The Acropolis rally is one of the most iconic rounds to be featured in the WRC. but it can also be a very demanding difficult rally. remember the last time we saw this rally ? Sebastien Loeb had that spectacular crash on the second day of the event. This rally is tough for even the best of drivers!
now after a years break the rally returns with a tweaked route including a night stage, a fresh identity thanks to the work of a new promoter, plus plans for a spectacular start at the site of the historic Acropolis in the Greek capital Athens, which is part of a new agreement with the country’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
the event will be based in the seaside town of Loutraki, 90 kilometres west of Athens. Loutraki hosted the rally the last time it appeared on the WRC schedule in 2009.
the ceremonial start will take place on thursday evening then fridays stages will take place north of Loutraki with three of the six special stages run close to Mount Kallidromon. Following the 23.60-kilometre Thiva test more than 100 kilometres from the main service park in Loutraki, crews head another 80 kilometres further north for the 39.10-kilometre Elatia test, the longest of the rally. (a very long rally ahead !)
with four more stages to go before the overnight halt in Loutraki instead of a full service the drivers will only be allowed a quick 15 minute remote service in the town of Kamena Vourla. where what the teams do with the cars in that time is restricted.
Saturday’s itinerary showcases three repeated stages run to the west of Loutraki, where a total of three service breaks will take place. The final service stop follows the Nea Politia stage, a 17.71-kilometre test based to the east of Loutraki and run at night.
The final day’s competition is based north of Loutraki and includes two runs of the 19.42-kilometre Aghii Theodori stage, the first four kilometres of which will form the last stage of the rally the Power Stage on Sunday afternoon which will see the drivers fight for those all important bonus points !
last time round in 2009
Mikko Hirvonen took the win after Sebastien Loeb had that horrendous crash, while Seb's team mate Seb also took second place something for Citroen to celebrate. Fords Jari-Matti Latvala took the last podium spot making it a great rally for the Ford Team!
But who will win this time round????
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