[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[EightGear]

The 'unknown' driver that will test for M-Sport later next week makes sense now...

[MJW]

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

Will PSA need a rally driver to follow on from Loeb? In British magazine Autosport published today it seemed pretty definate that Citroen are headed for WTCC in 2014 as the new rules suit them.

[ToughMac]

As we all know PSA is more than just one brand don't rule out their continuation in the WRC just yet.

[AndyRAC]

He be mad going to M-Sport... unless he’s desparate for a drive. Leaving Citroen to go there...??


As for Citroen, going to the WTCC is a cop out. They’re that desparate to keep hold of Loeb that they think going there will keep him happy, when he’s stated a desire to drive powerful cars. Hopefully, a season driving a McLaren GT3 will make him realise that a FWD Touring car is a bad idea.

[dupanton]

He be mad going to M-Sport... unless he’s desparate for a drive. Leaving Citroen to go there...??



i think he fears (and so do I actually) that Citroën/Peugeot got their manufacturer drivers for the next couple of years... If they really want to continue with him from 2014, why don't they give him a drive in a factory car for whole (or almost) of the championship?

[Donalduck]

Petter maybe in Dakar 2013? Solberg tilbys kjre toppbil i Dakar-rallyet - sport - Dagbladet.no (http://www.dagbladet.no/2012/12/13/sport/motorsport/petter_solberg/pal_anders_ullevalseter/24810547/)

[alleskids]

the Abu Dhabi contract is for 3 years, or 5 ? If Citroen leaves WRC for WTCC, Peugeot will take over with the 208 and Abu Dhabi on it

[MikeD]

He be mad going to M-Sport... unless he’s desparate for a drive. Leaving Citroen to go there...??

Remember that it was Red Bull and Qatar that sponsored Neuville's car in 2012. Red Bull is now with VW and Qatar is with M-Sport. And Citroën's factory team is already full. I don't see any room for Neuville at Citroën as they leave after 2013 anyway.


As for Citroen, going to the WTCC is a cop out. They’re that desparate to keep hold of Loeb that they think going there will keep him happy, when he’s stated a desire to drive powerful cars. Hopefully, a season driving a McLaren GT3 will make him realise that a FWD Touring car is a bad idea.

WTCC has the right Global exposure, WRC hasn't - and that's what matters to PSA.

[alleskids]

Petter maybe in Dakar 2013? Solberg tilbys kjre toppbil i Dakar-rallyet - sport - Dagbladet.no (http://www.dagbladet.no/2012/12/13/sport/motorsport/petter_solberg/pal_anders_ullevalseter/24810547/)

he got an offer for the 2013 Dakar, but feels it is too soon, he cannot profesionelly prepare?? The team that offered him the ride is ready for it. I wonder which team it is

[J.Lindstroem]

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

I don't think that's a problem for PSA really... For sure they have got their eyes on lots of french drivers for the future!

[Humber]

One could start a list of young French drivers - e.g Sebastien Chardonnet
Sébastien Chardonnet - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%A9bastien_Chardonnet)

[makinen_fan]

I did not know where exactly to post this, or create a new thread. Race of Champions is taking place this weekend. Once it was a great rally event, but not anymore :( Watching this official clip 'celebrating' the RoC 25 year evolution really made me sad:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfPM****DHU&feature=youtu.be

[PLuto]

This is not "race of champions", but "show of champions"...

[Fly]

Neuville training physically with Mikko.

I don't see him moving away from Citroen.

Photo by thierryneuville • Instagram (http://t.co/cdvVV9Ny)

[Fly]

+ Matton said Neuville 90% chance of being at the start at MC with Citroen (but probably no Swedish rally) Autonews Magazine » WRC » Neuville: 90% de chances de participation au Monte-Carlo (http://www.autonews-magazine.com/blog/?p=27849)

[EightGear]

"Abu Dhabi's on board for the next three years, cementing Citroen's presence in the WRC until the end of 2015. Matton's earned his time in the sun."

Directly taken from David Evans' column at Autosport.com.

[Tom206wrc]

Citroën Racing will organize a DS3 R3 international trophy on 6 rounds of the 2013 WRC(three tarmac, three gravel) :cool:
Tomorrow friday it should be officially announce... ;)

[PLuto]

"Abu Dhabi's on board for the next three years, cementing Citroen's presence in the WRC until the end of 2015. Matton's earned his time in the sun."

Directly taken from David Evans' column at Autosport.com.

There is no problem to switch from Citroen to Peugeot during this years. Agreement is with PSA...

[EightGear]

There is no problem to switch from Citroen to Peugeot during this years. Agreement is with PSA...

Do you mean that it is already pretty much sure?

[mousti]

Citroën Racing will organize a DS3 R3 international trophy on 6 rounds of the 2013 WRC(three tarmac, three gravel) :cool:
Tomorrow friday it should be officially announce... ;)
Winner should get 6 rally's with the new R5 of Citroën in 2014..

[PLuto]

Do you mean that it is already pretty much sure?

I am talking about it more than two years. It was their plan and I think it wasnt changed yet...

[Mirek]

I don't think that's a problem for PSA really... For sure they have got their eyes on lots of french drivers for the future!

In whatever point of view loosing Ogier was a problem for PSA. Not short-term but long term definitely.

[J.Lindstroem]

In whatever point of view loosing Ogier was a problem for PSA. Not short-term but long term definitely.

Yeah thats for sure. But loosing Neuville, i think they can deal with that! =)

[makinen_fan]

From David Evans (Autosport magazine rally editor) tweeter:
It's coming... the news is coming... who drives what in WRC next year. And it's not what we expected.


I wonder what is not expected? Probably some supprise by Prodrive or it is not Novikov for 2nd Ford seat. Can't wait to see

[RS]

From David Evans (Autosport magazine rally editor) tweeter:
It's coming... the news is coming... who drives what in WRC next year. And it's not what we expected.


I wonder what is not expected? Probably some supprise by Prodrive or it is not Novikov for 2nd Ford seat. Can't wait to see

I'm gonna guess that it's Henning to Prodrive.

[EightGear]

I'm gonna guess that it's Henning to Prodrive.

Well, his next tweet was: "Not looking good for a Prodrive Mini in Monte Carlo. Huge disappointment for a very hard-working team."

