[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[Daniel]

Before this I never wrote anything like this but you started with insults about education, etc. I have my opinion and that's it..

Tbh I'm fairly sure I've seen you post similar stuff before. Anyone who knows what they're talking about knows that this was a freak accident and that the armco is more to blame than the car.

[Josti]

Before this I never wrote anything like this but you started with insults about education, etc. I have my opinion and that's it..

Well, I've read jibberish from you before, but do you really expect people to take you serious after a post like that?

Btw, I haven't caught myself seeing your "opinion" explained.

[alleskids]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/89388
the (priority 1) WRC drivers have finally got themselfs a Union, to get their voices being heard. F1 does already have a drivers commity for years, WRC has finally got one to.

[Pinto]

Tbh I'm fairly sure I've seen you post similar stuff before. Anyone who knows what they're talking about knows that this was a freak accident and that the armco is more to blame than the car.
agree
you can have all the degrees in the and thats great but why bull Sh.it on a topic you seem no know nothing about Barries,yes your entitled to your oppinion i have no problem,but to belittle people with knowledge on an issue thats not right,be a man and except that your inital comment was off the mark,

[Barreis]

Maybe I was wrong.. After all I want to enjoy in Sweden WRC without anymore discussion..

[PLuto]

30 mm restrictor for S2000 1.6T in 2011 yesterday officially approved - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11727

[Wim_Impreza]

What I always loved on this forum was the respect of each user to another. I hope it keeps like that with no more posts like that of Barreis...

That is again a very good post, keep up the good work. :)

[vkangas]

30 mm restrictor for S2000 1.6T in 2011 yesterday officially approved - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11727
Thanks for the info. A very logical move, the S2000 1.6T would have been too fast with 33 mm.

[alleskids]

30 mm restrictor for S2000 1.6T in 2011 yesterday officially approved - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11727

what size restrictor do the WRCars have?

[Mirek]

33 mm

[AP-Racing]

http://www.almrally.ru/imagelib/ALM%20Rally%20TEAM/Fiesta/ALMRT_Fiesta_4.jpg

[MikeD]

Would be so cool to have Novikov back. Do you know his plans? The no. 5 on his car indicates that he's joining the Stobart team.

[AP-Racing]

Evgeny Novikov: At the end of January we were planning to start our season with Rally Portugal, but the mediterranean stages require thorough study. The utmost care is needed at recce as well as the driving experience - 3d profile of the stages and a lot of negative slope turns don't forgive mistakes. Also Ford was unable to provide the car for this rally - at the time of our inquiry all the new Fiestas were already allocated. It will be my first time at Rally Mexico, but the sooner I try the car in action, the quicker I would get into rhythm, the easier it would be in Europe

http://www.almrally.ru/english/info/4607/

[mousti]

Interesting..

http://www.rtbf.be/video/v_duval-flingue-citroen-et-parle-de-trucages?id=794233&category=sport

[dimviii]

Interesting..

http://www.rtbf.be/video/v_duval-flingue-citroen-et-parle-de-trucages?id=794233&category=sport

If you could explain for non french speaking will be good.

[René]

If you could explain for non french speaking will be good.

Duval explains that he was always faster than Loeb, including during tests but that Citroen made breakdowns on his C4 to favour Loeb....
Duval is certainly a good driver, but he always lacked the cerebrum which goes with. It seems to me that its case is more concerned by the psychiatry than general medicine...

[DonJippo]

Duval explains that he was always faster than Loeb, including during tests but that Citroen made breakdowns on his C4 to favour Loeb....

What do they eat in Belgium??? Always the same song... I was sabotaged by my own team in favour of the slower driver...yeah right :p :

[Barreis]

Always eggs for bigger balls.. :D
Still like Duval's asphalt performances..

[bluuford]

Well, Novikovs cars looks bit too much like a Latvian flag :-P
And he has BFGoodrich tires on that photoshop..

[Allyc85]

Duval explains that he was always faster than Loeb


Thats bloody hilarious!! Why cant the bloke just bugger off, hes crap and someone needs to break down his ego and get it into his thick head!!

[N.O.T]

poor duval....i will cry for you....maybe.

[MJW]

Duval explains that he was always faster than Loeb, including during tests but that Citroen made breakdowns on his C4 to favour Loeb....
Duval is certainly a good driver, but he always lacked the cerebrum which goes with. It seems to me that its case is more concerned by the psychiatry than general medicine...
I see, so Loeb actually is only 6 (or should it be 5) times champion, not 7 because it should be Duval who was champion when he was Loeb's team mate. Its only because Duval was not given a proper car that he wasn't champion when he was a Citroen driver.
Can someone please tell Martin Holmes so he can amend the statistics and reports in is rally annuals?
I REALLY dont like Duval........................ what a knob.

[Wim_Impreza]

I REALLY dont like Duval........................ what a knob.

Agree. Maybe Duval must tell that he was the best crashking.

[Josti]

I don't mind Duval speaking his mind. While I don't think he's faster than Loeb (he could've been on asphalt though), I can't help but think he got way more potential than what he'd ultimately showed us.

Citroën was a wrong choise, but that's an old story by now. I still consider him more or less a wasted talent.

[Barreis]

Unfortunatly..

[N.O.T]

I don't mind Duval speaking his mind. While I don't think he's faster than Loeb (he could've been on asphalt though), I can't help but think he got way more potential than what he'd ultimately showed us.

Citroën was a wrong choise, but that's an old story by now. I still consider him more or less a wasted talent.

signing for the best team at the moment a wrong choice ? how ?

[Xsara Fan]

Would be so cool to have Novikov back. Do you know his plans? The no. 5 on his car indicates that he's joining the Stobart team.

Yes he will join Stobart Team. Plans? 6-8 events. For the moment this is a plan:
- Mexico
- Sardinia
- Acropolis
- Finland
- Deutschland
- France
- Spain
- GB

[tfp]

Sorry to be the odd one out here, but I liked Duval:-)

[tolis]

Yes he will join Stobart Team. Plans? 6-8 events. For the moment this is a plan:
- Mexico
- Sardinia
- Acropolis
- Finland
- Deutschland
- France
- Spain
- GB
So, no Portugal? Nice to see him in Greece!!! I can't wait!!!!! :) Go Novikov!!!

[PLuto]

It was written in Article, that he will start in Mexico instead of Portugal, because Ford dont have free car...

[6789]

So, no Portugal? Nice to see him in Greece!!! I can't wait!!!!! :) Go Novikov!!!
I read that no Portugal because Ford have no cars available.

Its hard to take Duval seriously considering the physical condition he was in at Germany last year

[Bobcat]

http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/2011/02/1273724/ex-kuski-syyttaa-citronia-autonsa-sabotoinnista

[N.O.T]

are all fat kids crybabies like duval ??

[urabus-denoS2000]

There of course are sabotages in top level motorsport like this , but this story is hardly believeable ... Duval needs to let go of his world level driver career , it's never going to happen

[wwbroe]

He is very big talented guy, but he is allways crying like a little baby. Unfortunally for him he will never come back at high level, especially thanks to his attitude.

[alleskids]

signing for the best team at the moment a wrong choice ? how ?
That best team of the world at that, moment was totally created for 1 specific driver: Loeb. Every other driver, especially from outside France, had to play second fidle. With Ford he would have equal changes for wins, and even had the change to model the Focus to his personal taste, as the designer was Lorraiux (sorry for the spelling), also French speaking Belgium. He choose Citroen because he tought he was at best equal to Loeb and even faster. And he had to drive 105 % to prove his point.

