High failure rate on the Eifel stages
This year’s Cologne-Ahrweiler 2025 Rally demanded everything from the participants. Of the 75 teams that started, only just over half reached the finish line. A total of 37 vehicles had to end the traditional event prematurely – mostly due to technical defects or slips on the difficult asphalt stages in the autumnal Eifel and Ahr region.
Among the most prominent retirements were Dennis Rostek / Stefan Kopczyk (Skoda Fabia RS Rally2), who had to retire on the second special stage after an accident. This was followed by discussions about the use of the yellow flag at the scene of the accident, after BMW driver Jan Petersen also left the track shortly afterwards and almost caused a collision.
The rally also ended prematurely for Jonas Tischner / Joachim Carl (BMW M3 E30) after losing gearbox oil. Florian Feustel / Katrin Becker (Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 3.0) retired with engine damage. Edwin and Ingrid Wolves (Porsche Cayman S) missed the qualifying time and were taken out of the classification, while Timo Rumpfkeil / Helmar Hinneberg (Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3 16V) had to retire on SS8 with gearbox damage.
Challenging conditions and a strong field of participants
The Cologne-Ahrweiler Rally once again presented itself with challenging routes, changing grip conditions and early morning fog at low temperatures. Despite the challenging conditions, there was an excellent atmosphere in the service park around the pits of the Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit, which once again served as a popular meeting point for fans and teams.
Yann Munhowen triumphs in the Youngtimer Gold Cup
Yann Munhowen and Luc Kalems provided the sporting highlights, securing victory in the Youngtimer Gold Cup with their BMW M3 E30. The Luxembourg duo took third place in the overall standings, with a clear lead of 7:12.1 minutes over local heroes Darius Drezensla / Jennifer Bartz (Ford Escort). Oliver Bliss / Achim Hausch completed the podium.
Ideal weather attracts numerous fans to the side of the track
The weather gods were at their best this year: under blue skies and in cool but dry conditions, numerous spectators lined the stages in the Eifel. They experienced exciting rally sport, impressive vehicles from different eras and a well-organized event that once again lived up to its reputation as a spectator magnet.