WRC Testing

[rallye-vid]

Sooo .. Novikov is M-Sports No. 2 driver. Same clothes as Mads

[whosyo]

Do you guys think that Ostberg has potential to win the championship? I don't

[Roy]

Do you guys think that Ostberg has potential to win the championship? I don't

Maybe in the future, but not this year. It is not his aim for this year to be a champion.

[alleskids]

Sooo .. Novikov is M-Sports No. 2 driver. Same clothes as Mads

is there stil a link to D-Mack (Russia) or will Qatar M-Sport Ford keep it secured with Michelin?

[MartijnS]

Second off of the day :)

http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/large/701012116.jpg?key=1024768&Expires=1355328351&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=S-ZMyINFz13Zu0Ny90IqWGcZFHDrmEHBWYYPuajgUBzvXh~R29zS FE-NBOWDz9WkkR3haozU~zT0d8tk9DIA39fQYFGLhL5ARK1pEC9f4 GuYF4rP3q7G7sMuUOvYt4GdXUY1tpSCJO05MSMNhOnuwC--LJGLqfevUyvNFDVW7M4_

[Mirek]

On those tyres it's understandable :)

[whosyo]

Maybe in the future, but not this year. It is not his aim for this year to be a champion.

If you're right, I don't get this situation
Is Malcom Wilson suppose to find the driver who has prowess to compete in top-class?

p.s. sorry, I erased the post because I think It's off this topic

[Mirek]

That was already discussed to death in Petter Solberg's topic...

[whosyo]

That was already discussed to death in Petter Solberg's topic...

Oh was it? Thanks for info

[dimviii]

Mads


http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xvuq87_essais-m-sport-monte-carlo-2013-mads-ostberg_sport#.UMixguTcnfI

[bluuford]

Better to have all the offs during the testing.. and now they were able to practice how to get back on the road as quickly as possible and how to drive with wrong tires :-) Some people practice tire changes.. if you remember the number of wrong tire selections by Solberg and Latvala in 2012 then their new team is doing right thing :-P

[Mirek]

Being on completely wrong tyres is nothing unusual during Rallye Monte Carlo :)

[jbmarcus21]

Novikov test days
Novikov en Tests avec la Ford Fiesta Wrc M-Sport (http://planetemarcus.com/novikov-en-tests-avec-la-ford-fiesta-wrc-m-sport/)

[mousti]

Being on completely wrong tyres is nothing unusual during Rallye Monte Carlo :)
Juho has pretty good experience with that :D

[dimviii]

Mikko

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5PwsjWIz864

[Mirek]

Juho has pretty good experience with that :D

Yes, absolutely but in all points. He, despite loosing lightyears to those on winter tyres, still showed he CAN drive on bad tyres like not many others. Remember he had same tyres as Solberg? Watch how these two compared in those two stages. If I remember right Juho was some thirty seconds faster...

[mousti]

He drove like crazy like always. Petter was quite dissapointing then..

Many say it's sad that Petter is gone, but it's for the best I think, Gronholm stopped on time and Petter did that too, and yes it's a big personality gone.

But Juho has that in him too, not so crazy like Petter but he has some interviews that were quite funny. Sanremo retirement will be a classic one! Also the one after Barum where he pushed very hard, he couldn't maintain his laugh! One thing is sure he'll drive drive as crazy like Petter but more efficient than Petter in his last year I think ...

[noel157]

He drove like crazy like always. Petter was quite dissapointing then..

Many say it's sad that Petter is gone, but it's for the best I think, Gronholm stopped on time and Petter did that too, and yes it's a big personality gone.

But Juho has that in him too, not so crazy like Petter but he has some interviews that were quite funny. Sanremo retirement will be a classic one! Also the one after Barum where he pushed very hard, he couldn't maintain his laugh! One thing is sure he'll drive drive as crazy like Petter but more efficient than Petter in his last year I think ...

Touche!

[dimviii]

Mikko photos
Essais Pres-Monte Carlo 2013 Mikko HIRVONEN DS3 WRC | Mondial Rally (http://www.mondial-rally.com/photos-saison-2013/essais-pres-monte-carlo-2013-mikko-hirvonen-ds3-wrc)

[andyone]

For those who think died don't have a winning driver i wouldn't underestimate mads on snow and mud.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

[rp]

Novikov

Essais Novikov - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LkjcSZ1XT0)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Second off of the day :)

http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/large/701012116.jpg?key=1024768&Expires=1355328351&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=S-ZMyINFz13Zu0Ny90IqWGcZFHDrmEHBWYYPuajgUBzvXh%7ER29 zSFE-NBOWDz9WkkR3haozU%7EzT0d8tk9DIA39fQYFGLhL5ARK1pEC9 f4GuYF4rP3q7G7sMuUOvYt4GdXUY1tpSCJO05MSMNhOnuwC--LJGLqfevUyvNFDVW7M4_
Novikoff?

[Bartolbia84]

Novikov

Essais Novikov - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LkjcSZ1XT0)

Snow e verglas.... = SHOW!!

[Walach]

OT :

Novikov

Essais Novikov - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LkjcSZ1XT0)

First I thought that I would not park my car like someone did at 2:31, but then I realized it is Citroen... :D

[dimviii]

Being on completely wrong tyres is nothing unusual during Rallye Monte Carlo :)

one of Novikov exit wasnt with wrong tyres
http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3773/sortieford1.jpg

[alleskids]

Novikov

Essais Novikov - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LkjcSZ1XT0)

he is strugeling a lot with the car. The Fiesta WRC is driving Novkov instead of Novikov driving the Fiesta

[Mirek]

one of Novikov exit wasnt with wrong tyres

It's testing. Some offs are normal. It's way better to find the limits on test than during the rally.

