[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[morganmilan]

any czech/french mate with more infos?
from google translate i can t understand which is the matter.
http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=9849
I guess there´s a judicial procedure open for thievery of parts from Pipo, but the whole affair is confusing :confused:

[HaCo]

http://rhone-alpes-auvergne.france3.fr/info/rhone-alpes/Ard%C3%A8che---Vols-de-pi%C3%A8ces-chez-Pipo-Moteurs--60715692.html

[Mirek]

Yes, it's about stolen parts from Pipo Moteurs (for 450 tousand Euro) by some drivers and emloyers. Jean-Marie Cuoq is said to be among the accused person.

[alleskids]

Sebastien Loeb will drive with the Peugeot Sport team in the 12 hours of Sebring (17-20 march)

[dimviii]

thanks for the answers mates! :)

[Motorsportfun]

Interesting interview to Neil Duncanson on Italiaracing Magazine...

http://www.italiaracing.net/magazine/201072/index.asp

- With broadcasts devoted to the last, Eurosport has shown that the rally is also telegenic live. Meeting the challenge is a priority for the structure to direct you to promote world?

"All of us have followed closely what was done and obviously we will continue to strive to increase the visibility of Campionarto of the world for that matter, last season, had an increase in traffic of twelve per cent. That said, it should be noted that unlike Eurosport, we have to deal with twenty-five television stations distributed throughout the world and if on the one hand, this ensures comprehensive coverage of the series, the other does not facilitate our work. However already for the Rally of Sweden we planned to broadcast live the last special. "

- Malcolm Wilson and Olivier Quesnel has launched a proposal to celebrate the centenary of the Rallye Monte-Carlo with a valid issue for both the World Cup for both the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. What do you think?

"From our side we welcome such an eventuality and we have already talked with Marcello Lotti who has demonstrated equally favorable. Yes, you can do and I think eventually will. "

- The promotion of world passes through a well thought-out schedule. How many, in his view, the evidence could be titled in the near future?

"No more than sixteen. Indeed, I think that sixteen is the ideal number.

- Exhausted or running low seasons of alternation, the world will again be drawn on the basis of continuity. With an eye to the great classics of specialty?

"Certain rally for their name and their history, must find its place in the championship and so will be in 2011. E 'early to name names, but I can say that we have already reached agreement with the organizers of the evidence that interest us. "

- Jean Todt has reiterated that the World Cup must involve all the continents. You may assume a return of the Safari World?

"We look with interest to Africa, is clear. And once finished the next World Cup scheduled in South Africa, to renew some contacts. "

[Koppomsbo]

]Yes, it's about stolen parts from Pipo Moteurs (for 450 tousand Euro) by some drivers and emloyers. Jean-Marie Cuoq is said to be among the accused person.

Wasnt Cuoq the guy who was out of monte beacause of cheating a couple of years ago? Seems like a good guy :D

[Hartusvuori]

Finnish Jari Ketomaa will join the S-WRC series with Fiesta S2000. First round will be Jordania. Ketomaa will be ran by Chinese Fcaca Rally Team with whom he has competed earlier in the Chinese championship.

http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2010/Pages/swrc_2010.aspx

[Tomi]

Very good Ketomaa, it's a pity Hänninen is missing.

[COD]

Finnish Jari Ketomaa will join the S-WRC series with Fiesta S2000. First round will be Jordania. Ketomaa will be ran by Chinese Fcaca Rally Team with whom he has competed earlier in the Chinese championship.

http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2010/Pages/swrc_2010.aspx

Very good news. S-WRC gets stronger and stronger all the time...

[ProRally]

Finnish Jari Ketomaa will join the S-WRC series with Fiesta S2000. First round will be Jordania. Ketomaa will be ran by Chinese Fcaca Rally Team with whom he has competed earlier in the Chinese championship.

http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2010/Pages/swrc_2010.aspx

Good news, the more the better.... :D :D

Who will be his co-driver ?

[COD]

Who will be his co-driver ?

Mika Stenberg

[GTA]

A few days ago we could inform with the great news that Nasser Al-Attiyah will contest the Rally of Argentina (IRC) with the René Georges Rally Sport team as a result of the negotiations between Raouf Menhem and René Georges himself.
After this agreement, Nasser Al-Attiyah decided to contest the new S-WRC championship with the RGRS team and a Skoda Fabia S2000 in the colors of sponsor Barwa. The Qatari driver will take the start of the following S-WRC rounds: Mexico, Jordan, New-Zealand, Portugal, Finland, Japan and Wales Rally GB.
RGRS and Nasser Al-Attiyah will also compete in some IRC rounds. As we already announced Argentina will be the first one, but now we can add Sardinia, the Azores, Barum, San Remo and Scotland to the program.
Al-Attiyah will also take the Skoda Fabia S2000 to challenge in four rounds of the MERC being Rally of Lebanon, Syria, Cyprus and Dubai.
The least we can say is that the team from Belgium will have a full agenda.
They will bring two Skoda Fabia S2000’s to the start of some rally’s in the S-WRC, being one for Nasser Al-Attiyah and one for the Norwegian Eyvind Brynildsen. In the IRC they will do the same, this time one for Nasser Al-Attiyah and one for the Belgian Freddy Loix. Having those talented drivers taking out their cars, René Georges Rally Sport expects to complete the season with some superb results as well in gravel as in tarmac rally’s.

[noel157]

Going to be a busy year for you Jack, well done. Presume you'll have more than 2 cars available?

[Roy]

'Monster' kicked 'Kick' out ;)

http://www.stobartmotorsport.com/brc_news.asp?NewsID=797

Ken Block also with Stobart livery

[alleskids]

So effectively Al Attiyah wil do 7 IRC rallies, as Cyprus is part of both the MERC and the IRC, just as Jordan is par tof both MERC and WRC. Or does the MERC have regulations that prevent him from scoring points in the other (IRC - WRC) championship?

21 JAN. Qatar MERC; won in a Ford Fiesta S2000
05 MAR. Mexico (gravel) SWRC;
19 MAR. Argentina (gravel) IRC;
01 APR. Jordan (gravel) SWRC/MERC;
06 MAY. New Zealand (gravel) SWRC;
28 MAY. Portugal (gravel) SWRC;
04 JUN. Sardegna (gravel) IRC;
15 JUL. Azores (gravel) IRC;
28 JUL. Finland (gravel) SWRC;
27 AUG. Barum (tarmac) IRC;
09 SEP. Japan (gravel) SWRC;
11 SEP. Libanon (tarmac) MERC;
23 SEP. Sanremo (gravel/ tarmac) IRC;
07 OCT. Syria MERC;
14 OCT. Scotland (gravel) IRC;
04 NOV. Cyprus (gravel/ tarmac) IRC/MERC;
11 NOV. Wales (gravel) SWRC
2 DEC. Dubai (gravel/sand) MERC;

[RS]

'Monster' kicked 'Kick' out ;)

http://www.stobartmotorsport.com/brc_news.asp?NewsID=797

Ken Block also with Stobart livery

Lol, it's funny they talk about 'Stobart' and 'Monster' like they are two totally different teams and not just the same organisation with different stickers on their cars.

Never been a fan of the Stobart liveries tbh.

[serial jeff]

I've never liked the green and white Stobart livery, and this new version is no exception. I do like Henning's, though.

[Tomi]

Rally Hall Of Fame to Finland, To the cabinet are choosen both domestic and foreign who have had an significant carreer in rallying. The choices are made by the council which consists the world's leading experts of motorsport. The opening of the state will be on April 29th in which case the first chosen is published.

[Barreis]

Nice program for Al Attiyah..

[morganmilan]

Rally Hall Of Fame to Finland, To the cabinet are choosen both domestic and foreign who have had an significant carreer in rallying. The choices are made by the council which consists the world's leading experts of motorsport. The opening of the state will be on April 29th in which case the first chosen is published.
Any website or link, pls?

[Hartusvuori]

Any website or link, pls?

Here's the press sheet (http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.autourheilu.fi%2F25074.aspx&sl=fi&tl=en) at AKK's site. The same text is at the museum's website (http://www.mobilia.fi/ajankohtaista.html) as well. It'll be at Kangasala, close to Tampere, so perhaps not too far off if visiting Finland for NORF.

[Tomi]

Here's the press sheet (http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.autourheilu.fi%2F25074.aspx&sl=fi&tl=en) at AKK's site. The same text is at the museum's website (http://www.mobilia.fi/ajankohtaista.html) as well. It'll be at Kangasala, close to Tampere, so perhaps not too far off if visiting Finland for NORF.

the idea is good, but the location sucs, jyväskylä would have been better.

[Hartusvuori]

the idea is good, but the location sucs, jyväskylä would have been better.

Kangasala have existing place for such a cabinet, I think, which propably made the decision. Of course public-wise Jyväskylä or even Jämsä would've been better. At least once a year.

[Simmi]

the idea is good, but the location sucs, jyväskylä would have been better.

Yeah seems pretty pointless to put this anywhere other than Jyvaskyla.

