WRC drivers are raising concerns about the demanding schedule of Rally Portugal, particularly the extreme length of Friday's leg and the tight scheduling of services and tire fitting zones. With ten stages covering 91 competitive miles and only two remote service zones, drivers are facing a 16-hour day with minimal breaks.
The Challenge of Rally Portugal
The addition of a remote service zone and two brand-new stages has made this year's rally even more challenging. Elfyn Evans, the world championship leader, described the schedule as "definitely on the extreme side," highlighting the short nights and long days that leave little time for recovery.
Kalle Rovanperä pointed out the lack of time to rest or eat, with only 10-minute breaks during regroups. Sébastien Ogier questioned the necessity of such early starts, doubting whether fans would be watching at 7 o'clock in the morning.
Drivers' Frustrations
Ott Tänak expressed frustration over the lack of consideration for driver feedback, stating, "You can complain as much as you want, but you still need to drive it." Despite the challenges, there's an acceptance that pushing limits is part of rallying, as noted by Grégoire Munster.
Richard Millener, M-Sport's team principal, revealed that the original itinerary was even more extreme. He criticized the late-night tire-fitting zone but acknowledged that a long day every now and again is a good challenge for the WRC.
Looking Ahead
The Safari Rally Kenya remains the longest of the season in terms of competitive mileage, but Portugal's schedule is proving to be a test of endurance for drivers and teams alike. With new stages and tight schedules, the rally promises to be a true test of skill and stamina.
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