New rules at Greek rally
A new system allowing drivers to re-enter a rally after crashing out or retiring will be tested for the first time at the 51st Acropolis Rally in Greece, beginning today and running through Sunday, the governing body said yesterday. The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said in a statement that a trial would go ahead but without the cars concerned either scoring points or being classified in the event. The introduction of the «SupeRally» system, awarding points on each day and allowing retired crews back into contention on the following day, has been agreed in principle for introduction next year despite opposition from some quarters. At present only those drivers still running at the finish can score points and any car failing to finish a stage is barred from continuing. The dummy run in the sixth round of the 16-rally championship came as a surprise and could have a major bearing on running positions in the second and third legs of this weekend’s event. Defending champion Markko Martin of Estonia said yesterday: «After the rain, conditions are not so good. Most stages are slippery and the tire choice will be very important.» (Reuters)
