The 2025 Croatia Rally, the decisive finale of the FIA European Rally Championship, began with a demanding 6.12 km Qualifying Stage on slippery asphalt roads near Zagreb. The challenging conditions immediately set the tone for an intense weekend of competition.

Championship leader Miko Marczyk delivered the fastest run in his Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, clocking 3m55.9s to secure the all-important first road position for Saturday’s stages.

Close behind, Mads Østberg — marking his 300th career start — impressed with second place, just 0.8s adrift. Reigning Polish champion Jakub Matulka secured third, while Robert Virves and Jon Armstrong rounded out the top five.

Meanwhile, Marczyk’s closest rival in the title fight, Andrea Mabellini, suffered a setback after running wide on the opening corner and had to settle for eighth place, losing valuable ground in the championship battle.

There was also history made off the stage: Martin Vlček became the first-ever Master ERC Champion, marking a milestone achievement in the series.

Fans can now look forward to tonight’s Ceremonial Start at 18:30 at the INA headquarters in Zagreb, preceded by the popular Meet the Crews session at 17:50.