyone here has been in the rally in it’s 2 editions and can share any information that’ll be very helpful!

I was there for the first time in 2024 and noticed it's hard to go to non spectator zones, meaning most of the roads to the stages are blocked with marchals, denying access.
After a couple of tries I gave up and just went to the spectator zones. I'm not saying it's impossible, maybe I just had bad luck with the non-spectator zones I picked.

The spectator zones have plenty of parking within a 5-10min walk to the stage.
I'm staying in Hauzenberg like last year, which is pretty centrally located. My planning on stage visits: SS2 / 3, 5, 6, 8 / 10, 12, 14 / 15, 16, 18.
Stage 8 & 14 are nearby Hauzenberg which gives me the advantage to be "home" quick at the end of the day. Note that I'm only staying in certain stages for the first 10-15 cars.

Have fun!

[Eli]

I was there for the first time in 2024 and noticed it's hard to go to non spectator zones, meaning most of the roads to the stages are blocked with marchals, denying access.
After a couple of tries I gave up and just went to the spectator zones. I'm not saying it's impossible, maybe I just had bad luck with the non-spectator zones I picked.

The spectator zones have plenty of parking within a 5-10min walk to the stage.
I'm staying in Hauzenberg like last year, which is pretty centrally located. My planning on stage visits: SS2 / 3, 5, 6, 8 / 10, 12, 14 / 15, 16, 18.
Stage 8 & 14 are nearby Hauzenberg which gives me the advantage to be "home" quick at the end of the day. Note that I'm only staying in certain stages for the first 10-15 cars.

Have fun!

That's so Cool, I saw Hauzenberg is relatively close(r) to the Czech border so you also have an advantage on that front, that's a lot(!) of stages to visit, do you know how many hours before they close the access to the stages? (and did you park close to the begining of the stage so you could leave easier afterwards?). Besides that, any other tips would be more than welcome! have fun too! & hope to see you there!

[GlennM]

That's so Cool, I saw Hauzenberg is relatively close(r) to the Czech border so you also have an advantage on that front, that's a lot(!) of stages to visit, do you know how many hours before they close the access to the stages? (and did you park close to the begining of the stage so you could leave easier afterwards?). Besides that, any other tips would be more than welcome! have fun too! & hope to see you there!

I have no clue when they close the roads since I'm only planning to visit spectator zones which stay open all the time.
I payed for parking and since there's parking at every spectator zone I can leave easily and I'm trying to arrive at least 30min before the stage starts, which might not always be the case with the plans i have this year :laugh:. I know I probably wont make it to SS16 in time to see the first cars but that gives me some rest too :D.

[kudy]

Hauzenberg stage should be closed from 5 AM.

[Eli]

I have no clue when they close the roads since I'm only planning to visit spectator zones which stay open all the time.
I payed for parking and since there's parking at every spectator zone I can leave easily and I'm trying to arrive at least 30min before the stage starts, which might not always be the case with the plans i have this year :laugh:. I know I probably wont make it to SS16 in time to see the first cars but that gives me some rest too :D.
Thanks for all the helpful information, I think I’ll also have it easier for myself and go to those areas, just need to be there enough time in advance to set up the camera, hope to see you (and all you other guys coming from the forum) out on the stages!

[Sal yet again]

Got an email to say they are offering discount of the ticket prices now. Wonder how big the shortfall on expected take up is..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC2 / WRC3 Test stage. If this is representative then cuts will be mostly bringing gravel and leaves on but not mud.

https://youtu.be/zWTTlnUoFfU?si=E60UGvSpyz7-KyF1

[hari]

Some images from Servicepark: https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_central_european_rallye_2025.html

https://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/1.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/2.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/3.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/4.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/5.jpghttps://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2025/central/6.jpg

[CeskyOndra]

https://youtu.be/Ih9qoeTKl60

SS 10/12 from Tuesday, beautiful autumn scenery this year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Recce interviews:

https://youtu.be/PZkEhWoqnBw?si=udwhORdALXLdajsQ

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC2 / WRC3 Test stage. If this is representative then cuts will be mostly bringing gravel and leaves on but not mud.



Rain has now fallen on the Czech stages, so mud on the road likely.

