[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[N.O.T]

Another "smoke" notice...

Abarth in WRC 2013 or 2014 (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/abarth_linked_to_top-level_rallying_return/?utm_source=maxrally&utm_medium=twitter)

"There's no smoke without fire"

LOL

Bankrupt company of nobodies wants WRC....sure yeah.

[Kielder]

http://i39.tinypic.com/o9o1u1.jpg

[Franky]

LOL

Bankrupt company of nobodies wants WRC....sure yeah.

By not advertising you won't sell any more cars than you are at the moment. What's the worst that can happen? Go bankrupt twice?

[Motorsportfun]

LOL

Bankrupt company of nobodies wants WRC....sure yeah.

LOL ...bankrupt?

They're gradually buying all the Chrysler group! :D :D

[N.O.T]

LOL ...bankrupt?

They're gradually buying all the Chrysler group! :D :D

LOOOOOOOL

Good one.....

[tfp]

Er, has Tanak binned a fiesta??

[Francis44]

Yep.....



From Planete Marcus #WRC Ott Tanak went off the road during Test Days with Black... on Twitpic (http://twitpic.com/86q2um)

http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/full/495023854.jpg?Expires=1326460347&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=qxOV%7E4mMbLD44erwm2WQpbMdmYPlNbLRz4heYN mqsCJuvn36cX3Fvy7CVz-sGodYShYFx7ePks0FL7hggxalUcihHquqtNp-nLuTESqrY-xGRMQz40%7EYCjRqmIm2Gors8fWF4Cn7XskYjDLuzbH5ivsUXU dng52rcGL2tBwMmLY_

[Mirek]

Er, has Tanak binned a fiesta??

I think it's not so big issue. Can't remember any top driver who doesn't crash on tests at least from time to time. It's part of the game ;)

[Barreis]

Volkswagen to run Kevin Abbring and Andreas Mikkelsen in WRC this year - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97002)

[danon]

David Richards, the boss of Prodrive quits the head of Team Mini WRC (http://rallye.automoto365.com/news/?lang=fr&month=1&season_year=2012&mode=NewsDetails&id=3969)

[darkstar]

uh, looks like a quite heavy impact. hope he can continue testing. i´m so exited on tänak and neuville at monte! is tänak finally running on dmack´s or is he also on michelin?

[DonJippo]

is tänak finally running on dmack´s or is he also on michelin?

If you take a close look of the picture you see which ones he is using.

[eib1]

A source at M-Sport said: "This was Ott's entry car for the event. We don't know too much about what happened, but the damage isn't too bad. The car won't run again today simply because we have to focus on getting it ready for the start. He was supposed to do around 70km or something, but I'm not sure how much he did in the end, but it was not that much."
(autosport.com)

[darkstar]

if i´d know what dmack´s look like maybe. but i see nothing blue on it, so i guess it´s not michelin...

[Mirek]

It is Michelin. The tread is slightly different and also the label is visible, just have a closer look ;)

By the way Melichárek will be on DMack with 207 S2000. It probably won't say anything about them, so it's just an information.

[carmichael]

btw, on official facebook page of M-Sport Ford WRT it's said, that Tänak runs with Michelin's (not said, but one of main sponsor logos on car is Michelin's) and will do all the 13 rallies of the season.

[darkstar]

ok, that´s perfect...honestly, i still can´t identify any michelin logo on that tires, even if i zomm 1000%, but ok :p :

but here´s tänaks livery, says it all:

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/397279_355437297815301_350218988337132_1440736_103 1689274_n.jpg (http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/397279_355437297815301_350218988337132_1440736_103 1689274_n.jpg)

[tfp]

I think it's not so big issue. Can't remember any top driver who doesn't crash on tests at least from time to time. It's part of the game ;)

Haha, yeah I guess so:-)

[mousti]

Very nice livery ! A black Fiesta WRC for a whole year :D

[darkstar]

gassner jr. on 8 rounds of irc with rbb skoda plus wrc germany: Acht plus eins (http://www.hermann-gassner.com/j15/index.php/de/2011/121-acht-plus-eins)

23. – 25. 02.: Sata Rallye Acores / Portugal - Schotter
15. – 17. 03.: Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Ingles / Spanien - Asphalt
11. – 12. 05.: Tour de Corse / Frankreich - Asphalt
02. – 03. 06.: Canon Mecsek Rallye / Ungarn - Asphalt
21. – 23. 06.: GEKO Ypres Rally / Belgien - Asphalt
31. 08. – 02. 09.: Barum Czech Rally Zlin / Tschechien - Asphalt
12. – 13. 10.: Rallye Sanremo / Italien - Asphalt
02. – 03. 11: Cyprus Rally / Zypern - Schotter/Asphalt

i hope he can improve!!!

[Roy]

FIA World Rally Championship - Summary of Regulation Changes for 2012 (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-regs.aspx)



Special rule for Solberg ;)
Throughout the rally, both crew members must have a valid driving licence.

[Salist]

FIA World Rally Championship - Summary of Regulation Changes for 2012 (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-regs.aspx)



Special rule for Solberg ;)
Throughout the rally, both crew members must have a valid driving licence.

Rally Sweden 2011 - last day. :)

[robee1328]

osszátok meg ti is pls:

SPEEDWORLD - Ferrari Racing Days 2010 Hungaroring (http://speedworld.hu/kepek/regebbi/Ferrari%20Racing%20Days%202010%20Hungaroring/Ferrari%20Racing%20Days%202010%20Hungaroring.html)

[MikeD]

update on the registered manufactuerer and M2 team

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP FOR MANUFACTURERS
2x CITROËN TOTAL WORLD RALLY TEAM (CITROËN DS3 WRC)
2x FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
2x MINI WRC TEAM (MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS WRC)

WRC TEAMS (M2):
ARMINDO ARAUJO WORLD RALLY TEAM (MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS WRC)
PALMEIRINHA RALLY (MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS WRC)
M-SPORT FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
M-SPORT FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
QATAR WORLD RALLY TEAM (CITROËN DS3 WRC)


Weird that the Czech Ford National Team with Prokop isn't on that M2/MT list, because he had peiority 1 on the entry-list and that should indicate that he should be able to score manufacturer points for his own team.

[jbmarcus21]

Mikko Hirvonen testing snow with DS3 WRC [VIDEO] http://bit.ly/Akojfs

[Miika]

KKK´s private "garage", hholy moly.


Inside the Car Collection of Finnish WRC Legend Juha Kankkunen on Inside Line (http://www.insideline.com/features/collection-of-a-lifetime.html)

http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/non-make/ot/ot_1207111_717.jpg
http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/non-make/ot/ot_120711133_717.jpg
http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/non-make/ot/ot_120711101_717.jpg
http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/non-make/ot/ot_12071113_717.jpg
http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/non-make/ot/ot_120711111_717.jpg

[AMSS]

Just have to comment on this(KKK :s collection) I have had the privilege to visit the "museum" and can with great assurance say that although one might think so, than the pictures don`t do the place justice. It really is THAT amazing!

[Leon]

I wonder how much he will earn if it was open for the public.....

[tfp]

That is amazing.....

[Josti]

Amazing indeed, they all look really authentic. Never knew kankkunen was into scale models too, great.

[Gregor-y]

Did he ever give a reason for losing the mustache?

[Zeakiwi]

Does anyone know when the irally.com website is going to be activated ?

Is the Makinen kindergarten going to be an early driver talent identification and training facility ?

[vkangas]

If you want to look more detailed "making of" pictures of Kankkunen's car restorations visit MAT - Makela Auto Tuning - HISTORIC SPORTS AND RACING CAR SPECIALIST (http://www.mat.fi) -->projects. It's not the ordinary tuning workshop :)

[Andre Oliveira]

Interisting the picture 58. Mercedes WRC :)

[Camelopard]

Just have to comment on this(KKK :s collection) I have had the privilege to visit the "museum" and can with great assurance say that although one might think so, than the pictures don`t do the place justice. It really is THAT amazing!


How does one get to visit to this "museum"?

