Neuville Enjoying Intense Acropolis Rally Fight

Thierry Neuville says he is relishing his close battle with Sebastien Ogier at the 2026 Acropolis Rally Greece after retaining the overall lead by 3.7 seconds following Saturday morning's stages.

The Hyundai Motorsport driver insisted finishing Saturday still in the lead is not his main priority. With only a few seconds separating the front-runners, he believes the demanding conditions on Saturday afternoon and Sunday could still reshape the rally.

"Of course, the closer we get to the finish, the more we'll have to increase the pace. But at the moment, I don't think it matters much whether the gap is five seconds one way or the other. This afternoon and tomorrow the conditions will be extremely tough, and anything can still happen."

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Neuville was also pleased with his performance throughout Saturday morning despite Ogier reducing the gap. He felt comfortable with his rhythm, encountered no major issues, and kept the car intact through the demanding stages.

"The conditions were tough, but the stages were enjoyable to drive. I had a good rhythm on every stage. We didn't have any major problems and the car is still in one piece, so it hasn't gone badly at all."

The reigning world champion added that demanding gravel rallies such as the Acropolis remain his favourite because they require drivers to carefully manage pace, tyres and the car rather than simply attacking every kilometre.

"Every rally has its own characteristics, but these demanding events have always been the ones I enjoy the most. You can't drive flat out all the time here. You have to manage what you're doing, look after the car and the tyres. That's what rallying is at its very best for me."