[tbazsi95]

Puma Rally1 meets with Ford RS200
https://www.instagram.com/p/DP1u5D3iPEW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

[EstWRC]

Recce interviews:

https://youtu.be/PZkEhWoqnBw?si=udwhORdALXLdajsQ

Ogier welcoming Tänak to the team? :D

[TypeR]

Ogier welcoming Tänak to the team? :D
anti ,,Tanak-to-Toyota'' posts coming :D

hearing that Tanak will use old car.. maybe Ogier asked if he was going to drive with that bmw :D

[WRCStan]

Puma Rally1 meets with Ford RS200
https://www.instagram.com/p/DP1u5D3iPEW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Always good to see a bit of classic road relevance.

[486]

https://youtu.be/Ih9qoeTKl60

SS 10/12 from Tuesday, beautiful autumn scenery this year.

When sunny it is known as "Indian Summer", because of the mixed different colors.

[Morte66]

Overall forecast for Passau for the weekend is cloudy but dry. That's just the service park, and it's a day or two away, of course.

[wwbroe]

Good morning guys, ready for shakedown?

[wwbroe]

Ogier fastest from the three first cars

[wwbroe]

What happened with Neuville, loosing so much?

Edit: he went off

[EstWRC]

Conclusions based on shakedown

The 2024 Hyundai is better, Neuville already with a moment with 2025 car!!!

[TypeR]

Tanak can almost compete with Latvala in historic class with his car :D (ofc it is up to date, but chassis was first used in 2023)
hopefully it will be nice battle between title contenders and Tanak won't fall out of it with this rally

[Rallyper]

Morning.
Went away for a few seconds to make another sandwich for breakfast and missed Neuville moment... :)

[wwbroe]

Munster already with problem on the Ford

[PLuto]

Morning.
Went away for a few seconds to make another sandwich for breakfast and missed Neuville moment... :)

Dont worry, Rally TV missed it too :)

[wwbroe]

Kalle in second run faster than Ogier on first run

[wwbroe]

But Ott beating that time with 3.3 sec:eek:

[PLuto]

One important thing regarding shakedown. There is virtual chicane which competitors CAN use for testing. So times can be different if the drivers use this chicane or not...

[wwbroe]

One important thing regarding shakedown. There is virtual chicane which competitors CAN use for testing. So times can be different if the drivers use this chicane or not...
So, i suppose Ott din't use it?:D

[wwbroe]

Ogier 0.2 faster as Ott

[wwbroe]

Neuville now only 0.1 slower as Ogier

[Eli]

Hey guys, did some late night recce in the Czech Republic and let me tell you, it’s as if Wales and Ireland & Corsica stages had a baby, so twisty and narrow, so many blind corners and crests, so tricky! and it’s already wet and slippery and muddy and assuming they don’t get 30 degrees in the rally, it will stay that way. They make the stages in Austria and Germany look like Catalunya by comparison (even though are also tricky with some technical sections) but the ones in Czechia are relentless.

[Rallyper]

Hey guys, did some late night recce in the Czech Republic and let me tell you, it’s as if Wales and Ireland & Corsica stages had a baby, so twisty and narrow, so many blind corners and crests, so tricky! and it’s already wet and slippery and muddy and assuming they don’t get 30 degrees in the rally, it will stay that way. They make the stages in Austria and Germany look like Catalunya by comparison (even though are also tricky with some technical sections) but the ones in Czechia are relentless.

And what stages are we talking about? Not so familiar with the geography in CER.

[Eli]

And what stages are we talking about? Not so familiar with the geography in CER.

Keply & Col de Jan.

[CeskyOndra]

And what stages are we talking about? Not so familiar with the geography in CER.

Especially first few kilometres of Col de Jan are very tricky, dark forest. Temperatures will be around 0 degrees in the morning.

[wwbroe]

Neuville fastest trough now, on his third run.

[becher]

Dirtfish posted a video of Neuvilles moment, he was quite lucky.

[wyler]

Dirtfish posted a video of Neuvilles moment, he was quite lucky.

last time he bin it in germany shakedown then he won!

[tbazsi95]

Dirtfish posted a video of Neuvilles moment, he was quite lucky.

Neuville has some contact
https://www.instagram.com/p/DP3NFT8iF6p/

And problem with the door
https://www.instagram.com/p/DP3RxoZCHi3/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville
“I just braked too late on the first junction, locked the wheels, tried to make the corner but the speed was a bit too fast,” said the world champion. “Not the greatest start, but the car is fine.”

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Munster already with problem on the Ford

DF: Grégoire Munster posted the fifth fastest shakedown time for M-Sport, overcoming a broken driveshaft on the first pass which he had picked up on the road section.

