[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[dimviii]

im not trying to say m sport is better than citroen because obviously it is not , however i think it is better than you guys give it credit for
personally didnt say something different.Msport can win championships if they had better strategy-tactics-management.


oh and on all private cars at next rallies after finland , thats funny because this is a picture of a "private" ds3 on sardinia with the old spec ;) must have been photoshopped

didn t said at ALL private cars.i am not 1005 sure but think i saw photos of Neuvilles ds3 with new system.But thats not the case because even with ''old'' suspension were faster too.

[nafpaktos]

m2 fiesta wrc is almost exactly the same , same engine same drivetrain same reigers, just a few lighter panels but all cars are on minimum weight so doesnt really make a difference , yes i work at said team , it more about size of engineers balls with how much fuel they take !!! and time the drivers get in the hot seat

this is also proved by mads , tanak s novikovs stage times this year

also fiesta m2 is alot closer to fiests works cars than citroen m2 cars to citroen works FACT ask evgeny / petter ie in finland and gb only 2 citroen works cars had dampers with the roll valve and reserviors on the body instead of old on a pipe from top of damper

but i forgot you guys are all m sport haters
I dont want to question what you say but i think warmbolds blog affected me(maybe not only me) and turned me a little bit suspicious about what cars are given to private drivers by msport

[tommeke_B]

I dont want to question what you say but i think warmbolds blog affected me(maybe not only me) and turned me a little bit suspicious about what cars are given to private drivers by msport
Yes, a lot of people are biased about everything that has something to do with M-Sport. I believe everything on Anthony Warmbold is blog is true, but remember that those stories from M-Sport are 7-10 years old... ;)

[adr17]

Yes, a lot of people are biased about everything that has something to do with M-Sport. I believe everything on Anthony Warmbold is blog is true, but remember that those stories from M-Sport are 7-10 years old... ;)

exactly !!!

also that is just one side of the story there are 2 sides to ever story and when your bitter about things the mind can twist things

not saying this happened

i wasnt at m sport at these times so cant comment but it is always funny when you here drivers saying about the engine not hitting the limiter on the straight when others do and when you normally look at the data you normally find that the exit speed at the corner before is a great deal lower than said works drivers

[Nelly]

exactly !!!

also that is just one side of the story there are 2 sides to ever story and when your bitter about things the mind can twist things

not saying this happened

i wasnt at m sport at these times so cant comment but it is always funny when you here drivers saying about the engine not hitting the limiter on the straight when others do and when you normally look at the data you normally find that the exit speed at the corner before is a great deal lower than said works drivers

Yeah I'd say there's a lot of that with drivers that believe there own hype, Warmbold wouldn't drive a nail in to the bog with a saucepan let alone a wrc car!

[Antony Warmbold]

exactly !!!

also that is just one side of the story there are 2 sides to ever story and when your bitter about things the mind can twist things

not saying this happened

i wasnt at m sport at these times so cant comment but it is always funny when you here drivers saying about the engine not hitting the limiter on the straight when others do and when you normally look at the data you normally find that the exit speed at the corner before is a great deal lower than said works drivers

Corner exit speed is the first lesson about being quick. There's indeed lots of drivers out there who forgot that part.

[RS]

He said they are trying to secure more rallies, but it's up to many things as you well know and these two starts are only what they have now secured. Solid results would help, and I believe and hope we'll see him more this year than just Monte, Sweden and (maybe) Finland. It took him, I don't know, months of hard work to get this deal together, so please be more patient than just for two days before asking for more.

The good thing is that I believe Monte and Sweden are two good events for Juho to showcase his talents, providing he can get up to speed with the car in time.

Who is paying for this do you know?

[PLuto]

Yes, a lot of people are biased about everything that has something to do with M-Sport. I believe everything on Anthony Warmbold is blog is true, but remember that those stories from M-Sport are 7-10 years old... ;)

But M-Sport is still the same ;)

[nafpaktos]

Corner exit speed is the first lesson about being quick. There's indeed lots of drivers out there who forgot that part.
Althought i have read the bolg i dont remember the chapter about the corner exit speed,can you tell me which chapter is so to refresh my memery.THANKS!!

[Hartusvuori]

The good thing is that I believe Monte and Sweden are two good events for Juho to showcase his talents, providing he can get up to speed with the car in time.

Who is paying for this do you know?

I don't know anything more than you know. New sponsors or new pr pictures has not been published as far as I know. We'll know eventually.

You are also right how Monte and Sweden are good rallies for him. I'm still bummed about Monte 2011 (and 2009), but Juho definitely likes the event. As for Sweden, it must come from the spine for him as he hasn't contested on snow since Sweden 2008, but then he was 8th overall in N4 Lancer. It shouldn't be a problem I believe - perhaps a warm-up at Arctic Rally would help... :-)

[Mirek]

Althought i have read the bolg i dont remember the chapter about the corner exit speed,can you tell me which chapter is so to refresh my memery.THANKS!!

Basic physics is enough :) Let's simplify it to the state that Your car is able to make average 20 km/h in 1 second of acceleration. If Your cornering exit speed is 80 km/h, two seconds later You have speed 120 km/h. If Your exit speed is 100 km/h, two seconds later You drive 140 km/h.

forumbilder.se/show.aspx?iid=2b320121148431438

Mads Ostberg M-Sport Qatar WRT

[makinen_fan]

Official release from M-sport about Hanninen:
Juho Hänninen set for WRC switch with Ford Fiesta RS WRC (http://www.m-sport.co.uk/index.php/news/1298-juho-haenninen-set-for-wrc-switch-with-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc)

[Hartusvuori]

Official release from M-sport about Hanninen:
Juho Hänninen set for WRC switch with Ford Fiesta RS WRC (http://www.m-sport.co.uk/index.php/news/1298-juho-haenninen-set-for-wrc-switch-with-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc)

A rather direct English translation of the press release that was published in Finnish on Hänninen's page on Friday.

[uranium]

A rather direct English translation of the press release that was published in Finnish on Hänninen's page on Friday.

Can you share the link of Hänninen's page please?

[Kielder]

Can you share the link of Hänninen's page please?

Etusivu - Juho Hnninen - Mikko Markkula (http://www.juhohanninen.com/fi/etusivu/)

[Kielder]

No new livery yet neither on the car nor on the driver :D .

http://i49.tinypic.com/9v9ibs.jpg

[Mintexmemory]

No new livery yet neither on the car nor on the driver :D .

http://i49.tinypic.com/9v9ibs.jpg

I presume the thawb is nomex!

[tolis]

Alla Rasheed's livery for MERC and selected WRC rounds next year. This is the RRC livery. In WRC, he'll drive a Fiesta WRC

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/74236_198974366906046_1913960863_n.jpg

[tolis]

Alla Rasheed's livery for selected WRC rounds next year...
He'll do Portugal , Greece , Italy , France , Spain , Great Britain, & some local events in Ukraine,Poland ...

[Frostmourne]

Omg Jordanian Driver competing at WRC level... hopefully he will do good. Is that Ford Fiesta btw?
Hopefully Next year WRC season will be more interesting with Loeb out of the picture!