[ProRally]

How does one get to visit to this "museum"?

When Juha invites you....

[Camelopard]

When Juha invites you....

bugger!

[Tomi]

It looks like if Kankku has got rid of some Ferraris

[bretddog]

Not sure if this been posted..

Citroen affirms WRC commitment in wake of Peugeot's withdrawal from endurance racing - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97086)

Matton said: "I see everybody from the team this afternoon to tell them I have confirmation from Mr [Frederic] Banzet the manager of the [Citroen] brand that our programme continues and we have guarantees to be here in the future."
..
Matton added that further proof of Citroen's commitment came in the driver contracts it confirmed ahead of this season.
"The best proof is that we sign two years with Mikko [Hirvonen], three years with Nasser Al-Attiyah, with an option for two more. We are there for the future and we will stay after Sebastien Loeb retires.
"If we were not staying after Sebastien Loeb, what would be the point to have a young driver like Thierry Neuville signed now? We are staying."

[N.O.T]

Good choice...once the king retires the LEGACY will go on and on....

[mousti]

I think he's speaking in PSA's name and not Citroën and that Peugeot will take over. Doesn't suprise they'll continue. The Le Mans withdrawal suprises me a bit, they're also there very strong but I think the costs are probably more or much more then WRC. And I think media exposure isn't there so good like the WRC is.

[alleskids]

I don't know about that. Le Mans gets a lot of media attention, a week long, more then a WRC event, with the acception of Monte carlo, but that's only because Monte is special, Monte is a week long event and it is opening ball of WRC. And scoring at Le mans makes a big impact. Also losing big at Le mans makes a big impact onthe CEO's :( . I thing it was a budget issue,sportscars costs too much, and having too little succes at Le mans, it is getting too litltle reward on the Euro.

[mousti]

Yes but that's only Le Mans, just one week per year.

[tfp]

I don't know about that. Le Mans gets a lot of media attention, a week long, more then a WRC event, with the acception of Monte carlo, but that's only because Monte is special, Monte is a week long event and it is opening ball of WRC. And scoring at Le mans makes a big impact. Also losing big at Le mans makes a big impact onthe CEO's :( . I thing it was a budget issue,sportscars costs too much, and having too little succes at Le mans, it is getting too litltle reward on the Euro.

Also, in most of the publics eye, when someone wins a rally eg Ogier, that means Seb Ogier has won this rally, when someone wins Le Mans eg Kristensen, that means Audi has won Le mans....Er, did that make any sense...? :p

[mousti]

That's very true. Good point.

[tolis]

Kuipers????
Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/DennisKuipers1/status/160098794439057408/photo/1/large)

http://p.twimg.com/AjjJAVvCIAAsnea.jpg

[Martin Luijk]

Dennis Kuipers has a very rich father (René Kuipers), so they have some nice rally cars.

[focus206]

But still his program is unknown, right? He is not on the entry list of the Swedish Rally :confused:

[Motorsportfun]

^^

I think some teams are waiting to understand how the WRC will be covered, before entering the series...

[tolis]

^^

I think that they'll sign something if Eurosport pick the rights for next years... their sponsor (FERM) want a big media exposure...
I think their sponsor is their own business, isn't it?

[Martin Luijk]

René Kuipers is one of the wealthiest man in Holland. And Dennis did a very good job last year. But if I'm right, there's nothing decided yet. FERM indeed is a company owned by René Kuipers.

[N.O.T]

Yes, his outings on tarmac were very encouraging, but he should stop there.

[Martin Luijk]

It is not a Kevin Abbring, but he showed progress in the two years with the Fiesta S2000 and the WRC.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwUBzZltxYM&context=C3635b24ADOEgsToPDskJHPvJiE3Em9plAf3QBTcw2

[N.O.T]

reported...

bye bye

nice video.

brother John show him what hell is made of !!! :D

[Mintexmemory]

It is not a Kevin Abbring, but he showed progress in the two years with the Fiesta S2000 and the WRC.

I would also put him behind Weijs in speed. Quicker than van M'stn though. Has to be remembered that Denis has Fred Miclotte as co-driver and he is very good - No disrespect to Bjorn or Lara.

[EightGear]

Yes Weijs is better than Dennis I think.

Kuipers still has plans to do WRC this season, but because of the whole NOS saga sponsors are a little cautious.

About Hans Weijs; still nothing about his plans for this year.

[Mintexmemory]

Yes Weijs is better than Dennis I think.

Kuipers still has plans to do WRC this season, but because of the whole NOS saga sponsors are a little cautious.

About Hans Weijs; still nothing about his plans for this year.

I hope to see all the NL drivers have a programme in 2012 as they all are worth watching but sponsorship is the big issue, I do understand that.- Very good Monte so far for Abbring

[tolis]

Al Attiyah will drive a Peugeot 207 S2000 in next week's first round of MERC, Qatar Rally. Is he the only one who has driven Fabia+207+Fiesta?

[Barreis]

Todt, shut the **** up.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Al Attiyah will drive a Peugeot 207 S2000 in next week's first round of MERC, Qatar Rally. Is he the only one who has driven Fabia+207+Fiesta?

Maybe because he has contract now with Citroen/Qatar he has to drive PSA cars..

[Barreis]

He wants to dismiss power stage for start.

[Barreis]

Only one stage at the final day, what's this?!

[AndyRAC]

Personally, they should have run Turini & Luceram tonight like the last 3 IRC events - and not bother with a Power Stage. They will restart tomorrow afternoon for 4 stages, then finish on Sunday with the Power Stage. I wonder how much influence NOS had when the Monte returned to the WRC? It's just dragged the whole event out to 5 days....

[mousti]

Al Attiyah will drive a Peugeot 207 S2000 in next week's first round of MERC, Qatar Rally. Is he the only one who has driven Fabia+207+Fiesta?
Loix did it although the Fiesta was on a test. Weird that Solowow never bought a Fabia, car is very fast and reliable.

[Motorsportfun]

Personally, they should have run Turini & Luceram tonight like the last 3 IRC events - and not bother with a Power Stage. They will restart tomorrow afternoon for 4 stages, then finish on Sunday with the Power Stage. I wonder how much influence NOS had when the Monte returned to the WRC? It's just dragged the whole event out to 5 days....

Come on, don't blame all the times NOS without reason! It's boring...

We all know Monte's decisions are made just by ACM and FIA doesn't (can't) say never "no", because of the power of ACM.

[Wasted Talent]

Todt, shut the **** up.

I see he says he wants to get rid of super-rally as nowhere else can you retire and start again a few hours later, well in BTCC you can retire in the first race and start again and score points in the second and third races so he is wrong there

WT

[Barreis]

I don't care about super rally. I care about power stage.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I see he says he wants to get rid of super-rally as nowhere else can you retire and start again a few hours later, well in BTCC you can retire in the first race and start again and score points in the second and third races so he is wrong there
He means other rally series.

[whereschris]

I'm a fan of super rally. As a spectator if you go to see the event and a driver that you want to see is out, you as a spectator miss out - I know that they could have gone out that day but it makes the chances of seeing everyone more which is better value and entertainment for those who make the effort to get out to the stages. Also, sometimes in the cases of the top boys it is incredible to see the amount of time that they can claw back.

[Mirek]

Al Attiyah will drive a Peugeot 207 S2000 in next week's first round of MERC, Qatar Rally. Is he the only one who has driven Fabia+207+Fiesta?

Besides Loix I think Kresta drove also all three but the Fiesta was only a testing with Tarabus.

[Mise]

Besides Loix I think Kresta drove also all three but the Fiesta was only a testing with Tarabus.

Toni Gardemeister - Flying Finn Professional Rally Driver - Tonigardemeister.com (http://www.tonigardemeister.com/)

choose "rallihistoria" and scroll down

Garde has driven all three plus punto and Opel.

[EightGear]

Why has my post been deleted....?

Edit: Never mind, I see it is moved. ;)

[Tom206wrc]

Al Attiyah will drive a Peugeot 207 S2000 in next week's first round of MERC, Qatar Rally. Is he the only one who has driven Fabia+207+Fiesta?