[RS]

Yeah thats for sure. But loosing Neuville, i think they can deal with that! =)

For me Neuville has more potential than Ostberg or Novikov, both of whom have been around a long time now. He had a lot of accidents last year, but he also set some very competitive times with little experience of the car or events.

[RAS007]

I'm gonna guess that it's Henning to Prodrive.


I'll say Neuville to M-Sport, Novikov to Prodrive. :eek:

[rallyfiend]

I'll say Neuville to M-Sport, Novikov to Prodrive. :eek:

There's no way Novikov would take a step down to a Prodrive Mini. Unless they were footing the bill. And we know that ain't gonna happen with their finances the way they are.

[Mirek]

I'll say Neuville to M-Sport, Novikov to Prodrive.http://www.motorsportforums.com/images/smilies/eek.gif

Seriously, what stuff are You smoking?

Sorry, if it was irony which I didn't recognize.

[Viking]

Closing date for entries in Monte-Carlo rally is today. Any other leaks?

[Viking]

I dont think M-Sport Fiesta to Prodrive Mini will be an "step down" in 2013. They will both be customer cars fighting for 5th and 6th places...

[rallyfiend]

I dont think M-Sport Fiesta to Prodrive Mini will be an "step down" in 2013. They will both be customer cars fighting for 5th and 6th places...

Prodrive can't even turn up to an event unless someone is paying 100% of the bills,and you think that car will be as good as a fully manufacturer homologated Fiesta?

Don't forget, that M-Sport car was fully developed when they still had the cash from Ford. I agree towards the end of 2013 the lack of development will hurt, but not at first.

Unlike Prodrive, who haven't had outside sources paying any bills for nearly a year now.

[RAS007]

Seriously, what stuff are You smoking?

Sorry, if it was irony which I didn't recognize.

I wasn't joking about Neuville, but something less than serious about Novikov..... ;)

[tommeke_B]

Neuville is 90% chance with Citroën... :)

[Viking]

Prodrive can't even turn up to an event unless someone is paying 100% of the bills,and you think that car will be as good as a fully manufacturer homologated Fiesta?

Don't forget, that M-Sport car was fully developed when they still had the cash from Ford. I agree towards the end of 2013 the lack of development will hurt, but not at first.

Unlike Prodrive, who haven't had outside sources paying any bills for nearly a year now.

Ok, you would maybe be a tad closer to 5th in an Fiesta at the start of the season... And yes, you should make sure that they (Prodrive) turn up with the car you pay for..

[Xsara Fan]

I'll say Neuville to M-Sport, Novikov to Prodrive. :eek:

LOL

[RAS007]

Neuville is 90% chance with Citroën... :)


http://i.qkme.me/362nk1.jpg

[noel157]

Breaking news and what we've been waiting for:

https://twitter.com/ProkopOfficial/status/279631580312526848/photo/1

LOL.

[AP-Racing]

ahahaha

[AP-Racing]

Neuville in Ford

DH.be - Thierry Neuville signe avec… Ford*! (http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/article/418239/thierry-neuville-signe-avec-ford.html)

[Bartek]

Neuville in Ford

DH.be - Thierry Neuville signe avec… Ford*! (http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/article/418239/thierry-neuville-signe-avec-ford.html)

So yesterday he was with Mikko and now he is in Ford, i think that from now he is like a Ogier Persona non grata in Citroen Team

Of course if this info is true!

PSA lost their second driver in 3 years, yes?

[tommeke_B]

Thierry is/was in a difficult situation... This year 3 sponsors got it together (Citroën, RedBull, Qatar), now all 3 are in another team... Matton said that there was 90% chance for Thierry to have a drive with DS3 WRC in Monte Carlo, apparently Thierry chose something else.

[RS]

Thierry is/was in a difficult situation... This year 3 sponsors got it together (Citroën, RedBull, Qatar), now all 3 are in another team... Matton said that there was 90% chance for Thierry to have a drive with DS3 WRC in Monte Carlo, apparently Thierry chose something else.

I think Citroen still support the Citroen team rather than Ford or VW? :)

[MikeD]

Thierry is/was in a difficult situation... This year 3 sponsors got it together (Citroën, RedBull, Qatar), now all 3 are in another team... Matton said that there was 90% chance for Thierry to have a drive with DS3 WRC in Monte Carlo, apparently Thierry chose something else.

*cough* *cough* ... can I say "Told you so?" ;)

[tommeke_B]

You can say what you want and it doesn't make me care more or less, MikeD... ;)

Anyway I'm happy for Thierry that he will have a proper program (at least 9 events)... It was starting to take very long... :)

[Bartek]

Now we need to wait what's going on with Citroen and Kubica, i think that one of the reason that Thierry is in Ford is Kubica's transfer to Citroen...

[Tom206wrc]

Disappointed by Neuville's decision :(

[tommeke_B]

Disappointed by Neuville's decision :(
Just be fair, with both Hirvonen and Sordo in the factory team, what chances was he going to get? ;)
Maybe another Belgian guy will be ready to drive a Citroën WRC-car in a few years? :p

[noel157]

Just be fair, with both Hirvonen and Sordo in the factory team, what chances was he going to get? ;)
Maybe another Belgian guy will be ready to drive a Citroën WRC-car in a few years? :p

Out of interest, anybody in mind? Anybody showing promise? I'm sure there are posts in the Young Guns thread but It's been a long week.... :)

[Mirek]

Kevin Demarschalk most likely best now.

[Roy]

Now we need to wait what's going on with Citroen and Kubica, i think that one of the reason that Thierry is in Ford is Kubica's transfer to Citroen...

That make sense... but in ERC thread discussed allready a M-Sport team in ERC, with Tanak and Kubica. Only rumours so far.

We wait and see.