[pucky54]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/532490_501034123250662_1136062937_n.jpg

[tolis]

Omg Jordanian Driver competing at WRC level... hopefully he will do good. Is that Ford Fiesta btw?
Hopefully Next year WRC season will be more interesting with Loeb out of the picture!
Yes, this is Ford Fiesta

[dimviii]

from Colins twitter

Eyvind Brynildsen ‏@E_Brynildsen (https://twitter.com/E_Brynildsen)
We got a plan #AdaptaWRT (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23AdaptaWRT&src=hash)

[BDA Cosworth]

also m2 citroens are way more reliable than m2 fiestas to reach the finish without falling apart FACT

Ever owned both in real life though? How reliable they are in rallying has nothing to do with real life reality. I'd put my faith in a Fiesta over a DS3 any day of the year. Especially when its got 300,000km on the clock! ;)

[nafpaktos]

Tolis what driving backround this driver has?(it's not an ironic question)

[tolis]

Tolis what driving backround this driver has?(it's not an ironic question)
Nothing special at all: eWRC-results.com - profile Ala'a Rasheed (http://www.ewrc-results.com/profile.php?p=21384&t=Ala-a-Rasheed)

[steffforno]

from Colins twitter

Eyvind Brynildsen ‏@E_Brynildsen (https://twitter.com/E_Brynildsen)
We got a plan #AdaptaWRT (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23AdaptaWRT&src=hash)

With Fiesta Wrc,RRC or Super 2000?

[Bartolbia84]

With Fiesta Wrc,RRC or Super 2000?

Fiesta WRC

[sete]

are there any rumours about M.Prokop?

[PLuto]

are there any rumours about M.Prokop?

Why rumours? He is trying to secure budget for start with Fiesta WRC.

[sete]

because his facebook announcement about selling his Fiesta in the end of the year and making new long-term project. it is down or what meaning by it?

[tommeke_B]

because his facebook announcement about selling his Fiesta in the end of the year and making new long-term project. it is down or what meaning by it?
Putting pressure on M-Sport to make a good deal? ;)

[PLuto]

because his facebook announcement about selling his Fiesta in the end of the year and making new long-term project. it is down or what meaning by it?

He confirmed few weeks ago that he will continue with Ford.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/532490_501034123250662_1136062937_n.jpg
I'm red-green colour-blind, so I can't see the image properly, and I still think it looks phenomenal.

[spiderem]

what was Hanninen pace vs Mikkelsen this season?
Never really followed IRC, but i am pleased for Hanninen.
Next season is getting more and more exciting! Can't wait for MC, 5 weeks chaps!

[uranium]

Juho took part in 5 events, 3 wins, 1 second place. 1 spectacular crash.
Mikkelsen - 10 or even more events, 2 wins, 4 second places.

In duels - 3 to 1 for Juho. It is by events where some one took 1st place, other one participated.

[RS]

what was Hanninen pace vs Mikkelsen this season?
Never really followed IRC, but i am pleased for Hanninen.
Next season is getting more and more exciting! Can't wait for MC, 5 weeks chaps!

My impression is that Mikkelsen is slightly faster on loose surfaces, but Juho better on tarmac. Overall Juho better, but Andreas has a few years on him...

[dupanton]

My impression is that Mikkelsen is slightly faster on loose surfaces, but Juho better on tarmac. Overall Juho better, but Andreas has a few years on him...

But he stopped developing the past 2 years...

[tommeke_B]

Hänninen is much more consistent and has a smarter way of driving. Mikkelsen is always the first to puncture or crash when they are in a battle... I'm favouring Hänninen, as a driver and as a person he seems to be more friendly (and his interviews on tv are always funny :D ).

[Bartolbia84]

Petter Solberg legger opp (http://www.nettavisen.no/sport/article3525066.ece)

Petter retired?

[Miika]

Guess so.


- I'm going to miss the rally sport. I have lived in it for many years and it is strange to think that I should not run World Cup next year, says an emotional Petter Solberg.

[Hartusvuori]

So, what we'll have for 2013 in terms of history of the sport:
- no world champs doing the (whole) series
- Mikko Hirvonen as the new grand old man (137 starts since 2002), then Latvala 117 starts since 2002 and Sordo 98 starts since 2003.
- Yet it'll be the best season in years

[Kielder]

Portugal's Rally Guide 1 has been published: R.Guide1 (http://www.rallydeportugal.pt/content.aspx?menuid=159)

[alleskids]

Petter Solberg legger opp (http://www.nettavisen.no/sport/article3525066.ece)

Petter retired?
this is what I get from translation:

Now it is over.

Petter Solberg adds up, 38 years old.

This confirms Solberg, so online newspaper reported that he came to do.

- It's sad. I wish I could run further and have said that I am willing to run free, but no longer pay. This situation is now, it is not necessary to run the rally, says Solberg via NTB.

- I know I'm good enough to fight against the world's best rally drivers in more years, but has a great understanding of the economic situation in 2013 is difficult for M-Sport.

After nine years as the Subaru driver, Solberg in 2009 went over to run Citroën for three seasons. This season he drove for Ford. The vehicle manufacturer will not pursue Solberg in 2013 and requires over 20 million of Solberg sure he'll drive for them next season.

Petter Solberg was in negotiations with M-Sport as late as Monday, but they did not succeed and thus put him in the place up.

He will now consider whether to dabble in other motor sports.

- I hope the fans following me into a new branch of motorsport next year, says Petter Solberg.

[Miika]

World Rally Championship - News - Solberg confirms WRC exit for 2013 (http://www.wrc.com/news/solberg-confirms-wrc-exit-for-2013/?fid=18037)

[COD]

Rallycross would suite Petter perfectly! Hope to see him there in Europe (proper rallycross, not stadium cross like in the USA)

[steffforno]

WTF!!! Nooooo.. I understanding and i hope that he finds money to run or maybe Prodrive him a seat...

[Red bull]

WTF!!! Nooooo.. I understanding and i hope that he finds money to run or maybe Prodrive him a seat...
Test for toyota or hyundai in 2013 and make a comeback in 2014 with a factory drive. :D

[dimviii]

But he stopped developing the past 2 years...

i wouldn t say so...battling with Ogier maybe seems that he was a click down sometimes,but just think another driver he could manage better overall.

[Gordini]

Sad day!

[dupanton]

i wouldn t say so...battling with Ogier maybe seems that he was a click down sometimes,but just think another driver he could manage better overall.

His IRC season was a disaster... He only won it because Skoda wanted him to win. With his program, he should have been champion half way the season!

[tommeke_B]

i wouldn t say so...battling with Ogier maybe seems that he was a click down sometimes,but just think another driver he could manage better overall.
I bet Hänninen will be faster in Monte Carlo. :p

[dimviii]

His IRC season was a disaster... He only won it because Skoda wanted him to win. With his program, he should have been champion half way the season!

And Juho won because skoda wanted.

[crossfades]

According to my dad (who talks to Petter on a regular basis) said a few days ago that he would either drive WRC next year or do rallycross.

[uranium]

Nope, Juho had battle with Jan until the penultimate stage. Only then Skoda decided to stop the battle.

[tommeke_B]

Not in Azores a few years ago... :p

[andyone]

Andreas Mikkelsen (@AMikkelsenRally) tweeted at 4:57 PM on Tue, Dec 04, 2012:
I am sad to hear the news about @Petter_Solberg 's retirement. He has been a great inspiration for any young driver and Norwegians. Thanx!
(https://twitter.com/AMikkelsenRally/status/275961933960712194)

Get the official Twitter app at https://twitter.com/download

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

[EightGear]

I bet Hänninen will be faster in Monte Carlo. :p

Will Mikkelsen be in a WRC at the Monte then?