Probably doing extreme tyre-warming. I noticed him doing this at his PET.

[tbazsi95]

Neuville
“I just braked too late on the first junction, locked the wheels, tried to make the corner but the speed was a bit too fast,” said the world champion. “Not the greatest start, but the car is fine.”

Kankkunen had a same one but "Speed was ok, Juha Kankkunen?" "Yes, but the corner too tight." :D

[wwbroe]

Kankkunen had a same one but "Speed was ok, Juha Kankkunen?" "Yes, but the corner too tight." :D

Legendary words by Juha:D

[wwbroe]

First real stage is going live in a few minutes

[Rallyper]

Here we go.

[wwbroe]

Elfynn just touched haybale in chicane

[wwbroe]

Ott loosing already 5.2 sec compared to Ogier, not so good

[EstWRC]

Horrible from Tänak

[flat_right]

Crazy loss for Hyundai on this one.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Woah Taka !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Crazy loss for Hyundai on this one.

Fourmaux 2nd fastest...

[flat_right]

Fourmaux 2nd fastest...

yea..wanted add an asterisk :D

[EstWRC]

Tänak and Neuville have to look at Fourmaux setup or smth

He has been all tarmac rounds faster than them. Time to get out of your comfort zone

[focus206]

All Toyotas faster than Neuville and Tanak... only Fourmaux is keeping Toyota's pace

[becher]

Not gonna lie, I really want Rovanperä to take 35 points here.

[focus206]

Not gonna lie, I really want Rovanperä to take 35 points here.

I hope he can still have a say on the title, but I feel he mentally checked out already. Maybe he'll prove me wrong

[becher]

I hope he can still have a say on the title, but I feel he mentally checked out already. Maybe he'll prove me wrong

Mhmhm we'll see, I'd just like him to bow out as a three time champion.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice starts by Cachon and Leo Rossel, let's see if they can fight with Solberg and Gryazin.

[wwbroe]

Eamonn Kelly just rolled in last corner of the stage

[meh]

pffff. why tf the rally started on Thursday, I got DNS to pickems now... :/

Anyway, have a nice rally weekend everyone :)

[meh]

Tänak and Neuville have to look at Fourmaux setup or smth

He has been all tarmac rounds faster than them. Time to get out of your comfort zone

Note that Fourmaux and Ogier just did a "preparation rally", and they are 1-2 now. Correlates well.

[denkimi]

Note that Fourmaux and Ogier just did a "preparation rally", and they are 1-2 now. Correlates well.
So did neuville.

[BlueStrike]

FWIW, Neuville said on the show stage in Bad Griesbach Therme he hopes tyre choice will come towards them on the second pass.

I guess we‘ll find out about that.

[TypeR]

Tanak is only Hyundai still somehow championship contender and did half ass test 24 vs 25 and got half ass car because they didn't have new one to give him..

Fourmaux did 2 test rallies and got a newer car..

To me it doesn't seem like very appealing from Hyundai's side :D but.. I don't get €€€ either :D

[TypeR]

Eamonn Kelly just rolled in last corner of the stage
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP36JaWiPKa/?igsh=NDE3dms2MTdvbGhi

[Doon]

Ogier will control this rally, and the rest of the championship from the front. Hope I’m wrong, but odds are that this won’t be the exciting end to a season that the WRC journalists and presenters will inevitably build it up to be.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Tanak is only Hyundai still somehow championship contender and did half ass test 24 vs 25 and got half ass car because they didn't have new one to give him..

Fourmaux did 2 test rallies and got a newer car..

To me it doesn't seem like very appealing from Hyundai's side :D but.. I don't get €€€ either :D

He could've had the new one but Tanak chose to go with the 24-spec car.

Plus it has a new engine (without 5 min penalty because Hyundai didnt nominate him for Manu points).

[Sal yet again]

Ogier will control this rally, and the rest of the championship from the front. Hope I’m wrong, but odds are that this won’t be the exciting end to a season that the WRC journalists and presenters will inevitably build it up to be.

I've tipped him to retire in my pickems so will respectfully disagree but have nagging doubt that you may be right!

[jonkka]

Fourmaux's magic is fading, seems slow now.

[wwbroe]

Getting dark for the later runners

[Doon]

Is it really that hard for the organisers to give all of the Rally1 crews the same light conditions?

[denkimi]

Is it really that hard for the organisers to give all of the Rally1 crews the same light conditions?
This is a deliberate choice, but i also don't know why they do it.