Will it be one from Kronos Team(like Yazeed Al Rajhi when he started on MERC) :confused:

[RICARDO75]

Besides Loix I think Kresta drove also all three but the Fiesta was only a testing with Tarabus.

Don't forget Julien Murin: Fiat, Volkswagen, Skoda, Peugeot and Ford

[vino_93]

Auto Hebdo said that AL Attiyah will drive Koweit Rally (MERC) with a DS3 RRC !

[Motorsportfun]

Auto Hebdo said that AL Attiyah will drive Koweit Rally (MERC) with a DS3 RRC !

Confirmed here since a while ago: Rally Emotion - WRC / Esclusivo: Al Attiyah a tutto campo, dal WRC alla Dakar! (http://www.rallyemotion.it/news/1165-wrc-esclusivo-al-attiyah-a-tutto-campo-dal-wrc-alla-dakar)

[omer yetis]

a bit off topic, but couldn't figure out where to post.

last year, a member have created and shared a file which we can download all year Rally schedules/programs into our calendars. by any chance is there any update for this year?

thanks
Omer

[Brother John]

a bit off topic, but couldn't figure out where to post.

last year, a member have created and shared a file which we can download all year Rally schedules/programs into our calendars. by any chance is there any update for this year?

thanks
Omer

I hope this is a good idea to go to this new thread. All kinds of questions to other members.

[Alpha]

I normally dislike gentleman-drivers with rich dads, but if they start showing up in 996 GT3s then I'm VERY much in favor of even more gentleman-drivers! :D

[Barreis]

Nice photos.
The 2012 Dakar Rally - In Focus - The Atlantic (http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2012/01/the-2012-dakar-rally/100223/)

[Plan9]

I have reconciled myself to them now. The GFC has shown how vital their money can be even if it does ruin to prospects of your hero.

[Red bull]

MaxRally | News | Rautenbach walks away after rules row (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/rautenbach_walks_away_after_rules_row/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[N.O.T]

MaxRally | News | Rautenbach walks away after rules row (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/rautenbach_walks_away_after_rules_row/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

finally some good news...

[J.Lindstroem]

MaxRally | News | Rautenbach walks away after rules row (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/rautenbach_walks_away_after_rules_row/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Life goes on i suppose...

[MTA]

Ramona Karlsson will run the PWRC in 2012.
Press conference right now at Ramona Rallying (http://www.ramonarallying.com)

[Barreis]

Eyvind Brynildsen joins Adapta team for Rally Sweden - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97171)

[EightGear]

Kuipers????
Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/DennisKuipers1/status/160098794439057408/photo/1/large)

http://p.twimg.com/AjjJAVvCIAAsnea.jpg

This car is entered now for the Circuit Zandvoort Sprint. It will be driven by René Kuipers. Dennis will be driving a Fiesta S2000. :)

[EightGear]

Excuse me, it's the other way round. Dennis will be in the Porsche, René in the Fiesta. ;)

[RS]

MaxRally | News | Rautenbach walks away after rules row (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/rautenbach_walks_away_after_rules_row/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Maybe Go Fast World Rally Team can snap him up if they can afford to run a third car?

[A FONDO]

Maybe Go Fast World Rally Team can snap him up if they can afford to run a third car? :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Red bull]

Hayden Paddon: New team (http://www.rallysportlive.com/2012/01/hayden-paddon-new-team/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[WRCS14]

I hear a rumour that Kris and Mini are to part company. I dont know how long before official announcement. I hope it doesnt happen but maybe now Prodrive have a taste for the money of the pay driver they will not release a car so easy to Kris.

I see on WRC today the news article with prodrive praising Campana. The press releases so far have given the story that he has almost won the drive on driving skill alone. I realise he did well in Monte Carlo but if Meeke was in the car I think he could show better results especially through out the year.

[Barreis]

They praise anyone who pay for a car.

[tolis]

Ramona Karlsson will run the PWRC in 2012.
Press conference right now at Ramona Rallying (http://www.ramonarallying.com)
She will do Mexico, Argentina, New Zealand, Germany, Italy and Spain.

[mousti]

So Cooke can't say anymore she'll be the fastest girl at PWRC :D

[wildsir]

I hear a rumour that Kris and Mini are to part company. I dont know how long before official announcement. I hope it doesnt happen but maybe now Prodrive have a taste for the money of the pay driver they will not release a car so easy to Kris.

I see on WRC today the news article with prodrive praising Campana. The press releases so far have given the story that he has almost won the drive on driving skill alone. I realise he did well in Monte Carlo but if Meeke was in the car I think he could show better results especially through out the year.

Must be a rumour, as apparently he was testing for Prodrive yesterday.

[J.Lindstroem]

I hear a rumour that Kris and Mini are to part company. I dont know how long before official announcement. I hope it doesnt happen but maybe now Prodrive have a taste for the money of the pay driver they will not release a car so easy to Kris.

I see on WRC today the news article with prodrive praising Campana. The press releases so far have given the story that he has almost won the drive on driving skill alone. I realise he did well in Monte Carlo but if Meeke was in the car I think he could show better results especially through out the year.

If this is true, it sucks. Don't believe it till i've heard it from Prodrive of Meeke though.

[tolis]

Al Attiyah's 207 S2000 which will use in this weeken'ds Qatar Rally!

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417511_10150619633195242_750285241_10956482_294145 131_n.jpg

[Red bull]

Beautiful livery i hope it will also be used on his citroen DS3 :D

[RS]

If this is true, it sucks. Don't believe it till i've heard it from Prodrive of Meeke though.

It sucks that he is not driving the Mini this year, but if there is no serious chance for him to drive some events he may as well terminate the contract and persue other opportunities.

[mousti]

https://p.twimg.com/AkHCfBFCIAAHZpm.jpg

New livery for Mads - Adapta !

[Barreis]

S2000 car.

[SubaruNorway]

S2000 car.

No, that's the RRC.

[Wasted Talent]

So Cooke can't say anymore she'll be the fastest girl at PWRC :D

She will still be fastest 2wd girl :) :) :)

WT

[eppel]

Al Attiyah's 207 S2000 which will use in this weeken'ds Qatar Rally!

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417511_10150619633195242_750285241_10956482_294145 131_n.jpg

207 from Kronos Racing...

[pucky54]

207 from Kronos Racing...

as you can clearly see ;)

[Plan9]

She will still be fastest 2wd girl :) :) :)

WT

You can't get much worse than what we saw from her in Monte

[Prisoner Monkeys]

finally some good news...
Do people not like Rautenbach? If not ... why?

[Red bull]

Do people not like Rautenbach? If not ... why?

An envious person always has no reason for hate...and the cries of a frog cant prevent a cow from drinking at the river. :D :D

[N.O.T]

An envious person always has no reason for hate...and the cries of a frog cant prevent a cow from drinking at the river. :D :D

indeed...but sometimes the lions visit the pond to drink as well...and are not the frogs who are in trouble then...they get quite a spectacle though.

[Red bull]

indeed...but sometimes the lions visit the pond to drink as well...and are not the frogs who are in trouble then...they get quite a spectacle though.

AS expected :D

[makinen_fan]

Al Attiyah's 207 S2000 which will use in this weeken'ds Qatar Rally!

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417511_10150619633195242_750285241_10956482_294145 131_n.jpg

nasser appears to be out of the Qatar Rally, saw that in FB a while ago

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/423317_284652198261115_184151181644551_789303_1483 114681_n.jpg

[bluuford]

Someone forgot to tell him that it is not Hummer and he is not in Dakar anymore;-)

[Tom206wrc]

Ramona Karlsson will run the PWRC in 2012.
Press conference right now at Ramona Rallying (http://www.ramonarallying.com)


Always sexy as ever the two swedish ladies driver...Japanese from Mitsubishi should feel proud to be represented by them :)

[pettersolberg29]

Not sure where to put this but for those who listen to WRR, Becs has announced she's leaving. There'll be a new team for Sweden.

No offence to her but I always thought the programme was all about Colin Clark and so I'm sure the programme will remain strong in her absence.