[Tomi]

Kangasala have existing place for such a cabinet, I think, which propably made the decision. Of course public-wise Jyväskylä or even Jämsä would've been better. At least once a year.

I did just read somewhere that they have renovated a spa in the old competition center Rantasipi Laajavuori, the hall of fame shold have been placed, in connection to that.

[Hartusvuori]

I did just read somewhere that they have renovated a spa in the old competition center Rantasipi Laajavuori, the hall of fame shold have been placed, in connection to that.

Very true. And now that shakedown's are turned into "Publicity Events" what could be better for the Rally Hall of Fame than to be across the street from where the action starts at Rally Finland.

Being at retrospective, latest VM wrote in the Gossip-section that the historic group that is being planned to WRC would include old World Champions driving cars of their respective era. So - in a dream, in 2011 there'd be Timo Salonen in 205 T16, Kankkunen in Delta Integrale, Mäkinen in Mitsubishi, Sainz in Celica, Grönholm in 206 WRC, Vatanen in Escort MkII warming up or cooling down the show at WRC rounds.

[Tomi]

Being at retrospective, latest VM wrote in the Gossip-section that the historic group that is being planned to WRC would include old World Champions driving cars of their respective era. So - in a dream, in 2011 there'd be Timo Salonen in 205 T16, Kankkunen in Delta Integrale, Mäkinen in Mitsubishi, Sainz in Celica, Grönholm in 206 WRC, Vatanen in Escort MkII warming up or cooling down the show at WRC rounds.

yes, thats how it is, + I know Kankkunen will drive a WRC Focus in the actual rally too.
If you are from Kangasala, I hope you dont get me wrong, I dont complaine because the cabinet comes to Kangasala, I complaine that every time when there is talk's about to move the rally more south, Jyväskylä starts a hell of a lobbing session, promising what ever to keep the rally, but for something like the rally hall of fame the dont do nothing.

[Tomi]

Harri Rovanperä has signed a deal to drive 3 desert rallies in us, the team is Kore Performance, Harri did go to test the car and the owner signed him right away. Perfect use for old rally drivers. :)

[pettersolberg29]

Just to pass on some info, I'm hearing that van Merksteijn Junior may be doing the whole WRC season in 2011. Senior was impressed with him in Sweden and would like to see him challenge for points.

Personally I think it would be great, as he drives flamboyantly and his cars look great. Anyone who brings money into rallying has to be admired, and I do think Junior did a great job in Sweden.

[janvanvurpa]

Just to pass on some info, I'm hearing that van Merksteijn Junior may be doing the whole WRC season in 2011. Senior was impressed with him in Sweden and would like to see him challenge for points.

Personally I think it would be great, as he drives flamboyantly and his cars look great. Anyone who brings money into rallying has to be admired, and I do think Junior did a great job in Sweden.


Anyone?

Oh, really.......

[pettersolberg29]

What are you insinuating? ;)

[bluuford]

yes, thats how it is, + I know Kankkunen will drive a WRC Focus in the actual rally too.
If you are from Kangasala, I hope you dont get me wrong, I dont complaine because the cabinet comes to Kangasala, I complaine that every time when there is talk's about to move the rally more south, Jyväskylä starts a hell of a lobbing session, promising what ever to keep the rally, but for something like the rally hall of fame the dont do nothing.

Yeah, he was the only Dutch driver not to get stuck in snowbank for longer time :-)

[Tomi]

Yeah, he was the only Dutch driver not to get stuck in snowbank for longer time :-)

I think Sami can tell a thing or 2 about dutch drivers in snowbanks :D

[Wim_Impreza]

Just to pass on some info, I'm hearing that van Merksteijn Junior may be doing the whole WRC season in 2011. Senior was impressed with him in Sweden and would like to see him challenge for points.

Personally I think it would be great, as he drives flamboyantly and his cars look great. Anyone who brings money into rallying has to be admired, and I do think Junior did a great job in Sweden.

The intention was to do this year 8 WRC rallies with their own M2 team and as you probably know, that didn't happened also.

[swordsman]

I think Sami can tell a thing or 2 about dutch drivers in snowbanks :D

At least I saw a Dutch driver do a quite aggressive visit into a snowbank a few km's before the rally ended on Sunday :D

Luckily for them our Finnish friends in the forests proved to be well equipped to help them out :)

http://www.maxattack.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/RAS7435.jpg

[Tomi]

At least I saw a Dutch driver do a quite aggressive visit into a snowbank a few km's before the rally ended on Sunday :D

Luckily for them our Finnish friends in the forests proved to be well equipped to help them out :)

http://www.maxattack.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/RAS7435.jpg

how long did it take before he was back on the road?

[swordsman]

how long did it take before he was back on the road?

Not sure but I guess around 10 minutes... Quite a while at least, a number of cars passed... He was quite far off the road (more photos on the blog) and they had to drag him quite a bit before almost lifting the car out of the ditch... On top of that, it was impossible to work when a car approached because of the exposed position on the outer side of the bend...

[swordsman]

By the way... The snowbank got removed by noone else than Sebastien Loeb on the first pass. He had his BIG moment there. Should be really happy he got away with it... (It is also the same place as Henning Solberg and Manfred Stohl rolled back in 2006)

[MartijnS]

The intention was to do this year 8 WRC rallies with their own M2 team and as you probably know, that didn't happened also.

That was the plan for 2009. Not this year.


By the way... The snowbank got removed by noone else than Sebastien Loeb on the first pass. He had his BIG moment there. Should be really happy he got away with it... (It is also the same place as Henning Solberg and Manfred Stohl rolled back in 2006)

Was that the righthand corner which was about a km before the jump at the finish?

[swordsman]

That was the plan for 2009. Not this year.



Was that the righthand corner which was about a km before the jump at the finish?

I don't know exactly how long before the jump but one or a few km's - yes. Not far...

[Tomi]

By the way... The snowbank got removed by noone else than Sebastien Loeb on the first pass. He had his BIG moment there. Should be really happy he got away with it... (It is also the same place as Henning Solberg and Manfred Stohl rolled back in 2006)

It's the same Dutch then i think, i saw a pic of the hole Loeb did in the bank too, he was more than lucky to get back from there.

[swordsman]

It's the same Dutch then i think, i saw a pic of the hole Loeb did in the bank too, he was more than lucky to get back from there.

Saw a video on youtube of Loeb's moment too... Don't have time to find it right now but search and you'll find... :D And yes, I saw some photos of it a nice Finn had taken (I was only there on the second run) and it was really a MAJOR moment.

That bend has some kind of curse hanging over it... :D

[alleskids]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81544
news about the 2011 WRC calender

[alleskids]

Are regarded as safe but the Rally Finland, which has its contract renewed 2009, at five years and the Rally Great Britain. In addition, North One is trying to bring back the Rallye Monte Carlo back in the WRC calendar. Moreover, the possibility exists that in 2011, with Sweden and Norway are two snow rallies. There are also discussions about a further Winterrrallye in Russia and one run in Abu Dhabi. Here, however, is considered likely that these two countries will be added until 2012 in the calendar.

The prospects for the Rally of the Rally of Germany and France, is still unclear. With the move to France rally to Alsace, the two runs are not widely held in this year of one another.

sorry for the bad translation from the German site of Google :)

[pettersolberg29]

If we had MC, Finland, GB, 2 snow rallies and San Remo as the base, then the 2011 calendar could be quite exciting.

[Barreis]

I agree.. An ideal calendar: MC, Sweden, Corsica, Finland, Australia, NZ, Argentina, Portugal, Acropolis, Cyprus, Catalunia, GB. :)

[AlfaWRC]

I agree.. An ideal calendar: MC, Sweden, Corsica, Finland, Australia, NZ, Argentina, Portugal, Acropolis, Cyprus, Catalunia, GB. :)

Looks good.
However, I would definitely prefer Poland instead of Cyprus and eventually Germany instead of Catalunia.

[ShiftingGears]

Any word on what rallies Atkinson is taking part in? Last I heard he was doing 6. All unspecified.

[ShiftingGears]

I agree.. An ideal calendar: MC, Sweden, Corsica, Finland, Australia, NZ, Argentina, Portugal, Acropolis, Cyprus, Catalunia, GB. :)

An Australian round of the WRC isn't worth having if it isn't based in Perth. There wouldn't be anything unique about it.

[General Prim]

I agree.. An ideal calendar: MC, Sweden, Corsica, Finland, Australia, NZ, Argentina, Portugal, Acropolis, Cyprus, Catalunia, GB. :)

Cataluña, noooooooooooooo pleaseeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Germany is ten times better!!!!!!!!!!

[morganmilan]

Cataluña, noooooooooooooo pleaseeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Germany is ten times better!!!!!!!!!!
Very well said ;)

[AndyRAC]

Cataluña, noooooooooooooo pleaseeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Germany is ten times better!!!!!!!!!!

What about a mixed surface Cataluña..??

[pettersolberg29]

The one great thing about Catalunya is for the fans - it is very cheap/free and is very popular to go to from abroad due to nice place, nice weather and nice people.

[Francis44]

Oh you guys would welcome Portugal in the WRC 2011 calendar?!

