PHOTOS by WRC Gallery: Tanak is taking up a flat jump.
BY F.KAHEESI& H.MBAZIIRA, LOUTRAKI GREECE.
AFTER the festive atmosphere of the ceremonial start at Zappeion Hall on Thursday, the WRC contenders were brought back to reality.
The tough reality of Greek gravel, Friday became a true test of endurance, a classic Acropolis marathon reminiscent of past days.
PHOTOS: WRC Gallery
Beginning in Loutraki and ending in Lamia, the route required much more than just speed.
Strategy, race craft, and experience proved essential on a day when punctures were nearly unavoidable for most crews.
Only a few drivers came through the six gruelling stages of the day unscathed.
Ott Tanak, despite struggling with his Hyundai i20 N Rally1 in the tighter sections, found speed in the afternoon and finished the day in top position.
PHOTOS: WRC Gallery
Just 3.5 seconds behind him, teammate Adrien Fourmaux capitalised on a favourable road position and managed to overtake Sebastien Ogier.
The eight-time World Champion, showed impressive form in his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1.
Despite starting second on the road, he posted stage-winning times and remains firmly in contention, just 17 seconds behind the leader.
PHOTOS by WRC Gallery: Tanak is taking up a flat jump.
Elfyn Evans, who was first on the road, lost valuable time but still remains in fourth place – a commendable result considering the conditions.
The top five is completed by Grégoire Munster (Ford Puma Rally1, M-Sport Ford), who maintained a clean line and a steady pace, avoiding errors and tyre issues.
Both Takamoto Katsuta and Kalle Rovanpera (Toyota Gazoo Racing) experienced punctures, losing about two minutes each and dropping down the standings.
PHOTOS: WRC Gallery
Nonetheless, the day’s worst misfortune went to Thierry Neuville, whose Hyundai i20 N Rally1 had two punctures during the loop.
WRC2 competitors also struggled. The rugged terrain pushed every car and crew to their limits, with tyres playing a crucial role.
PHOTOS by WRC Gallery: Nueville pushes to limit through rocks.
Oliver Solberg (Toyota GR Yaris Rally2) found the perfect balance between speed and control to take the lead.
He is closely followed by Kajetan Kajetanowicz (Toyota GR Yaris Rally2) and Gus Greensmith (Skoda Fabia Rally2 evo), with just 3 seconds separating the two.
PHOTOS: WRC Gallery
More updates will follow….
