Brittle and dry stages at the Acropolis

Unlike the breakdown of other world events, the crews of the 66^e edition rally of the Acropolis had three days to carry out the reconnaissance. A little over 300 km had to be covered twice and they were able to find classics like Tarzan (SS10/13) or the very long Pyrgos (33,20 km SS8/11), but also discover new sections like Perivoli ( ES9/12). “ Overall, the roads are in good condition, commented championship leader Kalle Rovanperä. There are parts that are more brittle than last year, sometimes with a lot of stones. Due to our starting order, Friday should be very difficult for us. »

Will Kalle Rovanperä become the youngest world rally champion this weekend?

While he will have to start just behind the Finn, Ott Tänak did not point out the problem of the upcoming scan. “ The specials are in good conditionhe said. There is still some mud in some places, but nothing dramatic. » It actually rained the weekend before the start of the reconnaissance and the areas in the undergrowth retained some humidity. “ I think it will be dry, asserted Thierry Neuville. We will encounter an ideal mix of smooth and brittle parts, fast, but also winding. Road position will be important on Friday. »

Sébastien Loeb seems to be happy to have returned to the Acropolis stages

« For me there are a lot of new specials and it's not so easy, explained Sébastien Loeb who has not competed in this event for 10 years. It's hard work to make the notes and create something specific. Less brittle than in the past, the chronos are still very beautiful and interesting. We know that cars have progressed in terms of suspension and damping so damaged parts shouldn't be a problem. » Like his colleagues, the nine-time champion will devote his evening to resuming his videos and notes then he will prepare for the shakedown on Thursday morning. It will take place from 7:01 a.m. on a 3,62 km special.

The Acropolis Rally crews had three days to carry out reconnaissance of the route