[tommeke_B]

Will Mikkelsen be in a WRC at the Monte then?
Fair question! Anyway, Hänninen will be faster. :p

[Mirek]

Four times Canadian champion Antoine L'Estage was testing Lancer WRC of MML Sports in Czech republic.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnJg-SFPEjY

[TyPat107]

antoine doesn't look very comfortable in that car. Are they planning on a program over there this year or bringing that car over here?

[stefanvv]

Fair question! Anyway, Hänninen will be faster. :p

This is what I call safe bet :D

[PLuto]

He doesn't look very comfortable in that car. Are they planning on a program over there this year or bringing that car over here?

b)

[prisciou]

Competition numbers in 2013 for VW:
7 Latvala
8 Ogier
"They wanted the same one, so they decided to toss a coin." !!!
link : h**p://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/A-foretaste-of-the-Rallye-Monte-Carlo

1-2 for Citroën, 3-4 for M-Sport but 5 and 6 for who??? Prodrive?, MI?, other?

[jbmarcus21]

Highlights [VIDEO] WRC 2012 WRC 2012 Highlights - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSAhZiNq1l0)

[bluuford]

1-2 for Citroën, 3-4 for M-Sport but 5 and 6 for who??? Prodrive?, MI?, other?
5,6 for M-Sport Junior team ;-)

[mousti]

Tanak and...

[pettersolberg29]

Tanak and...

I guess Hanninen, at least in Monte and Sweden

[rallyfiend]

Competition numbers in 2013 for VW:
7 Latvala
8 Ogier
"They wanted the same one, so they decided to toss a coin." !!!
link : h**p://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/A-foretaste-of-the-Rallye-Monte-Carlo

1-2 for Citroën, 3-4 for M-Sport but 5 and 6 for who??? Prodrive?, MI?, other?

Won't Citroen have 1, 2 and 3?

Number 1 would be reserved for whenever Seb is competing.

[alleskids]

number 1 from each team is fixed for the whole season, they may only replace a number 1 driver on a rare occasion, with a very good reason. so with a 3 car team number list it would be

1 Hirvonen - Abu Dhabi Citroen
2 Sordo/Loeb
3 Al Qassimi/Loeb
4 Ostberg - Qatar Ford M-Sport
5 ??? Novikov
6 Al Attiyah
7 Latvalla - (Red Bull) Volkswagen Motorsport
8 Ogier
9 Mikkelsen
10

[rallyfiend]

number 1 from each team is fixed for the whole season, they may only replace a number 1 driver on a rare occasion, with a very good reason. so with a 3 car team number list it would be

1 Hirvonen - Abu Dhabi Citroen
2 Sordo/Loeb
3 Al Qassimi/Loeb
4 Ostberg - Qatar Ford M-Sport
5 ??? Novikov
6 Al Attiyah
7 Latvalla - (Red Bull) Volkswagen Motorsport
8 Ogier
9 Mikkelsen
10

I think you're confusing 'number 1 nominated driver' with Number 1 number allocation which is reserved for previous year's driver champion.

[mikkov]

b)

I think L'Estage would need that car to beat Block in Rally America. But isn't active differentials forbidden in Rally America rules? Having that car only for Canada wouldn't make much sense because he's already winning it.

[Mirek]

I don't know Rally America rules but Lancer WRC has only central differential active, the rest is mechanical. Common gr.N Imprezas and Lancers also have central one active.

[Roy]

This year will be a little strange. The champion has always the same and has no. 1. But now the champion quits.. and come back for some events.

I think the vice-champion has no1 in 2013, that is Hirvonen. No2 is his teammate Sordo. When Loeb drives he got the number from one of the guys who hi replaced.
Example: In Sweden Loeb drives with no2 and in France no1. AlAqassimi got a lower number. Like all the other years when for example M-Sport and Ford has more then two cars in the rally.

Abu Dhabi Citroen WRT
1 Miko Hirvonen
2 Daniel Sordo
Sebastien Loeb

Qatar M-Sport WRT
3 Mads Ostberg
4 Novikov/Tanak/Haninnen?

(Adapta WRT
5 Eyvind Brynildsen

Citroen Junior WRT ?
6 Thiery Neuville/ Robert Kubica ?)

Prodrive Mini
5/7 ?
6/8 ?

Volkswagen
7/9 Jari-Matti Latvala
8/10 Sebastien Ogier

9/11 Martin Prokop (Czech Ford National Team)
10/12 Nasser Al-Attiyah (Qatar M-Sport)
11/13 Khalid Al-Qassimi (Sordo/Hirvonen when Loeb replaced them)


I think next year we will something like this.

[mikkov]

I was wrong about the differential. Hydraulic gear change was the reason why previous generation WRC cars were not allowed. 2013 Rally America rueles say "Gear Change: The use of an unassisted manual sequential gear change mechanism is allowed". According to this WRC Lancer wouldn't be allowed? (Don't know about Canadian rules)

[vkangas]

I remember Hirvonen saying that he does not want number 1 on his car for 2013 as it belongs to Loeb.

[spiderem]

I can read everywhere paying drivers / not paying drivers. some people seem to have better access to infos than other.
Can somebody do a summary of who is paid for his seat and who is paying for his seat for next season?
Thanks!

[Kielder]

I remember Hirvonen saying that he does not want number 1 on his car for 2013 as it belongs to Loeb.

I read the same. Mikko will use the number 2 during the whole season, while the number 1 will be shared between Loeb & Sordo.

[sollitt]

It wasn't so long ago that competitors were 'seeded' on each event and given the corresponding number. That way spectators had an idea of who were the top competitors, who were expected to win, and who was exceeding expectations. Perhaps that was just too simple.

[rjbetty]

I read the same. Mikko will use the number 2 during the whole season, while the number 1 will be shared between Loeb & Sordo.

So Sordo isn't doing the full season...? :(

[BDunnell]

It wasn't so long ago that competitors were 'seeded' on each event and given the corresponding number. That way spectators had an idea of who were the top competitors, who were expected to win, and who was exceeding expectations. Perhaps that was just too simple.

I could never understand why this system, which worked perfectly well, was dropped. That it sometimes threw up odd seedings — Derek Bell at 14 on the 1987 RAC Rally because, if I remember correctly, of his FIA seeding — never seemed too problematic.

[Kielder]

A foretaste of the Rallye Monte-Carlo (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/A-foretaste-of-the-Rallye-Monte-Carlo)

a) JML is definitely cursed.
b) It seems it's true that Petter will do rallycross.
c) VW will have problems if this is the advanced system to decide the "fights" between drivers.
:)

[Kielder]

So Sordo isn't doing the full season...? :(

Sordo said this about it a few weeks ago: "It's not decided yet the number of rallies that I will run. It's sure I'm going to run eleven, but the boss, Yves Matton, is working hard so we can do the thirteen of the Championship. And he is putting a lot of effort, so I have high hopes to do a full program". Nothing new since then.
Regarding the numbers, it was reported that Loeb will use the number 1 in the rallies he will run, Sordo in the rest of them.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Why would they give Sordo the number 1? He's not World Champion. Surely the FIA recognises this - or do they have to have a car with the number 1 at all times?