[Rallyper]

So she´s leaving just like that? What´s behind this? I loved Becs voice in the studio.

MAybe she´s doing promotion for Ford in the future. That would also suit her.

[N.O.T]

more good news...

[noel157]

So she´s leaving just like that? What´s behind this? I loved Becs voice in the studio.

MAybe she´s doing promotion for Ford in the future. That would also suit her.

Wonder if the FIA renegotiated their new contract with Crown Media?

[Barreis]

She can go. All the people that worked with NOS can go away from sport.

[wrc_flipper]

Not sure where to put this but for those who listen to WRR, Becs has announced she's leaving. There'll be a new team for Sweden.

No offence to her but I always thought the programme was all about Colin Clark and so I'm sure the programme will remain strong in her absence.

Good job it's in rumours and she has just denied the rumour on Facebook

[EightGear]

WRR didn't work with NOS. They are an independent company.

[Rallyper]

Good job it's in rumours and she has just denied the rumour on Facebook

All the ****talking people on this forum are now disappointed. That´s suits me well. I´m really happy if I can hear Becs voice in the future of WRC coverage. And Becsie, I´m glad maybe you´re reading this. Keep on the good work and bather not the foolish ones appearing on this forum!

[wrc_flipper]

All the ****talking people on this forum are now disappointed. That´s suits me well. I´m really happy if I can hear Becs voice in the future of WRC coverage. And Becsie, I´m glad maybe you´re reading this. Keep on the good work and bather not the foolish ones appearing on this forum!

Don't think that will happen, just chuckling to myself about the comments about Martin Homes on another thread - bloke has only written 40+ books on rallying and written countless articles in magazine and papers world over. But we all are open to our own options.

[noel157]

All the ****talking people on this forum are now disappointed. That´s suits me well. I´m really happy if I can hear Becs voice in the future of WRC coverage. And Becsie, I´m glad maybe you´re reading this. Keep on the good work and bather not the foolish ones appearing on this forum!

Wouldn't be the same without Becs. In fact WRR wouldn't be WRR without her.

[mousti]

Atkinson's plans with the Subaru R4 are in the gutter.. No start in Sweden no nothing.

[darkstar]

seems like it didnt went so well for al attyah: http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/407764_10150616548880733_206160890732_11298123_208 9230568_n.jpg

[Barreis]

Atkinson's plans with the Subaru R4 are in the gutter.. No start in Sweden no nothing.

Info?

[Co-driven]

Info?

I think it's this article: SpeedActionTV Powered by CYBERNET.BE (http://www.speedactiontv.be/Stephane_Prevot__Le_projet_Subaru_R4_tombe_a_leau-8716-1.aspx)

[RICARDO75]

bad news...

[A.F.F.]

Wouldn't be the same without Becs. In fact WRR wouldn't be WRR without her.

If WRR works and they do a decent job, I don't care who they have there.

[tfp]

Atkinson's plans with the Subaru R4 are in the gutter.. No start in Sweden no nothing.

Budget problems perhaps? But for Atko??

[mousti]

Indeed budget..

[tfp]

Indeed budget..

Isn't he a millionaire? Or should I not believe everything I read on the internet :p

[WRCS14]

I think its his father who was always very rich although I am sure Chris is not too bad now. I feel sorry for him. He prove much skill in Subaru against Petter. Then i think maybe he will get drive with Ken Blocks team but I think even the recession maybe affect even Mr Block as I think maybe he try rallycross more. Wasnt Ken supposed to be doing say a full years WRC in his 2nd year and so on.

The drive Chris had in the Citroen seems only short time ago but that was the start of 2009 I believe. What happend his connection with Proton? When I heard about the Subaru R4 drive I thought it will get him back into the spotlamp but now its seems not to be.

Do people think that Volkswagen should consider Chris as he probably has competed in all 14 or 15 rounds at least twice and maybe history of podiums already also?

[pettersolberg29]

Good job it's in rumours and she has just denied the rumour on Facebook

No she hasn't denied the rumour - she's leaving WRR but staying in the WRC doing something else. TV commentary I assume?

[Rally Hokkaido]

On-board of Paddon's first test in Fabia - it's a short loop and video doesn't really show much......well, I suppose at least it's proof that ANZACs should have one top driver representing them in Sweden

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQn6dkd7X4

[modri dirkac]

He will be fast - at least on gravel! I saw him testing Baumschlager's (BRR) Fabia last year - and he was from the beggining much faster than Baumschlager. :up:

[noel157]

I think its his father who was always very rich although I am sure Chris is not too bad now. I feel sorry for him. He prove much skill in Subaru against Petter. Then i think maybe he will get drive with Ken Blocks team but I think even the recession maybe affect even Mr Block as I think maybe he try rallycross more. Wasnt Ken supposed to be doing say a full years WRC in his 2nd year and so on.

The drive Chris had in the Citroen seems only short time ago but that was the start of 2009 I believe. What happend his connection with Proton? When I heard about the Subaru R4 drive I thought it will get him back into the spotlamp but now its seems not to be.

Do people think that Volkswagen should consider Chris as he probably has competed in all 14 or 15 rounds at least twice and maybe history of podiums already also?

I believe Chris Mellors said Atko will never be a Proton again. They has a major disagreement about something that ended their relationship.

[Barreis]

Petter Solberg should be an example to all od them. After lost workes drive he bought himself a car and continued to drive.

[noel157]

Petter Solberg should be an example to all od them. After lost workes drive he bought himself a car and continued to drive.

An example only for those that get made redundant with a cheque for 7m or so.

[wrc1600]

According to Autosport in 2013 there will be 2 new rallies among Russia, Brasil, China and India.

[A FONDO]

According to Autosport in 2013 there will be 2 new rallies among Russia, Brasil, China and India.
looks like WRC is gonna become the same **** as formula yawn, with events in rich gypsy countries instead of traditional european ones..... NO THANKS !

[ELPE]

about Atko, sure he is fast, but he left the road in almost every competition.

[EightGear]

looks like WRC is gonna become the same **** as formula yawn, with events in rich gypsy countries instead of traditional european ones..... NO THANKS !

If that means there will be more manufacturers I don't really mind. Of course it is nice to have all the rallies in places where people love the sport, but what if there are only a couple of manufacturers left?
Hopefully this will mean Toyota, Subaru, etc. are willing to jump in faster now. If not, then yes, WRC shoudnt go to places like Russia and India.

[Bartek]

According to Autosport in 2013 there will be 2 new rallies among Russia, Brasil, China and India.

I can't understand what is going with this world. Why not leave some things alone?

[Plan9]

According to Autosport in 2013 there will be 2 new rallies among Russia, Brasil, China and India.

Will these be in addition to thr 13 we already have or will they replace 2 of them?

If it is the former I hope it will be Russia and China. If the latter I want neither.

[Motorsportfun]

Will these be in addition to thr 13 we already have or will they replace 2 of them?

If it is the former I hope it will be Russia and China. If the latter I want neither.

Brazil is 6th most-growing market in the world (due to Olympics and World Cup, but also for industrialization), so it would be a good choice. And India has a better growing-rate than China. Any of these four would be quite good IMHO.

[tfp]

Petter Solberg should be an example to all od them. After lost workes drive he bought himself a car and continued to drive.

:up: More should follow his example!


about Atko, sure he is fast, but he left the road in almost every competition.

Hey, you cant make an omelette without cracking a few eggs ;)

[Plan9]

Brazil is 6th most-growing market in the world (due to Olympics and World Cup, but also for industrialization), so it would be a good choice. And India has a better growing-rate than China. Any of these four would be quite good IMHO.

I would not like them to come at the expense of a well established event. The WRC is not like other motorsports that can trial events very fluently. Since 2000 only 2 events have become integral to the calendar (can you imagine a season without Mexico or Germany). My point is, if we replace a established event for a risk in a BRIC country we may lose the established event for awhile longer than one year. If you get my meaning?