[alleskids]

Even Sordo has been waisting his carreer with Citroen acting 4 years as an assitent for Loeb. Only now Ogier has come up as an rising FRENCH talent, that Citroen has equal treatment among the drivers. Ford has never really cared about te nationalities of it's drivers, and treated them most of the time as equal drivers.

[GigiGalliNo1]

That best team of the world at that, moment was totally created for 1 specific driver: Loeb. Every other driver, especially from outside France, had to play second fidle. With Ford he would have equal changes for wins, and even had the change to model the Focus to his personal taste, as the designer was Lorraiux (sorry for the spelling), also French speaking Belgium. He choose Citroen because he tought he was at best equal to Loeb and even faster. And he had to drive 105 % to prove his point.

In a junior car too? With Citroen? He could have chosen a Suzuki!!

[morganmilan]

Even Sordo has been waisting his carreer with Citroen acting 4 years as an assitent for Loeb. Only now Ogier has come up as an rising FRENCH talent, that Citroen has equal treatment among the drivers. Ford has never really cared about te nationalities of it's drivers, and treated them most of the time as equal drivers.
I do have serious doubts about this preelection of french drivers by Citroen. It´s well known that money doesn´t know anything about countries, and I suppose the only goal for Quesnel is winning rallyes (whatever he get it). So he´s supposed to look for the best drivers, and is a clear fact (relation results-years as works driver) that Ogier is better than Sordo. If Citroen could sign a deal with a driver better than Ogier (and with brighter future, very important issue), they would sign, wouldn´t they? (maybe I´m wrong...but I don´t think so)

[Barreis]

+1

[alleskids]

Kris Meeke had an important role with Citroen. And he has been told he could have been a works driver for Citroen.... if only he had an French pasport instead of an Britisch. Sordo was very promising 4 years back, with a very bright future but stil was not allowed to challange Loeb. Ogier is the first driver in the Citroen team that has been given the permision to challange Loeb.

[A.F.F.]

I watched my rally dvds just to get in the mood of new season and boy it was fun :D

Anyway, there was a small clip of an interview of Richard Burns right after he moved from Mitsubishi to Subaru. He was asked what was the best part of his new contract? And Burns answered that having not to be a second driver !! He was in the shadow of Tommi in Mitsubishi and apparently didn't liked a bit.

Citroen is all Loeb, always has been and always will be. I hardly believe Mr.Duval but 99,9% of us, forumers don't really know what happens behind the curtains.

[Mise]

In "Veikkaaja" finish magazine there was an article
that said Toyota is coming back to WRC.
To challenge VW in season 2013.
Toyotas WRC is Yaris and Vw will join with Polo.
Carlos Sainz will do the testing and developmenting
but VW wants a younger driver to do the rallying.
Petter SOhlberg was mentioned.

So season 2013 has 5 teams.

Me like a lot.

[Barreis]

+1

[A.F.F.]

In "Veikkaaja" finish magazine there was an article
that said Toyota is coming back to WRC.
To challenge VW in season 2013.
Toyotas WRC is Yaris and Vw will join with Polo.
Carlos Sainz will do the testing and developmenting
but VW wants a younger driver to do the rallying.
Petter SOhlberg was mentioned.

So season 2013 has 5 teams.

Me like a lot.

I don't believe it until I read it from the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti. Only motorsport publishment which caption the picture of Richard Burns with the name of Harri Rovanperä.

[Juha_Koo]

I don't believe it until I read it from the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti. Only motorsport publishment which caption the picture of Richard Burns with the name of Harri Rovanperä.

"Seksivau!"

:D

[Mise]

I don't believe it until I read it from the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti. Only motorsport publishment which caption the picture of Richard Burns with the name of Harri Rovanperä.

:D

[tfp]

Kris Meeke had an important role with Citroen. And he has been told he could have been a works driver for Citroen.... if only he had an French pasport instead of an Britisch. Sordo was very promising 4 years back, with a very bright future but stil was not allowed to challange Loeb. Ogier is the first driver in the Citroen team that has been given the permision to challange Loeb.

Exactly! I only hope Mini will be competitive(Wishful thinking?)so we can see Sordo in full swing!

[6789]

So it's VW in 2012 and Toyota in 2013?

[N.O.T]

yaris and polo too short...try again.

[JCarlosPP]

Armindo Araujo with Mini

http://translate.google.pt/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sportmotores.com%2F&sl=pt&tl=en&hl=&ie=UTF-8

[mm1]

Nice!

[I am evil Homer]

yaris and polo too short...try again.

Should be Auris and Golf? Scirocco is too wide and I don't think Toyota has another car other than Auris that suits

[Mirek]

yaris and polo too short...try again.

Polo is 3970 mm, that's enough (longer than Fiesta or Proton, same with Fabia). New Yaris has not been introduced yet.


Should be Auris and Golf? Scirocco is too wide and I don't think Toyota has another car other than Auris that suits

Both Auris and Golf are quite heavy for making new WRC car. It could be a problem to make them 1200 kg.

[RICARDO75]

yaris and polo too short...try again.

The new Yaris will be bigger and ugly
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_doZ44NeBmyA/TL57YCLxm3I/AAAAAAAAAEY/WFyIR_-maxE/s400/toyota_yaris_2011.jpg

[dimviii]

yaris and polo too short...try again.
which is the first F1 race?

[N.O.T]

which is the first F1 race?

bahrain

[Xsara Fan]

Malcolm Wilson. Exclusive interview here: http://www.almrally.ru/english/info/4671/

[tfp]

Malcolm Wilson. Exclusive interview here: http://www.almrally.ru/english/info/4671/

Russia? Interesting, I'd certainly welcome another snow rally!

[Francis44]

Ford is testing the Fiesta in Portugal, tests should end in the weekend.

[Xsara Fan]

Ford is testing the Fiesta in Portugal, tests should end in the weekend.

As I understand tests were stopped. The reason is... JML :)

http://translate.google.ru/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=ru&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=pt&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Firis.cpidt.pt%2Fsportmotores2003%2F do%3Fcom%3DDS%3B6584418679%3B101%3B%2BPAGE%281002% 29%2B%2BK-NOTICIA%2831133%29%3B

[Barreis]

:D

[ProRally]

As I understand tests were stopped. The reason is... JML :)

http://translate.google.ru/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=ru&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=pt&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Firis.cpidt.pt%2Fsportmotores2003%2F do%3Fcom%3DDS%3B6584418679%3B101%3B%2BPAGE%281002% 29%2B%2BK-NOTICIA%2831133%29%3B

AGAIN ? Same for test in Finland....

[AP-Racing]

AGAIN ? Same for test in Finland....

Make a fool to pray to God, he will hurt his forehead (&#1089 ;) Russian proverbs

[wwbroe]

Petter Solberg seems to mean it serious for his attempt to Pikes peak at end of june. They are developing special car for that purpose, wich will have around 900 HP. All this according to: http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2011/02/17/solberg-mit-900-ps-zum-pikes-peak/index.html

[6789]

Petter Solberg seems to mean it serious for his attempt to Pikes peak at end of june. They are developing special car for that purpose, wich will have around 900 HP. All this according to: http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2011/02/17/solberg-mit-900-ps-zum-pikes-peak/index.html

I'm going to the USA in June, but i think I might be flying back to LA when its on :( Would love to turn up in the PSWRT gear, not many people in USA would know what its all about

[MJW]

Some interesting developments in Autosport printed magazine in UK today.........
1. Russian billionaire behind Spyker is apparently bankrolling SAAB's entry to WRC in 2012 and also apparently has bought in to North One Sport. Olivier Quensel said NOS had run out of money to progress and this cash injection secures NOS company stability allowing them to invest. Jean Todt apparntly welcoming of the Russian involvement.
2 Motorsport News report that NOS were pushing for a more global WRC with events in Russia, India and China as well as North American needed. I wonder if both stories are linked with the DNA of Russian money? Oh and Novikov returning after supposedly quitting rallying, all a co-incidene?