[rjbetty]

How come they don't give him Car "0" like Damon Hill had at Williams

[cali]

How come they don't give him Car "0" like Damon Hill had at Williams
Do you know what 0 car means in rallying? This not F1 mate

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Because the number 0 is used for the course car that goes through the stage just before the competitors to make sure nothing has changed to dramatically affect the route enough that pace notes would be wrong.

I don't see why they can't give Hirvonen #2 and Sordo #3 (and al'Qassimi #4?) and just keep the #1 in reserve for when Loeb competes. There are plenty of series - Indycar, MotoGP and V8 Supercars spring to mind - where the reigning champion has the choice of using the #1 or his regular number if he wants to (for instance, Valentino Rossi always uses the #46) without a problem.

It just seems wrong that someone else other than Loeb should carry the #1 when Loeb is champion, even if he is not competing in a rally at the time. When Alain Prost retired from Formula 1 at the end of 1993, the numbers for 1994 were allocated based on the final 1993 World Constructors' Championship positions. Prost had been driving for McLaren, but Williams' won the Constructors' title, so they got the numbers 0 and 2. I get that #0 cannot be used by a competitive car in rallying, but I don't buy into the idea that the WRC has to have a car with the #1 on its window at all times.

[Franky]

Is it really that important who has what number on their car?

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Is it really that important who has what number on their car?
When someone who isn't the World Champion might be given the number that only the World Champion has any valid claim to, yes, it is that important.

[Nornbugger]

When someone who isn't the World Champion might be given the number that only the World Champion has any valid claim to, yes, it is that important.


was it important in '06?

[sollitt]

When someone who isn't the World Champion might be given the number that only the World Champion has any valid claim to, yes, it is that important.In rallying nobody has "claim" to #1. It's given to the champion as a matter of courtesy. If he's not there, it's given to someone else. Which is exactly how it should be.

[Lousada]

It just seems wrong that someone else other than Loeb should carry the #1 when Loeb is champion, even if he is not competing in a rally at the time. When Alain Prost retired from Formula 1 at the end of 1993, the numbers for 1994 were allocated based on the final 1993 World Constructors' Championship positions. Prost had been driving for McLaren, but Williams' won the Constructors' title, so they got the numbers 0 and 2. I get that #0 cannot be used by a competitive car in rallying, but I don't buy into the idea that the WRC has to have a car with the #1 on its window at all times.

This is not true, until 1996 the F1 numbers were allocated according to the 1973 constructors championship. Only the team with the reigning drivers champion received #1 & #2, while last years owners of #1 received the old numbers from the current champion. In 1993 Prost won the championship for Williams, that is why they kept #1 & #2. By the way, Williams already drove with #0 & #2 in 1993 because 1992 champion Nigel Mansell deflected to the USA.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I'm well aware that the numbering structure in Formula 1 has gone through several versions.

[rallyfiend]

In rallying nobody has "claim" to #1. It's given to the champion as a matter of courtesy. If he's not there, it's given to someone else. Which is exactly how it should be.

Actually, that's not true at all. Under the WRC regs it is specifically reserved for the current World Champion. It's common in many top tier sports.

MotoGP didn't just hand 1 to someone else when Rossi ran his normal number.

Who cares if there's no number 1 because Loeb isn't there? He earned it. No one else came within a country mile of earning it.

Loeb will be the only one to run 1 next year, and rightly so.

[Nornbugger]

Actually, that's not true at all. Under the WRC regs it is specifically reserved for the current World Champion. It's common in many top tier sports.

MotoGP didn't just hand 1 to someone else when Rossi ran his normal number.

Who cares if there's no number 1 because Loeb isn't there? He earned it. No one else came within a country mile of earning it.

Loeb will be the only one to run 1 next year, and rightly so.

eWRC.cz - po všech stránkách rally… (http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/image_browse.php?id=8369)

[rallyfiend]

eWRC.cz - po všech stránkách rally… (http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/image_browse.php?id=8369)

That specific case relates to a change in nominated driver after entries had closed and required a waiver for him to even step in to the car when Seb had injured himself? After entries had been closed and entry list issued.

Very different to a precise policy / regulation designed to reserve that number for the Champion.

[Josti]

I think up until the early 90´s, drivers numbers were seeded by the event organisers, so they never carried the same number whole year. I don´t see why we should attach to it really.

[Andre Oliveira]

Interesting to see these statistics (http://juwra.com/stats_wins_comp_numbers.html) on final of the season.

[Nornbugger]

That specific case relates to a change in nominated driver after entries had closed and required a waiver for him to even step in to the car when Seb had injured himself? After entries had been closed and entry list issued.

Very different to a precise policy / regulation designed to reserve that number for the Champion.

Is this why NZ and GB had no number 1 on the events? tbh I remember Loeb was injured etc but I forget the detail of why we had McRae and Pons at No1 and then the 2 events with no no.1.

[Nornbugger]

Interesting to see these statistics (http://juwra.com/stats_wins_comp_numbers.html) on final of the season.

Interesting indeed, I would be interested to see these figures up until the end of the 2005 season as I feel that Loebs multiple successes with No1 on the door have altered how these would have looked before

[had_zachau]

Martin Hudec wants to race in P-WRC with evo IX, but the question is if he will found the budget.

[PLuto]

P-WRC is not existing in 2013, it will be WRC 2.

[had_zachau]

Yeah, I know. Maybe he thinks Production cup in WRC2

[Hartusvuori]

From WMSC, Rally Germany also got FIA approval for their August 22.-25. date.

[Kielder]

Today Citroen will present the team and the new livery of the car in Abu Dhabi.

[Miika]

http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/ac46240e3f7611e28d6622000a1fbc43_7.jpg



Loeb: "My 2013 WRC events will be Monte-Carlo, Sweden, Argentina and France. I will also enter a GT championship to prepare the future"
https://twitter.com/CitroenRacing

[makinen_fan]

Loeb is doing Monte Carlo, Sweden, Argentina and France. I was expecting him to do Germany as well

Sordo is doing full season to my understanding. Khalid 8 events, but his car will run all other events as well.

[RS]

WRC would be in a lot of trouble right now without the middle east!

[Cacatua]

WRC would be in a lot of trouble right now without the middle east!

The whole world would be in the biggest trouble ever without the middle east (oil) ;)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/ac46240e3f7611e28d6622000a1fbc43_7.jpg
So, we've got Citroen Abu Dhabi ... vs Qatar Ford?

[EightGear]

Interesting to see that the Red Bull backing has been gone.... To VW?

[alleskids]

Two teams entered in the 2013 #WRC: Citroën Total Abu Dhabi WRT with @MikkoWRC, Seb Loeb (4 events) and @DaniSordo

The second team will be Abu Dhabi Citroën Total WRT, with Sheikh Khalid on eight events. The car will be entered on all rallies. #WRC. So Abu Dhabi Citroen has a vacancy for 4 rallies

no mentioning yet of Neviille.

Abu Dhabi has a junior program of there own: Two emirati drivers will be selected in the next days to enter the #MERC on DS3 R3s

[Prisoner Monkeys]

The #1 won't be used when Loeb isn't appearing:

World Rally Championship - News - Four rounds for number one Loeb (http://www.wrc.com/news/four-rounds-for-number-one-loeb/?fid=18055)

[Leon]

So, we've got Citroen Abu Dhabi ... vs Qatar Ford?