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mFdH-jOdWGE

[dimviii]

Novikov

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aeC46ME81SQ

[makinen_fan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mFdH-jOdWGE

Do we know the drivers? Only Mikko or has Dani also had a test?

PS nice video

[dimviii]

Do we know the drivers? Only Mikko or has Dani also had a test?

PS nice video

Mikko says on video start

[makinen_fan]

Mikko says on video start
oops missed that, i just forwarded into the action. Did Sordo had a test so far? All videos I have seen of Citroen is just with Mikko.

[dimviii]

Probably these days will appear and videos for Sordo and Loeb.
a nice video with Ogier

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xvvfo9_testing-polo-wrc-mc13-v2r83_auto?start=576#.UMoIq-TckYQ

[pantealex]

Is citroen really testing car with RedBull stickers or are this all old photos?

[A FONDO]

Is citroen really testing car with RedBull stickers or are this all old photos?
Perhaps the contract is up to 31.12, 23:59

[adr17]

he is strugeling a lot with the car. The Fiesta WRC is driving Novkov instead of Novikov driving the Fiesta

another driver coach on the forum ,

give him a chance he only 22 he rarely ever tests

and testing is all about trying weird tyres etc etc

he doing better than i could do

also even though he will be paying for his drive he probably is feeling a bit of pressure

and there is alot of snow where they are

not saying that he would be my choice of driver but if he paying the bills so be it

[andyone]

another driver coach on the forum ,

give him a chance he only 22 he rarely ever tests

and testing is all about trying weird tyres etc etc

he doing better than i could do

also even though he will be paying for his drive he probably is feeling a bit of pressure

and there is alot of snow where they are

not saying that he would be my choice of driver but if he paying the bills so be it
thank you

[Xsara Fan]

he is strugeling a lot with the car. The Fiesta WRC is driving Novkov instead of Novikov driving the Fiesta

You know nothing about his testing program. Believe me, he does everything right. I know what I am talking about.

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vO8kIpk7fYY

[dimviii]

Probably these days will appear and videos for Sordo and Loeb.

Loeb
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/68656_311637215618803_2003046997_n.jpghttp://nsa31.casimages.com/img/2012/12/13/121213073511677060.jpghttp://img594.imageshack.us/img594/7876/img2663y.jpg

[dimviii]

Loeb

http://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-loeb-citroen-decembre-2012/img_3166.jpghttp://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-loeb-citroen-decembre-2012/img_3147.jpghttp://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-loeb-citroen-decembre-2012/img_3122.jpg

Sébastien Loeb en tests pour le Monte-Carlo (http://www.rallye-sport.fr/sebastien-loeb-en-tests-pour-le-monte-carlo/)

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=kvjo3pnvRq8

[makinen_fan]

en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Loeb-has-been-testing-co-drivers-too

interestng article about Loeb testing without Elena. Also Dani is said to test with PH sport. What can be the reason for that?

[Mirek]

PH Sport has been normally running other Citroën cars for which they just didn't have enough staff in time. Don't forget PH Sport is partly owned by Seb Loeb so it's like Citroën Racing II.

[Viking]

From Twitter

Tomorrow the first WRC rally team this season arrive @KallAutoLodge . We can expect high speed in the woods :)

[RS]

I guess Sordo will drive PH Sport car on the events on which Loeb is driving.

[alleskids]

another driver coach on the forum ,

give him a chance he only 22 he rarely ever tests

and testing is all about trying weird tyres etc etc

he doing better than i could do

also even though he will be paying for his drive he probably is feeling a bit of pressure

and there is alot of snow where they are

not saying that he would be my choice of driver but if he paying the bills so be it

you got my intention wrong, it was no critsm. just an observation. like he had the wrong tyres or wrong set up

[alleskids]

You know nothing about his testing program. Believe me, he does everything right. I know what I am talking about.

jes** ch.***. can't someone make a clear observation on this forum???????????
I just sad he did not have control (yet) over the car in these runs, which was a difference from Ostbergs testruns
Ostberg was in control over the Fiesta WRC
Nivokov struggled with the Fiesta WRC

both are young drivers, both are promoting from privateer with harldy any testruns to semi-factory driver with a lot more testing

[Mintexmemory]

jes** ch.***. can't someone make a clear observation on this forum???????????
I just sad he did not have control (yet) over the car in these runs
Expect the dogs with dynamite strapped to their backs to turn up at your door any day now ! ;)

[alleskids]

Expect the dogs with dynamite strapped to their backs to turn up at your door any day now ! ;)

:) , hopefully it will be a Sint Barnard with a bottle of wiskey in front of him too ;)

[Rallyper]

The team could very well test in the forests around north Stockholm if they wanted. We have about 60 cm of snow in the north eastern parts of Stockholm/Arlanda regions.

[Seppala]

Perhaps the contract is up to 31.12, 23:59
So in 2013 Red Bull will no longer be the sponsor of the Citroen WRT?

[A FONDO]

Correct.

[Viking]

So in 2013 Red Bull will no longer be the sponsor of the Citroen WRT?

Correct

http://www.citroen-wrc.com/wp-content/themes/morning/functions/theme/thumb.php?src=http://www.citroen-wrc.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/lr_M4_82449.jpg&w=630&h=381&zc=1&a=c

[Seppala]

Wow, thx guys. I thought that they will sponsor both, Citroen and Volkswagen.