Maybe here some info this weekend?:
Thierry Neuville (http://www.thierryneuville.be/)
Robert Kubica - official website / strona oficjalna (http://www.kubica.pl/)

I see type of letter at Kubica's site is same as Citroen used. Look at the 'R'-> http://www.citroen-wrc.com/en/2012/news/wrc-news/3805/mikko-hirvonen-in-chile/

[tommeke_B]

Out of interest, anybody in mind? Anybody showing promise? I'm sure there are posts in the Young Guns thread but It's been a long week.... :)
Like Mirek said, Kevin Demaerschalk seems to be the best of the young guys in Belgium. He did a championship in DS3 R3 this year, it wasn't really easy for him... A lot of French young talented guys all driving those events for some more years and all of them had more experience with the car already... He did set some good times but had several problems. Before the last event of the year he switched codriver (because his former codriver was too busy with his profession he decided to stop), and now drives with Fred Miclotte. For the first time with a new codriver and a changed pacenote-system, he did very well in the Rallye du Var... Watch his times, first 2 stages he had a bad setup (lot of understeer) and a puncture has cost him 2min8s. It was the very first time he drove there (only Riedemann and Cronin drove there for the first time too and Kevin was faster than both), and he was very close to the times of Arzeno/Gilbert etc... If you know the stages (maybe you know someone who has been there? ;) ), it's a really good prestation he did there... Normally he will continue with DS3 next year, maybe in the French trophy, maybe in WRC, I think all depends on the budget (as usual). Some detail: just like Neuville, Demaerschalk proved himself in the Fiesta Sport Trophy, but after that Ford did not have a step-up for him (gap from R2 to S2000 is too big) and he got support from Citroën and RACB. Except Demaerschalk no Belgian driver is ready for something international with such high competition level, but who knows, maybe in the future. Now our national championship promotor and importers are doing a great job in trying to help young drivers (see Belgian thread), but we're still living in a small country... :)

[muratgunarslan]

Jean Ragnotti
Thierry Neuville aurait signé un contrat avec M-Sport et sera donc au départ de 13 manches du championnat du monde de rallye 2013, ceci en Fiesta WRC. Bonne Chance!

Thierry Neuville has signed an agreement with M-Sport and will be from 13 rounds of the World Rally Championship in 2013, in this Fiesta WRC. Good Luck!

[Rallyper]

So then Neuville and Ostberg in #1 team and Novikov and Tanak in M-sport paying team. Good though they could have some testdays altogether.

[Mirek]

So then Neuville and Ostberg in #1 team and Novikov and Tanak in M-sport paying team.

How did You come to that?

[Rallyper]

How did You come to that?

Why not? Anything wrong with that conclusion or didn´t I see the irony in your question?

[Mirek]

No irony, I'm just almost sure it's not going to be that way.

[tommeke_B]

I've been reading something like this on facebook (can't find it anymore, not sure if it was BS or not):
1. Ostberg
2. Al-Attiyah
3. Neuville
4. Novikov

[Andre Oliveira]

For Novikov is better, now there is no reason to all cars of M-Sport don't have the same evolutions. And the sponsor remains, or the car would have Qatar and Russia in same decoration??? Ostberg, Neuville and Al-Attiyah. Novikov, Hänninen and Tänak. Good line-up, very good :)

[Rallyper]

No irony, I'm just almost sure it's not going to be that way.

OK. Not Tanak then.

[tommeke_B]

Tanak has been linked to some ERC-project already... Anyway great to see M-Sport choosing for the future with their cars in hands of young talented drivers! :) They may have the weakest looking driver-line-up now, it could be very different in just one year... :)

[dimviii]

Colins at his twitter said about 9 rallies for Neuville....

Report this evening that Neuville has signed a deal to do 9 round in M-Sport Fiesta - deal tied in with Nasser and Qatar

[tommeke_B]

This year 9 rallies were planned too for Neuville, but he ended up doing all of them... No big skeeting event for Nasser to ccompete in next year that would take about 2,5 months to prepare so someone else has his drive? :p

[skarderud]

Mr Hollywood isn't finish with rallying, he will do finnskogvalsen 19/1 in a escort mk II with his wife as a codriver :)

[MJW]

And a really nice Escort it is too!!!! Built by Phil Mills' Viking Motorsport. :-)
The build quality on the car is amazing.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

'Report this evening that Neuville has signed a deal to do 9 rounds in M-Sport Fiesta - deal tied in with Nasser and Qatar...'

Hope this is true, great young driver in a Ford.

[tommeke_B]

And a really nice Escort it is too!!!! Built by Phil Mills' Viking Motorsport. :-)
The build quality on the car is amazing.
+1
I had a closer look on the MK2 Droogmans was driving in Condroz this year (also from Viking Motorsport, almost new car), every detail is just perfect on it, and the car runs like a Swiss watch! :)

[RAS007]

No irony, I'm just almost sure it's not going to be that way.

How do you think it is going to be?

[EightGear]

Rallye-magazin.de is reporting that both Neuville and Ostberg will do all 13 round for M-Sport.

By the way, what are the chances that Citroen will enter a replacement for Neuville in their Junior team?

[Bartek]

In my opinion M-Sport needs success not youngest team in WRC, to be honest, which of them can today beat Mikko, Dani or boys from VW? Team looks good on paper but i think that Mads had one good season and he is not a guy who can be a World Champion.

[Andre Oliveira]

Rallye-magazin.de is reporting that both Neuville and Ostberg will do all 13 round for M-Sport.

By the way, what are the chances that Citroen will enter a replacement for Neuville in their Junior team?

Chardonnet or Consani? Campana? McCormack?

[tommeke_B]

Chardonnet or Consani? Campana? McCormack?
What about nobody? ;)

[oyunbozan]

In my opinion M-Sport needs success not youngest team in WRC, to be honest, which of them can today beat Mikko, Dani or boys from VW? Team looks good on paper but i think that Mads had one good season and he is not a guy who can be a World Champion. i am not sure they are expecting a world champion at drivers, but with mads/neuville good team points at overall might be a prediction. 2nd or 3rd due to VW durability.

[MJW]

+1
I had a closer look on the MK2 Droogmans was driving in Condroz this year (also from Viking Motorsport, almost new car), every detail is just perfect on it, and the car runs like a Swiss watch! :)
Petter is not using the same car as Droogmans. Petter is having a car built for himself.

[tommeke_B]

Petter is not using the same car as Droogmans. Petter is having a car built for himself.
Aha, ok. Anyway I'm confident all cars that leave Mills his garage will have a certain quality (the one Droogmans used was built in August by the way). :)

[MJW]

Correct, all cars that are built by Viking are amazing build quality :-)

[mousti]

Phill said that the MK II will be much improved in 2013 so I really hope that Droogmans get a BHRC program, won't be much competition for him, but I assure u there will be loads of spectacle with that combination ! :D

[logic]

Next year's Manufacturers championship and possibly drivers championship is Fords to lose.

