Here's something VERY interesting that I just found out! I wish I'd known this a year ago, it could really have influenced my picks in the WRC pool.

Seb Loeb did not drive for a factory team in 2006. Which meant he was not required to wear a HANS device. It turns out he chose not to wear one during several events.
A good example is Cyprus, a rally known for its very tight and twisty roads. Loeb went without a HANS device for that event and beat Gronholm (who was required to wear a HANS) by 20 seconds.
However, in Finland, where the roads are much straighter, the disadvantage is less. Marcus beat Seb by over a minute.

I just find that very interesting...