[becher]

So the road order tomorrow will be the same ore reversed?

[EstWRC]

Ogier is just unbelievable this year

[wwbroe]

So the road order tomorrow will be the same ore reversed?
It should be the same as today, too little amount of kilometers stage

[wwbroe]

Gryazin had a little off into a field

[EstWRC]

So Tänak saying that actually they wanted the 25 car but some problems occurred during testing which weren’t fixable and that’s why he is with the 24 car.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So Tänak saying that actually they wanted the 25 car but some problems occurred during testing which weren’t fixable and that’s why he is with the 24 car.

There's never, I mean never ever, anything straightforward with Tanak.

Following him as a fan must be a full-time job, trying to find the truth about any and every situation.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Is it really that hard for the organisers to give all of the Rally1 crews the same light conditions?

Its ridiculous to have the just first few drivers in the daylight. I can understand the frustration of the later ones in full darkness.

(Another thing going Ogiers way, as if he needs it.)

[linni]

There's never, I mean never ever, anything straightforward with Tanak.

Following him as a fan must be a full-time job, trying to find the truth about any and every situation.

He speaks a little about the case usually, but I cannot recall him lying. Ever.

[CeskyOndra]

I've just done Col de Jan recce today. It's definitely the key stage of the rally, mainly first 8-10 kilometres. Road full of dirt and leaves in places, very slippery and bumpy.

[TypeR]

Evans 5sec penalty for moving the haybail-chicane on ss1..

Can't remember when such penalty was given for a long time..

[Eli]

I've just done Col de Jan recce today. It's definitely the key stage of the rally, mainly first 8-10 kilometres. Road full of dirt and leaves in places, very slippery and bumpy.

Exactly what I found out last night, it’s also really really narrow in the forest sections.

[jcevc]

Evans 5sec penalty for moving the haybail-chicane on ss1..

Can't remember when such penalty was given for a long time..

In national championships where haybale chicane racing is `popular´ and needed due to configuration of special stages such penalties are usual...but here it is at least strange - from now on stewards must be very careful on almost every touch of haybale.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans 5sec penalty for moving the haybail-chicane on ss1..

Can't remember when such penalty was given for a long time..


Sébastien Ogier @SebOgier
This is not acceptable to get penalized for this !!! What a joke.

[bandit12]

Evans 5sec penalty for moving the haybail-chicane on ss1..

Can't remember when such penalty was given for a long time..

In light of this decision... Should all the races of this season now be reviewed, and in similar cases, the times corrected? The genie is out of the bottle now..

[PLuto]

Like Jaka told, in is nothing special for giving penalty for moving part of chicane out. I am surprised how everybody is surprised when driver moves part of chicane that he receives penalty. This is much more clear than virtual chicane penalty. I also dont understand the comedy with stewards, explanation why it happened, checking if it was intentional or not etc. For me it is clear - haybale was moved out of its position = automatic penalty.

[TypeR]

the rule isn't surprising, but these penalty decisions are inconsistent and giving it now is surprising.
it isn't some local amateur rally that every touch of a barrel or haybale is automatic penalty.



at least he didn't get 5min penalty for hurting this haybale :D

[wwbroe]

First stage of the day going live now

[Rallyper]

Morning all rallyfans all over the world.

[TypeR]

Everybody with 5 soft tyres

[wwbroe]

Tanak half a second faster as Ogier

[wwbroe]

Thierry even faster, be it by 0.2 s

[wwbroe]

All Hyundai's in top three times, that is a surprise

[meh]

All Hyundai's in top three times, that is a surprise

Yes, a bit of a surprise, but I guess we need to go through the entire loop to make conclusions, maybe others have focused their setup on other stage(s).

[wwbroe]

I also noticed that topspeed of Hyundai's seems a little higher than Toy's

[EstWRC]

Pretty straightforward stage with long straights and junctions so no wonder about Hyundai speed

Let’s see when it gets tougher

[EstWRC]

Cachon livery is so cool!

[wwbroe]

Cachon livery is so cool!
And the fastest Rally2

[wwbroe]

Kalle is putting more speed in this one

[Rallyper]

Kalle on the run for top score. Next stage will be exciting.

[EstWRC]

Not so straightforward stage and Tänak already complaining and Neuville not on same pace as on previous

Next stage will be even worse

[jonkka]

Curiously, 2024 spec i20 is on speed with 2025 one.