[WRCfan]

As long as the new rounds were to offer good roads, and a spectacle then it would be ok. Also as long as they don't shove other long existing good rallies out of the calendar to be replaced by an average mediocre event would be ok.

When rounds like Acropolis, Safari, Finland are to be jeopardised by new rounds it has to be considered very carefully for sure.

[White Sauron]

And Russia is one of the biggest and fastest-growing car markets for many manufacturers. For example, in 2011 Russia was the biggest European market for Subaru.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

looks like WRC is gonna become the same **** as formula yawn, with events in rich gypsy countries instead of traditional european ones..... NO THANKS !
I'm sorry, but which "traditional European rallies" have no presence on the calendar? The only European rounds that have been removed are Austria, Bulgaria, Corsica, Cyprus, Ireland, Norway, Poland and Sanremo. Of those rallies, only Corsica and Sanremo have any of the tradition you value - but France and Italy still have a presence on the calendar. Of the rest, Austria held one event (1973), Bulgaria had one (2010), Cyrpus eight (2000-2006 and 2009), Ireland two (2007 and 2009), Norway two (2007 and 2009), and Poland and one (2009). So where are these "traditional European rallies" that we've supposedly lost when one has been extinct for forty years, and the rest were only started at the turn of the century or later?

[sollitt]

Regardless of how big the 'perceived' market, WRC rounds in Russia, China, Brazil or India will not benefit the sport one iota, for reasons already discussed in another thread.

[alleskids]

25/01/2012
FIA PRODUCTION CAR WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP
LIST OF ENTRANTS - UPDATED

ENTRANT
Lotos Dynamic Rally Team - Michal Kosciuszko
Nicholas Fuchs- Nicholas Fuchs
Marcos Sebastian Ligato - Marcos Sebastian Ligato
Lorenzo Bertelli - Lorenzo Bertelli
Avtoholding RRT - Nikita Philippov
Louise Cook - Louise Cook
Ramona Karlsson - Ramona Karlsson

The FIA may consider registrations until 27 March 2012, subject to agreement and availability.

The SWRC chamopionship is between
Paddon (skipping Monte Carlo)
Breen (skipping New Zealand)
Proton 1 (Portugal
Proton 2 (Portugal)
Oleksowicz (Monte Carlo)
Al Rajhi (Monte Carlo)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Regardless of how big the 'perceived' market, WRC rounds in Russia, China, Brazil or India will not benefit the sport one iota, for reasons already discussed in another thread.
That depends entirely on what you consider to be of benefit to the sport. If the WRC is indeed looking at two extra rounds in Brazil, Russia, India or China, then the organisers evidently feel that the sport will gain something from it.

[Allyc85]

looks like WRC is gonna become the same **** as formula yawn, with events in rich gypsy countries instead of traditional european ones..... NO THANKS !

Racist?

The WRC needs to move to emerging markets and spread its events more evenly around the world. Its a good move IMO!

[RobertS]

and Poland and one (2009).
+ 1973 >

http://www.juwra.com/calendar_1973.html

juwra.com**|**Rallies - Polish Rally 1973 (http://www.juwra.com/poland_1973.html)

[Miika]

I would have thought that after all the problems lately they would have first concentrated on getting the basis of the series into a better shape before reaching new areas/countries. Selling a broken product into new areas and then wondering why it isn´t appealing to anyone there either, I can´t see how that would be the wisest thing to do at the moment.

[SubaruNorway]

And Russia is one of the biggest and fastest-growing car markets for many manufacturers. For example, in 2011 Russia was the biggest European market for Subaru.

What places would you suggest for a rally? Something different like a Safari style rally in the south maybe...

[Barreis]

World Rally Championship - News - SWRC to thrill as crews confirm schedules (http://www.wrc.com/news/swrc-to-thrill-as-crews-confirm-schedules/?fid=15963)

[Plan9]

What places would you suggest for a rally? Something different like a Safari style rally in the south maybe...

What we need here is for the FIA or somebody to clarify what the stakes are. We don't know if we are going to loose 2 of our favorites or get a 15 round calendar.

I would jump for Ireland myself. It looks like this years IRC round will be awesome, the Titanic docks is a nice touch. Also look into Bulgaria or Poland, awhile back there was some talk about having a events that ran through several countries in that area of Europe. Just a thought.

[Barreis]

Bring back calendar from 10 years ago and that's it.

[A FONDO]

What we need here is for the FIA or somebody to clarify what the stakes are. We don't know if we are going to loose 2 of our favorites or get a 15 round calendar.

Jean Todt: "We want to have one proper World Rally Championship with a balance of half in Europe and half outside Europe." - quote from his interview @ autosport.com

[AndyRAC]

I would have thought that after all the problems lately they would have first concentrated on getting the basis of the series into a better shape before reaching new areas/countries. Selling a broken product into new areas and then wondering why it isn´t appealing to anyone there either, I can´t see how that would be the wisest thing to do at the moment.

Absolutely!! Yes, the sport needs new areas of growth, but it needs to walk before it can run. Now is not the time for going to new countries. Lets get the sport settled, sort the problems out, etc Then, when it is stable - go to these new markets. And remember, F1 might be able to get away with 3 men & a dog watching, but the WRC most definately won't.

[Motorsportfun]

I would not like them to come at the expense of a well established event. The WRC is not like other motorsports that can trial events very fluently. Since 2000 only 2 events have become integral to the calendar (can you imagine a season without Mexico or Germany). My point is, if we replace a established event for a risk in a BRIC country we may lose the established event for awhile longer than one year. If you get my meaning?

A merger between Alsace and Germany, gives 1 free slot in the calendar... same if they pull out Mexico from the calendar (not much spectators, national sponsors not interested in big programmes in the series [but only for the event], etc.)!

[sollitt]

That depends entirely on what you consider to be of benefit to the sport. If the WRC is indeed looking at two extra rounds in Brazil, Russia, India or China, then the organisers evidently feel that the sport will gain something from it.No it doesn't. It's a matter of common sense.
Presently we have a system where the tail is wagging the dog i.e. the promotional arm is controlling the sport. By moving into large population blocks they'll argue that larger population means larger markets which'll bring more watchers and opportunities to sell more cars. This'll attract more manufacturers into the WRC and so on and so forth and we'll all live happily ever after. And subsequently, they'll be able to charge plenty for their services.
The reality is very different, as was clearly spelled out by a Brazilian member elsewhere on the forum. That country is the world's 6th biggest economy and a large car market. However their interest in rallying extends to the 6 contestants in their national series with their wives & girlfriends being the only onlookers. Where is the benefit of running a sub standard event in a country with no rallying infrastructure and where no-one will watch it or even know it is taking place?
Far better to grow strong existing high quality events to an iconic status that will ensure mass media attention for those taking part and which people from "emerging markets" will strive to enter.

[bretddog]

I would tend to think these strategies have strong backing by at least VW and Citroen. So contrary to be a potential double-dip setback of the sport, it likely ensures these two will stay long term. It's definitely a move you have to take, and you need to take it when you have a couple of strong players.

[Motorsportfun]

No it doesn't. It's a matter of common sense.
Presently we have a system where the tail is wagging the dog i.e. the promotional arm is controlling the sport. By moving into large population blocks they'll argue that larger population means larger markets which'll bring more watchers and opportunities to sell more cars. This'll attract more manufacturers into the WRC and so on and so forth and we'll all live happily ever after. And subsequently, they'll be able to charge plenty for their services.
The reality is very different, as was clearly spelled out by a Brazilian member elsewhere on the forum. That country is the world's 6th biggest economy and a large car market. However their interest in rallying extends to the 6contestants in their national series with their wives & girlfriends being the only onlookers. Where is the benefit of running a sub standard event in a country with no rallying infrastructure and where no-one will watch it or even know it is taking place?
Far better to grow strong existing high quality events to an iconic status that will ensure mass media attention for those taking part.

Brazil is a big market for Volkswagen - first of all - and Citroen in a couple years. So, what can they do for it in cooperation with the local organizers and the WRC Promoter? Making sure it will be Eurosport, already involved (with big success, I'd say) there with WTCC and IRC, I think it could be a good example to debut in a new country!

