The FIA has concluded its investigation into the incident that saw Alejandro Cachón's Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 suffer a shattered windscreen during the EKO Acropolis Rally Greece, confirming there is no evidence that the rock was deliberately thrown by a spectator.
The incident took place on Friday's Thiva stage when a rock struck the co-driver's side of Cachón's car at high speed. In the immediate aftermath, the Spanish driver suggested it appeared as though the object had been thrown from the side of the stage, prompting the FIA and event organisers to launch an investigation.
Following a detailed review of onboard footage, video evidence and information gathered from officials on the ground, investigators found no indication of intentional spectator involvement. Instead, the findings point to the rock having been dislodged by another competing car before striking Cachón's Rally2 machine.
The FIA confirmed that, based on the available evidence, the incident is considered an unfortunate consequence of the unpredictable conditions often encountered on gravel rally stages, rather than the result of malicious behaviour.
Despite the frightening impact, neither Cachón nor co-driver Borja Rozada was injured, allowing the Spanish crew to continue their rally. The incident nevertheless served as a reminder of the unique hazards of gravel rallying, where loose rocks can occasionally be projected at considerable speed.
"Following a thorough review of the available footage relating to the incident involving the windscreen of car no.24 on SS7, the FIA and the Acropolis Rally Greece organizers have not identified any evidence to suggest that a rock was thrown by a spectator", FIA's statement said.
"The incident remains under review, and any further footage, reports or information made available.
"The FIA and the organizers continue to treat any incident affecting competitor safety with the utmost seriousness".
Photo Credits: Red Bull Content Pool
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