Great, and im surprised because I got the ideia foreigners didn't like it's new formula, now on South. I've attended both 2007 and 2009 editions, and there were alot of foreigners and they really enjoyed the rally as far as I understood, but I remeber reading somethingon a forum about it losting it's touch.

[bluuford]

Oh you guys would welcome Portugal in the WRC 2011 calendar?!

Great, and im surprised because I got the ideia foreigners didn't like it's new formula, now on South. I've attended both 2007 and 2009 editions, and there were alot of foreigners and they really enjoyed the rally as far as I understood, but I remeber reading somethingon a forum about it losting it's touch.

Then it was someone from the north who was lazy enough not to travel to the south:-) Good example is that Markko Märtin chose this rally for his protege Tänak to practice in international events due to the fact that Märtin thought that that this is one of the rallies where his young gun can gain the most experioence with the best price. Remember, Tänak did only two WRC rallies last year and Portugalis approximately 4500km from Estonia. By the way, the other event was NORF.

[Wim_Impreza]

I agree.. An ideal calendar: MC, Sweden, Corsica, Finland, Australia, NZ, Argentina, Portugal, Acropolis, Cyprus, Catalunia, GB. :)

I should add Norway instead of Sweden, because there is more snow and it was a nice event too. Why do you want Catalunya? That is by far the most boring rally ever in the WRC. Germany is much better. I prefer the Sanremo in tarmac above Cyprus.

[swordsman]

I should add Norway instead of Sweden, because there is more snow and it was a nice event too. Why do you want Catalunya? That is by far the most boring rally ever in the WRC. Germany is much better. I prefer the Sanremo in tarmac above Cyprus.

Agree about San Remo but I prefer Catalunya above Germany too. :) And by FAR Sweden over Norway, but of course I'm biased...

[Tomi]

By the way, the other event was NORF.

He should come here else to drive too, in our championship, same way like Markko did before. He sure has potential.

[Barreis]

I would add San Remo without dismissing Catalunia.. :)

[Koppomsbo]

I would like 12 rallies, divided like this

6 Winter rallies (3 in sweden. 3 in norway)
5 Gravel rallies (2 in sweden. 2 in norway and 1 in finland)
1 Tarmac rally (lets say Spain for the nice weather)

But then i suppose someone disagree :D :D

[alleskids]

I would like 12 rallies, divided like this

6 Winter rallies (3 in sweden. 3 in norway)
5 Gravel rallies (2 in sweden. 2 in norway and 1 in finland)
1 Tarmac rally (lets say Spain for the nice weather)

But then i suppose someone disagree :D :D

were discussing the WRC kalender, not the Open Scandinavia Trophy :)

[Barreis]

xd

[JRodrigues]

Then it was someone from the north who was lazy enough not to travel to the south:-) Good example is that Markko Märtin chose this rally for his protege Tänak to practice in international events due to the fact that Märtin thought that that this is one of the rallies where his young gun can gain the most experioence with the best price. Remember, Tänak did only two WRC rallies last year and Portugalis approximately 4500km from Estonia. By the way, the other event was NORF.

Well, I am from the North and went there in 2007 and 2009, and I'm going there this year from Poland.. And I do prefer when it was on the North. Much more spectacular and demanding stages, and the the spectators were... crazier!!! And now Porto has low-cost connections to a lot of airports.

2000:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5S9n2vRlTYQ

2007:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb1paXh07Vo

But I am also happy to have it in Portugal.. At least we have one ralyy, and I can take some days at the beach! :D

[pino]

I would add San Remo without dismissing Catalunia.. :)

I would replace Catalunia with Sanremo :p :

[fastboy]

Well it seems that BMW-mini is going to be coming in to the championship next year which 2 drivers do you think should be given the drives?
My choice would be,
1.Atkinson
2.P-G Anderson

Whats everyone else opinion?

[Langdale Forest]

1. Petter Solberg (he still deserves to be n1 driver)
2. Chris Atkinson

[Barreis]

I would replace Catalunia with Sanremo :p :

I like both rallies.. SanRemo more.. :)

[Francis44]

Well it seems that BMW-mini is going to be coming in to the championship next year which 2 drivers do you think should be given the drives?
My choice would be,
1.Atkinson
2.P-G Anderson

Whats everyone else opinion?

Is the rally car going to be based on this.....

http://www.carrosnitrados.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/01_mini_crossover_low.jpg
?!

If so, then im not sure if they can make it look good.

[Tomi]

Well it seems that BMW-mini is going to be coming in to the championship next year which 2 drivers do you think should be given the drives?
My choice would be,
1.Atkinson
2.P-G Anderson

Whats everyone else opinion?

I still belive Atkinson will drive for Tommi Mäkinen Racing next year, so you need to choose new first driver.

[pettersolberg29]

How about PG and Garde? They did OK with the rubbish Suzuki and both have a lot of experience.
If they want a youthful driver then maybe Ostberg or Burkhart?

[ProRally]

I still belive Atkinson will drive for Tommi Mäkinen Racing next year, so you need to choose new first driver.

Already any rumors hints which make TMR is going to build.

Hear rumor in Japan that Subaru would return but with complete Japanese effort....

[Langdale Forest]

Mini will probably be an epic failure, like Hyundai and Suzuki were.

[Tomi]

Already any rumors hints which make TMR is going to build.

Hear rumor in Japan that Subaru would return but with complete Japanese effort....

Nothing new yet, but he would not have speaken so openly if there would not been something happening already, im quite sure about that.
But i can try to find out tomorrow.

[Barreis]

Bring Burcu Cetinkaya.. She has green.. lol

[Langdale Forest]

Never heard of her.

[fastboy]

I still belive Atkinson will drive for Tommi Mäkinen Racing next year, so you need to choose new first driver.

Chris has just said on autosport web site that Monster team next year is the plan.But who knows as long as he is driving i don't care.

[Langdale Forest]

He should really be where Wilson JNR is now.

[muscrae]

Never heard of her.

http://www.burcucetinkaya.com/images/news/big/2010-irc-02.jpg

She finished second in FSTI 2008, multiple Turkish Rally Ladies Champion and had an experience with Peugeot 207 S2000 in a round of Italian Gravel Championship. She also has a program to be the first woman to participate in IRC with Peıgeot S2000 this season.

RALLY HISTORY

• 2005
START WITH A FIAT PALIO 1.6 LT 105 HP
BECAME LADIES CHAMPION IN THE LOCAL ISTANBUL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP
• 2006
FORD FIESTA ST 2.0 LT 165 HP
BECAME TURKISH LADIES CHAMPION
FIRST WRC EVENT - RALLY OF TURKEY ANTALYA
• 2007
FORD FIESTA ST 2.0 LT 165 HP
BECAME TURKISH LADIES CHAMPION
2ND WRC EVENT - RALLY GB
• 2008
FORD FIESTA ST 2.0 LT 165 HP
BECAME TURKISH LADIES CHAMPION
TURKISH N3 1ST PLACE
TURKISH FIESTA SPORTING TROPHY WINNER
1ST PARTICIPATION IN WRC FIESTA SPORTING TROPHY
FINISHED 2ND PLACE IN FSTI - FIESTA SPORTING TROPHY INTERNATIONAL WRC
• 2009
FORD FIESTA ST 2.0 LT 165 HP
BECAME TURKISH LADIES CHAMPION
FIRST RALLY WITH FIAT GRANDE PUNTO S 2000 IN ITALY RALLY ADRIATICO
FIRST TEST WITH FIAT GRANDE PUNTO S 2000 (120KM)
FIRST TEST WITH SKODA FABIA S 2000 (130 KM )
FIRST RALLY WITH PEUGEOT 207 S 2000 IN ITALY RALLY AZZANO
BECAME TURKISH GROUP A CHAMPION
FINISHED TURKISH RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP OVERALL 6TH PLACE WITH A FIESTA ST

Official Website for Burcu Çetinkaya : http://www.burcucetinkaya.com/index-en.htm

[Rallyper]

Well it seems that BMW-mini is going to be coming in to the championship next year which 2 drivers do you think should be given the drives?
My choice would be,
1.Atkinson
2.P-G Anderson

Whats everyone else opinion?

Mads Östberg. :cool:

[Barreis]

They should take big name and pay him a lot that driver can concentrate only on results and be star.. :)

[gravelman]

I still belive Atkinson will drive for Tommi Mäkinen Racing next year, so you need to choose new first driver.

Driving which car? Have Makinen Racing got a deal in the pipeline with a manufacturer?

[Mirek]

Yes, interesting question. In the moment there is no suitable car and especially engine in Subaru portfolio to build S2000-based car from.

[Tomi]

]Yes, interesting question. In the moment there is no suitable car and especially engine in Subaru portfolio to build S2000-based car from.

But 1600 there is.

[gravelman]

]Yes, interesting question. In the moment there is no suitable car and especially engine in Subaru portfolio to build S2000-based car from.

Am not familiar with current model range, but remember a an NA 2.0l in the last model range..

[JRodrigues]

But 1600 there is.

For Subaru?! There's only a 1.5L NA, 2.0L NA and 2.0L T...

