Reliving the Action: ADAC Rallye Deutschland 2014 Power Stage
The ADAC Rallye Deutschland 2014 provided rally fans with an exhilarating spectacle, particularly during its final Power Stage. This article delves into the thrilling onboard footage of Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt as they tackled the challenging SS18 Grafschaft 2 stage in their Ford Fiesta RS WRC.
The Stage at a Glance
- Event: ADAC Rallye Deutschland 2014
- Stage: SS18 Grafschaft 2 (Power Stage)
- Length: 19.27 km
- Crew: Elfyn Evans (Driver) / Daniel Barritt (Co-driver)
- Team: M-Sport World Rally Team
- Car: Ford Fiesta RS WRC
Setting the Scene
The Grafschaft 2 stage served as the Power Stage for the 2014 ADAC Rallye Deutschland, offering drivers a final chance to secure additional championship points. This 19.27 km stretch of road would prove to be a true test of skill and nerve for the M-Sport World Rally Team duo.
"Every corner counts in a Power Stage. It’s where you push to the absolute limit." – Rally wisdom
The Run
As Evans and Barritt set off, the tension is palpable. The Ford Fiesta RS WRC roars to life, its engine echoing through the German countryside. From the onboard footage, we can appreciate the incredible speed and precision required to navigate the twisting asphalt roads.
Key Moments
- 0:15 – A quick left-right combination showcases Evans’ smooth driving style
- 1:30 – The Fiesta slides slightly wide on a tight hairpin, but Evans corrects quickly
- 3:45 – A long straight allows the WRC car to reach impressive speeds
- 5:20 – Barritt’s pace notes become more intense as they enter a technical section
- 7:10 – The car bounces over a series of compressions, testing the suspension
Technicality and Skill
The onboard footage highlights the immense skill required to compete at the WRC level. Evans demonstrates precise throttle control, expertly balancing the car through corners while maintaining maximum speed. Barritt’s pace notes are delivered with clockwork precision, allowing Evans to anticipate upcoming turns and hazards.
Cornering Techniques Observed
| Technique | Description | Example Time in Video |
|---|---|---|
| Trail Braking | Continuing to brake while turning in | 2:35 |
| Scandinavian Flick | Using weight transfer to initiate a slide | 4:10 |
| Cutting Corners | Using every inch of the road, including curbs | Throughout |
The Importance of Teamwork
While Evans’ driving skills are on full display, the run also showcases the crucial role of co-driver Daniel Barritt. His calm, clear delivery of pace notes ensures that Evans can focus entirely on driving at the limit.
"The relationship between driver and co-driver is like a well-oiled machine. One simply can’t function without the other." – Rally expert
Challenges Faced
The Grafschaft 2 stage presented several challenges:
- Varying road surfaces
- Tight hairpin turns
- High-speed sections requiring absolute commitment
- Elevation changes testing car setup and driver skill
The Final Push
As Evans and Barritt approach the final kilometers of the stage, the intensity ramps up. Every second counts in the Power Stage, with valuable championship points on the line. The crew pushes harder, taking slightly more risks as they near the finish line.
Last Kilometer Breakdown
- 18.27 km: A series of fast sweeping corners
- 18.75 km: Hard braking into a tight left-hander
- 19.00 km: Final straight leading to the finish line
- 19.27 km: Flying finish
Conclusion
The onboard footage from SS18 of the 2014 ADAC Rallye Deutschland offers an incredible insight into the world of WRC. It showcases not only the raw speed and power of the Ford Fiesta RS WRC but also the immense skill and teamwork required to compete at the highest level of rally racing.
Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt’s run through the Grafschaft 2 Power Stage is a testament to their abilities and the preparation of the M-Sport World Rally Team. While the final results of this stage weren’t provided in the original content, the footage alone demonstrates why the WRC continues to captivate fans around the world.
For rally enthusiasts, onboard videos like this one provide an unparalleled view into the cockpit, allowing us to experience the thrill of WRC competition from the comfort of our homes. It’s a reminder of the incredible skill, bravery, and teamwork that defines the sport of rally racing.
