- ADAC Rallye Deutschland warm-up lap is insider’s tip for rally fans
- Big rally party for the fans
Munich/Trier, 5 August 2013 – For the first time, the ADAC Rallye Deutschland will begin with a drivers’ presentation next to the Cologne Cathedral this year (Thursday, 22 August). However, the participants of the German WRC event will already get down to business the day before: At the Konz Shakedown, WRC aces such as Sébastien Ogier, Mikko Hirvonen and German driver Sepp Wiegand will complete their mandatory warm-up for the next few days at the rally.
The 4.55km section between Konz and the municipality of Kommlingen anticipates typical elements of the upcoming special stages – from fast asphalt sections to the upward and downward slopes of the vineyards with their tight switchbacks and narrow service roads. Even though the shakedown at the ADAC Rallye Deutschland has no influence on the standings or the starting order, the participants usually race through this timed training unit as highly concentrated and as fast as if it were a special stage.
This year, the Konz Shakedown will start at 12:00h on Wednesday (21 August 2013). The starting order comprises several groups: The WRC participants of the ADAC Rallye Deutschland will drive until 16:00h. Starting at 16:30h, the vehicles of the Deutsche Rallye Meisterschaft (DRM) and of the ADAC OPEL Rallye Cup will conclude the shakedown.
According to the Rules and Regulations, each WRC driver must complete the shakedown course at least four times – an ideal opportunity for motorsport enthusiasts to admire plenty of speed-drifting high-tech rally cars. ADAC has designated a total of four spectator areas affording the best view; they are within walking distance of two large parking areas. This allows spectators to move back and forth as they please between the spectator areas – without using their cars again – and to view the rally vehicles from different locations. Its particular spectator-friendliness makes the Konz Shakedown an insider’s tip for all rally enthusiasts.
The four spectator areas of the shakedown are Konz (Z1), Wiltinger Kupp (Z2), Arena Kommlingen (Z3), and Spitzkehre Kommlingen/Ziel (Z4). All rally pass holders will have free access – in addition to the special stages and access to the Service Park in Trier. Alternatively, special stage tickets are available on site for the Konz Shakedown at €15.00.
As a special highlight, a rally party (free admission) is scheduled in the evening (starting at 19:30h) after the shakedown with music played by a DJ and lots of food and drink. The party, organised by the municipality of Kommlingen, will take place next to spectator area Z4. The nearby designated camping and motorhome area will remain open after the shakedown.