[Tomi]

For Subaru?! There's only a 1.5L NA, 2.0L NA and 2.0L T...

Can be other car too, but he said in interview next year when rules change, i try to find the article.

http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/arkistot/ralli/2010/01/1033773

There is a longer story in VM but im too lazy to translate.

[Viking]

Am not familiar with current model range, but remember a an NA 2.0l in the last model range..

This maybe?? due to arrive in 2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SYJjE7Xrf4&feature=player_embedded

[Mirek]

Am not familiar with current model range, but remember a an NA 2.0l in the last model range..

My bad, I meant 1600 ccm engine. New WRC cars will be S2000-based but with different engine. I should have written it better ;)

[Maui J.]

Mini will probably be an epic failure, like Hyundai and Suzuki were.

Please explain why you have come to this conclusion.

[N.O.T]

Please explain why you have come to this conclusion.

no experience in any kind of motorsport for the last 247 years is good enough for you ?

[Roy]

no experience in any kind of motorsport for the last 247 years is good enough for you ?

Remeber BMW is behind Mini.

[JRodrigues]

This maybe?? due to arrive in 2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SYJjE7Xrf4&feature=player_embedded

Ok, but that will be a 2.0NA for the Toyota and possibly a 2.0T for the Subaru. There's no 1.6 engine in Subaru's range. Only if they can enlarge the 1.5 engine.

[Barreis]

Remeber BMW is behind Mini.

I agree..

[mm1]

Remember Prodrive is behind Mini aswell.

[ProRally]

Remember the beautiful BMW M3 gr A in rally (Bastos colors, Fina colors) where made by a young Prodrive

They where really nice cars

[ProRally]

BMW representatives were guests of Prodrive boss David Richards at Rally Sweden in Karlstad, according to Motorsport News.
Work is well underway back in Banbury on the MINI project, which is set use a brand new turbocharged 1.6-litre engine. The Crossover based 4x4 is expected to begin its initial testing programme this summer.
Prodrive technical director Dave Lapworth and ex-managing director of the Subaru WRT Richard Taylor, accompanied Richards on the fact-finding mission in Sweden. The party also met with controlling representatives of the World Rally Championship during the weekend.
The official launch of the Prodrive MINI Crossover WRC is expected to take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Meanwhile, Mads Ostberg stated to maxrally.com that he was currently in negotiations with Prodrive regarding the possibility of driving the Mini next year.
“I’m talking to Prodrive and both of us are interested in continuing working together,” said the Norwegian. “I definitely think that I am worthy of a drive with them. But it’s difficult to say exactly what we can do with them because we have been struggling quite a lot with cars and confidence. I think with a good team and some testing it’s possible to fight for good positions, definitely.”

[EavesFan09]

Driving which car? Have Makinen Racing got a deal in the pipeline with a manufacturer?

My bet is on one of two Proton Satria Neo S2000 seats run by Mellors Elliott Motorsport in the IRC.

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/proton_undecided_over_second_driver/

[Barreis]

Game over..
http://www.rallybuzz.com/rally-ireland-2011-statement-msi/

[Mitch555]

And it was such a great rally :( That's a real shame for Irish rallying

[Langdale Forest]

Not the best rally of the year IMO, but a shame to see it go...

[EavesFan09]

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/s2000_only_for_ace_andersson/


Andersson conceded on Rally Sweden that he doesn’t have the full budget to enter any more WRC rallies this season.

:( :(

[tmx]

My dream WRC tarmac rally would be the Manx with night stages! Just a dream though.

[gravelman]

If rally Ireland returns, it has to lose al the political BS and promotiing the country craic, needs to be just about the rally. How about just giving these rallies WRC status
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNqgHJibrkA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCRKNow0830

[Tomi]

I wish FIA start to show some professionalism, when give different countries the rallies, they should first check that they have economic resourses and long term comitment, so that the events can develope to good rallies, this "lets play rally" is pathetic, organiser should think twice, so they dont take water over their head.

[Barreis]

If they can pay entry fee that's it..

[alleskids]

Jean Todt is kicking out old enimies ? :)

Chairman of the Commission manufacturers Gabrielle Cadringer suddenly left all positions on the international automobile federation FIA. It is yet another unpleasant facts when trying to shape the FIA regulations for competition and ROAD RACE car racing. The International Automobile Federation's comment on this fact.

Gabrielle Cadringer came to the attention especially at the beginning of the eighties, when drawn up the basic rules for group B, A and N, which is still one of the basic stones in automobile competitions. In the past ten years was also responsible for regulations for category cars S2000.

Less information is known fact that the technical committee chaired by Cadringer FISA even in 1986 and was one of the persons involved to eliminate the factory Peugeot 205 T16 Rallye Sanremo on. Allegations concerning the longitudinal strips between the front and rear wheels finally had to recognize the FISA executive tribunal, but at the end of the season. Factory Peugeot team boss at that time was Jean Todt, President of the FIA fledgling ...

[PLuto]

Jean Todt is kicking out old enimies ? :)

Chairman of the Commission manufacturers Gabrielle Cadringer suddenly left all positions on the international automobile federation FIA. It is yet another unpleasant facts when trying to shape the FIA regulations for competition and ROAD RACE car racing. The International Automobile Federation's comment on this fact.

Gabrielle Cadringer came to the attention especially at the beginning of the eighties, when drawn up the basic rules for group B, A and N, which is still one of the basic stones in automobile competitions. In the past ten years was also responsible for regulations for category cars S2000.

Less information is known fact that the technical committee chaired by Cadringer FISA even in 1986 and was one of the persons involved to eliminate the factory Peugeot 205 T16 Rallye Sanremo on. Allegations concerning the longitudinal strips between the front and rear wheels finally had to recognize the FISA executive tribunal, but at the end of the season. Factory Peugeot team boss at that time was Jean Todt, President of the FIA fledgling ...

But I put different title for article. This one is too tabloid ;)

[Buzz Lightyear]

Meeke testing WRC DSC?!
http://contrameta.com/loeb-y-sordo-prueban-el-citroen-ds3-wrc/

[pettersolberg29]

Calendar 2011: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81621

They want Monte Carlo to be first. "Rally Sweden returns as round two for next year, following a successful event earlier this month. The other rallies listed are: Rally Mexico, Rally Portugal, Abu Dhabi Rally, Rally Argentina, Rally Italy (running in Sardinia again, but with a mainland start - reckoned to be in Rome), Rally of Turkey, Rally Finland, Rally Germany, Rally Australia, Rally France, Catalunya Rally, and Rally GB."

Looks good to me. Shame that Ireland and Poland are out, although Poland is a reserve with Norway, which could open if Monte Carlo stay in the IRC.

[Tomi]

Calendar 2011: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81621

They want Monte Carlo to be first. "Rally Sweden returns as round two for next year, following a successful event earlier this month. The other rallies listed are: Rally Mexico, Rally Portugal, Abu Dhabi Rally, Rally Argentina, Rally Italy (running in Sardinia again, but with a mainland start - reckoned to be in Rome), Rally of Turkey, Rally Finland, Rally Germany, Rally Australia, Rally France, Catalunya Rally, and Rally GB."

Looks good to me. Shame that Ireland and Poland are out, although Poland is a reserve with Norway, which could open if Monte Carlo stay in the IRC.

i would not mind if Noway would replace Monte, also i would rather see Poland instead of Turkey.

[DonJippo]

i would not mind if Noway would replace Monte, also i would rather see Poland instead of Turkey.

Pity if Norway won't be in the calendar, was there 2009 and find it much better than Sweden.

[Josti]

i would not mind if Noway would replace Monte, also i would rather see Poland instead of Turkey.

I really can't understand why they insist on keeping Turkey on the calender. Very curious about that.

I hope an African event can get into the calender in 2012, preferably Safari of course.

[tolis]

No Acropolis in 2011... :(

[Tomi]

I hope an African event can get into the calender in 2012, preferably Safari of course.

I belive there will be, but I think it will not be in Kenya but in SA.

[Josti]

No Acropolis in 2011... :(

Just noticed that. What a pity, why prefer Turkey over Greece.

[JFL]

Pity if Norway won't be in the calendar, was there 2009 and find it much better than Sweden.
does'nt look good.... :(


http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http://www.motorsport.no/wip4/politikerne-uteble/d.epl%3Fcat%3D13747%26id%3D462529&sl=auto&tl=en

[Tomi]

Just noticed that. What a pity, why prefer Turkey over Greece.

Can be that they dont have the money to arrange the rally in Greece, I guess that soon there will be a Chineese round as well, especially when next year a Chineese team joins the WRC.

[N.O.T]

the calendar looks good....my only dissapointment is that NZ is out, its a magnifiscent event. Poland was also great and turkey has nothing to offer over it. If argentina manages to have a good organisation then the event is also great.

I am glad the athenian pigdogs didn't get a round...they had the perfect event in 2004 and then moved the event to pig city to accomodate their celebrities and the fat greek rich tourist boy rally drivers....very nice.

