Sebastien Ogier Blasts FIA Over Acropolis Stage

Sebastien Ogier criticised the FIA and the organisers of the 2026 Acropolis Rally Greece over the condition of the Ghymnon stage, warning that the rally could be decided by punctures rather than outright pace.

The Toyota Gazoo Racing driver has been among the fastest competitors on Saturday and reduced Thierry Neuville's lead to under four seconds. However, Ogier expects the repeat passes of Ghymnon and Menalo Mountain on Saturday afternoon to create a far more difficult challenge.

"The first five kilometres are in an absolutely extreme condition. It's going to be pure lottery. I'm being completely honest. I've even asked my team to speak to the organisers and the FIA because this five-kilometre section is simply not acceptable."

Baca JugaSebastien Ogier Kritik FIA Soal Etape Akropolis

"It's too dangerous. The tyres won't survive, the road is extremely narrow and there's virtually nowhere to stop and change a puncture. It would just be stupid."

Ogier stressed that he does not want a rally to be decided in that manner. According to the eight-time world champion, the simplest solution would be to move the stage start five kilometres further in to avoid using the most extreme section.

"From my point of view, it would be easy to move the start five kilometres further into the stage. It wouldn't change the rally very much, but it would make much more sense. Still, I'm fairly sure nothing will happen until something actually goes wrong."

While still trying to keep pressure on Neuville, Ogier said his overall approach remains the same as Friday, focusing on a consistent rhythm rather than taking unnecessary risks. He said the only stage where he pushed hard was the final one of the morning because it was the last run before service.

"From the outside it may look like we're in a very tense battle, but in reality I'm still focused on my own job. I'm not trying to do anything stupid. The aim is to keep a consistent pace without taking unnecessary risks."

Ogier also revealed that his car lost its rear wing during the final morning stage, possibly after hitting a branch. The damage did not cost him significant time because the second half of the stage was highly technical, but he admitted the rear of the car became far less stable.

The Acropolis Rally Greece continues on Saturday afternoon with two more special stages before Sunday's final leg, with Ogier's concerns over Ghymnon now a central storyline in his fight against Neuville.