[Rallyper]

You can´t loose anything you aint got... Only winning it.

[oyunbozan]

Next year's Manufacturers championship and possibly drivers championship is Fords to lose.

there is no "logic" in it

Test DS3 WRC Sébastien Loeb - Rallye Monte Carlo 2013 [HD] - YouTube (http://youtu.be/aDeLI7ATR80)
loeb testing (properly)
mini JCW sound at 2:13 ???

[tfp]

Next year's Manufacturers championship and possibly drivers championship is Fords to lose.

I reckon its Citroens to lose, Loeb will score well on all the rounds he contests and theres many a team that would love a Hirvonen / Sordo combo.
Also I dont think Mads is quick enough, although I'll be very glad if he proves me wrong.

Bottom line is, Ford is screwed without Petter.

[logic]

Petter did nothing at ford!!
Mads was not that quick because he had limited testing before the events due to the budget. Will see next year now he is part of the works team how he gets on. I think he will do well.

[Mirek]

Next year's Manufacturers championship and possibly drivers championship is Fords to lose.

When was the last time Ford won them? There is nothing to loose. They didn't win anything with previous driver lineups so the only way is to try something else.

[irish_tiger]

there is no "logic" in it

Test DS3 WRC Sébastien Loeb - Rallye Monte Carlo 2013 [HD] - YouTube (http://youtu.be/aDeLI7ATR80)
loeb testing (properly)
mini JCW sound at 2:13 ???

Wow ! ... some pace around the corners ... and yeah JCW at 2:13 :)

[skarderud]

I think Mads is more "mature" than neuville, atleast this season. Mads has done really good results with wery litle testing, and second best car. Hopefully he keep up the good work next year too!
but what will novikov do? Remembering he said once that it was the second seat in msport, or no Ford? Swap with neuville? Not mini, no?

[tommeke_B]

I think Mads is more "mature" than neuville, atleast this season. Mads has done really good results with wery litle testing, and second best car. Hopefully he keep up the good work next year too!
but what will novikov do? Remembering he said once that it was the second seat in msport, or no Ford? Swap with neuville? Not mini, no?
Of course Mads is more mature and consistent than Thierry, no doubt about that... But remember that Mads is around in WRC with a WRC since 2007 (he did half WRC season in '07, '08, '09, '10 and full seasons in '11 and '12). If we compare Neuville his experience to it: 2007 nothing (very few regional events, nothing that gives you experience), 2008 season with Fiesta in Belgian trophy, 2009 season with C2 in Belgian trophy + a few French events + Catalunya and Valais, 2010 half IRC-program + JWRC, 2011 full IRC-program, 2012 full WRC-program... He may be just one year older than Thierry but the difference in experience is very big, in let's say 8,5 of the 13 events he was there for the first time and had everything to discover... ;)

[oyunbozan]

ostberg at the top seat won't be having the same issues with adapta making bad setups, somethings are wrong with the car most of the time, and neuville will show more pottential at certain rallies, on asphalt he is faster imo.

[Kielder]

Sordo will test shortly in Mazamet.

[rallyfiend]

Next year's Manufacturers championship and possibly drivers championship is Fords to lose.

Yes, well. Let's see if they register as a manufacturer first. You're getting a little ahead of yourself...

[Xsara Fan]

So then Neuville and Ostberg in #1 team and Novikov and Tanak in M-sport paying team. Good though they could have some testdays altogether.

The owls are not what they seem ;)

[Rallyper]

The owls are not what they seem ;)

I really wish you all well coming season. Evgeny will surprise us all, I´m sure. I know what he can do now when matured a lot!

[VFTS]

Of course Mads is more mature and consistent than Thierry, no doubt about that... But remember that Mads is around in WRC with a WRC since 2007 (he did half WRC season in '07, '08, '09, '10 and full seasons in '11 and '12). .. ;)

Mads had not full seasons in 2011 and 2012!

[dupanton]

Mads had not full seasons in 2011 and 2012!

No, he missed 1 or 2 rallies... This doesn't change the point Tom is making: he is far more experienced then Neuville!!

[GigiGalliNo1]

NEWS: Reeves to drive in Australian Rally Championships as well as Rally America Championships in 2013....

[Bartolbia84]

Estonian media is reporting that Ott Tänak wasn't on the Monte Carlo entry list.

[tolis]

Novikov and Neuville both Nr.2 in M-Sport!

Novikov and Neuville join Qatar M-Sport quartet for 2013 (http://www.m-sport.co.uk/index.php/news/1302-novikov-and-neuville-join-qatar-m-sport-quartet-for-2013)

Piloting the Ford Fiesta RS WRC on all 13 rounds of next season’s championship, both drivers will represent the State of Qatar alongside Nasser Al-Attiyah and Mads Østberg as the quartet look to make their mark on the world stage.

[Mirek]

Estonian media is reporting that Ott Tänak wasn't on the Monte Carlo entry list.

And Jänner?

[EightGear]

Novikov and Neuville both Nr.2 in M-Sport!

Novikov and Neuville join Qatar M-Sport quartet for 2013 (http://www.m-sport.co.uk/index.php/news/1302-novikov-and-neuville-join-qatar-m-sport-quartet-for-2013)

Piloting the Ford Fiesta RS WRC on all 13 rounds of next season’s championship, both drivers will represent the State of Qatar alongside Nasser Al-Attiyah and Mads Østberg as the quartet look to make their mark on the world stage.

That's great!

So, Ostberg, Neuville and Novikov on ALL rounds in the Qatar M-Sport team. :)

I guess this couldn't have been better for Malcolm too. Now he has some extra cash from Neuville (with Qatar paying it for him?) AND also from Novikov. :p

[Barreis]

Very curious to see what 5 M-sport boys can do against works teams.

[EightGear]

I am a little bit worried about the rest of the WRC entries that are not confirmed yet. For Monte we only have so far 9 confirmed (maybe 10 with Delecour). What's the news on Atkinson, Prokop, Araujo, Tanak, Oliveira, Block, Henning, etc?

[tommeke_B]

That's great!