[J.Lindstroem]

Wow, thx guys. I thought that they will sponsor both, Citroen and Volkswagen.

Actually i dont think it looks very good if they are the official sponsor for the Wrc and at the same time sponsoring one team. I was expecting Red Bull to have a more cautious approach...

[makinen_fan]

Loeb testing:

Essais Loeb - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7-XYqPmxaM)

Anti-lack system sounds a bit strange to me, when slowing down for the hairpin. I can't remember DS3 sounding like that before.
Also Seb does an odd mistake and spins it! How rare is that...

[dimviii]

Antilag seems same to me.

[pucky54]

Citroen is using new engine parts, maybe thats the reason for a difference

[SubaruNorway]

@MikkoWRC
Monte test behind. Quick stop in Fin to see my boys and then Sweden test. And then Paris and then.... Well 2013 :-) and I can't wait for it!

Does anyone know where the Citroen Sweden test will be?
Too risky to travel 8 hours to VW test in Kall.

[GallardoGT]

Maybe it was like "at the moment we only have winter tires without spikes or try without spikes, you don't have to pay for this test, just play with it and have some fun".

Edit: on reply of Novikov posts.

[dimviii]

Citroen is using new engine parts, maybe thats the reason for a difference

they already have the new parts? or at Argentina they will use them?

[dimviii]

:eek:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=QIv-yfkhXe4

[tommeke_B]

I've been reading this on the forum some time ago: "VW will blow away all competition from the first event." After watching the video I can only confirm my opinion once more: NO WAY! Looks extremely fast!

[dimviii]

nice video with Mads

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=IPvjKtOJrH0

[Roy]

No videos of Juho Hänninen yet? He was testing today?

[Miika]

No videos of Juho Hänninen yet? He was testing today?

Will be testing tomorrow (Saturday).

[Mirek]

By the way Juho said for rallylife.cz that "My future doesn't depend on the two events. Thankfully." But on the other hand he confirmed in the moment he doesn't have any more rounds secured. He also said he left Škoda because it could not offer any more challenge as he won everything he could being there.

[tommeke_B]

WRC Car test for Brendan Reeves 2012 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfd58DYrA-k&feature=youtu.be) Not Monte-Carlo related. Brendan Reeves tested Fiesta WRC... :)

[SubaruNorway]

I hope someone is at the VW test, should be some great shoots in this weather. Not sure if the start today or tomorrow.
Photo by patriksandell • Instagram (http://instagram.com/p/TP_sZWs82Z/)

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtncB-CkBUA&feature=youtu.be

[dimviii]

Juho testing
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/68668_312312665551258_1995534112_n.jpg

[spiderem]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtncB-CkBUA&feature=youtu.be
i don't know what you think, but Mikko seems pretty fast for me!
hope conditions will stay tricky for the MC, snow ice dark, smart driver will win.

[6789]

Nice video of Juho testing


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPwqrQFdZso

[SubaruNorway]

VW starting their first day in Kall
Photo by patriksandell • Instagram (http://instagram.com/p/TSquyKs87D/)

[dimviii]

some nice drive from Juho

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=-FR0Xkri-Po

[had_zachau]

Mikkelsen on snow with polo


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz_C3SbC4vY

[Viking]

Have mercy with Mikkelsen, first time in wrc car since...2008... sort of :)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Have mercy with Mikkelsen
Why? I didn't see any major screw-ups. He might have backed off a little needlessly at one point there, but otherwise, he looked like he was going about as fast as it was possible to go.

[Iskald]

Why? I didn't see any major screw-ups. He might have backed off a little needlessly at one point there, but otherwise, he looked like he was going about as fast as it was possible to go.

Where was that point, and who are you to judge exactly the finer details from one of several test runs based on a short amateur video??? You`re a rally scientist or something...?

[Viking]

Why? I didn't see any major screw-ups. He might have backed off a little needlessly at one point there, but otherwise, he looked like he was going about as fast as it was possible to go.

I was just having a bit of fun, some on here are wery fast to jugde cars and drivers from short videoclips :)

[Iskald]

I was just having a bit of fun, some on here are wery fast to jugde cars and drivers from short videoclips :)

Yeah, they should all be rally engineers, based on visual sight only!

[Rallyper]

I was just having a bit of fun, some on here are wery fast to jugde cars and drivers from short videoclips :)

That should have been you judging, saying "have mercy..."

Prisoner Monkey did only say that Mikkelsen performed well. Didn´t you get that?

[cali]

Whatever Citroen is cooking, it looking very good for them. The car is sooo fast out of the corners!

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3cbq1MxIck&feature=player_embedded

[dimviii]

plenty photos from citroen - vw -ford tests
Essais Privés (http://www.notryaphotos.com/rallyes/5163/essais-prives-latvala-loeb-ogier-novikov)

[Micke_VOC]

Citroen and Hirvonen testing somewhere in Sweden today ( I think in the area around Vännäs as usual)
I havent found any videos or pics yet.

Latvala testing with Volkswagen today in Kall ( Östersund), seen some movies on Facebook, but they are locked to friends.

[Sulland]

Whatever Citroen is cooking, it looking very good for them. The car is sooo fast out of the corners!

The Citroen has always looked like it is lower than the Fiesta, and seems to suck itself to the ground with more grip and speed out of the corners. Would be interesting to se paralell films to see if it more effective than the Ford.

The Mini is so different in the whole suspension engeneering, with much less travel, so it is hard to compare.