Have a look to Buenos Aires, Argentina: the WRC runs hundreds of km away from the rally-area of Cordoba, but just a roadshow attracted about 50.000 people for some donuts. That's a good way to promote these events: advertising the WRC rally with two show events - the first one in Rio, the other one in Sao Paulo would be fine - with a low-budget, some adv on tv and medias, etc!

[Plan9]

On-board of Paddon's first test in Fabia - it's a short loop and video doesn't really show much......well, I suppose at least it's proof that ANZACs should have one top driver representing them in Sweden

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQn6dkd7X4

I think that it is interesting that Chris has not been able to find any new money from Australia (the country that is supposed to be recession proof) to fund anything in the WRC; whereas Hayden was able to put together 2 programs (Subaru in PWRC now Skoda in SWRC) in the WRC by utilizing local enterprises to fund them and NZ has not had the good fortune that Australia has enjoyed of late.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

+ 1973 >

juwra.com**|**1973 WRC calendar (http://www.juwra.com/calendar_1973.html)

juwra.com**|**Rallies - Polish Rally 1973 (http://www.juwra.com/poland_1973.html)
The Rally of Poland was only run as a round of the WRC in 2009 and has not been a part of the WRC since. SlowSon's post implied that the new rallies would be introduced at the expense of European rallies that had long been a part of the calendar. But of all the European rounds, only two - Corsica and Sanremo - have any real WRC history to them, but they have at least been replaced by other French and Italian rounds.


The reality is very different, as was clearly spelled out by a Brazilian member elsewhere on the forum. That country is the world's 6th biggest economy and a large car market. However their interest in rallying extends to the 6 contestants in their national series with their wives & girlfriends being the only onlookers. Where is the benefit of running a sub standard event in a country with no rallying infrastructure and where no-one will watch it or even know it is taking place?
So that disqualifies Brazil - it doesn't dis-count Russia, India or China.

In the case of Russia, they have Evgeny Novikov in an M-Sport Fiesta, and have had plenty of other drivers scattered through the junior categories (or at least they did last year). There are also Russians in other internationally-accredited championships, like Vitaly Petrov in Formula 1, Alexy Dudkalo in the WTCC, Daniil Kvyat in Formula Renault, and plenty of other drivers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Russian_racing_drivers). Motorsport is big in Russia. This year, the GT World Series is racing at Moscow Raceway. In 2014, there will be a Russian Grand Prix. The IRC also held a round in Russia from 2007 and 2009. And I believe MotoGP is looking at going there, too. Motorsport is undergoing a resurgence in Russia, so it makes sense to have a rally there.

Or look at India. They're experiencing a motorsport boom, too. Perhaps not on the same level as Russia, but they are expanding out. And a rally in India is not without precedent - they have had a national rally championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_National_Rally_Championship) going for the past twenty-three years. Like Russia, India is a country that makes sense for a rally.

[leighton323]

I think that it is interesting that Chris has not been able to find any new money from Australia (the country that is supposed to be recession proof) to fund anything in the WRC; whereas Hayden was able to put together 2 programs (Subaru in PWRC now Skoda in SWRC) in the WRC by utilizing local enterprises to fund them and NZ has not had the good fortune that Australia has enjoyed of late.

True, but Chris is supposedly passed his prime where as Hayden is a rising and improving all the time. Wouldn't be to wise to invest in a driver that's not going anywhere, no offense to Chris.

[Red bull]

MaxRally | News | Gronholm (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/gronholms_son_to_take_up_rallying/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[sollitt]

Prisoner Monkeys, I'll concede Russia has some rally history and might make a decent fist of a WRC round. I suspect though that other than the enthusiasts no-one will even know the event took place.
A parallel could be drawn with the Whitbread Round the World yacht races which always stopped off on the East coast of the USA. Nobody, who wasn't living within 200 yards of the docks, even knew the thing was happening. The America's Cup, named after the Yanks & held by them for over 200 years and renowned as the biggest prize in international boating is unheard of in the States outside of Dennis Conners own extended family.
Their attempts at WRC ralling were just as bad with one such event struggling to gain 20 entrants and an even smaller rent-a-crowd watching.
Sometimes we have to stop reading our own press and realise that ours is not a 'major' sport.

As for India. Google is not always your friend. Did you see that until until '97 their "championship" was won by somebody in a Maruti Gypsy. Do you know what a Maruti Gypsy is? (I had a rather intimate association with one, and it's Indian crew, in 1993 RNZ) Until 5 years ago their weapon of choice was a Maruti Baleno.
This country has no rallying infrastructure to speak of and with 98% of the population not being able to afford two sheets of dunny paper it's hardly an appropriate place for a WRC round.

[Sulland]

Former East Europe has great rally traditions, incl Russia.

The infrastructure and mindset has to be there before a rally to get a boost. If not a World Rally Round is imo a waste.

[Plan9]

True, but Chris is supposedly passed his prime where as Hayden is a rising and improving all the time. Wouldn't be to wise to invest in a driver that's not going anywhere, no offense to Chris.

I am not sure its' as easy as that. Chris nearly won APRC (not sure how much credibility that is worth theses days mind you) and has made the podium in the WRC (although he made it hard on himself unnecessarily sometimes). I was thinking he could play on Australian patriotism and get some of the corporates to fund him into something similar to Sandell and the Swedish team. By comparison to Patrick I think it shows that it doesn't matter what phase of you career you are in as long as you have the gift of the gab and are ambitious!

[GigiGalliNo1]

I am not sure its' as easy as that. Chris nearly won APRC (not sure how much credibility that is worth theses days mind you) and has made the podium in the WRC (although he made it hard on himself unnecessarily sometimes). I was thinking he could play on Australian patriotism and get some of the corporates to fund him into something similar to Sandell and the Swedish team. By comparison to Patrick I think it shows that it doesn't matter what phase of you career you are in as long as you have the gift of the gab and are ambitious!

Sorry but 'Australians' don't know Rally that well and highly doubt they'd see the benefits of sponsoring on a world scale. Perhaps Mining Companies that are making hundreds of Millions every HOUR because the chinese are buying Australian resources, but don't think so.If Brendan Reeves has difficulty raising money for a little Fiesta in the Academy, then good luck to Atkinson. Sorry to be negative but Australia isn't the right sellers market for Rallying... specially as they don't have V8's!

[rallyfiend]

Sorry but 'Australians' don't know Rally that well and highly doubt they'd see the benefits of sponsoring on a world scale. Perhaps Mining Companies that are making hundreds of Millions every HOUR because the chinese are buying Australian resources, but don't think so.If Brendan Reeves has difficulty raising money for a little Fiesta in the Academy, then good luck to Atkinson. Sorry to be negative but Australia isn't the right sellers market for Rallying... specially as they don't have V8's!

Totally agree.

Apparently Channel Ten have terminated their free to air contract to cover the WRC in the wake of the likely Eurosport deal too.

Bad news for WRC fans. I can't see it ever returned to terrestrial free to air again....

[alleskids]

Daniel Oliveira/Carlos Magalhaes will do the 2012 WRC, but with a Subaru Impreza of Stohl Racing. but there seem to be some concern about th ecar before they can do WRC. Could it be the gas powered car Manfred Stohl develloped?

[tolis]

Daniel Oliveira/Carlos Magalhaes will do the 2012 WRC, but with a Subaru Impreza of Stohl Racing. but there seem to be some concern about th ecar before they can do WRC. Could it be the gas powered car Manfred Stohl develloped?
Only Sweden comfirmed till now: World Rally Championship - News - Oliveira confirms WRC comeback (http://www.wrc.com/news/oliveira-confirms-wrc-comeback/?fid=15990)

[mousti]

If he would be the guy to do the promotion, well good luck with that then.. ! lmao

[Viking]

Pretty in pink?

http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/files/2012/01/RR_premexico_09.jpg


Ramona Rallying (http://www.ramonarallying.com)

[Miika]

Pretty in pink?