[ProRally]

Some interesting developments in Autosport printed magazine in UK today.........
1. Russian billionaire behind Spyker is apparently bankrolling SAAB's entry to WRC in 2012 and also apparently has bought in to North One Sport. Olivier Quensel said NOS had run out of money to progress and this cash injection secures NOS company stability allowing them to invest. Jean Todt apparntly welcoming of the Russian involvement.
2 Motorsport News report that NOS were pushing for a more global WRC with events in Russia, India and China as well as North American needed. I wonder if both stories are linked with the DNA of Russian money? Oh and Novikov returning after supposedly quitting rallying, all a co-incidene?

Bring on the Vodka ..... :hot:

[N.O.T]

the mightiest ruler of this world...

2717

[Motorsportfun]

the mightiest ruler of this world...

2717

It's not, this time.

It's this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/2741622407_1f878d2be9.jpg

[N.O.T]

AB Bank SNORAS has finished distributing the equity-linked notes emissions and it announces the confirmed investment coefficients of the bonds. On June 12 - July 11 this year, AB Bank SNORAS distributed in Litas, Euros and US dollars six three-year emissions SNORAS Energetics of the bonds linked to the shares of the Russian companies Gazprom and Lukoil.

he he

[Motorsportfun]

lol

I said it because Snoras is owned by the co-owner of Spyker Cars (which owns Saab), Vladimir Antonov :P

[N.O.T]

i know that but there are very few companies not linked with lukoil or gazprom in moderrn russia.

[Xsara Fan]

i know that but there are very few companies not linked with lukoil or gazprom in moderrn russia.

Sorry but it`s very funny LOL :) It`s like 'In Greece all dressed in togas and laurel wreaths'

[Zeakiwi]

Sorry but it`s very funny LOL :) It`s like 'In Greece all dressed in togas and laurel wreaths'

I think the ancient Greek clothing had names like peplos, chlamys, chiton and himation etc. Toga = Rome etc

[N.O.T]

Sorry but it`s very funny LOL :) It`s like 'In Greece all dressed in togas and laurel wreaths'

but we are...

[dimviii]

I think the ancient Greek clothing had names like peplos, chlamys, chiton and himation etc. Toga = Rome etc
right ;)

[jbmarcus21]

is it Vladimir Antonov ?

[MJW]

Yes it is Vladimir Antonov who is investing.

[Barreis]

It's not rally but again guardrail..
http://jalopnik.com/#!5764098/driver-miraculously-survives-199-mph-supercar-crash

[rp]

Jari Ketomaa is aiming to drive World Rally Car in Rally Finland. The car will be DS3 or Fiesta (not a Mini). Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock are now helping him to get the budget...

[gravelman]

Jari Ketomaa is aiming to drive World Rally Car in Rally Finland. The car will be DS3 or Fiesta (not a Mini). Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock are now helping him to get the budget...

Craig Pollock???? From BAR infamy??? Is he recently involved in the affairs of rally drivers or is this a long term association of his?? I am aware of Kim Vatanen and his connections to the sport, however minor they are!!! :P

[rp]

Craig Pollock???? From BAR infamy??? Is he recently involved in the affairs of rally drivers or is this a long term association of his?? I am aware of Kim Vatanen and his connections to the sport, however minor they are!!! :P

Yes. The same man. They both are helping Ketomaa, but can not know what kind of support this will be...

[Tomi]

Jari Ketomaa is aiming to drive World Rally Car in Rally Finland. The car will be DS3 or Fiesta (not a Mini). Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock are now helping him to get the budget...

I belive it would be good for both if Kimi would be managing Ketomaa from now on, I also dont think they have big problems to find the budget.

[N.O.T]

for ketomaa i think its not good to drive 1-2 events a season....he has potential and i think he needs soemone to believe in him and give him 1-2 full years then if he has the same development as in s2000 he can go to retirement home, but he is fast and he might mix it with the big boys if he develops correctly.

[DonJippo]

Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock are now helping him to get the budget...

They are also manager duo behind Ogier.

[Plan9]

I am aware that this has been mentioned previously...but i saw this story on Max Rally about Russians becoming involved in WRC. Here is the link http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/russian_billionaire_backs_wrc_promoter/ Who would drive the Saab...would they consider Ketomaa? I'm thinking that there will be a Russian driver as well...if Saab actually gets round to entering properly

[N.O.T]

laundry service by saab then.....i thought they made cars.

[vkangas]

I belive it would be good for both if Kimi would be managing Ketomaa from now on
Great news for Ketomaa. Finnish newspaper Länsi-Savo states that the deal is not just "helping" but now on Jari has Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock managing his career. Jari also said that he has never had a manager before so now he can really concentrate on driving.

http://www.lansi-savo.fi/Urheilu/10996367.html

[Tomi]

Great news for Ketomaa. Finnish newspaper Länsi-Savo states that the deal is not just "helping" but now on Jari has Kim Vatanen and Craig Pollock managing his career. Jari also said that he has never had a manager before so now he can really concentrate on driving.

Thats good news, now its just to find a car, hopefully a Citroen, and the show goes on, and after this year when Loeb stops, there would be a warm seat free to try to get.

[N.O.T]

i think the citroen will go for a support driver for ogier after Loeb retires. I do not think citroen want a 35 year old duval for this job......ketomaa can have a nice retirement drive for events in finland. none will invest in adead horse who cannot even win a championship against pons....

[J.Lindstroem]

Oh snap!

[J.Lindstroem]

i think the citroen will go for a support driver for ogier after Loeb retires. I do not think citroen want a 35 year old duval for this job......ketomaa can have a nice retirement drive for events in finland. none will invest in adead horse who cannot even win a championship against pons....

Oh snap!

[Zeakiwi]

Who are quickest of the young French drivers ? Who is the Citroen back up driver should the current line up have another mountain bike accident ?

[rp]

Who are quickest of the young French drivers ? Who is the Citroen back up driver should the current line up have another mountain bike accident ?

Good question! There is very, very big gap after Loeb and Ogier. There is really no-one, but I am sure Citroen is able to clone some Sebastien...

Vouilloz, Sarrazin and maybe also Bouffier are too old. But of course there is always Delecour and Panizzi..!

[Daniel]

Good question! There is very, very big gap after Loeb and Ogier. There is really no-one, but I am sure Citroen is able to clone some Sebastien...

Vouilloz, Sarrazin and maybe also Bouffier are too old. But of course there is always Delecour and Panizzi..!

If Sarrazin is too old (35) then Panizzi and Delecour are too old also, he's about 10 years younger than the others.

[rp]

If Sarrazin is too old (35) then Panizzi and Delecour are too old also, he's about 10 years younger than the others.

Of course they are too old, but their career was great...

[N.O.T]

peter solberg.

[N.O.T]

Who are quickest of the young French drivers ? Who is the Citroen back up driver should the current line up have another mountain bike accident ?

peter solberg

[tfp]

If Sarrazin is too old (35) then Panizzi and Delecour are too old also, he's about 10 years younger than the others.

What ever hapenned to Panizzi? Theres a good video I found of him circuit racing in an evo against some Jap time attack drivers :)

[N.O.T]

panizzi is guest star driver in some events....

Damn bahrein was cancelled....*sigh*

[bluuford]

Damn bahrein was cancelled....*sigh*

You know, when I first heard those news, then my first thoughts were.. poor little N.O.T ;-)...and.. "Yes!" another free weekend to do some skiing.. By the way, I was faster than Urmo Aava in this weekend.. in 63 km cross country skiing marathon :-P

[uranium]

I have heard from ESPN 2011 year Preview that Poland, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania are working on common rally which will be in 2013. Is it true? Who knows more on it?

