Watch WRC Rally Chile — Day 1 Free.

What's at Stake

As the World Rally Championship enters its crucial final phase, Day 1 of Rally Chile presents a severe test for drivers navigating the technical and fast gravel stages of the Biobío region. With championship points at a premium, mastering the opening leg is vital for securing a favorable road position and keeping title aspirations alive on these notoriously abrasive surfaces.

Form Guide

Recent rounds have highlighted the intense battle between Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport Ford, with momentum shifting rapidly on loose-surface events. Teams that have excelled in high-speed gravel setups enter Chile with a distinct advantage, though the unique camber and sweeping nature of the South American stages often punish those who fail to adapt their setups quickly during the morning loops.

Key Players to Watch

• Thierry Neuville — The Hyundai driver looks to utilize his extensive experience to manage tyre wear and maintain his push for the drivers' crown.
• Kalle Rovanperä — Renowned for his supreme car control on fast gravel, the Finn remains a constant threat to dominate the opening day's running order.
• Ott Tänak — A previous winner in Chile, the Estonian's aggressive driving style and familiarity with these specific stages make him a prime contender to lead early on.

Prediction

Expect Toyota to leverage their historic strength on fast, flowing gravel roads to edge out the competition on the opening day. Kalle Rovanperä is predicted to claim the overnight lead after Friday's stages, capitalizing on a favorable road position to build a slim but decisive gap over his Hyundai rivals.