[N.O.T]

Can be that they dont have the money to arrange the rally in Greece

this would also be the reason last year they sold the event to a casino to manage and run it and Vovos also gave great financial help....also 2 years before that the ERC round was cancelled because of financial reasons. To be honest the way the event was run the last few years it wasn't much of a loss

[Josti]

Can be that they dont have the money to arrange the rally in Greece, I guess that soon there will be a Chineese round as well, especially when next year a Chineese team joins the WRC.

Yeah, and Greece isn't in it's best financial state currently, that's true.

Haven't heard about this Chinese interest before, but in that case, an established event like Japan would make more sense to me.

[Tomi]

Haven't heard about this Chinese interest before, but in that case, an established event like Japan would make more sense to me.

Yes, the same team that run Ketomaa in SWRC this year.

[Tomi]

does'nt look good.... :(


http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http://www.motorsport.no/wip4/politikerne-uteble/d.epl%3Fcat%3D13747%26id%3D462529&sl=auto&tl=en

who was Rally Norways main sponsor?

[SubaruNorway]

I've been to Sweden twice, the first time i was covered in mud the second time i was chewing dust at the end of the day. So hope Norway get's the opener so we can get a proper winter rally.

[Mitch555]

Mm I am personally not a fan of that calendar... Missing some great rallies there, plus it isn't really a "World" Championship as it doesn't visit Asia or Africa (unless we count Abu Dhabi as Asian, when the Middle East is nearly a small continent on its own...)

Missing New Zealand, Greece, Ireland, Norway, San Remo, African round, China, Japan and USA. Some people won't like this but I think its time to cull some of the European rounds. Its easier for you guys to see events in other countries than it is for say someone in Africa, Asia, Oceania, North or South America, and it opens up new markets as well. Rallying is getting big in China

[Doon]

I belive there will be, but I think it will not be in Kenya but in SA.

I think Rally Zimbabwe would be a good idea, home rally for Rautenbach. After all Zimbabwe is the 'Bread Basket' of Africa, so i'm sure they can put on a good Rally...

[WRCfan]

Pathetic calender. Abu Dhabi will be like rallying in a sandpit. The simple fact that they have no scenery except arid wasteland will make for hands down the most boring spectacle ever, just like Rally Jordan.

Where have the good ol days gone where every calendar had the pinnacle events like Monte, Sweden, Acropolis, Finland, SanRemo, Tour de Corse, RAC, New Zealand, Safari.

It's a pathetic effort at a world championship almost nowadays with lack of driving talent needed in places like Jordan, it's luck of the draw as to who doesn't have their car fall apart...

[mjh]

I don't think they have much choice with NZ, wasn't the sponsorship deal with Repco done on the basis of Australia and NZ rotating?

[Datto1600]

If Rally Australia doesn't go back to Perth I would rather see in in NZ every year.

[Barreis]

It's all about money..

[GINE]

[quote="N.O.T"]the calendar looks good....my only dissapointment is that NZ is out, its a magnifiscent event. Poland was also great and turkey has nothing to offer over it. If argentina manages to have a good organisation then the event is also great.

I am glad the athenian pigdogs didn't get a round...they had the perfect event in 2004 and then moved the event to pig city to accomodate their celebrities and the fat greek rich tourist boy rally drivers....very nice.[/quote


Check that link also http://www.maxrally.com
it is still early to know the calendar. Lets wait for the official calendar and not the 'inside' info of every forum-page etc

By the way, what are all these &*&*&*&* that you write about the Acropolis rally. I thought all the greeks want Acropolis in the calendar. But NOT is always NOT

[tolis]

Let's hope that the Acropolis will be in next year's calendar!!! So, we have to wait...Off course we all want the Acropolis in the WRC calendar every year, Lampros!!! Don't listen to NOT... ;)

[Langdale Forest]

The Acropilis is a good event because if the top drivers get punctures and suspension failures, the other drivers have the chance of a good result.
The Acropolis is one of the oldest rallies in the WRC.

I cannot belive why N.O.T dosen't want Greece in the WRC anymore.

[Motorsportfun]

N.O.T says that Acropolis Rally, as it has been run in the last couple of years, was "crappy" (changing pathetic locations, etc.), so itz better "kill" the event. Just like France has done with Tour de Corse. Do you remember 2005 edition? Twelve stages through all the weekend, using 3 or 4 roads. That's not Tour De Corse. That was crap. Genuine crap.

[Tomi]

It's all about money..

offcourse it is, arranging a rally is not free anywhere

[Wim_Impreza]

I really can't understand why they insist on keeping Turkey on the calender. Very curious about that.

I hope an African event can get into the calender in 2012, preferably Safari of course.


I really can't even more understand why Catalunya is again on the calendar. There is already talk for years that it won't be again in the calendar.

Still, this calendar will change a lot in the next months... We all know the reputation of the FIA.

[Barreis]

offcourse it is, arranging a rally is not free anywhere

FIA entry fee is the worst part..

[Langdale Forest]

N.O.T says that Acropolis Rally, as it has been run in the last couple of years, was "crappy" (changing pathetic locations, etc.), so itz better "kill" the event. Just like France has done with Tour de Corse. Do you remember 2005 edition? Twelve stages through all the weekend, using 3 or 4 roads. That's not Tour De Corse. That was crap. Genuine crap.

In 2005 I think they should have changed the name of the event from 'Tour de Corse', to 'The Corsican Rally'. Whatever the name it was a total Loeb domination.

Wales Rally GB is just in Wales now, (although for the last two years they have been a bit further North). It used to go right across the UK.

[Tomi]

FIA entry fee is the worst part..

how much is the entry fee for arranger?

[Langdale Forest]

What rally is arranger?

[General Prim]

I really can't even more understand why Catalunya is again on the calendar. There is already talk for years that it won't be again in the calendar.

Still, this calendar will change a lot in the next months... We all know the reputation of the FIA.

Me too!!!!!!!

[Barreis]

how much is the entry fee for arranger?

It was 1 000 000 $ few years ago (in that money all equipment is from ISC)..

[amilk]

I've been to Sweden twice, the first time i was covered in mud the second time i was chewing dust at the end of the day. So hope Norway get's the opener so we can get a proper winter rally.

Agree. Since 2007 Norway-Sweden 2:0 in terms of proper winter rally. This year was dissapointed due to much gravel

[Tomi]

It was 1 000 000 $ few years ago (in that money all equipment is from ISC)..

I dont think its so much, less than 20.000 rallypasses if they cost 50€ each.

[Barreis]

They get entry fee of competitors etc. ASC (Dakar) wants 3 000 000 euros for town/country (in Europe) - starter..

[Tomi]

They get entry fee of competitors etc. ASC (Dakar) wants 3 000 000 euros for town/country (in Europe) - starter..

every rally has a entry fee, with that money they pay the for the use and maintance of the roads, dakar has nothing to do with rally.

[Barreis]

That's why the owners of ASC (Dakar) are bankars and that's business today..

[alleskids]

you mean A.S.O. - Amaury Sport Organisation instead of ASC ?

[curry]

As an Australian I would love to see a WRC round in Australia but not at the expense of having to alternate Rally NZ every second year. Rally NZ is a classic event with some of the best roads in the world and as such should be a permanent fixture.

[KiwiRallyFan]

The simple fact that they have no scenery except arid wasteland will make for hands down the most boring spectacle ever, just like Rally Jordan.
Rally Jordan is a very good event to spectate on. The stages are all close together, access to the stages is quite good, as is access from both Amman and the Dead Sea hotels, spectator numbers are small (less crowded), and there are a few spectacular viewing spots (like the big ford that was used 4 times in 2008)...

http://www.kiwirallyfan.com/Motorsports/Jordan-Rally-2008/AnderssonFordfix/293044101_Nt6Fj-M.jpg

[Camelopard]

Rally Jordan is a very good event to spectate on. The stages are all close together, access to the stages is quite good, as is access from both Amman and the Dead Sea hotels, spectator numbers are small (less crowded), and there are a few spectacular viewing spots (like the big ford that was used 4 times in 2008)...

That is what I have been telling people on here for the last couple of years, but people who haven't even been to the event apparently know more about it than someone who has!!!!!!

I'll be there again this year, can't wait.


Also, spectating at this rally is FREE meaning spectators are not used as cash cows like in some other events.

[StevieWonder]

That is what I have been telling people on here for the last couple of years, but people who haven't even been to the event apparently know more about it than someone who has!!!!!!

I'll be there again this year, can't wait.


Also, spectating at this rally is FREE meaning spectators are not used as cash cows like in some other events.


I´m also planning my trip to Jordan.
can you help me to find a low cost hotel near the rally region - where are you going to spend your time ?
don´t hesitate to send me a private message.
or maybe some other out there who can send me interesting infos/hints ?
thanx a lot in advance

[Camelopard]

I´m also planning my trip to Jordan.
can you help me to find a low cost hotel near the rally region - where are you going to spend your time ?
don´t hesitate to send me a private message.
or maybe some other out there who can send me interesting infos/hints ?
thanx a lot in advance

We went with Per Carlsson, I have sent you a pm.

Kiwirallyfan how did you organise your trip last time?