Scrutineering for Rally Sweden already started? ->


http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/files/2012/01/simpson-705x514.jpg
Ramona Karlsson | Livet i 200 km/h (http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/)

[Barreis]

Scrutineering for Rally Sweden already started? ->


http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/files/2012/01/simpson-705x514.jpg
Ramona Karlsson | Livet i 200 km/h (http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/)

What's this, breast job?! :D

[MartijnS]

Kevin Abbring is changing from Lara Vanneste to Fred Miclotte, who sat next to Dennis Kuipers last year, as his co-pilot.

http://www.therallysite.com/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10288&Itemid=1

[gravelman]

Scrutineering for Rally Sweden already started? ->


http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/files/2012/01/simpson-705x514.jpg
Ramona Karlsson | Livet i 200 km/h (http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/)


He's just checking that there isn't too much play in the rack.....

[A FONDO]

Kevin Abbring is changing from Lara Vanneste to Fred Miclotte, who sat next to Dennis Kuipers last year, as his co-pilot.

http://www.therallysite.com/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10288&Itemid=1
Why? Can you translate a little bit, I dont trust online robots like google

[MartijnS]

He says it will be possibly his biggest and only chance he will get on this level of rallying and everything needs to be perfect. Therefore he needs someone with more experience on this level.

[wwbroe]

I also think it has something to do with Loix still not having any official program, and neither does Kuipers, so i think Fred Miclotte is choosing another option and that seems to be the one with Kevin Abbring. After all he has to make his living with codriving, so i can easily understand his choice as it was an opportunity that was coming now. I feel sorry for Lara tough, but i am sure that her future looks bright anyhow, i am sure she will return even stronger. ;)

[MartijnS]

English press release

Kevin Abbring - Home (http://www.kevinabbring.com/index.php?mact=News%2Ccntnt01%2Cdetail%2C0&cntnt01articleid=82&cntnt01returnid=51)

[Iskald]

According to newspaper Glåmdalen Henning Solberg has bought back his ex-Tommi Mäkinen Mitsubishi Evo 6.5 WRC, which he used during the 2003 Norwegian Championship season. If he gets some money, he will drive Rally Finnskog coming saturday with the car, Henning said to the newspaper. May well be his only chance to drive anything more this winter, perhaps...

[Juha_Koo]

Very great to see Ramona and Miriam in PWRC. Atleast in national Swedish rallies their speed is very good in my opinion.

[Andre Oliveira]

Evo 6.5 is not a WRC.

[Barreis]

MILF Henning. :D
World Rally Championship - News - Like father, like stepson in the WRC (http://www.wrc.com/news/like-father-like-stepson-in-the-wrc/?fid=15994)

[mousti]

Evo 6.5 is not a WRC.
Officially it was never called a WRC but it was as powerfull as a WRC car. Though it depends the Evo 6.5 from Henning is an former works car that Makinnen drove. Tommi was the only one who drove that car with naming isn't it? Loix drove at the time with Carisma GT as naming and think it was just the same spec car like Tommi's. Toni did some rounds in it too.

[Coach 2]

Evo 6.5 is not a WRC.

Explain?

[Mirek]

Evo 6.5 is gr.A car, not WRC.

[Andre Oliveira]

Evo 6.5 was not a Gr A or WRC. Something in the middle :)

lancerevoclub.org - mitsubishi lancer evolution club (http://www.lancerevoclub.org/rally/rally.php)

juwra.com**|**Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 6.5 (http://www.juwra.com/mitsubishi_lancer_evo65.html)

[Coach 2]

Did not Mitsu get disp to convert Evo 6 to WRC, and thereby allowed to rebuild Suspension rear (making it longer) but because of this conversion had to the blind bottom of the rear wing, as it was not allowed with more than one floor on the wing. This disp resulted in the name 6.5

[Allyc85]

MILF Henning. :D
World Rally Championship - News - Like father, like stepson in the WRC (http://www.wrc.com/news/like-father-like-stepson-in-the-wrc/?fid=15994)

That wasnt the type of MILF I was expecting haha

[grugsticles]

I always believed the EVO 6.5 was the name of the road going EVO that was dubbed as the Tommi Makinen edition.
I thought it was just an up-speced EVO 6 and had no relevance to what the rally car of the time was like.

[Ucci]

Evo 6 & 6,5 were full A-group cars. Evo 7 was firts car made on WRC regulations.

[tfp]

Did not Mitsu get disp to convert Evo 6 to WRC, and thereby allowed to rebuild Suspension rear (making it longer) but because of this conversion had to the blind bottom of the rear wing, as it was not allowed with more than one floor on the wing. This disp resulted in the name 6.5

Could they have changed the rear wing to suit the rules?

[SubaruNorway]

Henning confirmed for Rally Finnskog in a Evo 6.5 things are also looking better for the future.

Henning Solberg kjører Finnskog med ex-Mäkinen Mitsubishi (http://www.norsk-rally.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8191:henning-solberg-kjorer-finnskog-med-ex-maekinen-mitsubishi)

[Iskald]

Officially it was never called a WRC but it was as powerfull as a WRC car. Though it depends the Evo 6.5 from Henning is an former works car that Makinnen drove. Tommi was the only one who drove that car with naming isn't it? Loix drove at the time with Carisma GT as naming and think it was just the same spec car like Tommi's. Toni did some rounds in it too.

Its definitely a WRC car officially. Only three cars of the Evo 6.5 WRC were built, based on the Evo 6 Group A car, as an interim model. The car that Henning Solberg now has bought back is the car Tommi Mäkinen won the 2001 Swedish Rally with. Henning had the car in 2003 and drove it in Finland and also in the gravel rounds of the norwegian championship, winning the final round Rally Hedmarken. The car has had two more owners, and especially Bernhard Kongsrud was successful on national level with it. Henning is happy with being reunited with this car, as it has a very interesting history. He is driving the Rally Finnskog mostly for fun, but also to get some snow practice before the Swedish Rally.

[Rallyper]

Its definitely a WRC car officially. Only three cars of the Evo 6.5 WRC were built, based on the Evo 6 Group A car, as an interim model. The car that Henning Solberg now has bought back is the car Tommi Mäkinen won the 2001 Swedish Rally with. Henning had the car in 2003 and drove it in Finland and also in the gravel rounds of the norwegian championship, winning the final round Rally Hedmarken. The car has had two more owners, and especially Bernhard Kongsrud was successful on national level with it. Henning is happy with being reunited with this car, as it has a very interesting history. He is driving the Rally Finnskog mostly for fun, but also to get some snow practice before the Swedish Rally.

Tommi didn´t win the 2001 Swedish Rally. It was Harry Rovanpera who won after Tommi went off the road on the last stage after running flat out trying to catch Rovanpera. Remember the video of him going of and broke a tree in very snowy conditions? However it was great times. In the 2001 SR we remember Colin and Richard Burns going off on the first day and then with no pressure drove like no one ever did on the swedish narrow winterroads on day two and three.

[noel157]

Was that the car Henning drove against the bobsleigh at Lillehammer?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zKgaXwO8Ao

[mousti]

Pretty sure , yeah

[wwbroe]

Another great stuff by Top Gear guys.

[N.O.T]

Another great stuff by Top Gear guys.

they have nice ideas..... but 99% of them have "staged" results aimming towards retarded people...

[tfp]

Its definitely a WRC car officially. Only three cars of the Evo 6.5 WRC were built, based on the Evo 6 Group A car, as an interim model. The car that Henning Solberg now has bought back is the car Tommi Mäkinen won the 2001 Swedish Rally with. Henning had the car in 2003 and drove it in Finland and also in the gravel rounds of the norwegian championship, winning the final round Rally Hedmarken. The car has had two more owners, and especially Bernhard Kongsrud was successful on national level with it. Henning is happy with being reunited with this car, as it has a very interesting history. He is driving the Rally Finnskog mostly for fun, but also to get some snow practice before the Swedish Rally.

I wonder if thats why there were two different phases of the Evo 6 road car?