[Rallyper]

I was just going to write some bad about Pajari, but he drove his way up at the end... only + 0,1 s to Kalle.

[Rallyper]

At split 1 he was +0,2 on Munster...

[wwbroe]

Cachon fast again on this one, 3.3 faster as Oliver

[240RS]

Hyundai's fundamental design flows will probably be impossible to cure in the current car. The rear twitch exiting tight corners is evident all too often. Toyota is far better balanced machine. The drivers will have to pull miracles when stage conditions demand smooth flow and not raw power.

[PLuto]

the rule isn't surprising, but these penalty decisions are inconsistent and giving it now is surprising.
it isn't some local amateur rally that every touch of a barrel or haybale is automatic penalty.



at least he didn't get 5min penalty for hurting this haybale :D

Touching haybale is not important. You must move it from original position. For example in Czech championship we have quite clear rules about chicanes and crews knows from beginning what will be penalty for which situation. We are giving 30 seconds penalty (for missing chicane completely or moving haybale completely from the circle marked on road.

[meh]

Touching haybale is not important. You must move it from original position. For example in Czech championship we have quite clear rules about chicanes and crews knows from beginning what will be penalty for which situation. We are giving 30 seconds penalty (for missing chicane completely or moving haybale completely from the circle marked on road.

I think the rule itself is a bit stupid - the one who touched the haybell that much that it moved from its position completely, most likely already got punished by this mistake, and did not gain anything from it. In case it was not possible to move the haybell back to the correct place, every following car can make the cut and get the benefit.

[becher]

The thing is there were drivers exploiting the chicane by moving it out of the way on purpose. If I remember correctly Ogier did it a few years ago quite blatantly and got done for. Whoever is surprised by such a penalty every now and then is probably also surprised that there are regulations to which these cars are built and need to adhere.

[EstWRC]

The penalty is ridiculous because Evans didn’t gain anything with it, he rather lost time based on the split times

You could punish them then also by losing the mirrors when touching them or not everyone taking the same line as first car on the road

[denkimi]

The thing is there were drivers exploiting the chicane by moving it out of the way on purpose. If I remember correctly Ogier did it a few years ago quite blatantly and got done for. Whoever is surprised by such a penalty every now and then is probably also surprised that there are regulations to which these cars are built and need to adhere.
I doubt anyone can win time by pushing a heavy object out of the way. The later cars might get and advantage, but the one pushing will lose time.
Only brushing it might gain you something.

[Rallyper]

Touching haybale is not important. You must move it from original position. For example in Czech championship we have quite clear rules about chicanes and crews knows from beginning what will be penalty for which situation. We are giving 30 seconds penalty (for missing chicane completely or moving haybale completely from the circle marked on road.

However I do think we need to separate WRC from National rules.

[meh]

Ogier picked the stage and went to attack

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Bonkers onboards !

[wwbroe]

Ogier is going to show who is the master

[becher]

Oh he was close to losing it.

[Rallyper]

Tanak lost some time before 3rd split

[TypeR]

As much as I love rallying and would love to sit in the car.. I would skip that :D this stage is craazyy!

[Morte66]

They have some excellent stages in Czechia. I'd like a Czech WRC round, but I guess the finances don't work out.

[TypeR]

Hyundai like with rally2 car..

[Rallyper]

As much as I love rallying and would love to sit in the car.. I would skip that :D this stage is craazyy!

Agree. 100%. Any tree is a deathtrap.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Crazy splits... Ogier smashing them.

[becher]

Was this stage or part of it used two years ago as well?

[Morte66]

Not a good start for Evans.

[Rallyper]

Neuville dropping time as well.

[EstWRC]

Pack the thing together Hyundai already

Embarrassing

[M3 Jambo]

Ogier has just shown he's the master.

[jonkka]

Neuville is missing front right wheel arch already.

[BlueStrike]

Shaping up to be a disaster stage for Hyundai…

[jonkka]

And now he has right rear tyre pressure alert too.

[becher]

Neuville is missing front right wheel arch already.

+crazy jump and rear puncture.

[jonkka]

Neuville's right front wheel is wobbly, rear seems intact despite pressure alert (as seen on slow-mo).

EDIT: But tyre is totally gone by the finish.

[BlueStrike]

And Ott will still end up the fastest Hyundai by a country mile lol.

[EstWRC]

lol Thierry get real. You jumped into the bank and you are surprised there was a puncture?