Yes and we need another Middle East sponsor for MINI

[tommeke_B]

As RedBull is the promotor now, they probably want to be neutral in this championship? ;) Hopefully sponsoring some events...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Yes and we need another Middle East sponsor for MINI
Given the way their performance has dropped off, I'd say Turkey would be a good sponsor.

[tommeke_B]

Given the way their performance has dropped off, I'd say Turkey would be a good sponsor.
LOL! :D Any more great jokes to tell us? :p

[aykutbilir]

Given the way their performance has dropped off, I'd say Turkey would be a good sponsor.

Funny but no chance.

[BleAivano]

I'm quite surprised to see that Loeb is doing the Swedish round.

[GustavK]

I'm quite surprised to see that Loeb is doing the Swedish round.
I'm not that surprised. Perhaps, it's one of the few events that still challenges him.

[rallyfiend]

As RedBull is the promotor now, they probably want to be neutral in this championship? ;) Hopefully sponsoring some events...

They'll be on VW for sure.

[AndyRAC]

Remember, RedBull is more than one company....

[Kielder]

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/m482396-28a8.jpg
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/m482474-dc70.jpg
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/530412_561637173852804_1811854412_n.jpg

And a photo from the future:

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/thumbphp-1.jpg

[Kielder]

Walking on the water...

http://i46.tinypic.com/i4ny1y.jpg

[Mintexmemory]

Strange to see Khaled in a Thawb

[MartijnS]

Rally Germany will have the showstart in Cologne, followed by 2 new stages in the Eifel, one in daytime, one in the dark at night.
So that will probably be at thursday, followed by the 3 regular days.

[Mintexmemory]

Mmm tricky, logistics for the camping though! Drive to Trier establish camp and then travel up to Koln / Eifel or Drive to Eifel from Dunkirk for the stages then down to Trier (bit of a tight schedule but less expensive).

[Mise]

No one here has spoken about the big Catch. Since Loeb drives only 5 rallyes,
Daniel Elena, co-driver for the nine time champ, is free.
Not sure he will do any rallyes without Loeb, but if he does,
some young gun will have a huge databank sitting next to him.

Anything from him?

[Mintexmemory]

OK, having looked at the English translation it appears that the 2 Thursday Stages are Blankenheim, which is in the Eifel area and Sauertal which is actually by definition (the Sauer river valley) not in Eifel. It looks to be about 2/3 of the way from Koln to Trier.
So I'd guess the Thursday itinerary will be Early morning shakedown in Trier, Transport the cars to Koln for ceremonial start at about 1800hrs
Stage 1 at 1900 hrs
Stage 2 at 2100 hrs
Regroup in Trier for 2230

What would be really amazing is for the Friday to be 3 loops instead of 2 with the last one in the evening at 2000hrs out of TC at Trier

[Mintexmemory]

No one here has spoken about the big Catch. Since Loeb drives only 5 rallyes,
Daniel Elena, co-driver for the nine time champ, is free.
Not sure he will do any rallyes without Loeb, but if he does,
some young gun will have a huge databank sitting next to him.

Anything from him?

He's been quoted in the past as saying he isn't interested in sitting alongside anyone else (though of course he could change his mind)

[Barreis]

Sebastien Loeb to race a McLaren MP4-12C GT3 in 2013 - GT news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104749)

[Wasted Talent]

Sebastien Loeb to race a McLaren MP4-12C GT3 in 2013 - GT news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104749)

Cue "Loeb to McLaren" headlines......

WT

[GigiGalliNo1]

Maton said this:

"Citroen has confirmed the coveted number one will not be used when Loeb and Elena are not in action."

So Sordo will have what number? And Khalid?

Mikko #2
M-Sport #3/4 correct?
And so on?

[Kielder]

We are Lost with the numbers :D .

[Kielder]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-10TVp3KDxQ

[Negaiss]

I think Loeb has something in mind that he does not tell. All the the time he did not say wich and how much rallies he will compete until now, bet still he doesnt clearly say wich rallies. Maybe he thinks if he is able to win montecarlo ands also sweden and other drivers ar far behind in points he can rally until he does not win. I think 10th title sits in his mind no matter what he says in media.

[Kielder]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6lUvBGeLKs&feature=g-all-u

Interviews with Loeb, Mikko and Sordo in the same channel.

[Blitzerflitzer]

Sauertal which is actually by definition (the Sauer river valley) not in Eifel. It looks to be about 2/3 of the way from Koln to Trier.


The Shakedown in 2009 - 2011 is named "Sauertal" ADAC Deutschland-Rallye 2011 Shakedown und Showstart - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGeHVpbVWns)
In Blankenheim maybe parts of the Stages "Rallye Blankenheim" 2.Teil-5.ADAC Rallye Blankenheim 2011( M.W.Video ) - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcDnYsyCmIQ)

[Motorsportfun]

Yes and we need another Middle East sponsor for MINI

Man City's Etihad Airways could be good enough for them? :D

[Adler]

I think Loeb has something in mind that he does not tell. All the the time he did not say wich and how much rallies he will compete until now, bet still he doesnt clearly say wich rallies. Maybe he thinks if he is able to win montecarlo ands also sweden and other drivers ar far behind in points he can rally until he does not win. I think 10th title sits in his mind no matter what he says in media.
Rallye-WM: News - Rallye-News - Rallye - motorline.cc (http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/news/2012/Rallye-WM/Rallye-WM-News-Citrons-WRC-Programm-2013-vorgestellt-174477.html)

this article says only 4 events for Loeb: Monte, Sweden, Argentinia and France...

[PLuto]

Seb confirmed this four events officially today in Abu Dhabi on official presentation.

[spiderem]

I wonder why Elena wasn't in abu dhabi...
it is actually nice to see sordo back at citroen... I really hopped for ostberg to have the seat, but it looks like sordo never really left the red familly.

[spiderem]

any news on Neuville???

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Nothing more than when the question was asked the other day.

[Frostmourne]

I really hope that Prodrive can secure a good sponsor and get into the manufacturers championship. Hoping with Yazeed Al-Rajihi last year result (3rd in SWRC) and probably another good season in SWRC this year will make him look for a chance to be in WRC next. Doing something like Abu-Dhabi and Qatar, 3 cars team with one of them for Yazeed and Prodrive is the team... Jaddah Prodrive Mini WRC :)

No no.. Jordan can not support mini..we do not have oil :)

[HarriK]

Jarkko Nikara will tell tonight more about his plans to 2013.

[liposh]

...what about ASTANA, it would be ideal sponsor for MINI :D But now seriously, have you ever visited Astana city in Google Earth street view? If not, please do it...it is so...spectacular.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Astana might be good for Prodrive Mini, but with the loss of manufacturer support and Sordo leaving for Citroen, I don't think Prodrive Mini would be good for Astana.

[noel157]

Jarkko Nikara will tell tonight more about his plans to 2013.

Prodrive?

[muratgunarslan]

Are there any news about Kris Meeke and Henning Solberg?

[Mintexmemory]

Jordan can not support mini..we do not have oil :)

Oh come on, I know its development is now questionable but the engine doesn't use that much!!!

[Mikkaki]

Are there any news about Kris Meeke and Henning Solberg?

According to Swedish newspaper, HS talk with a big energy drink company about a cooperation for 2013.