So, Ostberg, Neuville and Novikov on ALL rounds in the Qatar M-Sport team. :)

I guess this couldn't have been better for Malcolm too. Now he has some extra cash from Neuville (with Qatar paying it for him?) AND also from Novikov. :p
Cash from Neuville?! Explain why "he has some extra cash from Neuville" please. :)

[Psycho!]

M-Sport may have to build an additional factory to produce more spare parts!!!Bumpers,suspensions and spoilers! :p

[EightGear]

Cash from Neuville?! Explain why "he has some extra cash from Neuville" please. :)

I meant with Qatar paying his seat. I'm sure I read somewhere that Nasser wanted him and wanted to pay for it if necessary.

[tommeke_B]

M-Sport may have to build an additional factory to produce more spare parts!!!Bumpers,suspensions and spoilers! :p
With Jari-Matti and Petter gone they still have some margin... :)

[tommeke_B]

I meant with Qatar paying his seat. I'm sure I read somewhere that Nasser wanted him and wanted to pay for it if necessary.
Ok, but no cash from Neuville, that would be very confusing. ;)

[EightGear]

Ok, but no cash from Neuville, that would be very confusing. ;)

I know, I never said he brought his own $€$$$€€€€.

[rage82]

Great news about Neuville and Novikov. And with Mikkelsen in the 3-rd Polo I think it's 100% sure we would see some nice battles between this young drivers.
And 1 question - can all the 3 (4) cars score points for manu championship or only 2 nominated crews?

[A FONDO]

I'm really pleased to see so many youngsters with full programs. And the M-sport team is now stronger than ever in his first year without factory support (note what Prodrive have achieved in this situation).

[noel157]

I'm really pleased to see so many youngsters with full programs. And the M-sport team is now stronger than ever in his first year without factory support (note what Prodrive have achieved in this situation).

"now stronger than ever"? I think not.

[A FONDO]

Ok then after Sainz and Mcrae which was a decade ago, only my opinion and I'm not gonna argue for that.

[oyunbozan]

wait... who is on 2nd seat of m-sport main team? attiyah? :(

[GINE]

"now stronger than ever"? I think not.

stronger for the future definately but is there stutter for Msport? Is the Qatar sponsorship for one or more years?
I think that Nueville will be faster than Ostberg in ss speed. Maybe Novikov also.... At least, next year seems much more fun for spectators. We will have close battles in the first 6-8 places I preddict. I cannot see anyone having a big advantage

[jbmarcus21]

Prokop 10 Rallyes
Prokop sur 10 Manches minimum avec une Fiesta Wrc (http://planetemarcus.com/prokop-sur-10-manches-minimum-avec-une-fiesta-wrc/)

[Mirek]

Definitely it's not stronger than Gronholm/Hirvonen were.

Anyway in my opinion M-Sport future can be in fact very good even without Ford. Citroën and VW seem not take care about customer programs unless those customers bring hell of a money (at least to Citroën) and Prodrive doesn't offer a package interesting enough to take over M-Sport customers. So M-Sport can continue to work basically same as they always did.

[RS]

So I guess Wilson will switch nominations for the second car depending on who he thinks is best for each round.

For Monte I would go Hanninen.

[Xsara Fan]

So I guess Wilson will switch nominations for the second car depending on who he thinks is best for each round.

For Monte I would go Hanninen.

I don`t think so.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Estonian media is reporting that Ott Tänak wasn't on the Monte Carlo entry list.
That's unfortuante. I thought he had a lot of potential. For one, he wasn't as crash-happy as Novikov ...

[pantealex]

So I guess Wilson will switch nominations for the second car depending on who he thinks is best for each round.

For Monte I would go Hanninen.

I, think Wilson will choose between those 3
MC: Neuville and Östberg
Sweden: Novikov and Östberg
Mexico: hard to say

[eib1]

That's unfortuante. I thought he had a lot of potential. For one, he wasn't as crash-happy as Novikov ...
or he wasn´t as cash-happy as Novikov

[Mirek]

That's unfortuante. I thought he had a lot of potential. For one, he wasn't as crash-happy as Novikov ...

Tänak isn't a good example of a driver who doesn't crash much. I would not be surprised if last year he had worse crash stats than Novikov.

[GustavK]

Tänak isn't a good example of a driver who doesn't crash much. I would not be surprised if last year he had worse crash stats than Novikov.
I would say it's a matter of experience. Novikov has been driving in WRC since 2009? He wasn't that confident in first couple of years either. But times have changed and money talks.

[Andre Oliveira]

2 registered teams:

Ostberg (*pts maker)
Neuville *
Al-Attyiah


and

Novikov *
Häninnen *
Tänak

[skarderud]

I, think Wilson will choose between those 3
MC: Neuville and Östberg
Sweden: Novikov and Östberg
Mexico: hard to say

the only sure thing is østberg :)
at MC i've would say hänninen is the best choice beside mads! mads is always good at difficult conditions.

[Xsara Fan]

That's unfortuante. I thought he had a lot of potential. For one, he wasn't as crash-happy as Novikov ...

Look at the results page at wrc.com and see who is 'crash-happy' at the moment.
Ott is 'self-made' looser. Come on, he has an M-Sport budget! But he lost it when he again and again didn`t listen Malcolm. 'You must finished rally!' - said Malcolm in New Zealand before 3 day. 'OK!' - said Ott and... crashed at SS20. He was at 5 position! And this situation repeat several times this year. He can blame only himself.

[Xsara Fan]

2 registered teams:

Ostberg (*pts maker)
Neuville *
Al-Attyiah


and

Novikov *
Häninnen *
Tänak

No

[tommeke_B]

No
Is this more realistic?
1. Ostberg
2. Novikov (perhaps Neuville for asphalt rounds?)

team B
3. Neuville (perhaps Novikov for asphalt rounds?)
4. Al-Attiyah

? :)

[Xsara Fan]

Is this more realistic?
1. Ostberg
2. Novikov (perhaps Neuville for asphalt rounds?)

team B
3. Neuville (perhaps Novikov for asphalt rounds?)
4. Al-Attiyah

? :)

No comments :)
But I like the way you think ;)

[tolis]

So, is it confirmed that both drivers will do all rounds of 2013 championship?

[RAS007]

So, is it confirmed that both drivers will do all rounds of 2013 championship?