[RICARDO75]

There's a rumour about Armindo Araújo enter as "zero" car on the first event of the portuguese championship this weekend, with the new Mini Countryman WRC

[Karukera]

If Sarrazin is too old (35) then Panizzi and Delecour are too old also, he's about 10 years younger than the others.

I thought rp was being sarcastic... :)

[garais22]

I have heard from ESPN 2011 year Preview that Poland, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania are working on common rally which will be in 2013. Is it true? Who knows more on it?
Yes, there is some rumours about this rally, but nothing officially
http://sportacentrs.com/motoru_sports/rallijs/20012011-iespejams_2013_gada_latvija_varetu_norisi

[JRodrigues]

There's a rumour about Armindo Araújo enter as "zero" car on the first event of the portuguese championship this weekend, with the new Mini Countryman WRC

Mini Countryman, but road version ;)

[cercle]

Programme Matthew Wilson has been expanded !
He will definitely take in the rounds in Mexico, Portugal, Jordan, Italy and Argentina.

www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

[uranium]

Programme Matthew Wilson has been expanded !
He will definitely take in the rounds in Mexico, Portugal, Jordan, Italy and Argentina.

www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

OMG :(

[N.O.T]

this is a disgrace.... not good for the sport....

[tfp]

panizzi is guest star driver in some events....

Damn bahrein was cancelled....*sigh*

Thats good, at least he hasn't dissapeared altogethor...

[tfp]

As for Matt Wilson, he may never be fighting at the front, but there was often good battles last year involving him, Kimi and Block, and for that reason, I'm glad hes in.
I cant help but think daddy always told him "take no risks and finish the event in one piece" instead of "Go for it and set good times" as I thought was often the case.
Queue the arguments:-)

[N.O.T]

1st argument....please FIA do not cancel bahrain...i want to relax.

[tfp]

1st argument....please FIA do not cancel bahrain...i want to relax.
:) I think even ferrari would rather sacrifice points than get an explosive thrown at their car! :)

[Micke_VOC]

Programme Matthew Wilson has been expanded !
He will definitely take in the rounds in Mexico, Portugal, Jordan, Italy and Argentina.

www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

... not Sardinia ??

PG has come closer to get a drive in Sardinia:
Source:
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=sv&sl=auto&tl=en&u=http://nwt.se/sport/motorsport/article856322.ece

[MartijnS]

Italy is Sardinia imo ;)

[Sulland]

Italy is Sardinia imo ;)

many italians will say it is the other way around.... ;)

[uranium]

I cant help but think daddy always told him "take no risks and finish the event in one piece" instead of "Go for it and set good times" as I thought was often the case.

1. Buy for puppy 1.4 liter two-wheel drive peugeout or skoda, put restrictor here and put puppy to N2 class.
2. Give the CAR to somebody who can DRIVE. E.g. - PG

[Zeakiwi]

Programme Matthew Wilson has been expanded !
He will definitely take in the rounds in Mexico, Portugal, Jordan, Italy and Argentina.

www.wrc.com (http://www.wrc.com)

Is there a spare s2000 Fiesta, would MW gain the same place in an s2000 as wrc, or is he driving to gain data with different settings on the stages ?

[Micke_VOC]

Italy is Sardinia imo ;)

Of Course... i was tired yesterday.

[306 Cosworth]

this is a disgrace.... not good for the sport....

Don't be so bloody stupid.

[N.O.T]

ok.... maybe.

[Plan9]

if they are so desperate to have a decent British driver..would it be wrong to bring back Alister McRae...im sure he would be just a s good a Wilson Jr. until someone like Breen, Meeke, Wilks can buy/prove themselves worthy of a top drive...im sure Alister still has a desire to win things and is kinda treading water a bit in the APRC

[noel157]

if they are so desperate to have a decent British driver..would it be wrong to bring back Alister McRae...im sure he would be just a s good a Wilson Jr. until someone like Breen, Meeke, Wilks can buy/prove themselves worthy of a top drive...im sure Alister still has a desire to win things and is kinda treading water a bit in the APRC

Don't think Breen would make a very good British driver...... McRae's time has past. Meeke has a WRC seat.
So that leaves Wilks from your list.

[Allyc85]

Why not Breen?

[fastboy]

He's Irish .

[tfp]

Wonder how Guy Wilks would cope in WRC? It would be nice to see Alistair Mcrae back, hopefuly not in an accent:-)

[N.O.T]

you guys think wilson is in the car because he is british ??

[MJW]

On the VW to WRC rumour, it is written in mainstream motoring press that VW are due to launch a new Beetle in 2012 and an updated Golf(Mark7) - these cars share the platform with the also new for late 2011 A3. its also an on and off story about a VW Polo R, which surprisingly could be a 4WD car with a 1.6T petrol engine. However, its an on/off story as VW don't want this car to compete with the new Audi A1, S1 derivative of that same platform. I somehow doubt it will be Audi, probably a Polo as its B category car, like Fiesta / Mini / DS3. Golf is a larger car competing with the Focus and C4, allthough new Golf is supposed to be 130KG lighter.
Here is a link to the VW Beetle 2012 "spy shots"
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/27/spy-shots-2012-volkswagen-new-new-beetle-caught-undisguised/
and here is the story about the Polo R
http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle.aspx?AR=255418
AND
http://www.worldcarfans.com/110101429003/audi-still-planning-s1-to-go-with-vws-polo-r---both-will

[Micke_VOC]

Look at Breen times in Rally Sweden, really impressing on snow.. He gonna be next big star from the British islands..

[Plan9]

you guys think wilson is in the car because he is british ??

Yeh that's the general impression i get and his dad. I also thought about Keith Cronin as a possibility. Alistair McRae never had the chance to shine in the WRC and has always set consistent times. Think of this McRae is 40, Block is 44 and he's just starting in the WRC!!!

[N.O.T]

ok, i have no comments...does the parallel universe some of you live in accept new members ?? i would like to join you....you seem happy.

[gravelman]

Keith Cronin and Craig Breen are Irish. Not British. Full stop.

[uranium]

I'd prefer to see e.g. Louise COOK in the car then MWj ;)

[uranium]

What about Jonny Greer or Jason Pritchard ?

[N.O.T]

i think we are out of the topics subject...lets get back to rumours and news rather than drop random names of drivers.

[tfp]

you guys think wilson is in the car because he is british ??

No.

[urabus-denoS2000]

People , learn that there is IRELAND and there is GREAT BRITAIN. Breen is IRISH , not BRITISH . Cronin is IRISH . Therefore , they are not Britain's next hopes . You can easily spot it by a green-white-orange flag . If you have never seen it , it looks like this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Ireland . Those people didn't fight for their independence for centuries so that you can call them British or even English . Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom , but not Great Britain . Republic of Ireland is an independent country . Is that so hard to remeber ?

[Wim_Impreza]

Meeke is Irish too and not from Great Britain as many people says...

[Mirek]

Meeke is from Dungannon, Northern Ireland. That's still part of GB...

[Wim_Impreza]

Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom , but not Great Britain . Republic of Ireland is an independent country as urabus said.

[Barreis]

People , learn that there is IRELAND and there is GREAT BRITAIN. Breen is IRISH , not BRITISH . Cronin is IRISH . Therefore , they are not Britain's next hopes . You can easily spot it by a green-white-orange flag . If you have never seen it , it looks like this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Ireland . Those people didn't fight for their independence for centuries so that you can call them British or even English . Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom , but not Great Britain . Republic of Ireland is an independent country . Is that so hard to remeber ?