[Kielder]

Ostberg is about to test for Monte-Carlo. The rally will be a double debut as factory driver and in the event. I'm sure he will be fiercely criticized ("Solberg is better than him", "He isn't driver enough to be a factory driver" and stuff like that). Luckily for him, Sweden will be the following event.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

According to Swedish newspaper, HS talk with a big energy drink company about a cooperation for 2013.
Didn't he try that last year? I know; Go Fast didn't really go anywhere, much less quickly.

Still, there might be something in it. I seem to recall Ken Block talking about re-establishing Monster World Rally with two professional drivers running full-time (or something close to it) rather than his journeyman competition programme.

[Motorsportfun]

Didn't he try that last year? I know; Go Fast didn't really go anywhere, much less quickly.

Still, there might be something in it. I seem to recall Ken Block talking about re-establishing Monster World Rally with two professional drivers running full-time (or something close to it) rather than his journeyman competition programme.

I hope it's "Rockstar Energy" (Jorge Lorenzo's personal sponsor), they're also developing the brand around Europe... :)

[Frostmourne]

Oh come on, I know its development is now questionable but the engine doesn't use that much!!!

I hope you are not being sarcastic :)

In my little understanding to WRC, supporting a factory team is not just about the engine, and I am really sure BMW got more money than Jordan to support Prodrive :)

[Mikkaki]

Ostberg is about to test for Monte-Carlo. The rally will be a double debut as factory driver and in the event. I'm sure he will be fiercely criticized ("Solberg is better than him", "He isn't driver enough to be a factory driver" and stuff like that). Luckily for him, Sweden will be the following event.

I think Mads is the winner of Rally Sweden. He is ready now.

[Barreis]

M-sport is no more works team so we'll see the results next year.

[Kielder]

M-sport is no more works team so we'll see the results next year.

You're right. I hope them to be closer to Kronos in 2006 than Jolly Club in 1993.

[SubaruNorway]

According to Swedish newspaper, HS talk with a big energy drink company about a cooperation for 2013.

Not only 2013 but several years with a team it said...

[RS]

Not only 2013 but several years with a team it said...

Weird. Why would said sponsor have not supported his brother for a ride with the main Ford team?

[Barreis]

You're right. I hope them to be closer to Kronos in 2006 than Jolly Club in 1993.

They'll hardly be close to citroen, maybe with VW.

[rp]

Nikara´s aim is to drive six WRC events during the season 2013 behind the wheel of the Prodrive MINI. It seems that it could be possible with the help of the new management group behind him...

[Sami]

Nikara´s aim is to drive six WRC events during the season 2013 behind the wheel of the Prodrive MINI. It seems that it could be possible with the help of the new management group behind him...

This is amazingly great news/rumour.

I've been waiting this since february 2005 when I wrote on this forum that new star has risen, when 18 years old Jarkko started to dominate the Finnish Junior Rally championship with his totally uncompetitive Opel Astra against all the top level drivers with modern equipment like Civic Type-r's and Renault Clio Ragnottis. He was absolutely in a leaque of his own against such internationally appreciated drivers like Matti Rantanen (civic type-r), Joonas Lindroos (civic type-r), Kalle Pinomäki (Renault Clio Ragnotti), and Joni Nikko (civic type-r).

There has been no doubt in my mind ever that he has something totally unique in him.

I am so happy if this happens.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I have heard that Yves Matton and Malcolm Wilson have both approached the FIA - whether separately or together remains unclear for now - and asked if they can make changes to specific builds of the Fiesta and DS3; specifically, they want to move the gear shift from the right hand side of the steering column to the left. The FIA will apparently make a decision on this by 14 December. This is being interpreted in Poland as evidence that Robert Kubica is trying to break into the WRC in 2013, and he apparently told Polish reporters last week that he doesn't want to have a programme for 2013 without first knowing what he is doing in 2014, suggesting that he wants a long-term plan wherever he happens to go.

M-Sport gra o Kubic? - Wiadomo?ci - Rajdy - autoklub.pl (http://rajdy.autoklub.pl/news/m-sport-gra-o-kubice,46233)

[Frostmourne]

Why they want to make this shift from right to left?
and what this has to do with Robert Kubica?

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Because when Kubica had his accident in 2011, it did serious damage to his right arm, particularly his shoulder. He nearly died from the blood loss. By moving the shifter over to the left side, Kubica can pull on it with all his strength, and can thus be more competitive.

The FIA has been known to allow teams to make changes to their cars that would normally break the homologation of that car in order to accomodate drivers with physical disabilities. Danish touring car driver Jason Watt is a paraplegic, but the FIA allowed SEAT to build a version of the Leon to accomodate him so that he could race in the World Touring Car Championship in 2009.

[SubaruNorway]

They would need it to be electric hydraulic controlled then i guess? since it goes mechanically to the gearbox now. Don't know how easy it is to do otherwise from the left side....
McRae had it done after he broke his finger in Corsica but it was easier to do then since it was already just a "button"

[ToughMac]

There would be nothing wrong with changing the car from left hand drive to right hand drive. Prodrive have already homologated this with the mini, should be a simple thing for Ford and Citroen to do if they really want to.

[Negaiss]

Don't forget to watch VW Team launch today. + Possible VW Livery for 2013 VIDEO: Intervija ar Volkswagen Motorsport bosu | F1LV blogs (http://www.f1.lv/?p=10467)

[ChristianArp]

There would be nothing wrong with changing the car from left hand drive to right hand drive. Prodrive have already homologated this with the mini, should be a simple thing for Ford and Citroen to do if they really want to.

Just a clarification - they don't want to make right hand drive versions, they want to move the gear stick to the left side of the steering column on a left hand drive car. Thus, the stick would be between the door and the steering wheel. :)

[ToughMac]

M-Sport did something similar for Colin McRae back in 2002 after his Corsica accident. It looked a little awkward then with the joystick gear change. Gear levers are a lot bigger and longer now being mechanical sequential and cockpits are also smaller just thought it might be an issue that would be over engineered where it would be easier to sit the driver at the other side of the car. Also could this gear lever change compromise safety?

[Mirek]

They would need it to be electric hydraulic controlled then i guess? since it goes mechanically to the gearbox now. Don't know how easy it is to do otherwise from the left side....

No need for that. If You have a look on steering levers of Fabia or 207 S2000 they both used steering column fixed levers instead of the floor and still they can easily operate them by simple mechanical cables. I know from drivers that changing gears in Fabia needs almost no force. Advantage compared to Fiesta S2000 is much less vibrations of the steering stick.

I think that it's no big deal. Systems like on Punto S2000 of Albert Llovera must be more complicated.

[ChristianArp]

M-Sport did something similar for Colin McRae back in 2002 after his Corsica accident. It looked a little awkward then with the joystick gear change. Gear levers are a lot bigger and longer now being mechanical sequential and cockpits are also smaller just thought it might be an issue that would be over engineered where it would be easier to sit the driver at the other side of the car. Also could this gear lever change compromise safety?

I agree that the easier option would be an RHD version, but if both manufacturers have gone as far as the FIA, then I would presume that they have both ruled it out completely?

On the safety issue - are the seats not positioned more inboard in the car than they were 'back then'? That would obviously help with fitting in the lever, although door protection is also thicker now. It should possible, but as you said, could very easily be over engineered.

[Mirek]

Putting gear stick level on left side is much easier than to produce complete RHD car. It's really no rocket engineering. You just need two sets of homologated simple parts.