Yes, that's what the M-Sport release stated. I am not sure where the Team A/1, Team B/2 thing is coming from though......

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

NEWS: Reeves to drive in Australian Rally Championships as well as Rally America Championships in 2013....

Is there a source for this? Running 2wd, open light, or open? That is to awesome. I'll be for sure spectating up the two northwest rounds this coming season.

[TyPat107]

Is there a source for this? Running 2wd, open light, or open? That is to awesome. I'll be for sure spectating up the two northwest rounds this coming season.

Open light isn't a national class. And why is he coming to America to rally? Seems odd since rally America is raising entry fees, stating that they won't be providing any media coverage, and one rally (one of the best events) has dropped out of the Championship not to mention they have made certain events mandatory to compete in for the championship

[Plan9]

The M-Sport situation reminds me of 2003 where Malcolm used Francois and Markko, Mikko to replace Colin and Carlos. In time I think 1 of the new guys will be okay and work well with Mads. My guess is: Ostberg, Nasser and Theirry will drive cars that have Qatar as the predominant sponsor. Novikov will have a very similar looking livery but perhaps more red and white for his Russian backers to be exposed. Juho will have a car that looks different again. I would not guess how many rounds he will do after Sweden but not all 13.

[EightGear]

So, the talk about the team lineup means that the FIA has accepted M-Sport as a manufacturer (instead of Ford)?

[oyunbozan]

hanninen testing.
Test/Essais Monte Carlo 2013 Juho Hanninen Fiesta Wrc [HD] - YouTube (http://youtu.be/GPwqrQFdZso)

[GigiGalliNo1]

Open light isn't a national class. And why is he coming to America to rally? Seems odd since rally America is raising entry fees, stating that they won't be providing any media coverage, and one rally (one of the best events) has dropped out of the Championship not to mention they have made certain events mandatory to compete in for the championship

Reeves will compete in the Rally America National Championship in a Ford Fiesta R2 with/run by former US Champ Tim O'Neil.
Australian Championship in a 2WD car as well (yet to confirm what car but the Fiesta is available from M-Sport in Australia as M-Sport have confirmed the availability in Australia, South Africa and other places)

Sponsoring the cars is now available, so if any one if keen! All info is from a press release.

[Bartek]

According to rallye-sport.info Bouffier can start in Monte in DS3 WRC. He said on his Facebook that he have very good info about RMC. Two good drivers from IRC will show what they can in WRC :)

[tolis]

No Monte Carlo for Delecour...

"François ne participera malheureusement pas au Monte-Carlo , mais..."

[Motorsportfun]

No comments :)
But I like the way you think ;)

I think you're having quite fun reading these messages, as you know the truth. :D

[Xsara Fan]

I think you're having quite fun reading these messages, as you know the truth. :D

Yes! :) For the past month it was very funny ;) And it still funny!

[Rallyper]

Yes! :) For the past month it was very funny ;) And it still funny!

So now you can tell us?? Please...!

[rallyfiend]

Ford will have registered for the Manufacturers Championship.

There will be a 2 car Manufacturer Team, and a two car M2 team.

[RAS007]

No Monte Carlo for Delecour...

"François ne participera malheureusement pas au Monte-Carlo , mais..."

Damn. Really? Where did you see this Tolis?

[Xsara Fan]

So now you can tell us?? Please...!

Sorry. Information still confidential.

[dimviii]

World Rally Championship - News - Ogier out of luck in Race of Champions (http://www.wrc.com/news/ogier-out-of-luck-in-race-of-champions/?fid=18104)

[nafpaktos]

Definitely it's not stronger than Gronholm/Hirvonen were.

Anyway in my opinion M-Sport future can be in fact very good even without Ford. Citroën and VW seem not take care about customer programs unless those customers bring hell of a money (at least to Citroën) and Prodrive doesn't offer a package interesting enough to take over M-Sport customers. So M-Sport can continue to work basically same as they always did.
For how long do you belive they will ba able to run with that status?The year 2013(and maybe 2014)they will run with the momentum of 2012(i mean that until 2012 was a work team).After that??

[jbmarcus21]

White Test livery I20Wrc
Hyundai continue ses Tests avec la i20 Wrc livrée blanche (http://planetemarcus.com/hyundai-continue-ses-tests-avec-la-i20-wrc-livree-blanche/)

[dimviii]

For how long do you belive they will ba able to run with that status?The year 2013(and maybe 2014)they will run with the momentum of 2012(i mean that until 2012 was a work team).After that??

forever,as they will still sell-rent cars-parts.

[nafpaktos]

i mean that in afew years fiesta will be obsolete so they will have to search for new car.then what will they do?

[dimviii]

i mean that in afew years fiesta will be obsolete so they will have to search for new car.then what will they do?

with permission and help from Ford, they will create the next wrc car.

[had_zachau]

Martin Prokop with D-Mack tyres, Michal Ernst will be new co-driver. All european rounds plus maybe some overseas. Car will be same.

[PLuto]

Complete press info about Martin Prokop and design of his car here: Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=14690)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/52b78229734e2a3d6a6ccbb6969446b6.jpg

[Fly_Half]

White Test livery I20Wrc
Hyundai continue ses Tests avec la i20 Wrc livrée blanche (http://planetemarcus.com/hyundai-continue-ses-tests-avec-la-i20-wrc-livree-blanche/)

Those biscuit tin wheels look laughably small. But at least that video is a bit more credible than the last bollocks that surfaced.

[tolis]

Prokop's livery for 2013
He will do all European rounds of 2013+maybe some of the rest

http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/59315_10200126964042639_1123374274_n.jpg

[tfp]

No Monte Carlo for Delecour...

"François ne participera malheureusement pas au Monte-Carlo , mais..."

Bugger :(

[RAS007]

Bugger :(


Don't worry. He is doing all 13 rounds of the ERC and the Romanian Championship in a Peugeot 207 S2000 (run by Kronos, I think?).............there is more info on the News thread on the ERC forum. :up:

From Delecour's Facebook page:

..mais j'ai le plaisir d'annoncer qu'il participera à la quasi totalité du championnat ERC avec une Peugeot S2000 pour viser le titre de champion d'Europe , il participera également au championnat de Roumanie pour renouveler son titre au volant toujours de la Peugeot S2000 .François aura donc un programme très chargé d'environ 17 rallyes durant l'année 2013."