Daj, školarac, scooliraj se.. :D :D

[DuncanD]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNu8XDBSn10

this explains it!

[alleskids]

MODS can you create a treat for nationalities?
Meeke, McRae and Burns are Dutch drivers !!! WilliamIII conquered Great Britan and Ireland. And the new king will be Charlses' son, William IV, so originally the Uk is from The Netherlands.
Loeb is partly France, but also Britisch, because ones the UK conquered France. But also Germany conqeured France. And that part of France belonged to The Netherlands. So Loeb is France/Britisch/Dutch/German.

can we now please go back to news and rumours? thanks

[N.O.T]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNu8XDBSn10

this explains it!

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

[HaCo]

Awesome, thanks!

[alleskids]

Back to topic.
Armindo Araujo's project with Mini is not only for 2011, but it is a 2-3 year plan.
"What is agreed with my sponsors is that this project is 2 / 3 years. That is, the first year is to learn and develop the car, going back to what the brand wants. In fact, before it all black white, could confirm a number of important details: my status on the team (pilot satellite), access to regular testing throughout the season and evolutions of the car. Moreover, there is even the chance to realize more than the rallies planned by the team official in the first year. "

This is in accordance with the program initially presented to their sponsors and providing a first season with eight rallies (probably all the European stage of the championship, starting on the Vodafone Rally de Portugal).
http://autosport.aeiou.pt/gen.pl?p=stories&op=view&fokey=as.stories/94334

[OldF]

It’s going to be very interesting to follow his season.

One thing I been wondering about is how Prodrive have been delivering the cars even before the Mini has been homologated (or I don’t if it has been already but I assume it hasen’t).

[alleskids]

http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/show.php?id=16144&title=eyvind-brynildsen-i-letos-v-swrc

Brynildsen wil do the 2011 S-WRC with a Skoda Fabia serviced by PSWRT
Skipping Mexico, he will do Jordania, Italy, Greece, Finland, Germany, France and Spain.

[PLuto]

I think that english original will be more understandable for you - http://www.wrc.com/swrc/news/young-star-brynildsen-secures-swrc-return/?fid=14195

[FabiaFan]

Brynildsen wil do the 2011 S-WRC with a Skoda Fabia serviced by PSWRT. What I still don´t get: P.Solberg, Quesnel´s gun against Skodas in IRC, is running a Skoda in SWRC...

[Mirek]

He's not running it. The car is run by JM Racing. Petter will help Brynildsen but not service his car.

[FabiaFan]

He's not running it. The car is run by JM Racing. Petter will help Brynildsen but not service his car.

This sounds a little bit more reasonable then, but still...

[alleskids]

In what way will Petter Solberg help Brynildsen? PSWRT manager Rees said that PSWRT would run the S-WRC, which is not true because the Fabia will be run by JM Racing.

[Mirek]

My understanding is that they originally wanted to run ex-Henning's Fiesta for Brynildsen but that was before they settled new deal with Skoda Norway. But maybe I'm wrong.

[urabus-denoS2000]

Daj, školarac, scooliraj se.. :D :D

What ? I don't understand , what language is that ??? :)

[Micke_VOC]

PG will drive Sardinia, Italy.

PG has now booked a Fiesta for Sardinia....but missing some funds yet.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=auto&tl=en&u=http://www.pgandersson.se/Ny/Nyhet.htm

[BleAivano]

PG will drive Sardinia, Italy.

PG has now booked a Fiesta for Sardinia....but missing some funds yet.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=auto&tl=en&u=http://www.pgandersson.se/Ny/Nyhet.htm

thats great news :D

[Motorsportfun]

The new VW project to be presented in Portugal?

http://www.italiaracing.net/newsrally.asp?id=2890

So, Mini debuts and VW launch the project!

[Sulland]

The new VW project to be presented in Portugal?

http://www.italiaracing.net/newsrally.asp?id=2890

So, Mini debuts and VW launch the project!

Googlish: http://translate.google.no/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.italiaracing.net%2Fne wsrally.asp%3Fid%3D2890&sl=it&tl=en&hl=&ie=UTF-8

[PLuto]

Maybe earlier in March on car show in Geneva.

[MJW]

Geneva show 1980 was the launch of the original Audi Quattro.

[AndyRAC]

Here's hoping - VW would bring much needed 'respect'/gravitas to the WRC. A mega company owning all kinds of companies - and with the finance, resources to take on Citroen. Providing they do it properly.......

[MJW]

Providing they do it properly.......[/QUOTE]
Dont worry, they will,

[RS]

For those whom it may interest, you can now purchase a Juho Hanninen soft toy from your local Skoda retailer :)
http://img.auto.cz/news/img/galleries/2011-09/_012_4d6c989c29e8b.jpg

[darkstar]

what is it? a dog???

[uranium]

No, it is Juho ;-)

[darkstar]

:p ;)

[SkodaSRT]

Škoda revailed also the new logo on the Geneva Motor Show

http://www.ausmotive.com/images2011/Skoda-new-logo-01s.jpg

http://new.skoda-auto.com/COM/Pages/homepage.aspx

[Mirek]

The shape is practically same as it used to be before VW came in.

[MJW]

Hope this trend doesn't escalate!!! and apologies for lifting from another forum here in UK. It would be very bad for our sport, manufacturers exist to sell cars, if eco image replaces sport well we are in trouble - see below:- original from Autocar Magazine
As per Interview in Autocar

The Lancer Evolution X, Eusegi told me, will be the last Evo. “There is still a demand [for the car],” he said, “but we must stop.” Eyebrow up.

“Our influence now is EV technology,” Eusegi said, adding that the decision was a “policy change”.

It seems Mitsubishi, which is going to introduce eight full electric or hybrid cars by 2015, has decided its image is about lowering CO2, not making lurid replicas of rally cars that don’t go top-level rallying any more.

Eusegi said that customers would find it “easier to understand” what Mitsubishi was about if it was no longer in this motorsport-inspired market.

He seemed to put the rumoured diesel hybrid Evo replacement to bed, too. So the X will be the last Evolution model? “Yes. Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles,” said Eusegi. “Maybe then we can enter the market again.”

Until then, prepare yourselves for the end of an era.

[Daniel]

Hope this trend doesn't escalate!!! and apologies for lifting from another forum here in UK. It would be very bad for our sport, manufacturers exist to sell cars, if eco image replaces sport well we are in trouble - see below:- original from Autocar Magazine
As per Interview in Autocar

The Lancer Evolution X, Eusegi told me, will be the last Evo. “There is still a demand [for the car],” he said, “but we must stop.” Eyebrow up.

“Our influence now is EV technology,” Eusegi said, adding that the decision was a “policy change”.

It seems Mitsubishi, which is going to introduce eight full electric or hybrid cars by 2015, has decided its image is about lowering CO2, not making lurid replicas of rally cars that don’t go top-level rallying any more.

Eusegi said that customers would find it “easier to understand” what Mitsubishi was about if it was no longer in this motorsport-inspired market.

He seemed to put the rumoured diesel hybrid Evo replacement to bed, too. So the X will be the last Evolution model? “Yes. Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles,” said Eusegi. “Maybe then we can enter the market again.”

Until then, prepare yourselves for the end of an era.
Good luck with that Mitsubishi :) You're about to become the Japanese Lancia :up:

[dimviii]

Hope this trend doesn't escalate!!! and apologies for lifting from another forum here in UK. It would be very bad for our sport, manufacturers exist to sell cars, if eco image replaces sport well we are in trouble - see below:- original from Autocar Magazine
As per Interview in Autocar

The Lancer Evolution X, Eusegi told me, will be the last Evo. “There is still a demand [for the car],” he said, “but we must stop.” Eyebrow up.