For anyone doing it by themselves I would recommend staying in Madaba and renting a car. That way you can avoid Amman and it's crazy traffic! Don't forget it is Easter time and the rally starts on the thursday and ends on the saturday. This area (Madaba) has a lot of Christians so accommodation may be tight at this time of the year.

The rally guide is availabe here and has good maps.

http://www.jordanrally.com/wrc_2010/static/pdf/new_2010/rally_gaid_2010.pdf

Hopefully this link will work also:

http://wikimapia.org/#lat=31.7199904&lon=35.7900238&z=12&l=0&m=b&v=8

The airport is on the right of the screen. the service park is based near the Dead Sea resorts of Movenpick, Kempinski etc. the HQ of the rally is at the Dead Sea Convention Centre. draw a line from the airport through Madaba and on the Dead Sea will be resorts.

[KiwiRallyFan]

Kiwirallyfan how did you organise your trip last time?
I did it independently as part of a Middle East holiday. I hired a rental car and stayed in Amman (the traffic wasn't too bad, apart from the roundabouts!). Once out of Amman, it is very easy to get around and find the stages.

I forgot about the free access to stages - another plus. They gave out free spectator programs as well.

[Barreis]

you mean A.S.O. - Amaury Sport Organisation instead of ASC ?

That's it.. :)

[Camelopard]

I did it independently as part of a Middle East holiday. I hired a rental car and stayed in Amman (the traffic wasn't too bad, apart from the roundabouts!). Once out of Amman, it is very easy to get around and find the stages.

I forgot about the free access to stages - another plus. They gave out free spectator programs as well.

I've since been told that cars entering a roundabout have the right of way over cars already on the roundabout, if that makes sense!

This is the opposite of what happens here in Canberra which is the natural home of the 'roundabout', at least according to the many interstate visitors we get! :)

[dot-niek]

The new car of De Jong who might do rally deutschland:

http://www.therallysite.com/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7420&Itemid=89

Mitsubish Lancer WRC 05

He will drive the Dutch championship.

[Langdale Forest]

Good to see someone driving a Mitsubishi WRC in the WRC this year. :)

[alleskids]

Peugeot has no place for Sebastien Loeb in the factory team for Le Mans 2010. Anthony Davidson/Alex Wurz/Marc Gené, Nicolas Minassian/Franck Montagny/Stephane Sarrazin and Sebastien Bourdais/Simon Pagenaud/Pedro Lamy will try to keep the trophy in France

[MJW]

Peugeot has no place for Sebastien Loeb in the factory team for Le Mans 2010. Anthony Davidson/Alex Wurz/Marc Gené, Nicolas Minassian/Franck Montagny/Stephane Sarrazin and Sebastien Bourdais/Simon Pagenaud/Pedro Lamy will try to keep the trophy in France
Autosport.com says that Quensel said Loeb was fast enough to be included in the team, and they always planned to make the decision on Loeb for Le Mans after Sweden. Quensel said that "Sebastien does not need any distractions this year" So I guess if he won Sweden maybe Quensel would have left him play roundy roundy, but now that he has a real fight with Mikko he gets "no distractions" - Game on - Go Mikko!

[alleskids]

so Quensel gives a big compliment to Hirvonen. Mikko became so fast that Quensel took away all the toys of Loeb. No more circuit playing, just WRC rallying.

[AndyRAC]

Whilst I think it's a shame that Loeb is not doing Le Mans, I can see Quesnel's point of view. When all the rumours about Loeb doing F1 arose, he did seem to lose focus - and let Mikko back into the Championship. This won't be allowed to happen again.
That's a pretty good line up for Peugeot though - still not totally convinced by Lamy.

[gravelman]

Hate to say it, rallying for rally drivers and racing for racing drivers.

[JRodrigues]

so Quensel gives a big compliment to Hirvonen. Mikko became so fast that Quensel took away all the toys of Loeb. No more circuit playing, just WRC rallying.

It was about time as well..

[WRCfan]

Seems NZ is going to be dumped because the dip****s who run things don't have a damn clue. My blood is boiling over hearing this.

Link here:

http://www.3news.co.nz/3Sport/Story/tabid/415/articleID/143225/Default.aspx

[Fri]

It was about time as well..

Quesnel: "Finally, last year’s Le Mans winners Marc Gené and Alexander Wurz will be joined by Anthony Davidson. We had a number of options for this car, including Sébastien Loeb. He has reached a sufficiently high standard to be considered as a potential team member and we waited until the Swedish Rally before we took any decision. Every driver has to be 100 per cent committed to our programme and it eventually became clear that Sébastien’s schedule would be too tight. Anthony Davidson was available – he is quick, enthusiastic and very happy to be part of Team Peugeot Total. "

[alleskids]

Quesnel: "we waited until the Swedish Rally before we took any decision..... it eventually became clear that Sébastien’s schedule would be too tight. "

Suddenly after the Swedisch Rally Loeb's schedule became to tight to do Le Mans. What changed in the calender during the Swedisch rally, except for Hirvonens win? :)

[cali]

Suddenly after the Swedisch Rally Loeb's schedule became to tight to do Le Mans. What changed in the calender during the Swedisch rally, except for Hirvonens win? :)

You asked and in the same sentence You did answer to Your own question :)

[alleskids]

It was meant as a sarcastic reply. I forgot to add the sarcasme mode on :) .

[serial jeff]

Seb explains why he turned down Le Mans:

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=7022&desc=Loeb+says+no+to+Le+Mans

[Loose_Unit]

Seems NZ is going to be dumped because the dip****s who run things don't have a damn clue. My blood is boiling over hearing this.

Link here:

http://www.3news.co.nz/3Sport/Story/tabid/415/articleID/143225/Default.aspx

gutted about this news too. if it is true, the wrc can go and get f**ked.

[ProRally]

Seems NZ is going to be dumped because the dip****s who run things don't have a damn clue. My blood is boiling over hearing this.

Link here:

http://www.3news.co.nz/3Sport/Story/tabid/415/articleID/143225/Default.aspx

Very Very sad, I had many good events there.... both in Auckland and in Hamilton...

Even the 1000 pistes version .... :D :D

[MJW]

gutted about this news too. if it is true, the wrc can go and get f**ked.
Not over yet - Jean Todt and the FIA have the final say. OK the promo guys and Olivier Quensel have said about "no market in NZ, and the cost of getting there etc" - but if TV is the main player then Whanga Coast is probably the visually most spectacular stage in the world. NZ still has the best kept secret in rallying - its called The Silver Fern Rally - check that out.

[AndyRAC]

Sorry, but it's an absolute disgrace if NZ is left out of the WRC. Surely one of the criteria for inclusion is the quality of the roads, the challenge; the drivers all love NZ - an absolutely fantastic Rally. So what will replace it? Something boring in a big car market?? Honestly.......
Moving Rallye De France to Alsace is a mistake, having Rallye d'Italia start in Roma and shipping everything to Sardegna is an even bigger mistake. I really despair.

[RS]

Sorry, but it's an absolute disgrace if NZ is left out of the WRC. Surely one of the criteria for inclusion is the quality of the roads, the challenge; the drivers all love NZ - an absolutely fantastic Rally. So what will replace it? Something boring in a big car market?? Honestly.......
Moving Rallye De France to Alsace is a mistake, having Rallye d'Italia start in Roma and shipping everything to Sardegna is an even bigger mistake. I really despair.

And what about them building special roads in Abu Dhabi for the rally?

I hope WRC doesn't go down the same route as F1 where they go to the moneyed countries with identikit circuits in the middle of a wasteland.

[Langdale Forest]

Abu Dhabi rally would be awfully boring, like Jordan.

[AndyRAC]

And what about them building special roads in Abu Dhabi for the rally?

I hope WRC doesn't go down the same route as F1 where they go to the moneyed countries with identikit circuits in the middle of a wasteland.

That's what I fear.

[Langdale Forest]

Building special roads for a rally is bad when there are many unknown and 'epic' roads in the worlds.

[Koppomsbo]

Pg aims for four more rallies this year.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nwt.se%2Fsport%2Farticle664952. ece&sl=sv&tl=en

[EavesFan09]

Abu Dhabi rally would be awfully boring, like Jordan.

Even though I am a fan of BP Abu Dhabi WRT, I think the Abu Dhabi rally would fundamentally only really benefit the Abu Dhabi tourist board.

[EavesFan09]

Pg aims for four more rallies this year.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nwt.se%2Fsport%2Farticle664952. ece&sl=sv&tl=en

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/s2000_only_for_ace_andersson/


Andersson conceded on Rally Sweden that he doesn’t have the full budget to enter any more WRC rallies this season.


According to this though we may not see PGA this season.

[Koppomsbo]

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/s2000_only_for_ace_andersson/



According to this though we may not see PGA this season.

Its published the 19th february, today is the 24th. Things happends fast in this game.

Whatever, if gets to drive Finland its ok for mee

[alleskids]

JM Racing could opt for the original idea of the World Cup S2000, sign for 7 rallies and change the driver every rally. Hopefully can can stil count the Swedisch rally win, to add with their planned 6 rallies with PG (Portugal, Finland, France and Wales) plus a special guest in Japan.
IF JM Racing is entering the World Cup, can PG Andersson score drivers points for the S-WRC?