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Prokop's livery for 2013
He will do all European rounds of 2013+maybe some of the rest

http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/59315_10200126964042639_1123374274_n.jpg
That's a much neater, cleaner design than the one he used this year.

[mousti]

Request for changing the gear shifter from right to left has been authorised by the Fia!

[RAS007]

Request for changing the gear shifter from right to left has been authorised by the Fia!

For Kubica?

[mousti]

Probably eventhough we don't know if he wants to do WRC or ERC, but for both it has to be changed. The only cars that he would drive next year (assumption) the most are one of these (DS3 RRC or WRC, Fiesta RRC or WRC). Let's hope he can get a program in ERC :)

[PLuto]

Request for changing the gear shifter from right to left has been authorised by the Fia!

It was authorised few days ago...

[Mirek]

Well, there is no reason not to authorize it.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

For Kubica?
Who else would it be for?

The only other possible candidate that I can think of is Brendan Reeves. As an Australian, he'd be used to driving with the gear shift on the left, because we drive cars on the right. But Ford and Citroen only wanted to move the gear shift to the left; they didn't want to reconfigure the Fiesta and DS3 to a right-hand drive layout. And Reeves is doing just fine for himself in a left-hand drive car, so it makes no sense for him to be the person at the centre of the request.

[spiderem]

Lol, Delecour doing nearly all round of ERC and targeting to be ERC champion!!!
That is awesome, im sure he will give an hard time to all the youngsters that will compete...

[had_zachau]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/27933_318579281581800_791800464_n.jpg

[Gard]

White Test livery I20Wrc
Hyundai continue ses Tests avec la i20 Wrc livrée blanche (http://planetemarcus.com/hyundai-continue-ses-tests-avec-la-i20-wrc-livree-blanche/)

Oh no! that looks slow. They don't stand a chance against Citroen, Ford and VW.

[Georgi]

The whole story with Hyundai is very funny so far!
Nothing seems .... pro !

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Oh no! that looks slow. They don't stand a chance against Citroen, Ford and VW.
You do realise that:

a) it was filmed at an exhibition event for journalists and not a serious test
b) the car has only just begun testing anyway
c) the car is being driven slowly for the cameras
d) the video is full of theatrical cuts that emphasise style over substance and
e) the driver does not appear to be a professional rally driver

... Right?

[rallyfiend]

You do realise that:

a) it was filmed at an exhibition event for journalists and not a serious test
b) the car has only just begun testing anyway
c) the car is being driven slowly for the cameras
d) the video is full of theatrical cuts that emphasise style over substance and
e) the driver does not appear to be a professional rally driver

... Right?

And, they have no intention of competing until 2014....

Probably a lot further on than where VW was 13 months before debut!

[Mirek]

Oh no! that looks slow. They don't stand a chance against Citroen, Ford and VW.

lol, are You serious?

[Prisoner Monkeys]

And, they have no intention of competing until 2014....
When the car was first launched, Hyundai said they may make an appearance in 2013 in order to get some experience of actually running a car at the WRC level, but if it happens, then it probably won't be until the end of the season. I'd guess Catalyuna - it's a mix of gravel and tarmac, and it's not incredibly demanding like Wales.

Volkswagen originally planned to do just this; they said they wanted to take part in the Rally Sardegna this year, but ultimately shelved the idea.

[rallyfiend]

When the car was first launched, Hyundai said they may make an appearance in 2013 in order to get some experience of actually running a car at the WRC level, but if it happens, then it probably won't be until the end of the season. I'd guess Catalyuna - it's a mix of gravel and tarmac, and it's not incredibly demanding like Wales.

Volkswagen originally planned to do just this; they said they wanted to take part in the Rally Sardegna this year, but ultimately shelved the idea.

They 'shelved the idea' because Ford and Citroen said no - or at least put down unacceptable conditions.

There's no reason why that wouldn't happen again.

[SubaruNorway]

VW didn't do it because the other teams felt it was unfair to let them drive without homologation and "outside" the rally.

[stefanvv]

And, they have no intention of competing until 2014....

Probably a lot further on than where VW was 13 months before debut!

VW had longer development program with few months. First "real" test was 5-6 months after they launched it.

[Gard]

lol, are You serious?

couldn't resist ;)

[Mirek]

VW didn't do it because the other teams felt it was unfair to let them drive without homologation and "outside" the rally.

It's not unfair for PSA to do the same with all other their cars in lower series...

[dimviii]

The whole story with Hyundai is very funny so far!
Nothing seems .... pro !

not funny,i would say weird about the way they promote it, till now.Lets wait.

[Barreis]

They can have tests in swimming pool, the only important thing is that we have one more manufacturer. :D

[GigiGalliNo1]

Benito Guerra to drive MINI with Motor Sport Italia in 2013

[GigiGalliNo1]

Kubica & Tanak official drivers of 2013 ERC M-Sport Campaign

[dupanton]

Gigi, have you got a source? Or just following the WRR facebookpage?

[dimviii]

http://oi48.tinypic.com/2eogltd.jpg

[dupanton]

That are just rumours... Nothing officially!

[Mirek]

So they wrote it would be hydraulic gearshift system.

[rallyfiend]

And you all laughed at me for suggesting a hydraulic system!

[Mirek]

And you all laughed at me for suggesting a hydraulic system!

Not laughed but I said it's not necessary and sure not simplest solution.

[dimviii]

And you all laughed at me for suggesting a hydraulic system!

wait to see the actual system.Too expensive to create a new hydraulic system for one car.Except if they try to use some from previous wrc cars.

[Co-FIN]

wait to see the actual system.Too expensive to create a new hydraulic system for one car.Except if they try to use some from previous wrc cars.

Little offtopic, but what kind of injury does Kubica actually have? Cant he get a grip with right hand or what?

[dimviii]

yes the problem is with right hand/arm

[Bartolbia84]

Kubica & Tanak official drivers of 2013 ERC M-Sport Campaign

Ott Tanak FB page: Lots of speculations this time of the year. Hopefully we will get some solid answers soon. New season in ERC will start in little more than 2 weeks and new season in WRC will start in then less than a month...

[A FONDO]

Little offtopic, but what kind of injury does Kubica actually have? Cant he get a grip with right hand or what?