What a guy

[Rallyper]

That crazy jump has a lot of persons standing in very dangerous positions.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Munster did it even worse !

[BlueStrike]

Tänak has actually make up a place on this stage…

And Munster just showed us how lucky Neuville was.

[TypeR]

should drive and land on the road :D

[EstWRC]

Munster also please pack the things

[Morte66]

Is there a service at lunchtime, or just tyres?

[EstWRC]

Is there a service at lunchtime, or just tyres?

No service today

[Rallyper]

Stage 5 is halted for a moment.

[Morte66]

Not a good start for Evans.

And yet he's third on the stage, and up four(!) places overall. Quite a dramatic stage...

[TypeR]

Pajaris rear bumper corner full of hay :D

[Rallyper]

Running again.

[Rallyper]

Pajaris rear bumper corner full of hay :D

Looked like strangled hen... :)

[TypeR]

McErlean losing over 30s on 7.5km..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

McErlean virtually just cruising through after the delay and warning from Millener.

[denkimi]

Looks like this stage is like a reverse cleaning gravel stage. Results are just startorder.

[EstWRC]

Looks like this stage is like a reverse cleaning gravel stage. Results are just startorder.

Except Kalle who is always amazing when slippery conditions

[Doon]

If Ogier doesn’t have a mechanical failure, this season is over. He’s the master. Tanak could compete with equal machinery, but on pure pace Evans never stood a chance.

[wwbroe]

In the mean time, Oliver is showing who is master in Rally2, taking over the lead despite having lost power on last 10 kms

[Rallyper]

In the mean time, Oliver is showing who is master in Rally2, taking over the lead despite having lost power on last 10 kms

And cold tyres from the start...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If Ogier doesn’t have a mechanical failure, this season is over. He’s the master. Tanak could compete with equal machinery, but on pure pace Evans never stood a chance.

Agreed, I'm afraid Evans just isnt as good, simple as.

I can definitely see Ogier going for No.10 next year with no Kalle to challenge him and Hyundai being in disaray with their car.

[Doon]

Agreed, I'm afraid Evans just isnt as good, simple as.

I can definitely see Ogier going for No.10 next year with no Kalle to challenge him and Hyundai being in disaray with their car.

He could win every event.

[jparker]

It's been a while since I have watched WRC asphalt event, but this time I got lucky.
Speaking of Rally2 cars, on tide corners most of drivers kind of stop and go.
It's like they are fighting the corner, making corrections, and the result is not good.
The only exception is Solberg, and his times are showing it.

[denkimi]

He could win every event.
Unlikely with once more 7 gravel rallies in a row.

[wwbroe]

Ogier one tenth faster than in first run

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Amazing onboards to watch ... but not helping to digest my lunch ! ;)

[TypeR]

Evans surprisingly slow.. can't match Ogier and Kalle with pure speed..

No point to talk about Hyundais :D

[Morte66]

Neuville is using the hood to wave to spectators.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

That bonnet has done well to hold.

[meh]

That bonnet has done well to hold.

At least there is one good quality part in the Hyundai - the thing that holds the bonnet driver-side corner.

[Rallyper]

Evans surprisingly slow.. can't match Ogier and Kalle with pure speed..

No point to talk about Hyundais :D

So what about rest of the pack? Even slower.

[EstWRC]

Tänak the only Hyundai to separate the Toyotas and give at least some kind of fight

Fourmaux surprisingly faded away

[Morte66]

Evans gained 0.7 on Tanak and is 0.5 behind now, with the penalty. I'm really hoping he can overtake him today, but that's not an easy thing...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fourmaux surprisingly faded away

Struggling with the car now in this stage.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Solberg showing his class again, beating McErlean in the Puma twice.

[flat_right]

Tänak the only Hyundai to separate the Toyotas and give at least some kind of fight

Fourmaux surprisingly faded away

That 2024 car works like magic.

[EstWRC]

I’m sorry but I don’t see a reason why Toyota should keep Pajari.

His season has been disappointing and I don’t see much progress at all

[flat_right]

Because he is Finnish and if he is not in Rally1 car, then there are no fins there next year. Never gonna happen.

[Morte66]

I think Toyota have played it right with Pajari. He hasn't been pushed too far too soon like Tanak/Evans were and had to be dropped back to WRC2. He's in a second team, not keeping another driver out. He may come good in the long term -- it's a gamble, but Toyota has the money.

[PLuto]

However I do think we need to separate WRC from National rules.

