Rally Racing: Takamoto Tanakouzounds the competition at the Acropolis Rally, maintaining a significant lead
The 2025 EKO Acropolis Rally Greece is heating up, with Ott Tänak of Hyundai Motorsport maintaining a commanding lead after six stages. The event, held from June 26 to 29 in Central Greece, is known for its demanding gravel terrain and extreme heat, which have caused significant attrition, with only 49 finishers out of 67 starters by the event's close[1].
Tänak's dominance was notable on a tough Saturday under scorching conditions, following a slender lead he secured after a punishing Friday[2]. His performance has created a gap with his rivals, placing him in a strong position for Hyundai Motorsport's first victory of the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship season[2].
In terms of podium contenders from the overall 2025 Acropolis Rally, Tänak secured his 22nd career win and 56th podium finish[1]. Sébastien Ogier took second place, marking his 110th podium[1]. Adrien Fourmaux finished third, achieving his 7th podium[1].
Notable incidents during the first six stages are not explicitly listed in the sources, but the rally is known for its challenging conditions, which typically contribute to mechanical issues and retirements[2]. Thierry Neuville, Hyundai's defending world champion, fought back into fifth place despite tyre damage in the morning[1].
As the rally heads into its final day, Sunday's four-stage finale is crucial for Elfyn Evans, as he and Neuville are still competing for the championship[1]. The event concludes tomorrow with four stages, totaling 99.06 kilometres[1].
In the WRC3 category, Ali Türkkan is still ahead, while Kajetanowicz maintains his lead in the WRC2 Challenger category[1]. Oliver Solberg leads the WRC2 category in seventh overall with a comfortable buffer over Gus Greensmith, Kajetan Kajetanowicz, and Yohan Rossel[1].
The new 26.16-kilometre Smokovo stage is first, starting at 08h03 local time[1]. Grégoire Munster completed the leg of the Acropolis Rally in sixth place despite a faulty handbrake on his Ford Puma Rally1[1]. Josh McErlean of M-Sport Ford World Rally Team dropped to 13th due to a broken rear driveshaft and no handbrake[1]. Both Rovanpera and Katsuta are set to restart on Sunday[1].
The EKO Acropolis Rally Greece is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion, with Tänak holding a 43.6s lead over Ogier heading into the final day[1]. Stay tuned for updates as the rally reaches its dramatic conclusion.
[1] EKO Acropolis Rally Greece Official Website [2] Autosport.com [3] Motorsport.com
Sports enthusiasts, particularly rally racing fans, will be on the edge of their seats as Ott Tänak competes in the final stages of the EKO Acropolis Rally Greece. His lead over Sébastien Ogier grows as they race towards the finish line, with Tänak being a strong contender for Hyundai Motorsport's first victory of the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship season.
