The first stage of Rally Chile was abruptly canceled due to safety concerns caused by unruly spectators, creating a dramatic start to the event. Despite the disruption, the first three drivers—Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak, and Sébastien Ogier—managed to complete the test, with Ogier showcasing his skill by clocking a blistering time that was 9.1 seconds faster than his rivals.
The eight-time World Champion, Ogier, who recently faced a suspended €30,000 fine for his controversial remarks in Greece, remained tight-lipped but positive after his stunning performance. “All good, good start,” Ogier said, keeping his comments brief as he aimed to set the tone for the rally.
Ott Tänak, driving for M-Sport Ford, was second quickest, finishing 1.4 seconds ahead of his Hyundai team-mate Neuville. While Tänak pushed hard, Neuville, who started first on the road, took a cautious approach, focused on preserving his lead in the championship standings.
Neuville Faces Tough Conditions
Neuville described the opening stage as “really challenging,” struggling with near-zero grip on the dusty Chilean roads. However, the Belgian driver, intent on maintaining his championship position, remained unfazed by the tricky conditions. “We know what’s our target,” Neuville commented. “I didn’t dare too much in there.”
Following the completion of the stage by the leading trio, all remaining competitors were instructed to proceed through the stage at road speed, bypassing the competitive element due to the spectator chaos. This incident highlights ongoing safety challenges in rallying, as organizers work to ensure a secure environment for both drivers and fans.
With the cancellation setting a dramatic tone, Rally Chile promises to be a test of skill, strategy, and composure for the world’s top rally drivers as they navigate not only the treacherous terrain but also the unpredictable conditions off the road.