Old-
ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/66/evo6.jpg/)

New-
Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 6 V1 TOMMI MAKINEN - £000`s SPENT, Used Cars Wigan, Lancashire from Wigan Sports and Prestige Cars (http://www.wigansportsandprestige.co.uk/mitsubishi-lancer-petrol-manual-saloon-lancashire-1600580)

Just random pictures I found (Look at the front bumpers if you cant tell the difference :D )

[noel157]

they have nice ideas..... but 99% of them have "staged" results aimming towards retarded people...

Presume you are target audience then? :)

[Plan9]

Scrutineering for Rally Sweden already started? ->


http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/files/2012/01/simpson-705x514.jpg
Ramona Karlsson | Livet i 200 km/h (http://bloggar.expressen.se/ramona/)

He is just making sure he keeps abreast of all her developments in rallying.

[grugsticles]

He is just making sure he keeps abreast of all her developments in rallying.

BOOM BOOM!

In all seriousness, wtf is he doing?

[TyPat107]

It looks like he is doing something with her head/neck support. But that isn't the Hans device. It almost looks like the Hutchinson hybrid, but not quite. Not a fan of that system


http://simpsonraceproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/hybrid.jpg

[Viking]

IT is a Simpson Hybrid "HANS" and Jan Phersson, Simpson Sweden

[Coach 2]

I wonder if thats why there were two different phases of the Evo 6 road car?

Adjust me if it is not right. But I think Mækinen Edition, has EVO 5 front suspension with lower roll-point, to be better on asphalt than a regular evo 6.

[tfp]

Adjust me if it is not right. But I think Mækinen Edition, has EVO 5 front suspension with lower roll-point, to be better on asphalt than a regular evo 6.

I have no idea:-) I thought mitsubishi just do what citroen do with their limited edition cars, that being take a normal car, put a rally drivers name on the side, change the interior slightly and then add an extra few thousand to the price!

[dimviii]

Adjust me if it is not right. But I think Mækinen Edition, has EVO 5 front suspension with lower roll-point, to be better on asphalt than a regular evo 6.

Νο, Μakinens have a different front arm at lower ball point,but it is not from evo 5.
@tfp
Makinens dont have only cosmetic differences from evo 6.

[Coach 2]

Νο, Μakinens have a different front arm at lower ball point,but it is not from evo 5.
@tfp
Makinens dont have only cosmetic differences from evo 6.

You're probably right, but the adjustment they were doing was probably that it would be better on asphalt?

[dimviii]

You're probably right, but the adjustment they were doing was probably that it would be better on asphalt?

yes they were better,and Makinens had different front geometry from evo6.Different turbo(slightly smaller compressor for better midrange response) shorter steering rack,different shocks/springs.

[Coach 2]

Thank you .
Going to bed, going to Kongsvinger tomorrow, far to drive.

[Rally Hokkaido]

Has anybody got any gossip or facts on Extreme Video taking over all the footage and incar footage For the WRC? I know the did it about ten years back, then started doing top gear. Some chap said they had just bought a studio in Norfolk

No school, tomorrow, Mark39?

[N.O.T]

Has anybody got any gossip or facts on Extreme Video taking over all the footage and incar footage For the WRC? I know the did it about ten years back, then started doing top gear. Some chap said they had just bought a studio in Norfolk

Ban...now...

[bobby88]

He is just making sure he keeps abreast of all her developments in rallying.

Perks of the job ;)

[Allyc85]

Ban...now...

How ironic coming from you :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Plan9]

Does anyone know what events Sandell will do aside from Sweden this year?

[jonlint]

Νο, Μakinens have a different front arm at lower ball point,but it is not from evo 5.
@tfp
Makinens dont have only cosmetic differences from evo 6.

The TME had different front bumper for sure - maybe also other slight differences.

EVO 6
http://pic.autoscout24.net/images/806/110/0197110806001.jpg

EVO 6 TME
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/$(KGrHqN,!lkE65yle178BO8IPLKV0w~~_19.JPG

[Mirek]

Dimviii builds rally Lancers so he must know that it's not just a bumper what is changed ;)

[gtimad73]

fia press release..FIA World Rally Championship (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/wrc-expression.aspx?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)

[A FONDO]

fia press release..FIA World Rally Championship (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/wrc-expression.aspx?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)
so we cant expect new promoter earlier than 24th of March

[gtimad73]

at least we have some sort of time scale now.

[Allyc85]

at least we have some sort of time scale now.

Its amazing that the FIA have given out some info to the public as to what is going on!

[dimviii]

The TME had different front bumper for sure - maybe also other slight differences

Thats cosmetic changes.I wrote about mechanical differences.Cosmetic changes are not just a bumper.

[gtimad73]

well its about time the said something.

[mousti]

Its amazing that the FIA have given out some info to the public as to what is going on!
It's more sad..

It's a sign of desperation that they need someone directly to get promoting, tv etc.

[bt52b]

It's more sad..

It's a sign of desperation that they need someone directly to get promoting, tv etc.

We're now nearly four months into the WRC crisis and the FIA have given the boards of the manufacturers all the ammunition they need to justify cutting WRC programmes, ' bout time they got their ass in gear!!!!!

[wildboar]

Updated list of WRC teams: 2012 FIA World Rally Championship - Entrants (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-entrants.aspx)

WRC TEAM MINI PORTUGAL is listed with Araujo and Nobre as manufacturer team. And the MINI WRT with Sordo is - nowhere. I wonder what will happen to the manufacturer's standings?

[tolis]

Updated list of WRC teams: 2012 FIA World Rally Championship - Entrants (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-entrants.aspx)

WRC TEAM MINI PORTUGAL is listed with Araujo and Nobre as manufacturer team. And the MINI WRT with Sordo is - nowhere. I wonder what will happen to the manufacturer's standings?
It's strange to see that neither Citroen nor Ford have nominated their second driver. Mini Portugal has nominated both drivers though.

[Barreis]

They never do.

[alleskids]

we got 2 new M2 team, Adapta (Otberg) and Citroen Junior (Neuville)

ADAPTA WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
CITROËN JUNIOR WORLD RALLY TEAM (CITROËN DS3 WRC)

M-SPORT FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
M-SPORT FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA RS WRC)
QATAR WORLD RALLY TEAM (CITROËN DS3 WRC)

[mousti]

For who is the second Msport M2 entry, Tanak is the First one but the second one? Please don't say Slowson!

[pantealex]

For who is the second Msport M2 entry, Tanak is the First one but the second one? Please don't say Slowson!

Read entrylist!

Novikov.

[tolis]

For who is the second Msport M2 entry, Tanak is the First one but the second one? Please don't say Slowson!
Tanak and Novikov are for the first ne I think. Maybe the second one is for Henning and M.Wilson.

[mousti]

Read entrylist!

Novikov.
Okidoki

[pantealex]

Tanak and Novikov are for the first ne I think. Maybe the second one is for Henning and M.Wilson.

There is only 1 Msport M2 entry with 2 cars, just like Ford, Citroen and MINI Portugal. Rest of teams have only 1 car.

[tolis]

There is only 1 Msport M2 entry with 2 cars, just like Ford, Citroen and MINI Portugal. Rest of teams have only 1 car.
Only one M-Sport entry? Are you sure?
2012 FIA World Rally Championship - Entrants (http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-entrants.aspx)
What about Go Fast Energy WRT? Is it registered for points?

[driveace]

Henning and Tanak in Go fast Energy team now

[pantealex]

Only one M-Sport entry? Are you sure?
2012 FIA World Rally Championship - Entrants (http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-entrants.aspx)

Yes, I´m sure. 1 Msport team with 2 cars, just like FORD WRT or CITROEN total WRT

[bluuford]

Yes, I´m sure. 1 Msport team with 2 cars, just like FORD WRT or CITROEN total WRT

I think that Tänak is still driving for M-Sport points. The only difference is the fact that his car has one madditional sticker that asks him to go fast. And Go Fast press releases are saying that one of their drivers is Tänak. Go-Fast itself is not registered team, so far, so that means it is not problem to drive in one team and be nominated by another team.. if it makes sponsors happy :-) For spectators, it is confusing indeed.