“Our influence now is EV technology,” Eusegi said, adding that the decision was a “policy change”.

It seems Mitsubishi, which is going to introduce eight full electric or hybrid cars by 2015, has decided its image is about lowering CO2, not making lurid replicas of rally cars that don’t go top-level rallying any more.

Eusegi said that customers would find it “easier to understand” what Mitsubishi was about if it was no longer in this motorsport-inspired market.

He seemed to put the rumoured diesel hybrid Evo replacement to bed, too. So the X will be the last Evolution model? “Yes. Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles,” said Eusegi. “Maybe then we can enter the market again.”

Until then, prepare yourselves for the end of an era.

Ι read it in mlr this morning but i don t want to believe it.

[RS]

The shape is practically same as it used to be before VW came in.

And it is also good that on the cars the logos will not be green anymore.

The "Vision D" would make a nice looking WRCar but I guess it won't happen :(

http://i.idnes.cz/11/031/cl6/FDV397e16__DSC9152.JPG

[serial jeff]

Hope this trend doesn't escalate!!! and apologies for lifting from another forum here in UK. It would be very bad for our sport, manufacturers exist to sell cars, if eco image replaces sport well we are in trouble.

To be honest I'm not too worried about this when it's coming from Mitsubishi. It's not that manufacturers are ditching performance cars, its just that Mitsubishi is ditching gasoline cars in general. This isn't surprising because quite honestly Mitsubishi hasn't been good enough at making cars to survive in a very competitive market.

I don't know how it is in the rest of the world, but over here the whole range of their cars are very lackluster compared to the competition, even the Evo X.

They can't best the competition in the conventional auto market, so they're banking on electric vehicles.

[uranium]

Yes, but it means that N4 era is going to the end...

[TyPat107]

Yes, but it means that N4 era is going to the end...

Hasn't N4 been dying for a while? Aren't more manufactures interested in the R4 class anyway?

[AndyRAC]

Yes, but it means that N4 era is going to the end...

Good, with only 2 Manufacturers in it, it was a hardly worth it.....

[uranium]

and R4 will be much more expensive than N4, am I right?

[uranium]

Good, with only 2 Manufacturers in it, it was a hardly worth it.....

Do you think in R4 will be much more manufacturers?
Btw, Subaru and Mitsubishi in N4 are really good cars. And on the other hand they are quite similar to road one. We can't say the same about R4.

[Mirek]

Do you think in R4 will be much more manufacturers?
Btw, Subaru and Mitsubishi in N4 are really good cars. And on the other hand they are quite similar to road one. We can't say the same about R4.

Generally it is way less expensive and difficult to produce dozens of purpose-built racing/rally cars than to produce thousands of hi-tech road cars which can be easily converted into racing/rally ones.

[Slipzen]

Look at Breen times in Rally Sweden, really impressing on snow.. He gonna be next big star from the British islands..
I really liked his driving. Full attack every time he passed.

[markf8691]

Does it annoy anybody else, that in the WRC manufacturers championship we have such teams as - Ice 1 racing, Munchis, Monster, FERM Power tools etc...like i realize Munchis have been in it for a few years, but this year its gone mad. Surely the manufacturer championship is for car manufacturers - these teams are not even semi factory teams either.

[Josti]

Does it annoy anybody else, that in the WRC manufacturers championship we have such teams as - Ice 1 racing, Munchis, Monster, FERM Power tools etc...like i realize Munchis have been in it for a few years, but this year its gone mad. Surely the manufacturer championship is for car manufacturers - these teams are not even semi factory teams either.

While I can sympethize with the thought of it, afterall, there are only two manufacturers, I do think they went a bit too far this year.

I would much rather see a seperate championship for privateer teams (like the FIA Teams Cup from early 00's). At least then they have any chance on winning something, and it could lead to more privateers entering the championship. I hope they'll revert things to pre-M2 era when more manufacturers are present again.

[AndyRAC]

They should do what they do in MotoGP - have a Manufacturers Championship, and a Teams Championship. Simple!! It's quite ridiculous to have Munchis, Stobart, Monster, etc they're not Manufacturers. (well not car manufacturers......).

[markf8691]

I would much rather see a seperate championship for privateer teams (like the FIA Teams Cup from early 00's). At least then they have any chance on winning something, and it could lead to more privateers entering the championship. I hope they'll revert things to pre-M2 era when more manufacturers are present again.


Totally couldnt agree more with you, this would be a good idea. It just seems stupid, I can understand possibly why M - Sport Ford are in it due to being semi factory, but imagine munchi's winning the manufacturers championship ( which wont happen but in theory), pretty stupid!

I think having 3 teams in manufacturers championship is enough until more manufacturers return.

[Rallyper]

It´s better to win Manu CS with 6 contenders than only two. Maybe thats why...? ; (

So maybe this is only for satisfying Ford and Citroen.

[Bobcat]

Good, with only 2 Manufacturers in it, it was a hardly worth it.....

Do you think in R4 will be much more manufacturers?
I think that only Subaru, their bosses will be rubbing their hands. :(

[MJW]

I think that only Subaru, their bosses will be rubbing their hands. :(
Subaru are likely to join WTCC with Kronos in 2012 or 13, as the company attempts tp become more mainstream with teh new Impreza front wheel drive not 4WD

[uranium]

Followup: Mitsubishi unconvincingly addresses Evo death rumors via Facebook (http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/followup-mitsubishi-unconvincingly-addresses-evo-death-rumors-v/)

or here

Lancer Evolution facebook (http://www.facebook.com/LancerEvolution)


Further to some comments published in the press recently, production of the current Lancer Evolution continues as planned. As for its successor, regulations and market feedback will dictate its engineering package & architecture. Stay tuned.

[Bobcat]

Interesting: Ford and Citroen at war... http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/89723

"The story came about after Petter Solberg's co-driver Chris Patterson pushed Sebastien Loeb's Citroen DS3 WRC following the final stage of Rally Sweden last month. The seven-time champion's car refused to start and was alleged to be blocking the road."

http://cdn.images.autosport.com/editorial/1299182314.jpg

[Mirek]

Interesting: Ford and Citroen at war... http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/89723

Nice example of twisted logic when the article says exactly opposite.

[Bobcat]

Maybe or you wouldn't understand even if I tried to explain this cause.

[Mirek]

I can't see any explanation, just copied text from the article which says nothing new in comparison with many pages about this story in Swedish rally thread.

[Bobcat]

You really must read the all article if you're able to read it:"...Ford was reported to suspect that the outside assistance regulations had been infringed by the two Citroen crews..."

Malcolm Wilson added: "...We will monitor [the regulation] as I think the FIA will be the for the rest of the year..."

[Mirek]

As I said, it was already largely discussed in Swedish thread, take a look into the thread.

[tfp]

A bit silly, really, considering PSWRT and Citroen are two completely different teams!

[Rallyper]

A bit silly, really, considering PSWRT and Citroen are two completely different teams!

For sure yes, but same car. And the connection is not hard to understand....

[alleskids]

Ford was sure pissed off at that moment, but can do nothing, as it is a case of reading the rule at the letter instead of to the spirit. Ford would do the same if the situation happens. So Malcolm Wilson understands the situations and has no further problems with it. So there is no state of war between Ford and Citroen.

That's what the article is about.

[Bobcat]

FORD VERSUS CITROEN: IT'S WAR! http://yfrog.com/h7fb5muj

After Mexico I'm sure it will eventually end up in a big war.

