Thierry Neuville will need to take more risks to keep pace with Sébastien Ogier in the closing gravel stages of the Acropolis Rally Greece.
Saturday’s Close‑Quarters Duel
Neuville edged Ogier by 4.1 seconds after a tense Saturday, following a 7.1 second advantage in stage 12 that was shortened when road conditions worsened. Ogier counter‑attacked the final stage of the day to trim the lead to 4.1 seconds.
Risk‑Adjusted Strategy for the Final Day
With only 84 km of competitive road left, both drivers recognize that pushing their vehicles further is necessary. Neuville highlighted the need for increased speed and “a bit more risk” in the rough sections. He pointed out that the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 typically performs better on the rough surface and that this advantage can be leveraged if the ridery is willing to gamble.
“We have been able to control our speed and now, with 84 km left, we need to raise the speed and take a bit more risk in the rougher sections if we want to win the rally,” Neuville said. “We (myself and Ogier) both have to go that way. We will see if there is a lucky one or if the fight continues to the very end.”
Team Perspective
Hyundai sporting director Andrew Wheatley confirmed that the team’s objective is win. “The stages tomorrow will be very difficult and anything can happen,” he said. “The target is clear; we want the championship back.”
Ogier’s Cautious Approach
Ogier, who lost a likely victory to a puncture in Rally Portugal earlier in the season, maintains a more measured risk‑reward balance. “I try to stay out of misfortune, but with such a close gap we have to aim for a strong result,” he told Motorsport.com. “Two thirds of the job is done, but tomorrow is still a big day ahead.”
In reaction to the shortened stage 12, Ogier praised the FIA for removing the most hazardous 4.5 km of the Ghymno test. “I think we can thank them for being clever and making the right choice,” he added, noting that the decision helped protect teams from excessive punctures.
Implications for the Championship Race
Hyundai’s drivers face a substantial deficit against Toyota and its drivers in the overall standings. While settling for second could seem reasonable, both the team and Neuville emphasize that a win remains the priority. Ogier’s cautious yet relentless style contrasts with Neuville’s aggressive risk‑taking in pursuit of victory.
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