Saturday’s Rally Chile will test the World Rally Championship field as a 139.2‑kilometre stage set under conditions that should drive temperatures higher and surface moisture lower, stressing the competition’s tyre strategy.
Tyre Pressure Ahead
Teams have received an increased allocation of Hankook tyres for the weekend, a precaution after the punctures and delaminations the Rally1 crews suffered in Paraguay. The warning follows a Friday that ended without tyre incidents, but the heat expected on Saturday has pushed the groups to a heightened focus on tyre preservation.
Solberg’s Momentum
With a 10.1‑second advantage over partner Elfyn Evans, Toyota’s Oliver Solberg capitalised on Friday’s muddy conditions that followed overnight rain to seize the leading time. He stressed the need for clever driving to manage Saturday’s deflationary challenge, noting that a small margin could mean less risk for the tyre‑high stakes race ahead.
Ogier’s Calculated Gamble
Sébastien Ogier, 19.7 seconds from the front when Saturday began, admitted that the day would be jam-packed with “many things” and demanded the tyres to endure a steep increase in wear. Driver Igor is behind Hyundai’s third‑placed Adrien Fourmaux by 1.7 seconds, and both feel that only a clean run will secure the higher placements.
McErlean’s Wear Forecast
M‑Sport‑Ford’s Josh McErlean pointed out that Saturday’s extended and demanding stages will limit the likelihood of a flawless day for most crews. “The character of the roads is a different one,” he said, suggesting that the pair’s strategy will hinge on the slightest nicety or misstep.
Lappi’s Late‑Half Struggle
Esapekka Lappi, returned to the third Hyundai seat after a recent podium in Finland, has closed the day in ninth and faces a daunting cleaning hurdle on Saturday, where he starts second on the road. His remark that “the road position is so bad” indicates a clear perception that the condition of the tyres will dictate his final standing.
Photo credit: Hyundai
With the stages poised to test durability, the clear thread through Rally Chile becomes tyre life as its survival rate will shape the final leaderboard.
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