[makinen_fan]

plenty photos from citroen - vw -ford tests
Essais Privés (http://www.notryaphotos.com/rallyes/5163/essais-prives-latvala-loeb-ogier-novikov)

Whats the GTR doing in the Citroen test?

[dimviii]

Whats the GTR doing in the Citroen test?

dont know,maybe just Loeb would like to compare vs his 911 gt3 :D

[spiderem]

plenty photos from citroen - vw -ford tests
Essais Privés (http://www.notryaphotos.com/rallyes/5163/essais-prives-latvala-loeb-ogier-novikov)
I really like Elena's energy drink on his beanie!!! "Ricard" :)

[bf1_IRL]

New recce car? :eek: :p

http://www.notryaphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Essais-Hivernaux-Loeb-Citroen-DS3-WRC-83.jpg

[dimviii]

magic photo
http://imageshack.us/a/img17/3017/essaispremc21sur32.jpg

And a photo dedicated to NOT.a sick dog at citroen test camp
http://imageshack.us/a/img547/4396/essaispremc29sur32.jpg

[had_zachau]

Tomas Kostka will test Fiesta WRC.

[Bartolbia84]

PG Andersson is testing in Italy, in the area of Cuneo, the Fiesta S2000 team of Petter Solberg in view of Monte Carlo ...

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=jLxAcMAslVw

[Bartolbia84]

Tomas Kostka will test Fiesta WRC.

for a program of some event in the WRC?

[Mirek]

There are several possibilities from MMČR (not likely) through ERC, WRC2, WRC up to return to circuits to GT endurance series. We'll see...

[dimviii]

PG Andersson is testing in Italy, in the area of Cuneo, the Fiesta S2000 team of Petter Solberg in view of Monte Carlo ...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/45025_10151347818020733_1247141028_n.jpg

[noel157]

Is that the old Autotek car? Nasser used it at one time, no?

[Rallyper]

PG testing is about something they do for Hankock tires. H is about to go in to WRC or something with their brand, says swedish newspaper.

Maybe PSWRT with PG and Petter in WRC 2014? (My thought...) :bounce:

[dimviii]

mads at Monte tests.Watch at 3,01!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Siu1aM_a6wc

[stefanvv]

mads at Monte tests.Watch at 3,01!]

This can happen quite often on Monte. He's learning well :)

[Micke_VOC]

PG test Fiesta S2000, Hankook Tyres ?
TestRally.com (http://www.testrally.com/galleria.asp?tipo=Test&id=381&anno=2012)

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=uSKpT4oABR4

[Micke_VOC]

Test Rally Montecarlo 2013 WRC: PG Andersson Fiesta S2000 del Solberg Engineering team - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BitWNpZJm_I)

[dimviii]

Some excellent photos from Mikko testing for Monte!!
http://img15.hostingpics.net/pics/759254Photo047.jpghttp://img15.hostingpics.net/pics/925942Photo100.jpghttp://img15.hostingpics.net/pics/976349Photo146.jpg

[Rallying UK]

Martin Prokop confirmed to me today on Twitter that he will be testing his Jipocar ​​Czech National Team Ford Fiesta RS WRC for the Rallye Monte-Carlo on 10th January in Piedmont, Italy.

[StevieWonder]

according: Fiesta WRC mit neuer Optik*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/12/21/fiesta-wrc-mit-neuer-optik/index.html)
the fiesta will get an "updated" design for 2013
(but not clear at the moment, if already for monte)

[Kielder]

Martin Prokop confirmed to me today on Twitter that he will be testing his Jipocar ​​Czech National Team Ford Fiesta RS WRC for the Rallye Monte-Carlo on 10th January in Piedmont, Italy.

He did a "Christmas ride" today before that test:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A-tDVU9CYAA1lD9.jpg:large

http://i50.tinypic.com/30mwh3b.jpg

P.S.: Why do pets always look like their owners :D ?

[Mirek]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=uSKpT4oABR4

Great driving!

By the way... Hankook is now testing MC type tyres. These are useful basically only for RMC and Jänner rally (sometimes) -> are they preparing to enter WRC?

Most of Hyundai stock cars is delivered on Hankook tyres. At least in our market. Obviously Hankook and Hyundai have some extraordinary relationship -> will they enter WRC with Hankook?

Only speculation but it would make sense...

[pucky54]

will they enter WRC with Hankook?

Thats only possible if Hankook gets official WRC tire supplier

[Mirek]

Of course but as I said already Why would they test MC type tyres if they didn't intend to take part in WRC? Those tyres are useless for almost all normal events (from time to time You can use them in Jänner, Valais and few other rallies).

[EightGear]

And PG has been pretty much the only driver rumoured to be in contact with Hyundai...

[AMSS]

Of course but as I said already Why would they test MC type tyres if they didn't intend to take part in WRC? Those tyres are useless for almost all normal events (from time to time You can use them in Jänner, Valais and few other rallies).

Hankook is more or less certain to be one tire supplier in the WRC for 2014. Also for 2013 Hankook is single tire for the WRC Academy, or WRC 3 or whatever its name is next year!

[RS]

http://i50.tinypic.com/30mwh3b.jpg

Miao.

Is it normal for people to have such large cats in CZ? I remember seeing one from Barum photos this year too!

[stefanvv]

If some has missed something of Monte Carlo tests :D :
pre test monte carlo 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOfRHPLofWJMdjj0IaFeFIOW0iHa9LHFG)

[dimviii]

Miao.

