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The Acropolis Rally in Greece is more than just another event on the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar; it’s a thrilling test of endurance and skill, known for its rugged terrain and ever-changing weather. Looking forward to the 2025 edition, which has been moved up three months from last year, it’s vital to consider how this shift will impact teams and competitors. With a strong field of 68 crews registered, including entrants from Rally1, Rally2, and Rally3, the competition promises to be intense.
Overview of Competitors and Teams
This year, fans can expect to see the same 12 drivers who dazzled us at the Sardinia round lining up in Greece. Toyota is fielding a formidable team, featuring the legendary eight-time world champion Sébastien Ogier, alongside championship leader Elfyn Evans and rising star Kalle Rovanperä. Meanwhile, Sami Pajari will be representing TGR WRT 2, although Takamoto Katsuta may not be in the points chase.
On the other side, Hyundai continues to impress with their stellar lineup, showcasing world champions Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak, paired with Adrien Fourmaux. M-Sport rounds out the roster with talents like Grégoire Munster and Josh McErlean, along with Mãrtiņš Sesks and Jourdan Serderidis, who brings a fourth Puma vehicle to the mix.
The WRC2 category remains fiercely competitive, featuring strong contenders like Yohan Rossel, Oliver Solberg, and Gus Greensmith. But they’ll need to keep an eye on skilled drivers like Jan Solans, Roberto Daprà, and Emil Lindholm, who are all poised to shake things up.
Stage Layout and Rally Details
The excitement kicks off with a superspecial stage in Athens on Thursday, leading into a unique Friday format that includes a remote service in Loutraki. This leg will feature the iconic Aghii Theodori stage, alongside several single-pass challenges like Thiva, Stiri, and Elatia.
On Saturday, we return to a classic format with two runs of the Pavliani-Karoutes-Inohori loop, while Sunday promises to be particularly demanding, featuring a lengthy test known as ‘Tarzan.’ This will be part of a heavy ‘Super Sunday,’ where competitors will tackle a grueling 61.5 miles—making it the longest stage of the season so far.
As the rally progresses, the unpredictable conditions typical of the Acropolis will surely put the drivers’ skills and strategies to the ultimate test.
Expectations and Insights
With all these changes and fierce rivalries, the 2025 Acropolis Rally is set to be a pivotal event in the WRC calendar. Drivers like Nikolay Gryazin, who won’t be competing for championship points, could still play a crucial role in shaping the race dynamics as the season unfolds.
The return of the Junior WRC adds an exciting layer to the event, with Taylor Gill and Mille Johansson currently tied at the top of the points. This rivalry suggests that the competition in this category will be just as heated! Local Greek drivers are also joining the Junior WRC participants, adding a regional flavor to the mix.
As we gear up for the rally, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of motorsport, highlighting the resilience and skill of the drivers as they navigate the challenging landscapes of Greece. Are you ready for the action?