The heat is on!

It’s well known that the EKO Acropolis Rally is the FIA WRC event where predictions often fail, and the unexpected can happen at any corner. This year, that reputation was reinforced even before the first stage started.

Despite the delayed arrival of the rally cars due to heavy traffic at Athens' entrance, thousands of spectators waited patiently and raised the atmosphere even further. They created images that will stay etched in memory and showcase Greece to every corner of the world.

An apology is owed for the inconvenience caused to everyday citizens, spectators, competitors, and all involved. Their dedication, patience, and support - despite the objective difficulties - confirm that EKO Acropolis Rally is not just a motorsport event, but a living part of the Greek summer.

In the collective consciousness of motorsport fans, EKO Acropolis Rally is closely associated with its traditional summer slot and hot temperatures. Returning to a summer schedule for the first time since 2013 (when it was held from 31 May to 2 June), this year’s rally presents unfamiliar conditions for most crews — raising the level of difficulty and testing the limits of competition.

With both drivers and machines pushed to their limits, this year speed and reliability are no longer sufficient: more than ever, total focus and calm-headedness are essential.

With engines shaking the air, tyres defying the laws of physics, and rally cars moving with the precision and grace of ballet dancers, the competitive action of EKO Acropolis Rally 2025 got underway in spectacular fashion at the Zappeion Hall.

A total of 67 crews from 31 countries — including four World Champions, 12 Rally1 cars, and dozens more entries across all support categories — took part in the EKO Athens Super Special Stage, held under extreme heat. Thanks to the support of the Region of Attica and the hospitality of the City of Athens, the stage returned to the heart of the capital for the first time since 2021.

For the record, Sebastien Ogier (Toyota GR Yaris) and Ott Tanak (Hyundai i20 N) recorded identical fastest times, while Takamoto Katsuta, also in a GR Yaris, finished just 0.9 seconds behind.

The action continues with three days of competition featuring a mix of classic and new stages, such as Stiri and Smokovo — the latter marking the return of the Region of Thessaly to the World Rally Championship for the first time in 30 years.

Tomorrow marks the first full competitive day, featuring a total of 121.76 kilometres across six special stages. Among these, only Agioi Theodoroi will be run twice, starting at 07:28. As expected, the crews’ journey towards Lamia — where they are scheduled to arrive at 20:43 — will be long, demanding, and, as always, unpredictable. One thing is certain: things are heating up…

For high-resolution photos click here.