The last time Rally Poland was held was in 2017, and after that, the event lost its WRC status. One of the main reasons was that spectators did not know how to behave.
In seven years, nothing seems to have changed. Spectators caused repeated disturbances on Friday, and two special stages had to be cancelled because spectators were in the wrong places watching the competition. One special stage was also temporarily halted, but it was decided to complete that stage anyway.
“To the fans, I want to say that it is great to see you on the stages, but we do not want to see you in front of the rally car or too close to it. So please be kind and follow the instructions. We want you to stay safe, and we do not want any of you to get hurt, or any of us to get hurt,” Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä appealed to the spectators.
Although the spectators caused problems, Rally Poland was still able to go ahead. It went quite smoothly for Rovanperä, as the Finn is currently in second place in the competition and in the fight for the win.
Before the rally, Rovanperä stated that he was not going to drive for the win, but has his mind now changed?
“It hasn’t changed much in that regard. The first loops tomorrow will be just as difficult as today. It is not easy”, Rovanperä stated and continued:
“Of course, the situation is quite good now. We will try to fight more and see what we can achieve”.
Rovanperä spent last night watching videos and eventually fell asleep at the computer. The aim is to prepare for Saturday tonight as well, but fatigue might take over.
“It depends on how long I stay awake. We will go with that. Tomorrow is the same deal, just as bad notes as today. We will do what we can”, Rovanperä planned.