[swordsman]

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/s2000_only_for_ace_andersson/



According to this though we may not see PGA this season.

Doesn't it say that we wont see PG in a WRC car this season? I'm quite sure we'll see him in a Super2000 car...

[WRCfan]

Sorry, but it's an absolute disgrace if NZ is left out of the WRC. Surely one of the criteria for inclusion is the quality of the roads, the challenge; the drivers all love NZ - an absolutely fantastic Rally. So what will replace it? Something boring in a big car market?? Honestly.......
Moving Rallye De France to Alsace is a mistake, having Rallye d'Italia start in Roma and shipping everything to Sardegna is an even bigger mistake. I really despair.

Amen! Not just because it's my home rally but because everytime I have been there I get reminded how good NZ is for rallying roads, drivers favourite for a good reason. Backdrop is spectacular but even better in real life.

Mr Quesnel if you cut rallies like NZ from the calendar in favour of Abu Dhabi and Jordan your a very misguided little man.
What makes him think Australians as opposed to New Zealanders actually want to own one of his sh!tron crapboxes?

[Gard]

Amen! Not just because it's my home rally but because everytime I have been there I get reminded how good NZ is for rallying roads, drivers favourite for a good reason. Backdrop is spectacular but even better in real life.

Mr Quesnel if you cut rallies like NZ from the calendar in favour of Abu Dhabi and Jordan your a very misguided little man.
What makes him think Australians as opposed to New Zealanders actually want to own one of his sh!tron crapboxes?

I say... get the manufactorers out of wrc. We don't need the manufactorers to develop rally cars.

With rules based on modifications of production cars. Much like GroupN or even s2000. Manus can compete in making the best production car base for rally. Then Prodrive, MSD, Ralliart, TMR, Pipo and the likes will do the job.This will get the costs down too.

[HaCo]

In future we might be able to follow the WRC as a Virtual Spectator, of course in realtime!

iOpener CEO Andy Lürling added, "Together we aim to configure North One Sport's systems and iOpener's patented technology to capture high accuracy live action GPS which can then be integrated into the next generation of WRC video games. These games will allow fans to drive, co-drive, manage or simply watch the WRC from the heart of the action."
http://www.real-timeracing.com/news.aspx?node=20619&title=iopener-announces-official-cooperation-with-wrc

This should be great! :D

[Josti]

In future we might be able to follow the WRC as a Virtual Spectator, of course in realtime!

http://www.real-timeracing.com/news.aspx?node=20619&title=iopener-announces-official-cooperation-with-wrc

This should be great! :D

I think I heard this story before, a month ago or so. In any case, not a priority if you ask me.

[cali]

I think I heard this story before, a month ago or so. In any case, not a priority if you ask me.

Compared to live stages from IRC, this Virtual Spectator thing is like (excuse me) choosing between rubberwoman and ... :D

[Wim]

Read somewhere that Subaru is planning a return with Tommi Makinen Racing..and possibly backed by Marlboro...This is not the first time I read it. I know some parts of the Prodrive-Impreza engine came from cosworth..and now in Uk there will be a cosworth version of the STI. Is it only me or is there a new team in the making: cosworth, makinen and Sti-subaru.

[AndyRAC]

Marlboro.......well that would be a surprise, I know they back Ferrari and Ducati - but a WRC team?

[Josti]

Marlboro.......well that would be a surprise, I know they back Ferrari and Ducati - but a WRC team?

Mitsubishi, 1999-2002?

I always think Makinen is going to be of some sort of value for a possible Subaru comeback in the future. Maybe these are the first rough sketches.

[ShiftingGears]

I think the WRC promoters need to get their priorities right.

[Motorsportfun]

Mitsubishi, 1999-2002?

I always think Makinen is going to be of some sort of value for a possible Subaru comeback in the future. Maybe these are the first rough sketches.

Also "Marlboro Peugeot Total" team, headed by Corrado Provera. ;)

[alleskids]

That was before sigarets became illegal to promote. So what use will it be to sponsor a car/team and not be able to show their logo?

[hari]

Autosport.com reports that Rally Acropolis is now set to retain a slot in the WRC 2011.

Good to hear, Acropolis definitely should have its place in the calendar.

[HaCo]

Compared to live stages from IRC, this Virtual Spectator thing is like (excuse me) choosing between rubberwoman and ... :D

LOL, that's funny. Still, if there is no live stages this is far more exciting than watching splits (these are exciting already!).

[ToughMac]

That was before sigarets became illegal to promote. So what use will it be to sponsor a car/team and not be able to show their logo?

Good point, this was an issue a couple of years ago for Peugeot when they were being backed by Marlboro. Rumors at the time were that the Marlboro brand would have been replaced by something else in the Philip Morrris group such as Toblerone. Could we see Toblerone Tommi Makinen Subarus in the future?

[Wim]

http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/reader-spy-toyota-subaru-coupe

[cali]

LOL, that's funny. Still, if there is no live stages this is far more exciting than watching splits (these are exciting already!).

Sure, but it's still quite lame compared to Live footage. Well, I might be wrong as well...

[Barreis]

NorthTV knows their way of showing WRC to public is amateur (that's max they can do 'cos they know they don't have way for LIVE tv - nobody wants to buy it for that prise).. Eurosport trashes them to pieces..

[AndyRAC]

NorthTV knows their way of showing WRC to public is amateur (that's max they can do 'cos they know they don't have way for LIVE tv - nobody wants to buy it for that prise).. Eurosport trashes them to pieces..

I wish NorthOne would live in the real world - and realise TV companies aren't going to pay huge money for a minority sport - this isn't F1. I know they are a business, but they should be almost giving the coverage away very cheaply.

[Mirek]

JM Racing could opt for the original idea of the World Cup S2000, sign for 7 rallies and change the driver every rally. Hopefully can can stil count the Swedisch rally win, to add with their planned 6 rallies with PG (Portugal, Finland, France and Wales) plus a special guest in Japan.
IF JM Racing is entering the World Cup, can PG Andersson score drivers points for the S-WRC?

As far as I know JM Racing tries to help PG with finding sponsors for more events...

[Motorsportfun]

I wish NorthOne would live in the real world - and realise TV companies aren't going to pay huge money for a minority sport - this isn't F1. I know they are a business, but they should be almost giving the coverage away very cheaply.

ASO (organizers of Dakar), when they started to promote the Tour de France, have given the tv-rights for free... now it's the most expensive (for TVs) cycling event in the whole world. ;)

[alleskids]

]As far as I know JM Racing tries to help PG with finding sponsors for more events...

His Sweden win will help getting atention :) . But thos anyone know, when a team only enters the teams championship, can their (number of different) drivers score points for the drivers S-WRC championship?

[Micke_VOC]

Full season for Patrik Flodin in PWRC is announced today with the URT team.

He will not participate in Mexico and NZ.

From the press release
" We are leading the Pwrc, Russian Championship and Swedish Championship and everything works fine, im really happy that URT will do PWRC with me"

Patrik Flodin will also drive the chinese championship for Hongyun Honghe Rally Team.

Source: http://patrikflodin.com/nyheter.htm

[Barreis]

http://www.rallybuzz.com/mini-countryman-wrc-will-happen/

[Ghostwalker]

Marcus Grönholm successfully completed Vasaloppet yesterday.
Marcus completed the 90km on skies with a time of 7 hours 47 minutes and 21 seconds.
Marcus was 3 hours and 44 minutes after the winner and finished at place 6547 out 15702 starters.

[rbatista82]

Rally Mexico Photos

http://www.supermotores.net/sm/fotos.asp?id=145

[Micke_VOC]

PG are trying to drive Jordan rally..
He waiting for his late entry to be approved..

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vf.se%2FSport%2FVarmland%2FPGs-nya-storsatsning-100309.aspx&sl=auto&tl=en

[Iskald]

PG are trying to drive Jordan rally..
He waiting for his late entry to be approved..

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vf.se%2FSport%2FVarmland%2FPGs-nya-storsatsning-100309.aspx&sl=auto&tl=en

Starting to look quite good this. Mads Østberg could also be close to deciding a campaign in S-WRC 2010. Probably with a Peugeot 207, starting in New Zealand.

[Tomi]

Its good there comes many drivers to SWRC, but its strange that drivers can keep their points from events before they did register to do full season.

[Josti]

Its good there comes many drivers to SWRC, but its strange that drivers can keep their points from events before they did register to do full season.

Isn't it just another drivers championship (like WRC), alongside a registered cup for S2000 teams (like the manu championship).

I see no harm in that.

[Tomi]

Isn't it just another drivers championship (like WRC), alongside a registered cup for S2000 teams (like the manu championship).

I see no harm in that.

To me its the same too, but i think its strange that you can drive a rally, and if it goes well you deside to drive full season, if not you skip it.
In theese small car series i value more the driver who can drive in the front in most of the events, and maybe retires because of dont know the roads yet good enough, than the guy who drives steady 3-4 finishes and maybe are higher in points at the end of the season. In other words this is only preparation for the future, nothing more.

