History 2000s

2008 Rally Japan (Japan)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 2008 Rally Japan (Japan)

Date: October 31 – November 2, 2008

Start Location: Obihiro, Hokkaido

Finish Location: Obihiro, Hokkaido

Total Distance: ~1,212.00 km

Competitive Stages: 343.69 km

Surface: Gravel (narrow, loose, and slippery)

Rally Japan’s tight forest stages demand razor-sharp precision and absolute trust between driver and co-driver. In 2008, Mikko Hirvonen capitalized on early mistakes from rivals, delivering a consistent and commanding performance to take the win.

Route

Satsunai River: Slippery gravel along riverbanks — traction management was key.
Pirka: Fast-flowing but lined with trees, leaving no margin for error.
Rikubetsu: One of the most challenging stages with technical turns and elevation changes.

The rally featured a blend of narrow tree-lined tracks and high-speed sections across Hokkaido’s countryside. Key stages included:

Rain earlier in the week left soft patches and unpredictable grip levels, adding to the challenge.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Mikko Hirvonen & Jarmo Lehtinen · Ford Focus RS WRC 07
2nd Place
Sébastien Loeb & Daniel Elena · Citroën C4 WRC
3rd Place
Jari-Matti Latvala & Miikka Anttila · Ford Focus RS WRC 07

Hirvonen stayed clear of trouble while Loeb settled for second, focusing on championship points. Latvala’s pace ensured a strong double podium for Ford.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Narrow Tree-Lined Tracks: Minimal run-off meant any mistake risked retirement.
  • Variable Grip: Loose gravel over hard-packed surfaces made tire choice critical.
  • Co-Driver Timing: Blind crests and hidden corners demanded perfect pace notes.

Hirvonen’s controlled drive in Japan was a statement of speed and discipline, keeping Ford in the fight and marking one of his most polished victories.

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