Is it normal for people to have such large cats in CZ? I remember seeing one from Barum photos this year too!

think must be the same person if i remember correctly.Mirek wtf with this big cat?

[Mirek]

That previous photo was not from Barum but Rallysprint Pačejov or something more to the west if I remember. I don't think it's same cat and I don't know who is the owner of this or that one. Personally I have never seen a lion or tiger or anything like that out of ZOO or circus and I happen to live here for almost 30 years now :)

[TyPat107]

Hankook is more or less certain to be one tire supplier in the WRC for 2014. Also for 2013 Hankook is single tire for the WRC Academy, or WRC 3 or whatever its name is next year!

How are hankook tires now? I drove with them in 2009 and couldn't believe the difference when we switched to Michelin. The hankook soft was like a Michelin medium and michelins were noticeably lighter if I remember correctly.

[Mirek]

Since that time there was extensive development ongoing in the IRC together with Andreas Mikkelsen, Toni Gardemeister, Patrik Flodin and others (Alex Bengue or Roman Kresta also at least once started with Hankook in IRC, Sandro Wallenwein in German championship etc.). I can't answer Your question though :)

[wrchirek]

That PX60 AUW Fiesta WRC has got a hard life... :)

[AMSS]

How are hankook tires now? I drove with them in 2009 and couldn't believe the difference when we switched to Michelin. The hankook soft was like a Michelin medium and michelins were noticeably lighter if I remember correctly.

I don`t know exactly either, but from what I have heard the gravel tire isn`t all that bad, some small problems with the Tarmac tire but as Mirek says they test and develope quit intensivly so they should get that up to pace as well.
Also Hankook as a factory is getting really big so they definately have the resources!

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qU1zYYazwxw

[Rallying UK]

Belgian media reporting tonight that Thierry Neuville will test in Wales in the first few days on January and in the Ardèche a week before Rallye Monte-Carlo.

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Iq0-hyWfy48#!

[Rallying UK]

M-Sport still rule the roost :-)

[dimviii]

Maurin testing for Monte

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LRriHnz9Qb0

[ChristianArp]

Maurin testing for Monte

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LRriHnz9Qb0

Not knowing him other than 'oh, it's Maurin' and google not helping, where does the money come from to sustain the programmes he has been running? Yacco always having been on the car made me think that he might be involved in that company, or is it just good sponsorship work? :)

PS - will delete this when answered to keep the thread clean for more on topic posts.. :)

[mousti]

Yacco funded for several years now alot of French drivers.

[tommeke_B]

Explanation for Maurin. His father is owner of the "Groupe Maurin". Groupe Maurin - Concession Ford, Fiat, Kia, Nissan, Opel, Toyota... à Marseille, Perpignan, Annemasse... (http://www.groupe-maurin.com/) I think they own pretty much all garages in southern France of everything that is not PSA, Renault or VAG. ;)

[Rallying UK]

The close-ups of this Fiesta show decals on the side-windows that remind you of who remains in charge of Fiesta testing anywhere in the world. M-Sport!

[SubaruNorway]

Looks like Maurin's Fiesta needs a new engine too, burning oil.

[Kielder]

It's always worth seeing some WRC onboard footage:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=I6fPfMZi20s

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqZsh3NYh-4&feature=player_embedded#!

[Rasantes]

Amazing these two onboard, especially the test of Novikov.

[Rallying UK]

This is the fourth Maurin video I've seen. He's attracting a lot of attention.

[Rallying UK]

Mads Østberg to test the Fiesta RS WRC again next week.


He said on FaceBook today "While waiting for next weeks test, take a look at the one we did in December!" (He then linked to the Red Bull video)

[Rallying UK]

TOMI TUOMINEN tells MTV3 that Juho Hänninen will do further testing next Tuesday.

[Kielder]

Sordo at the wheel of the DS3 on last December:

http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/sordoDS3PreMC2013A18.jpg
http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/sordoDS3PreMC2013A01.jpg
http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/sordoDS3PreMC2013A11.jpg

Piece of news and full gallery (http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/2013/01/04/sordo-au-volant-de-la-ds3-wrc-pour-2013/)

[makinen_fan]

Matt Wilson was testing yesterday the Fiesta. From his Twitter account:

Nice to back in a rally car in the forest again today!
Twitter / mattyjim1: Nice to back in a rally car ... (http://twitter.com/mattyjim1/status/287257328925962240/photo/1)

I wonder for what he is testing for? Probably a New Year's gift from daddy

[Allyc85]

Neuville has been out in the Fiesta on gravel.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/photo.php?fbid=10151375549950733&set=a.212426225732.174439.206160890732&type=1&theater

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLbRFkDPlc4&feature=player_embedded

[Kielder]

Sordo tested the DS3 today and he will test tomorrow as well.

http://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-sordo-janvier-2013/img_3625.jpg
http://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-sordo-janvier-2013/img_3569.jpg
http://www.rallye-sport.fr/wp-content/gallery/essais-sordo-janvier-2013/img_3658.jpg

Sordo en forme à une semaine du Monte-Carlo (Photos) (http://www.rallye-sport.fr/sordo-en-forme-a-une-semaine-du-monte-carlo-photos/)

[Kielder]

Sordo 2.0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Doie6zQMSUY&feature=player_embedded

[Kielder]

A longer one:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFtcrR7Bgkg&feature=player_embedded

[Kielder]

Juho is testing today as well:

http://i45.tinypic.com/14nr6r.jpg

[jbmarcus21]