[N.O.T]

nuke them all....only cucarachas shall survive

[Mirek]

Turán with Fiesta S2000 in SWRC and in Mecsek IRC round?.

[Motorsportfun]

Turán with Fiesta S2000 in SWRC

I have read something early last week, about this... but didn't get any confirmation.

Btw, anyone can tell us what exactly said Juho Hanninen about VW to the finnish media at Rally Mexico?

[N.O.T]

he said that if VW didn't have any plans for the wrc he would not have driven in mexico.

[ARF]

Turán with Fiesta S2000 in SWRC and in Mecsek IRC round?.
Seems to be using the second Fiesta of MM-Motorsport. http://www.duen.hu/hirek/teljes_bajnoki_szezon_az_swrc-ben
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHJE0C_OAw4&feature=player_embedded

[Fri]

Turan will run full season in swrc with MM Fiesta S2000.
Jordan, Italy, Greece, Finnland, Germany, France, Spain

[Barreis]

He's good..

This is a new message :D

[Motorsportfun]

Rumour from the WMSC: No more island events in the WRC!

What about GB, Sardinia, Japan and NZ? :(

[MJW]

I guess that means Sardinia, Corsica, and Cyprus

[Mirek]

For this events we already have "Island Rally Challenge" IRC :D

[cali]

Corsica must be in, but i do not care about Cyprus and Sardinia. Bring the old San Remo back please!

GB and NZ should be in WRC as well.

[AndyRAC]

Rumour from the WMSC: No more island events in the WRC!

What about GB, Sardinia, Japan and NZ? :(

Hmm, Sardinia I'm not bothered about - Italys round of the WRC should be Rallye Sanremo.
Japan - to be honest, it was a bit 'mickey mouse', however with no Japanese marques in the WRC is it needed?
NZ - The best roads and stages in the WRC - madness to leave it out.
GB - Once a classic, now a pale shadow. Leaving it out for a year or two may do the event good and give the organisers a kick up the backside.

[Motorsportfun]

Corsica must be in, but i do not care about Cyprus and Sardinia. Bring the old San Remo back please!

GB and NZ should be in WRC as well.

To be honest, the latests Corsica were a joke, compared to the history. Remember the 12 stages (just two per day) totals in 2005? Ahah, that was Corsica? OMG, please let stay something like that in IRC.

Rally Sardinia, at least, gives every year new roads and fresh challenges to the competitors. Look at 2011, Day 1 is completely new since the last event in the WRC in 2009. Every year a lot of roads are new! Not like the next round of the calendar, or last week's event...

Btw, San Remo rally is not accepted by the towns, because there is too much population around the old stages of Tuscany and there's no enough safe roads to arrange an event on tarmac around San Remo (you know, alternative roads, media access, spectators access, etc). Too much traffic on the public roads, no many safe places for spectators (which are much more than an IRC event), small service area. And an important thing: no money from San Remo town hall and Ligury Region (think: it gives San Remo Rally an amount of 12k euros each year, twelve-thousand)!

So, forget San Remo rally. :D

[MJW]

For this events we already have "Island Rally Challenge" IRC :D

I like that, very true though.........
I for one would love Italy to go back to San Remo. Autosport in UK (printed not online) said that 2012 WRC will be down to 11 rounds, with Finland in, Australia and NZ to alternate with NZ in 2012, Sweden with its day in Norway, Japan, and Argentina and Brazil cross border event, and a 3 Emirate, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman round at the end of the year, plus the 3 Euro ashphalt rallies of Germany, France and Spain, thats 9 so leaving the others from Greece, GB, Italy,Portugal, Jordan etc etc to fight it out. GB is further complicated as this (2011) is the final year of the current sponsorship deal, and FIA /NOS/ or Spyker Saab Bank want assurances and a long term deal.

[MJW]

Quiet day at the WMSC for rallying,


RALLYING

The 2012 FIA World Rally Championship calendar has been examined and will be officialised before the end of this month. It will be submitted again to the WMSC via a fax vote. The dates will be confirmed taking into account the reduction of clashes with Formula 1.

The minimum weight of the seats will be increased from 1 January 2012 in order to increase safety. There will be greater freedom on seat material. This will enable competitors to use homologated seats with carbon shells at a more reasonable cost.

From 1 January 2013 the assumed weight of the crew will be increased from 150 kg to 160 kg to reflect average weights.
source http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wmsc/2011/Pages/wmsc_080311.aspx

[Hartusvuori]

Here's some Googlish rumours for you: VW interested in Loeb :-) Original source is Italian Auto Sprint magazine. It's saying VW will do Dakar 2012 and start WRC programme mid-season 2012.

http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=fi&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ts.fi%2Fmoottoriurheilu%2Fralli %2F202803.html

[AndyRAC]

Quiet day at the WMSC for rallying,


RALLYING

The 2012 FIA World Rally Championship calendar has been examined and will be officialised before the end of this month. It will be submitted again to the WMSC via a fax vote. The dates will be confirmed taking into account the reduction of clashes with Formula 1.

The minimum weight of the seats will be increased from 1 January 2012 in order to increase safety. There will be greater freedom on seat material. This will enable competitors to use homologated seats with carbon shells at a more reasonable cost.

From 1 January 2013 the assumed weight of the crew will be increased from 150 kg to 160 kg to reflect average weights.
source http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wmsc/2011/Pages/wmsc_080311.aspx

Bernie seems to release the F1 calendar really late - so, he could, if he wanted, wait until the WRC dates are announced, and have as many clashes as possible. I'm not sure releasing the WRC dates so early is entirely sensible - though I can see why they do it. Unless Jean Todt brings Bernie into line, and makes sure there are no clashes.

[ProRally]

For this events we already have "Island Rally Challenge" IRC :D

VERY well said Mirek..... IRC :D :D :hot: Island Rally Challenge.... because no more Intercontinental ....

[ProRally]

Here's some Googlish rumours for you: VW interested in Loeb :-) Original source is Italian Auto Sprint magazine. It's saying VW will do Dakar 2012 and start WRC programme mid-season 2012.

http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=fi&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ts.fi%2Fmoottoriurheilu%2Fralli %2F202803.html

Hearing something similar .... selected season in 2012, full on 2013, Quesnel start to get worried....
He could loose his star and his sponsor.... :hot:

[PLuto]

Yes, I have heard about it too from many sources (first one was from Portugal).

[PLuto]

To be honest, the latests Corsica were a joke, compared to the history. Remember the 12 stages (just two per day) totals in 2005? Ahah, that was Corsica? OMG, please let stay something like that in IRC.

Rally Sardinia, at least, gives every year new roads and fresh challenges to the competitors. Look at 2011, Day 1 is completely new since the last event in the WRC in 2009. Every year a lot of roads are new! Not like the next round of the calendar, or last week's event...

Btw, San Remo rally is not accepted by the towns, because there is too much population around the old stages of Tuscany and there's no enough safe roads to arrange an event on tarmac around San Remo (you know, alternative roads, media access, spectators access, etc). Too much traffic on the public roads, no many safe places for spectators (which are much more than an IRC event), small service area. And an important thing: no money from San Remo town hall and Ligury Region (think: it gives San Remo Rally an amount of 12k euros each year, twelve-thousand)!

So, forget San Remo rally. :D

I dont agree with you. The "result" of Corse in last years was due to stupid WRC rules, they were trying to "kill" the event like Monte. Also Sardegna was many years still the same, but last year in IRC they went our of north region and found, that it is better...

[dimviii]

This can complicate? the drivers ierarchy in citroen a bit more.

[Mirek]

I don't believe Loeb would risk Makkinen's fate. In my opinion he will more likely end his career like a ruling king.