I dont think so. If the regulations are written clearly and followed on every race, everybody know the punishment for the mistake. But if the rule is vague and not clear, it can be penalised by different way on different races...

[PLuto]

Was this stage or part of it used two years ago as well?

No, it was never used in CER. But it is used in Czech championship in Rallye Cesky Krumlov.

[APX]

I’m sorry but I don’t see a reason why Toyota should keep Pajari.

His season has been disappointing and I don’t see much progress at all

First proper day of rally and you already send home whole Hyundai team, Munster and Pajari..

[jparker]

I think Toyota have played it right with Pajari. He hasn't been pushed too far too soon like Tanak/Evans were and had to be dropped back to WRC2. He's in a second team, not keeping another driver out. He may come good in the long term -- it's a gamble, but Toyota has the money.
His times are up and down, so I tend to agree with your statement.

[EstWRC]

First proper day of rally and you already send home whole Hyundai team, Munster and Pajari..

Yeah like I did these conclusions based on day one only…

I still would send Pajari and Munster to home. Also Katsuta.

Hyundai team will go home anyway in a years time

[wyler]

Yeah like I did these conclusions based on day one only…

I still would send Pajari and Munster to home. Also Katsuta.

Hyundai team will go home anyway in a years time

and who would you replace them with? (solberg apart)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle is coming for you, Seb !

[Morte66]

Oh, that is getting very close. Good stage for Evans too. Let's see what Tanak does...

[BlueStrike]

Neuville visually with much higher commitment over that crest than Tänak. And he‘s faster as well with half the bumper and wheel arch missing… not a good run from Ott, despite his comment at stage end.

[meh]

not a good run from Ott, despite his comment at stage end.

If you say that everything is ok, you don't need to explain it further and answer follow-up questions such as "what exactly is wrong" :)

[Morte66]

Wow, Taka had one of his good moments.

[EstWRC]

What was this from Tänak. Even Neuville faster

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fourmaux (or his car) suddenly back to speed again.

[Morte66]

Kalle is coming for you, Seb !

You have learned well, young padawan, but you are not a jedi yet.

[jonkka]

You have learned well, young padawan, but you are not a jedi yet.

Then again, with running order being reversed for next leg, running ahead of Ogier might be beneficial and 0,6s gap is nothing. We'll see tomorrow.

[EstWRC]

Seems the 24 Hyundai is fast only for first two splits and then gets exhausted

[Dontcut]

Every Hyundai driver is struggling with the car on tarmac. Who the hell designed that car that way? How they completely cocked it up?

[Morte66]

Then again, with running order being reversed for next leg, running ahead of Ogier might be beneficial and 0,6s gap is nothing. We'll see tomorrow.

Yes, I was wondering about that. I'm not sure how cleaning/pollution will play out tomorrow, depends on the stages.

Perhaps we'll see that my man Elfyn would have been better off 0.1 behind Tanak tonight. But overtaking him is very satisfying. :) Edit: and a stage win, too.

[denkimi]

Every Hyundai driver is struggling with the car on tarmac. Who the hell designed that car that way? How they completely cocked it up?
And how do they keep cocking it up year after year.

[Morte66]

A couple of drivers complaining about the glare off the anti-cuts. It does look a bit fierce in the onboards.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

A couple of drivers complaining about the glare off the anti-cuts. It does look a bit fierce in the onboards.

A stupid design when the cars spotlights are mega-bright anyway.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

And how do they keep cocking it up year after year.

As Tanak said, how much more can I get out the the car, I've been driving it for years ?!

And even Neuville is chasing and changing the set-up drastically even during the rally to find a sweet spot.

Its just ridiculous and yet Wheatley said he's seen great people working super-hard in the Team...

[becher]

A stupid design when the cars spotlights are mega-bright anyway.

They are general purpose traffic things, so not a "stupid" design but rather not fit for the job.

[PLuto]

They are general purpose traffic things, so not a "stupid" design but rather not fit for the job.

Usually in Czech, when it is night stage, we are covering this anticuts with bags, so they are not so much reflexive, but still visible...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why there are anti-cuts ;)

https://youtu.be/F2wmL7bur2Q?si=Epk5VCjp1Qos4Gts

[CeskyOndra]

The weather is demanding this morning, especially in Czechia. Short rain showers.

[meh]

Why there are anti-cuts ;)

https://youtu.be/F2wmL7bur2Q?si=Epk5VCjp1Qos4Gts

If Evans got 5 seconds for just moving the haybell, I wonder how many penalties can be written based on this video...