Sordo testing Rally MC this week
Sordo en Tests pour le Rallye Wrc Monte-Carlo 2013 ! (http://planetemarcus.com/sordo-test-monte-carlo-2013/)

[dimviii]

http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/9876/p1070200c.jpghttp://nsa30.casimages.com/img/2013/01/08/130108070328800212.jpghttp://nsa30.casimages.com/img/2013/01/08/130108084707441779.jpg

[Mirek]

:D

https://www.facebook.com/v/10200208106076054

[dimviii]

http://nsa30.casimages.com/img/2013/01/08/130108063309213196.jpghttp://img713.imageshack.us/img713/7361/p1070237.jpghttp://nsa30.casimages.com/img/2013/01/08/13010808593126204.jpg

[dimviii]

:D

https://www.facebook.com/v/10200208106076054

saw the fin flag :D

[Mirek]

He has new helmet by the way.

[jbmarcus21]

Juho Test Days
Un 2ème jour de Tests pour Juho Hänninen (http://planetemarcus.com/un-2eme-jour-de-tests-pour-juho-hanninen/)

[dimviii]

Βouffier

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fREB-umfc8I

[bluuford]

Looks like Juho plans to win in Monte (by looking the video) ;-)

[Kielder]

:D

https://www.facebook.com/v/10200208106076054

There are always different points of view :D :


http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200335316364878

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=NkwnivoXXwM#!

[andyone]

A longer one:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFtcrR7Bgkg&feature=player_embedded
video has been remobed by the user. huh.. what happened.

[Hartusvuori]

Looks like Juho plans to win in Monte (by looking the video) ;-)

Wasn't that obvious already? ;)

[Kielder]

video has been remobed by the user. huh.. what happened.

I don't know. You can see it here: Essais Prés-Monte Carlo 2013 Dani SORDO Citroen DS3 WRC - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vx0T9y5R3cI)

[amilk]

it's good to see the Ford sticker on the car.

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfBFVDpQclE&feature=player_embedded

[makinen_fan]

Novikov testing today for Monte. Dennis Giraudet is there as well.

http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BAKakLECIAAVFL7.jpg:large

http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BAKW6x2CAAADSMB.jpg:large


images from http://twitter.com/legranddanton

[dimviii]

http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/large/715281045.jpg?key=800517&Expires=1357771718&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=CakWV0T8t5HY~-vN~5BbDkbzUyFhpVnnQHFcJj3z9cZyRCf7OPOXE8kwYcxg6WDl IOx7OkkFPu06PNaFbCj7zbUNK5NFqYaFyjjMw3L-g5stJT2pD7GGKHg3igImXylHOjaRtG2dXIOk3GNcVkykI1qtOx vIkTmTb6f-nFoB3LM_L
http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/large/715277545.jpg?key=20481536&Expires=1357771685&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=J2rUjucztVSx8rjStKT4xK8difHrqwFzs0xCN3Oq dAVmKgFqk1hIuC3pRt4SAYNHPT7Xy5KWLlS1ZEmbtaEcxWxJGF FRJvBxn0cGTPiVrOMno6TEc7e~gG0G3MnzE0qzDrJkt9w084f0 jIMmJCnRDQoZlJTYJfCJDP83Y8OcUrs_

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ZxikcCq5PCw

[had_zachau]

Prokop testing today
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/538515_328092527297142_529113322_n.jpg

[dimviii]

Loeb testing.
Essais S.Loeb D.Elena DS3 WRC (http://rallyeprod43.free.fr/Photos%20rallye%20Loeb.htm)

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=csH4CBCrX4Q

[logic]

The ALS sounds more aggressive.

[dimviii]

dry asphalt,so you can choose more aggresive settings

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=lVSrxLVi3R4

[dimviii]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/72238_414763021933253_1145451241_n.jpg

[logic]

I meant it sounds like it is a different ALS strategy.

[logic]

I meant it sounds like it is a different ALS strategy.
It was never like that before on Tarmac.

[Barreis]

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10200264940534026.338302.1468570606&type=1)

[TyPat107]

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10200264940534026.338302.1468570606&type=1)

"content unavailable"

[Barreis]

It's Neuville's testing. Must log in.

[A FONDO]

You missed nothing. 2 bad pics of the plain white fiesta and 20 of Thiry's face in the service.

[ToughMac]

I meant it sounds like it is a different ALS strategy.
It was never like that before on Tarmac.

Agree, the car sounds different now, almost agressive.

[makinen_fan]

indeed the Fiesta sounds a bit different than last year

[Kielder]

Neuville doing a "hanninen":


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AMugeiwh0kg

[makinen_fan]

I think this was not posted before. Neuville testing

Neuville - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqxvpnKzNuU)

[Kielder]

Impressive, I already miss him.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=l94FCPqzex4

[makinen_fan]

Mikko rolled in testing today. From his twitter account:

Well i really started rocking this year. Rolled in Monte test... me and Jarmo r ok, but can't say the same about the car...

[satukata]

Any video? pictures?

[makinen_fan]

Tests Neuville Gilsoul Monte Carlo 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI7_5bx29qo)

Can clearly hear the ALS being more aggressive than usual at 1:46 and 1:50. Anyone can translate and summarise the interview?

[HarriK]

Mikko Hirvonen escapes big Monte Carlo Rally testing crash - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/105076)

[dupanton]

Tests Neuville Gilsoul Monte Carlo 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI7_5bx29qo)

Can clearly hear the ALS being more aggressive than usual at 1:46 and 1:50. Anyone can translate and summarise the interview?