[rallyfiend]

Why not just a mutually agreed exemption to use a hydraulic system?

Would be easier. If performance becomes an issue, then take more drastic steps.

[Mirek]

Easier? How did You come to an assumption that adding complete hydraulic system is easier than to fix the lever to the left side of steering rack, use longer wire and few pulleys? Come on...

[ChristianArp]

Easier? How did You come to an assumption that adding complete hydraulic system is easier than to fix the lever to the left side of steering rack, use longer wire and few pulleys? Come on...

As usual, you are absolutely spot on with that observation Mirek!

Just out of curiosity, would you run a pulley system above the steering rack, below the legs or in front of the firewall?

[Mirek]

I'm not trying to invent anything new. I would just copy what commonly exists on S2000 cars. Now I see they use long rod collinear to the steering column like here with Fabia or bellow with 207 (Punto used that system too)

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2008/irc/sanremo/ma_s_271_kopecky_1.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2116/1547546270_9a642d4f75_z.jpg

[ChristianArp]

I see - didn't think of that option, my mistake.
In any case, I wonder a bit why both Ford and Citroën would be so far into this, surely he won't have a program in both of them? Seems a bit weird to me, to be honest.

[RAS007]

I see - didn't think of that option, my mistake.
In any case, I wonder a bit why both Ford and Citroën would be so far into this, surely he won't have a program in both of them? Seems a bit weird to me, to be honest.

+1

[rallye-vid]

Ford will test next week before Monte.. Ostberg, Novikov, Häninnen and "someone"

[dimviii]

Easier? How did You come to an assumption that adding complete hydraulic system is easier than to fix the lever to the left side of steering rack, use longer wire and few pulleys? Come on...

Also making a rhd wrc car will need a lot of redesign to many parts due to weight balance-distribution.Much simpler to remove the shifter.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

And since Kubica is used to left-hand-drive cars, building an RHD car for him would put him at a bit of a disadvantage. It would also be harder for both Citroen and Ford to get permission to make special models that are RHD - they may even need to be rehomologated. But given the special circumstances of Kubica's case, moving the shifter over is cheaper and easier for all involved.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Sources within the FIA have confirmed to Autosport that "the agreement between the sport’s governing body and Red Bull Media House and Sportsman Media has still not been signed":

Mateschitz: WRC has huge potential - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104770)

[COD]

http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/ac46240e3f7611e28d6622000a1fbc43_7.jpg

Ugly livery

[Juha_Koo]

I'm not trying to invent anything new. I would just copy what commonly exists on S2000 cars. Now I see they use long rod collinear to the steering column like here with Fabia or bellow with 207 (Punto used that system too)

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2008/irc/sanremo/ma_s_271_kopecky_1.jpg


Mirek, where is this photo from? Prototype Fabia S2000? The X-tube on the side is much more "wider" in vertical dimension what I have seen in other Fabias... I mean the upper tube rising upward more steeply than usual.

[Hazza555)]

VW new WRC website...

Rally the World | Volkswagen and the Polo R WRC (http://www.rallytheworld.com)

[Maui J.]

Not sure where to put this, but of special interest to NZ & Australian Rally Forum members...

Kiwi Shane van Gisbergen who had a very established and successful career in the Aussie V8 Supercars, who has just turned his back on it and retired after 5 years siting personal reasons for his departure.

Seems like he could be making a move into rallying. His father Robert 'Cheese' van Gisbergen is a former driver on the NZ rally scene, and still competes in historic events here.

Shane is still only 23.

Read more here...
SVG shock: possible move to rallying - Speedcafe.co.nz (http://www.speedcafe.co.nz/2012/12/10/svg-shock-possible-move-to-rallying/)

[had_zachau]

Jan Kopecky, SanRemo 2008


Mirek, where is this photo from? Prototype Fabia S2000? The X-tube on the side is much more "wider" in vertical dimension what I have seen in other Fabias... I mean the upper tube rising upward more steeply than usual.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

SVG shock: possible move to rallying - Speedcafe.co.nz (http://www.speedcafe.co.nz/2012/12/10/svg-shock-possible-move-to-rallying/)
I can't see the Giz doing anything more than national rallies and maybe make an appearance at Rally Australia ... but I can't see him joining the WRC in any capacity.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Al-kuwari spotted with Malcolm Wilson and M-Sport documents

[rage82]

From Colin's twitter: Something going on at Hyundai, but unclear what! Hearing a component supplier was due to deliver WRC spec parts but order changed to R5 spec

[GigiGalliNo1]

Also a dodgy video of the Hyundai launch drive with crappy photos and video..

[GigiGalliNo1]

Back to Al-Kuwari

He will drive R5 Fiesta from M-Sport in MERC and WRC-2 in 2013

[EightGear]

Also a dodgy video of the Hyundai launch drive with crappy photos and video..


That wasn't an official video. Seems like it was a journalist who filmed his ride in it.

[tolis]

Back to Al-Kuwari

He will drive R5 Fiesta from M-Sport in MERC and WRC-2 in 2013
Already posted in the WRC-2 season thread. ;)
You mean R5 or RRC?

[jbmarcus21]

Marcus will test Polo
Marcus Grönholm va tester la Polo Wrc (http://planetemarcus.com/marcus-gronholm-va-tester-la-polo-wrc/)

[dimviii]

Novikov en tests Monte-Carlo cette semaine (http://www.rallye-sport.fr/novikov-en-tests-monte-carlo-cette-semaine/)

[Rallyper]

So Novikov then will be in M-sport #1 team?

[Kielder]

So Novikov then will be in M-sport #1 team?

Apart from Ostberg and Novikov, there will be a third driver testing with Ford this week. Besides, more than a week ago Wilson said that he might run more than one driver over the season in the second factory Fiesta RS WRC.

[Rallyper]

OK. Then Tanak as well.

[Mirek]

Ott and Juho will test next.

[EightGear]

Ostberg, Novikov and Hanninen are testing this week with M-Sport. There is also another driver which Malcolm Wilson didn't want to say who it is. That's at least what I read.

Edit: Mirek is probably right. As usual. :D

[Roy]

Ostberg, Novikov and Hanninen are testing this week with M-Sport. There is also another driver which Malcolm Wilson didn't want to say who it is. That's at least what I read.

Edit: Mirek is probably right. As usual. :D

Maybe Neuville... Or Delecour in MC, like last year?

[Mirek]

Edit: Mirek is probably right. As usual. :D

Maybe not, I'm not sure about that ;)

[Kielder]

Maybe Neuville... Or Delecour in MC, like last year?

No one like Kubica behind a wheel with certain pace would overshadow the VW's debut. Malcolm knows it.

The point is that Kubica said if he chooses rallying, it will need to be a long-term programme that allows him to learn. M-Sport can't offer that.
By the way, this is funny:
World Rally Championship - News - Is Kubica planning a Ford future? (http://www.wrc.com/news/is-kubica-planning-a-ford-future/?fid=17365)
World Rally Championship - News - Could Kubica be in line for a Citroen future? (http://www.wrc.com/news/could-kubica-be-in-line-for-a-citroen-future/?fid=17820)

[PLuto]

But Robert must bring the money...

[ChristianArp]

But Robert must bring the money...