[MJW]

Hearing something similar .... selected season in 2012, full on 2013, Quesnel start to get worried....
He could loose his star and his sponsor.... :hot:
I would be very surprised if RedBull stays with Citroen, in almost other motorsports they are associated withe German or Austrians, Audi in DTM, VW Dakar, Skoda, etc. Also Loed isnt happy / comfortable with the Ogier effect, I wouldnt be surprised to see RedBull VW Polo with Loeb leading that, as for other drivers partnering Loeb, well the rumours are out there.......
I think VW could be ready by round 1 WRC 2012, and do Dakar - This is a proper factory effort, not an M-Sport / Prodrive for profit organisation, VW are there to sell road cars, not rally cars to those who can afforrd them. The Dakar effort is fully developed, and lets face it there isnt much competition out there, its not as if they need to re-design and develop the Race Tuareg 3.

[N.O.T]

Loeb to VW is not a rumour is just a Fantasy.... stupid rumours, do not recycle them please.

[dimviii]

I don't believe Loeb would risk Makkinen's fate. In my opinion he will more likely end his career like a ruling king.
Maybe VW mega-money can turn his mind? I think that a lot to this decision(if rumor is true) will be his relation with Quesnel/Ogier at 2011?

[N.O.T]

no...end of discussion...move on.

[PLuto]

Loeb to VW is not a rumour is just a Fantasy.... stupid rumours, do not recycle them please.

It is possible. More than you think...

[AndyRAC]

It is possible. More than you think...

If you think about it, there are good reasons, as MJW stated also. The Red Bull deal will surely go to VW, the resources and finance that VW have access to. They can blow Citroen/Ford out of the water - they are in another league!! Although we know money isn't everything, but it sure helps.
Also, would Loeb like to do a Schumacher at Ferrari or Rossi at Yamaha......now imagine that?

However, I fully expect him to stay at Citroen, then maybe switch to Peugeot LMP1 racing.

[N.O.T]

It is possible. More than you think...

No

[ste898]

Loeb will never drive for another team and when he starts getting beaten reguarly by ANYONE he will run and retire!!!!!

[N.O.T]

Loeb will never drive for another team and when he starts getting beaten reguarly by ANYONE he will run and retire!!!!!

he will retire before the things you imagine start to happen

[Doon]

Hmm, Sardinia I'm not bothered about - Italys round of the WRC should be Rallye Sanremo.
Japan - to be honest, it was a bit 'mickey mouse', however with no Japanese marques in the WRC is it needed?
NZ - The best roads and stages in the WRC - madness to leave it out.
GB - Once a classic, now a pale shadow. Leaving it out for a year or two may do the event good and give the organisers a kick up the backside.

Well for a start GB wont be counted as an island rally! It part of the WRC structure, and the UK is not an island off the mainland, it is the mainland....even though it's lost it's empire!

Last years Rally GB was amazing and the organisers got it right with the National B rally, Andy Burton was the best car I witness on the whole event, and ever on a WRC round. It's the coverage that needs to change, if the rest of the world saw AB in the National they would come and watch. I had a rally virgin with me and he said the best driver and car was Andy Burton and his 306 Cosworth, and we only saw him in Radnor! 4 stages of Loeb, Ogier Hirvonen (who was very entertaining), Solberg etc and 1 stage of Andy Burton.......and AB wins!

The WRC need to have wider coverage of rallying in general, just like the good old days, lol!

Long live Andy Burton!

[vkangas]

Loeb to VW is not a rumour is just a Fantasy.... stupid rumours, do not recycle them please.

Definately not just a rumor. For example Hänninen has made it pretty clear that he's doing preliminary work for VW group this season. What is not clear is that will the brand be Volkswagen or Škoda but that does not really matter.

[AndyRAC]

Sadly, this is the last year that Andy Burton can use his awesome Peugeot-Cosworth......

[tfp]

Loeb will never drive for another team and when he starts getting beaten reguarly by ANYONE he will run and retire!!!!!

+1.

But I'm sure he will retire before he can be beaten:-)

[tfp]

Loeb will never drive for another team and when he starts getting beaten reguarly by ANYONE he will run and retire!!!!!

+1.

But I'm sure he will retire before he can be beaten:-)

[ProRally]

Loeb to VW is not a rumour is just a Fantasy.... stupid rumours, do not recycle them please.

Time will tell, IT IS ONLY CHALLENGE LEFT FOR HIM !! he can be motivated to be champion in other make .... !!!

[N.O.T]

Citroen will want to use Loebs name for promotional reasons long after he retires...so no VW for him.

[Crocone]

I also think that Loeb will never leave from Citroen. First of all it's a riscky move to change a very good team for few money. In fact we must think how mutch Loeb will continue his career. This is the big question. And about his new rival in Ogier's person...I don't think he is very worried. Doesn't matter what prestations he will have, he will always be No.1 driver for Citroen, even if he will need to be supported with team orders. Remember Dani Sordo, Duval, and other arragements made in 2010 season.

[mm1]

But if you`re leaving the sport, why not with a lot of cash from VW?

[N.O.T]

Because Loeb is an asset for citroen....he is going to have a contract with them for many years after he retires.

You want to believe rumours..... suit yourselves and believe everything.....

[turves]

Citroen will want to use Loebs name for promotional reasons long after he retires...so no VW for him.

I agree, but it also depends on what Loeb wants. Both parties have to agree.

[N.O.T]

this rumour i am 100% started from the czechs who consider VW as king of the world and the situation is perfect to spread stupid things like that....think about it VW announcement + Loeb ogier situation = great opportunity for publicity.

as i said people can belive whatever they wantbut they should consider the REAL facts

Is Loeb underpaid ??
Is VW willing to spend such a huge amount on a driver who in 2 years time will definately not be any faster than he is now ad also 40 years old or close ??
Do we actually know VW is serious about this ?? (can you remember how the project of the JWRC car went ??)

so if you answer these questions and still believe that there are very few things in this world that can help you.....and the fact that i am still burning my sole brain cell to write these self explanatory things to you does not make a good impression either....so as i said believe what you want to believe....unfortunatelly its a free world.

[Rallyper]

I agree with N.O.T. this time also....

VW in WRC - yes. Loeb in VW - NO!

[Hartusvuori]

Though it might not mean a thing to the essence of this discussion, but in a way this news/rumour must be true: It says VW is interested in Loeb, not necessarily the other way around. Every manufacturer or rally team should be interested in Loeb.

[N.O.T]

Though it might not mean a thing to the essence of this discussion, but in a way this news/rumour must be true: It says VW is interested in Loeb, not necessarily the other way around. Every manufacturer or rally team should be interested in Loeb.

indeed...same like the ogier ford thing....ford approached but the answer was known long ago.

[uranium]

It is business. In business everything is possible... Especially where it is business based on huge money.

[PLuto]

this rumour i am 100% started from the czechs who consider VW as king of the world and the situation is perfect to spread stupid things like that....think about it VW announcement + Loeb ogier situation = great opportunity for publicity.

as i said people can belive whatever they wantbut they should consider the REAL facts

Is Loeb underpaid ??
Is VW willing to spend such a huge amount on a driver who in 2 years time will definately not be any faster than he is now ad also 40 years old or close ??
Do we actually know VW is serious about this ?? (can you remember how the project of the JWRC car went ??)

so if you answer these questions and still believe that there are very few things in this world that can help you.....and the fact that i am still burning my sole brain cell to write these self explanatory things to you does not make a good impression either....so as i said believe what you want to believe....unfortunatelly its a free world.

You are not right. This rumour started from Portugal. And I was speaking with people from Citroen about actual situation. Believe me, your thoughts are logic, but real situation is little bit different...