He says that he doesn't really like the Monte Carlo, because everytime he has driven it, he retired on the first leg. He hopes this year, he will have some luck and the main goal is to get to the finish. Then he tells that in the Monte Carlo you have to adjust your driving style and rhythm from one corner to an other and that experience is very important.

In de second part they ask who their biggest opponents are: There are a lot of strong opponents, I can't compete with the fastest guys, but there is still a lot of margin for progression. There has been a lot of changes in the teams during the winter, so no one knows how competitive everyone will be. Only from Mexico onwards, we will know how fast everyone is.

3th part, what are your expectations for this season: Last year, we had a difficult year, but we made a lot of progression and showed some good things. For this year, we must prove that we can go fast and be reliable, we have to finish without Rally 2. And I hope we will have some better luck to, we haven't always been lucky last year neither. We must do better this year!

That is wath he said in the interview ;)

[Kielder]

Mikko testing this morning. Citroen didn't allow to take photos of the crashed car, so we can't see any image here (yet).

http://rallyeprod43.free.fr/WEFiles/Image/Gallery/a27fe394-8df5-41d3-b4c1-3697408dcf01/IMG_4394_1.jpg
http://rallyeprod43.free.fr/WEFiles/Image/Gallery/a27fe394-8df5-41d3-b4c1-3697408dcf01/IMG_4373_1.jpg
http://rallyeprod43.free.fr/WEFiles/Image/Gallery/a27fe394-8df5-41d3-b4c1-3697408dcf01/IMG_4430_1.jpg

Full Gallery (http://rallyeprod43.free.fr/Photos%20Essais%20M-Hirvonen.htm)

[dimviii]

watch at 1,28

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=xbBlGeBZfRg#!

[dimviii]

Mikko

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=tyIvqmzo7l4

[EightGear]

Hirvonen

http://www.imgdumper.nl/uploads6/50f06501409d0/50f0650138cd2-2013-01-11_20-15-22_1.jpg

[dimviii]

o my God,a big one!!

[Salist]

Any video? pictures?

Rallye Monte Carlo | L'accident de la DS3 en images (http://www.ledauphine.com/ardeche/2012/01/13/l-accident-de-la-ds3)

[dimviii]

exit corner
http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/7321/img1379km.jpg

[Xsara Fan]

Rallye Monte Carlo | L'accident de la DS3 en images (http://www.ledauphine.com/ardeche/2012/01/13/l-accident-de-la-ds3)

It`s not this crash.

[dimviii]

It`s not this crash.

what?

[EightGear]

It`s not this crash.

No apparently it's from last year... I just found it on twitter, where it was believed to be of today.

[stefanvv]

Rallye Monte Carlo | L'accident de la DS3 en images (http://www.ledauphine.com/ardeche/2012/01/13/l-accident-de-la-ds3)

13/01/2012 at 06:01

[dimviii]

13/01/2012 at 06:01
lol

[pucky54]

Rallye Monte Carlo | L'accident de la DS3 en images (http://www.ledauphine.com/ardeche/2012/01/13/l-accident-de-la-ds3)

Why do you post a link to photos of van Merksteijn's Crash at Monte tests of 2012???

[6789]

Why do you post a link to photos of van Merksteijn's Crash at Monte tests of 2012???

I'd say it was an honest mistake.. Mikko has managed to have two big crashes while testing with Citroen!

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=MzvoTnMkzsc

[Salist]

Sorry guys for my mistake. I was blind! :-(

[dimviii]

watch at 2,52


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=od-0UhqNG0U

[dimviii]

Kostka at Monte tests

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=zvKFlIj3FTg

[Francis44]

That girl is in love.

[canadelrallyevideo]

monte carlo rally strongly :)

[Mirek]

That girl is in love.

Unfortunately for her Kostka although young is already married and has a child :)

[darkstar]

i never noticed the name kostka before, but he seems to be quite fast(for example last year at barum he was not bad at all)...what are his plans for 2013? is he doing wrc2 (sorry, i´m not so much up to date atm)?

[pucky54]

He comes from the circuit, but won CZ sprint champ last year in a C4 WRC (his first full rally season). Would like to see him in ERC or CZ champ, but as far as I know his program for 2013 isn't decided yet

[Mirek]

He is not entered for WRC2 in RMC list. I think that he has no program yet. I personally expect him to return on circuits due to rally-unfriendly situation in our country which sure affects any negotiations with sponsors.

Few words about him.

Tomáš is brother-in-law of Roman Kresta. He is circuit driver. He did some formula championships and DTM in some private team. He also won Czech circuit championship several times but that has no value and competition. He has been starting in Barum rally since 2007 with quite good results (except crash on city stage in 2011). In 2012 he did first proper rally season. He won our national rallysprint championship but also twice badly crashed. Driving C4 WRC he didn't have proper competition there except Rally Kopná. Same as in Barum rally he had a big battle with his brother-in-law and in both cases he lost it finally (but the fact he was able to fight with Roman is an achievement).

Now he said that he might go to GT world championship or to do WRC2 or ERC or MMČR (not likely)...

[darkstar]

thanks for that info, he might be pretty good at monte if it is mainly without snow

[EightGear]

I don't know why, but somehow I like him. I guess some onboard videos of him in the C4 are a reason for that. Let's hope that he keeps rallying.

Having a choice between ERC, WRC and FIA GT, that must be a dream for a lot of young boys...

[Rallyper]

exit corner
http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/7321/img1379km.jpg

So this one is the correct one happening two days ago?

