With just two rounds to follow – in Finland and Central Europe – this week’s event could prove pivotal in shaping the race to become Junior WRC champion and earn four fully-funded WRC2 drives in 2026. The Acropolis is known for its rough gravel roads, high attrition and extreme temperatures, where simply reaching the finish can be as important as setting fast times.
Among those aiming to close the gap at the top is Türkiye’s Kerem Kazaz, who arrives off the back of a podium in Portugal. Ireland’s Eamonn Kelly returns after showing strong pace last time out and will be eager to make amends after a double puncture cost a potential podium finish.
Also back in action are Thomas Martens, Ali Türkkan and Max Smart. Paraguay’s Diego Domínguez, who claimed a Junior WRC victory in Greece in 2023, will be hoping to secure his first podium of what has so far been a rocky season, while Claire Schönborn – winner of the Beyond Rally Women’s Driver Development Programme – returns with experienced co-driver Michael Wenzel alongside for the first time.
Each crew will once again tackle the rally in identical M-Sport Poland-run Ford Fiesta Rally3 Evos, with Hankook tyres and strict technical parity keeping the focus purely on driver and co-driver performance.
EKO Acropolis Rally Greece starts in capital city Athens on Thursday (26 June) evening and includes 17 stages totalling almost 350km against the clock before Sunday afternoon’s finish.
Maciej Woda, FIA Junior WRC Championship Manager: “The championship couldn’t be more finely poised heading into Greece, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the crews handle the challenge. The Acropolis is one of those events where driving smart is just as important as driving fast. It’s rough, it’s demanding, and it rewards those who stay sharp and avoid mistakes. Striking the right balance will be key.”