[Eli]

Why there are anti-cuts ;)

https://youtu.be/F2wmL7bur2Q?si=Epk5VCjp1Qos4Gts

If they do these things in Czech they’ll be out, Keply is a really really narrow one.

[Eli]

Every Hyundai driver is struggling with the car on tarmac. Who the hell designed that car that way? How they completely cocked it up?

Saw the mechanics last night, completely exhausted, you see Cyril speaking and see he’s frustration on his face “what did I get myself into”

[Rallyper]

I dont think so. If the regulations are written clearly and followed on every race, everybody know the punishment for the mistake. But if the rule is vague and not clear, it can be penalised by different way on different races...

For sure. But WRC would be the superior part here.

[CeskyOndra]

Do we have tyre choices?

[Snusparty]

SS9-SS11 tyre choices are as follows; Neuville 3 softs, 3 wets, McErlean 5 softs. Everyone else 4 softs and 2 wet tyres.

[Rallyper]

So rain is expecting later?

[TypeR]

Surprisingly small gaps so far..

[Dontcut]

Tänak is making pace note change every corner :D

[CeskyOndra]

So rain is expecting later?

It's raining SS10,11

[TypeR]

Neuville stage win then I suppose

[EstWRC]

Tänak is making pace note change every corner :D

Yeah I noticed it also. Martin was writing all the time

[Morte66]

So, penalty for moving that bale?

[jonkka]

So, penalty for moving that bale?

Does it matter if you're minutes down? :D

[TypeR]

Decisions must be consistent.. even if they seem pointless


Pajari quite slow at the end
E: Fourmaux also very slo

[Dontcut]

Live maps show that Kalle has stopped?

[Rallyper]

seems like that... Kalle stopped?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kalle still going and quick.

[Morte66]

Evans snaking under braking, and getting the back out slightly more than usual. Edit: says he was far too careful in some sections.

[TypeR]

Evans not using the advantage of Toyota as much as Kalle and Ogier..

[EstWRC]

Damn Toyota please give Tänak the car

He is doing miracles with the Hyundai

[Morte66]

Wow, Rovanpera was fast.

[TypeR]

Okay, everybody is slow after Kalle finish :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier off !!!

[focus206]

Ogier off!

[TypeR]

Ogirr off, bye

[Morte66]

Ogier is off and properly stopped.

[Dontcut]

Ogier gone

[Tauri_J]

Bye bye championship

[BlueStrike]

Seb‘s done it again.

[becher]

what?

[jonkka]

Unlucky that there was tree right there.

[EstWRC]

Like last year, when you actually put pressure to him then he makes mistakes

This is actually now a chance for Tänak in the championship

["Username"]

what was he screaming there?

[linni]

Live maps show that Kalle has stopped?

Cannot trust Live Maps this time. Occasionally showing Ott splits a minute slower.

[focus206]

Very angry / disappointed reaction, look how much it meant to him. Championship not over for him though. Now big chance for Kalle, Evans too.

[Morte66]

Evans snaking under braking, and getting the back out slightly more than usual. Edit: says he was far too careful in some sections.

Well, perhaps there is something to be said for "careful".

Rovanpera can back off now, but Evans is very much in it with Tanak.

[Rallyper]

This turns the the WRC world up and down... (Dont think his car can be repaired. massive inpact must´ve been damaged the roll cage)

[focus206]

what was he screaming there?

"It's not possible!"

[fantastic.priit]

Ullalalaallll. What a show.

[Rallyper]

what was he screaming there?

"cest ne pas possible." "I can´t believe" it, or "it impossible" smth like that.

[denkimi]

Like last year, when you actually put pressure to him then he makes mistakes

This is actually now a chance for Tänak in the championship

this is mostly a chance for evans. rovanpera will gain a bit, but ogier loses a lot.

[Morte66]

Very angry / disappointed reaction, look how much it meant to him.
He's normally so "been there, done that, not getting emotional".


Championship not over for him though.

Quite right. Other people can crash too.

[Tauri_J]

Very angry / disappointed reaction, look how much it meant to him. Championship not over for him though. Now big chance for Kalle, Evans too.

The guy has gotten away with so much.

This was bound to happen at some point

[Dontcut]

Like last year, when you actually put pressure to him then he makes mistakes

This is actually now a chance for Tänak in the championship

First, Ott has to stay calm and not to try anything crazy with this undriveable car.