[Rallyper]

Hirvonen

http://www.imgdumper.nl/uploads6/50f06501409d0/50f0650138cd2-2013-01-11_20-15-22_1.jpg

And this one is not?

[6789]

So this one is the correct one happening two days ago?

This picture does match the description given by Mikko to Autosport


"The accident happened in a fast corner, maybe fifth gear," Hirvonen told AUTOSPORT.
"We were going about 100km/h on slick tyres, when I missed the turn-in for the corner by a fraction. We got on slush and that was it, there was nothing I could do.
"We hit the mountain and rolled three times, I think. We were quite lucky that the car stayed on the road.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

It has to be asked: Hirvonen has had so many pre-season testing crashes, so is he sure he's recounting the right one? It wouldn't be the pre-season without Mikko rolling it.

[tommeke_B]

Isn't that last picture from Van Merksteijn last year before Monte Carlo? ;)

[dimviii]

So this one is the correct one happening two days ago?
yep,the other photo is from last year Monte tests

[dimviii]

Isn't that last picture from Van Merksteijn last year before Monte Carlo? ;)

with 1 beer i will answer you.

[dimviii]

Sordo
http://photosrallyes88.toile-libre.org/piwigo/upload/2013/01/12/20130112181847-db8bfe1f.jpghttp://photosrallyes88.toile-libre.org/piwigo/upload/2013/01/12/20130112181903-137efd82.jpghttp://photosrallyes88.toile-libre.org/piwigo/upload/2013/01/12/20130112181934-4b77d59d.jpg
Sordo/Del Barrio | Photos Rallyes 88 (http://photosrallyes88.toile-libre.org/piwigo/picture.php?/7549/category/88-sordo_rallye_monte_carlo)

[Rasantes]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FrBzInP0-c

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9mIrm7mRLzI#!

[dimviii]

Solowow testing for Sweden


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=8BRGKOIbP6g#!

[dimviii]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/62321_10151283941378952_150437132_n.jpg

[Ezhik]

sorry, wrong thread

[BlueShift]

Very cool pics and vids. You guys are getting me into rally!

[Rasantes]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g87StHBtNbY&list=UUQBxHHJcX3xHHsC1AGGVmPw& index=1

[Coach 2]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g87StHBtNbY&list=UUQBxHHJcX3xHHsC1AGGVmPw& index=1

Mad Mads?

YES!!!!

[WRC1]

Mad Mads?

YES!!!!

huuuuuuu...that was close on 2nd run!!

[Rallyper]

He just nailed it!!!!

[andyone]

hoo mads is in a mission.. guys Mads is one to watch on this rally. i wouldnt under estimate him even a little. its going to be latvala, mikko and mads.. and loeb he is not to underestimate in anyway.. its going to be fun.. and a close rally

[Kielder]

Juho tested today:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BCCy1qgCQAM_rnn.jpg:large

MAXRALLY - Hanninen: no sleeping in Sweden (http://www.maxrally.com/2013/02/01/hanninen-no-sleeping-in-sweden)

[Rasantes]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ys9UFREbE1U

[ToughMac]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ys9UFREbE1U

Some commitment towards the end , go Hanninen :)

[Kielder]

Today is Neuville's turn:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BCHC0NXCYAAJbxh.png:large

[Rasantes]

http://i50.tinypic.com/whe8lt.jpg

[danon]

Today is Neuville's turn:

anxious to see the new lavatory iphone self-taken pic :D

[Frostmourne]

Guys, any videos or news from Prodrive testing with Nikara?

[Rasantes]

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.410569902369378.99187.376296825796686&type=1

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/540113_410570082369360_25863816_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/295301_410569969036038_1957295112_n.jpg

[Fly]

Guys, any videos or news from Prodrive testing with Nikara?

He'll be testing tomorrow.

[tommeke_B]

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.410569902369378.99187.376296825796686&type=1

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/540113_410570082369360_25863816_n.jpg



HANS over seatbelt...

[Rallying UK]

Here's Petter Solberg giving Lorenzo Bertelli a helping hand during current testing in Norway ahead of Rally Sweden:

https://twitter.com/****matie37/status/298062764239372288/photo/1

via @RallyingUK

[tolis]

Here's Petter Solberg giving Lorenzo Bertelli a helping hand during current testing in Norway ahead of Rally Sweden:

https://twitter.com/****matie37/status/298062764239372288/photo/1

via @RallyingUK

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BCLugT-CQAA7lcE.jpg:large

[Kielder]

HANS over seatbelt...

Bit off topic, but I find it relevant. Piece of news about the controversial sentence blaming HANS for the death of the cycling champion Franco Ballerini in a rally in 2010, while he was co-driving:
"Ballerini poteva salvarsi", Indagati i vertici dell'auto - La Gazzetta dello Sport (http://www.gazzetta.it/Ciclismo/31-01-2013/ballerini-poteva-salvarsi-indagati-vertici-auto-914073515443.shtml)

[Rallying UK]

Another photo of @Petter_Solberg (http://twitter.com/Petter_Solberg) with Lorenzo Bertelli testing in Norway for@RallySweden (http://twitter.com/RallySweden):pic.twitter.com/QKSJHUtA (http://t.co/QKSJHUtA)

[Juha_Koo]

HANS over seatbelt...

Looks like the belts aren't tight (clearly visible on the left), so I guess they have just came from a run or shortly going to a one. I guess just to give some rest to shoulders.

[Josti]

Any signs of Prodrive and Nikara?