Is Wales Rally GB going soft in its old age? Will this year’s event be the final time it will be held as a wet, cold and dark rally before it moves again to the early October date planned for 2018? Mid October statistically is the time when Britain climatically turns from the late summer into autumn weather. Mads Ostberg is under no illusion.
“It’s a classic gravel rally on roads with proper ditches and trees in the forest. To imagine Wales Rally GB in sunshine and dry roads feels completely wrong. Wales is rain, fog and mud, and that in itself is a great challenge,” Mads says.
As usual the teams were more circumspect in their opinions. Citroen: “We already did this rally at this time in 2005 and 2012. It’s a different but very interesting rally.” Hyundai: “Weather in GB is unpredictable in any month of the year, so we expect the same even in early October...” M-Sport, the hardy team based in Cumbria’s wild areas of the far north of England, stated:
“We don’t feel it is likely to change the character of the event. The Welsh weather is similar to the Cumbrian weather, and we know how wet, cold, dark and windy it can be in early October!”

A wet and dark service for Peugeot on the 1986 RAC Rally. Photo: Martin Holmes

SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY

RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news, features and experiences nobody can match. Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
Already have an account?

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Account Details
Payment Information

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Show Your Support

Author

Title