The third participation of Kostas Kapourelakos and Georgia Zabeli in the 2025 Acropolis Rally marks another milestone in their journey within Greek motorsport. Known globally as the “Rally of the Gods,” this event is far more than another round of the championship; it is a legendary challenge that demands technical skill, endurance, strategy, and absolute composure from its crews. Its reputation is built on the demanding mountain stages, the harsh Greek terrain that pushes cars and drivers to their limits, and the decades of history that have cemented it as one of the toughest rallies in Europe.
Ceremonial Start under the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis
Their journey began on Friday evening, with the ceremonial start taking place beneath the imposing, sacred rock of the Acropolis. Inside their familiar and beloved Toyota Starlet, Kostas and Georgia stood amid the lights, the crowds, and the historic atmosphere of the ceremony. It was a moment filled with emotion and determination—the beginning of a new challenge in the most demanding rally of the year.
Day 1 – The Ups and Downs of a True Acropolis Rally
Stage 1 – Asopia: A Promising Start
The first stage of the day, Asopia, unfolded ideally. From the very first meters, the crew realized the Starlet was performing exceptionally well—stable, responsive, and ready for a strong pace. The communication between driver and co-driver was precise and effective, giving them confidence moving forward.
Stage 2 – Thiva: The First Major Climb
Thiva presented a classic Acropolis-style challenge: uphill sections, constant hairpins, and demanding rhythm changes. Despite the difficulty, the crew stayed focused and completed the stage smoothly, maintaining a solid pace and high morale.
Stage 3 – Akraifnio: The Unfortunate Moment
Akraifnio brought the first major setback. The throttle cable snapped midway through the stage, bringing them to an unexpected stop. It was one of those moments that can easily end a rally prematurely. Yet Kostas remained calm and determined, pulling over and repairing the issue on the spot. Valuable minutes were lost, but not their will. They pressed on and reached the stage finish, demonstrating true rally spirit.
Stage 4 – Elikonas: Challenges and Persistence
The uphill Elikonas stage once again showcased the demanding nature of the Acropolis Rally. Harsh surfaces, constantly shifting grip levels, and narrow sections requiring perfect precision. Despite the fatigue and stress of the previous issue, the crew kept a steady rhythm and finished without further problems.
Stage 5 – Mavroneri: A Strong Comeback
Mavroneri was perhaps their best stage of the first day. They found their rhythm again, drove cleanly and confidently, and recovered much of the time lost in Akraifnio. Their performance was excellent—a clear reflection of their ability to reset mentally and push forward.
Stage 6 – Parnassos: The Day’s Unfortunate End
The difficult downhill Parnassos stage proved decisive. Shortly after the midway point, the Starlet was forced to retire due to a burnt distributor. The failure was terminal and prevented them from starting Stage 7 (Amfissa 1). Still, their determination to continue on the following day remained unshaken.
Day 2 – The Power of Will
The second day began with unwelcome news: the crew was informed that the absence of the required HTP document might cause problems for their final classification. Despite the disappointment, they chose to keep going—exactly as any team respecting the Acropolis Rally would do.
Stage 8 – Amfissa 2
Although it was uphill and demanding, this stage confirmed that the Starlet had been properly repaired the night before. Their pace was stable and reassuring.
Stages 9–12: Oinochori, Amfikleia 1, Elateia–Zeli, Amfikleia 2
These four stages were classic, beautiful, and technical Acropolis tests. Everything ran smoothly, the crew maintained good rhythm, and avoided mistakes. These stages allowed them to rebuild momentum after the difficulties of Day 1.
Stage 13 – Oinochori 2: The Finish in Delphi
The final stage, Oinochori 2, led the crew to their much-earned finish in Delphi. A moment of vindication for their perseverance, even though they knew that without the HTP they would not appear in the official results. The document was finally issued in early October—much later than needed—dated 5/8.
Gratitude and a Promise for the Future
Despite all obstacles, Kostas and Georgia gave everything they had. Along with their supporting team, they gained invaluable experience that will make them even stronger in their next Acropolis Rally participation.
Finally, special mention must be made of **Ilias Manouskos**, whose presence at service after each special stage proved crucial. His expertise, support, and calm approach were instrumental in helping the crew continue all the way to the finish. And of course, our sponsors, without whom the dream of participating in this great event would not have been possible:
GT2i
Our service crew: Ilias Manouskos, as well as the highly experienced Nikos Chrysafis
MaxPrind – Giannis Katsikas
Bollas Agencies – Distributions
Rektifie Original
Yacco Greece
Capspeed Motorsport
Communication sponsor: LFH, pitmagazine.gr, Xristos Krokeai