Surely, with his history, he should be able to raise the money he would need to pick where he wants to be?
I know rallying has taken a serious knock down the sponsorship ladder, but if Robert Kubica is unable to raise the cash to get into a serious programme, then it must be time to push the complete reset-button!

[Rallyper]

Delecour...? Why don´t you mention Waldegard, Blomqvist, Alen as well....?

[SubaruNorway]

Delecour...? Why don´t you mention Waldegard, Blomqvist, Alen as well....?

10-20 years age difference between Delecour and them ;)

[Mintexmemory]

10-20 years age difference between Delecour and them ;)

And he is addicted to the Monte, which is clearly why he tested the Mini and will look for the best he can get for his cash xx

[Mirek]

Delecour...? Why don´t you mention Waldegard, Blomqvist, Alen as well....?

You didn't realize that Francois is still active rally driver? He has been driving Romanian championship, Rallye Monte Carlo, Tour de Corse and several other events. Despite being twice older than many he is still faster than majority of them...

[petrolhead49]

Delecour is the reigning Romanian rally champion :) he said he will surely do Monte 2013

[Donney]

Talent helps to fight age and he's got it by the bucket loads.

[Humber]

One of the Australian V8 Touring car drivers (Van Gisbergen) has given a good specification Grp N NZ Evo 9 a blat in Maramarua Forest.

SVG shock: possible move to rallying - Speedcafe.co.nz (http://www.speedcafe.co.nz/2012/12/10/svg-shock-possible-move-to-rallying/)

[Rallyper]

The announcement is about a third (or second) driver in Ford team or what? Not only one rally? Maybe I misunderstood something here, but in order to put the youngsters in the limelight Delecour doesn´t fit, except for money though.

[dimviii]

who is the driver? :D
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A92X8b5CAAEexZH.jpg:large

[jbmarcus21]

I think Atkinson ?????

[dimviii]

I think Atkinson ?????

no :p

[MJW]

who is the driver? :D
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A92X8b5CAAEexZH.jpg:large
That is Seb Loeb

[Adler]

Does anybody know if Matthew Wilson have some kind of program for 2013 yet? .....Yes, serious question!

[dimviii]

That is Seb Loeb

yep!
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A92XEtvCQAACzdf.jpghttps://pbs.twimg.com/media/A92Xc23CIAEikG-.jpg

[Prisoner Monkeys]

The announcement is about a third (or second) driver in Ford team or what? Not only one rally? Maybe I misunderstood something here, but in order to put the youngsters in the limelight Delecour doesn´t fit, except for money though.
Delecour did the Monte last year in a customer M-Sport Fiesta. He wasn't a designated points-scorer for the marque. If he is going to do the rally again this year, then I imagine that this is the approach he will take, which would still leave a vacancy alongside Ostberg and al'Attiyah.

[PLuto]

Does anybody know if Matthew Wilson have some kind of program for 2013 yet? .....Yes, serious question!

Serious answer - Malcolm is trying to secure budget for his teams...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

How many teams does he intend to have?

[Humber]

Does anybody know if Matthew Wilson have some kind of program for 2013 yet? .....Yes, serious question!

From his twitter MJW appears to have been to Dubai.

[Kielder]

How many teams does he intend to have?

I remember reading that only is expected one team. Besides, let's see if the FIA will accept "M-Sport" instead of Ford as manufacturer.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I remember reading that only is expected one team. Besides, let's see if the FIA will accept "M-Sport" instead of Ford as manufacturer.
I was thinking more along the line of his organising secondary, non-manufacturer teams.

[noel157]

Delecour did the Monte last year in a customer M-Sport Fiesta. He wasn't a designated points-scorer for the marque. If he is going to do the rally again this year, then I imagine that this is the approach he will take, which would still leave a vacancy alongside Ostberg and al'Attiyah.

Nasser won't be starting RMC and 5 other events.

[SubaruNorway]

Pic of Ilka in the new official Ford jacket at the test, so guess Novikov is 2nd driver at M-Sport then...?

[Rally Hokkaido]

Re Matthew Wilson:
Well, he is still young enough to re-start his career. As has been said here many times, IMHO, he should run in a lower category - the new WRC2 would seem to suit him (+his Dad) well.

[rallyfiend]

What he should have spent the last few years doing is learning the business - not being a customer of it.

[tommeke_B]

There must be money first... ;) Even WRC2 is expensive... And honestly I don't think anybody is really waiting for his comeback, everyone knows his potential already after so many years driving in very good conditions...

[whosyo]

Then... the M-sports's line up is Novikov and Ostberg? I don't see any competitive driver in here..

[Bartolbia84]

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=441448352581005&set=a.191958177530025.48047.172779249447918&type=1&theater

Novikov crash.... e son 2 :D

[alleskids]

does Novikov still have a link with D0-Mack (Russia), or does Qatar M-Sport Ford play it safe and stick with Michelin?

[Salist]

Novikov's 2nd failure:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A97UYmHCMAEmByk.jpg

[dimviii]

does Novikov still have a link with D0-Mack (Russia), or does Qatar M-Sport Ford play it safe and stick with Michelin?

M-sport has disadvantage of drivers vs Vw Citroen,if they use dmacks=suicide.

[rallyfiend]

If they were planning to use DMACk, they'd be testing with them....

[RAS007]

Then... the M-sports's line up is Novikov and Ostberg? I don't see any competitive driver in here..

Agreed. As much as I like both of them, I can't see either of them winning anything in 2013. I hope I am wrong.

[Xsara Fan]

Novikov will not use DMACK`s.

[MartijnS]

From his twitter MJW appears to have been to Dubai.

Probably to support the Fiesta RRC ('s?) from M-Sport at the last round of the MERC.

[andyone]

Then... the M-sports's line up is Novikov and Ostberg? I don't see any competitive driver in here..
well i wouldnt under estimate Mads Ostberg on Snow.. so i bet he will put up some pretty good resistance to especially mikko hirvonen. maybe latvala can beat him on snow.

[tommeke_B]

Let's throw this one in here :D Malcom Wilson is saying there's a possibility for Thierry Neuville to become 2nd driver in the Ford Qatar WRT...
Part of an interview (the complete interview will be in the magazine, available in French and Dutch only):
M.Wilson: "I have to admit we are talking with Thierry Neuville. He has a very good relationship with Nasser, but I'm not sure yet if these conversations will be succesful or not."
Autonews Magazine » WRC » Malcolm Wilson reconnaît les contacts avec Neuville (http://www.autonews-magazine.com/blog/?p=27835)

A detail for some who don't know. Thierry Neuville started his career in the Ford Fiesta Sporting Trophy (run by Floral Racing), he won a contest organized by Ford, Floral and RACB. He was one of the best drivers in the trophy, but from Ford Europe and Ford Belgium there was no interest/possibility to support him to get up on the ladder. Then Citroën and MY Racing (team of Yves Matton back then) gave him a chance... :)

[A FONDO]

Perhaps that's why Wilson said the second seat might be shared. He wants to split the season between Neuville and Novikov to get the money from both of them. Apparently they both dont have the budget for a full season, neither are reliable for a factory seat.

[tommeke_B]

Don't expect Neuville to bring money, and if he brings something it's probably peanuts compared to what Novikov his budget is... IF he's in, it's probably because Al-Attiyah wants it. :)

[EightGear]

PSA is not going to like this!

[RS]

PSA is not going to like this!

Especially as they already lost Ogier and have nobody else to follow on from Loeb..