[SubaruNorway]

Didn't PG get a wildcard for Sweden so that's why he was registered for S-WRC points?

[Ghostwalker]

Didn't PG get a wildcard for Sweden so that's why he was registered for S-WRC points?

yes PG and Sääv both were Wild Card entries in Rally Sweden.

[Micke_VOC]

PG´s late entry in Jordan is approved..and Jonas Andersson is back as codriver...

[PLuto]

Ralliart is closing doors... (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10014) - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10014

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/b_87daabe3033cf82cb310fd3f7b6f4bbb.jpg

[ProRally]

IF it would happen for 2011 it would be GREAT

Bring back BF Goodridge, Yokohama, Hankook, Dunlop etc.

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/03/14/abschied-vom-einheitsreifen/index.html

[ProRally]

Restrictor too big ....
http://www.rallybuzz.com/holowczyz-excluded-baja-russia/

[MJW]

A few things from Motorsport News published in UK on Wednesday 17th March.
1. Indications are that Jean Todt is not "in love with North One Sport" and looks to want to prove to NOS that its the FIA in charge, - suggestions that NOS putting Abu Dahbi as the final event didnt go down too well.
2. Jean Todt has asked Morrie Chandler to start exploring a merger bewteen WRC and IRC.
3. Indications are that Monte stays with IRC again in 2011.
4. Jean seems to be taking his time to deal with things but MN suggests that he wants a return to old style rallies, and not so much the ISC / North One David Richards pattern of the 2000 decade.
5 Also hints that Jeam likes the costs of IRC allowing more drivers a realistic chance to enter over the elitist WRC.
Trouble is we should have been in this position two to three years ago not 9 months from the much talked aboit "new start in 2011"

[Mirek]

Thank You, it seems that Jean Todt brought some new wind into FIA after all.

[AndyRAC]

]Thank You, it seems that Jean Todt brought some new wind into FIA after all.

Good for Jean Todt!!
NOS need to be reminded who runs the sport. Maybe Jean is wondering how NOS won the Promoters contract.

[Barreis]

David Richards put WRC 10 steps back in compare with F1..

[sal]

A few things from Motorsport News published in UK on Wednesday 17th March.

2. Jean Todt has asked Morrie Chandler to start exploring a merger bewteen WRC and IRC.

In the grand tradition of the FIA. Got a pesky series challenging one of your flagships then go out of your way to kill it!

[Barreis]

Mr Morrie Chandler can go back to New Zealand..

[AndyRAC]

Mr Morrie Chandler can go back to New Zealand..

He actually hasn't done anything since he's been the commisioner, has he?

[Barreis]

Nothing At All.

[bluuford]

Loeb should not worry too much in 2010:
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82196

[MJW]

A few things from Motorsport News published in UK on Wednesday 17th March.

2. Jean Todt has asked Morrie Chandler to start exploring a merger bewteen WRC and IRC.

In the grand tradition of the FIA. Got a pesky series challenging one of your flagships then go out of your way to kill it!

I should have added that Jean Todt had said that at present with the economy the way it is that top level rallying could not sustain two championships "taking from each other". He also said that if you removed the support series, SWRC, PWRC & JWRC from WRC it would be unlikely to run rallies.

[AndyRAC]

I should have added that Jean Todt had said that at present with the economy the way it is that top level rallying could not sustain two championships "taking from each other". He also said that if you removed the support series, SWRC, PWRC & JWRC from WRC it would be unlikely to run rallies.

I honestly think it's only a matter of time before they both merge. I'm not sure how it will happen - but - Rallying can't really support 2 series.
As for the support series, what do they actually achieve - how many J-WRC/P-WRC winners have gone on to a full factory seat?? Very few. Time to get rid of them.

[Barreis]

Eurosport Events are producing their own program and they're guaranting few hours of it infront of millions of people.. So that's not problem.. We'll see what happens if they (FIA) stops S2000 homologations but rules says that 1.6T WRC could be run in any country from next year.. So it could be 1.6T WRC cars in IRC from next year or from 2012..

[bluuford]

I honestly think it's only a matter of time before they both merge. I'm not sure how it will happen - but - Rallying can't really support 2 series.
As for the support series, what do they actually achieve - how many J-WRC/P-WRC winners have gone on to a full factory seat?? Very few. Time to get rid of them.

Initially a year ago I thought that two series are good, you need someone to push you to get better. But it looks like in current economy it is not possible. It is not funny when there is only one car capable to win (Curtiba for example) when one has slight problem.
Actually it all comes together when you think that Todt is not happy with North One and he wants to merge IRC (which is Eurosports son) and WRC. Sounds like ideal plan to get rid of Nort One? or make good co-operation between NO and Eurosport. You know that in Monte Eurosport is using also WRC technical equipments because the show needs it. So, there is co-operation anyway. And you saw what happened in Curtiba when Eurosport had to divide his forces between WTCC and WRC. It was the worst ever Europsort rally coverage I have seen.
In ideal world there would be World Rally Championship and support championships running aside the main championship.
The other thing they should do is to decrease the entry fee for those support championships and privateers. Currently its costs are enormous.
In my view the best way should be to create 4 levels:

4. total privateers, local drivers, gentleman drivers, rally tourists. They are just running for overall position and maybe some kind of best privateer of the rally honor.They have not very strict technical rules (tires, fuel, etc.)
3. Young drivers like JWRC right now. definitely 2WD cars but not S1600. R3 and R2 cars should be allowed only. S1600 way too expensive.
2. People searching for factory seats or just wanting to drive some kind of championships. Those should be simple 4WD cars like traditional GrN PWRC
1. Top league, S1600T cars, manus, private teams and just privateers fighting for the top spots. with very strict technical rules

Sorry for hijacking this thread..

[Iskald]

In ideal world there would be World Rally Championship and support championships running aside the main championship.
The other thing they should do is to decrease the entry fee for those support championships and privateers. Currently its costs are enormous.
In my view the best way should be to create 4 levels:

4. total privateers, local drivers, gentleman drivers, rally tourists. They are just running for overall position and maybe some kind of best privateer of the rally honor.They have not very strict technical rules (tires, fuel, etc.)
3. Young drivers like JWRC right now. definitely 2WD cars but not S1600. R3 and R2 cars should be allowed only. S1600 way too expensive.
2. People searching for factory seats or just wanting to drive some kind of championships. Those should be simple 4WD cars like traditional GrN PWRC
1. Top league, S1600T cars, manus, private teams and just privateers fighting for the top spots. with very strict technical rules

Sorry for hijacking this thread..

Yes, you have hijacked the thread. and no, I don`t understand your arguments. You are talking about decreasing entry fees as an important costreducing factor. Its not really. Just to take an example. Running a Gr.N/PWRC car in a WRC-event on a very sensible budget, entry fee will be appr. 10% of the total costs. This does not include possible rebuild of the car after running 350 rough stage kilometres. Entry fees seems high, but they are acually a very small part of total costs.

[bluuford]

I also mentioned the possibility of using different tires, pump fuel, but these were just examples. Maybe it is right time to start news and rumours III.. nearly 150 pages already :-)

[Red bull]

David Richards put WRC 10 steps back in compare with F1..
yes richards destroyed wrc and swrt as all his mind was sunk in F1. :s mokin:

[principe IRC]

Any news about Aaron Burkart season?

Thanks.

[Mirek]

Kresta confirmed NORF and GB with Evo IX.

[Blitzerflitzer]

Any news about Aaron Burkart season?

Thanks.

Nothing Special, just driving a Tank :)

Aaron (http://www.aa-b.com/deutsch/index2.htm)

[Red bull]

Nothing Special, just driving a Tank :)

Aaron (http://www.aa-b.com/deutsch/index2.htm)
in iraq probably :confused:

[Fly]

Any news about Anton Alen?

[Blitzerflitzer]

in iraq probably :confused:

No, not so far, just Brandenburg:

challenge-panzerfahren (http://www.prosieben.de/tv/galileo/videos/challenge-panzerfahren-galileo-video-12-maerz-2010-1.1485814/)

[RS]

Any news about Anton Alen?

He tested the Proton after having his Fiat contract terminated, but not sure if he has a serious chance there. Maybe for gravel IRC rounds only.

[br21]

suzuki coming back with jwrc program with two cars. so i think probably burkhart in one of them, but who in second?

[morganmilan]

suzuki coming back with jwrc program with two cars. so i think probably burkhart in one of them, but who in second?
Which source? :confused:

[Mirek]

Karl Kruuda is one Suzuki driver.

[morganmilan]

So, we have Kruuda in a car and Burkhart in the other one? Are we talking about an official Suzuki team?

[Mirek]

I know nothing about Burkart, don't get me wrong ;)

[bluuford]

Kruuda is driving for Suzuki Sport Europe. There were rumors about Bonato if I remember right

[PLuto]

Jean Marie Cuoq and Laurent Carbonaro in 5 WRC events (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10082)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/b_821fbc8f80217dd0f75414b25e2a833a.jpg