Very limited movement, can't even operate the dashboard in a normal car. But he can hold the wheel forward with it for a while.

[Georgi]

Benito Guerra to drive MINI with Motor Sport Italia in 2013

I think this will be very disappointing for Benito. The Mini of the Italian team will be less and less competitive.
My opinion though.

[dupanton]

I think this will be very disappointing for Benito. The Mini of the Italian team will be less and less competitive.
My opinion though.

I haven't seen an official confirmation of it any where. Not even on his own site...

[Mirek]

Didn't MI claim end of their Mini program?

[RAS007]

You do realise that:

a) it was filmed at an exhibition event for journalists and not a serious test
b) the car has only just begun testing anyway
c) the car is being driven slowly for the cameras
d) the video is full of theatrical cuts that emphasise style over substance and
e) the driver does not appear to be a professional rally driver

... Right?

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/loss_for_words.gif

[oyunbozan]

Very limited movement, can't even operate the dashboard in a normal car. But he can hold the wheel forward with it for a while.
if that is true, he can only drive with hydorlic - tip to change gear. sometimes you need to do more than holding the wheel while shifting. with C4 WRC, he was amazing.

[pucky54]

Didn't MI claim end of their Mini program?

For this year LOL

[Xsara Fan]

In 2013 there will be two Qatar teams:

1. Qatar WRT - Ostberg & Novikov (both - all 13 events)
2. Qatar M-Sport WRT - Neuville & Al-Attiyah

[alleskids]

Juha Hanninen could enter under the Qatar M-Sport banner for the Monte Carlo rally

[Frostmourne]

Any news from Prodrive? testing drivers? will they take part in MC?

[GigiGalliNo1]

No Monte Carlo for Prodrive.

They focusing on Sweden.

But there will be a MINI in Monte, but not a Prodrive backed one.

[rallye-vid]

No testing, no driver, no MC

[dimviii]

No Monte Carlo for Prodrive.

They focusing on Sweden.

But there will be a MINI in Monte, but not a Prodrive backed one.

talking about Guerra and MI?

[Frostmourne]

:(

Hopefully they will get some good drivers and good results with their campaign!

[RS]

No Monte Carlo for Prodrive.

They focusing on Sweden.



Do they have a driver for Sweden or just hoping?

[muratgunarslan]

Any news about Henning Solberg and Kris Meeke?

[tolis]

talking about Guerra and MI?
Maybe JP Roche...

[tommeke_B]

In 2013 there will be two Qatar teams:

1. Qatar WRT - Ostberg & Novikov (both - all 13 events)
2. Qatar M-Sport WRT - Neuville & Al-Attiyah

What did I win? :p ;)

[stefanvv]

Do they have a driver for Sweden or just hoping?

Yes, what happened to Nikara indeed?

[mousti]

What did I win? :p ;)
A free testdrive with Novikov! :D

[tommeke_B]

A free testdrive with Novikov! :D
Thank you Mousti!
*The person who informs the winner about the prize is responsible for the delivery and quality of the prize mentioned above.

[EightGear]

Nice interview with Neuville by Colin Clark.

http://m.spreaker.com/page#!/user/5030467/thierry_neuville_on_2013_1?sp_redirected=true

He said the original plan was to stay with Citroen for another 2 years so he would be ready to be in the official team in 2015.

[Franky]

In 2013 there will be two Qatar teams:

1. Qatar WRT - Ostberg & Novikov (both - all 13 events)
2. Qatar M-Sport WRT - Neuville & Al-Attiyah

The second one is also registered? If so, then who will do the rounds Nasser won't be able to take part in?

[rallye-vid]

Juho? *fingers crossed

[Roy]

In 2013 there will be two Qatar teams:

1. Qatar WRT - Ostberg & Novikov (both - all 13 events)
2. Qatar M-Sport WRT - Neuville & Al-Attiyah

Hmmm. In Pressreleases they talk only about Qatar M-Sport WRT.... I know you have some contacts with Novikovs team, but I think IF these teams names are true, it will be turned: Ostberg drives for Qatar M-Sport WRT and not Qatar WRT.

It is still a strange decision for me. I wait and see.

[MikeD]

Autotek Motorsport is trying to get the contract to run the second DMACK car for 2013. According to my sources, it's now true that DMACK will run 2 cars in 2013.

[MikeD]

Hmmm. In Pressreleases they talk only about Qatar M-Sport WRT.... I know you have some contacts with Novikovs team, but I think IF these teams names are true, it will be turned: Ostberg drives for Qatar M-Sport WRT and not Qatar WRT.

It is still a strange decision for me. I wait and see.

Maybe it's because they want to score as many Manu-points as possible. Doing 2 teams with two cars each, will make it possible to score with all 4 cars. With only one team they can only score with 2 cars.

Anybody knows the the FIA distribution of money for TV rights and so on, follows a similar system as for F1, where the money is given according to the amount of points scored in the Construvtors Championship?

[A FONDO]

The second one is also registered? If so, then who will do the rounds Nasser won't be able to take part in?

It will be an M2 team, it's not obligated to do all 13 rounds with both cars.

[Roy]

There are more M-Sport news. It has nothing to with rally, but M-sport has a new partner in autosport (GT).
Bentley announced M-sport as Continental GT3 technical partner.

Bentley Motors UK Press - BENTLEY MOTORSPORT PLAN SHIFTS TO NEXT GEAR (http://www.bentleymedia.com/release-435.htm)
M-Sport to help develop Bentley's new Continental GT3 racer - GT news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104857)

They need an escape from rally to 'save' the company now Ford quits?

[Co-FIN]

Yes, what happened to Nikara indeed?

I've heard a rumor here in Finland, that Nikara is trying to get program for six events with wrc 2013. I believe they are discussing with prodrive. But still a rumor, but no smoke without fire ;)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/loss_for_words.gif
I'm not really sure what your intention in showing this .gif is meant to be, but I like it because it's Nathan Fillion.

[Gard]

I'm not really sure what your intention in showing this .gif is meant to be, but I like it because it's Nathan Fillion.
Maybe, he just wanted to show a man, realizing he is about to be set up :-)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Autohebdo is claiming that despite Ford and Citroen requesting permission to move the gear shift of the Fiesta and DS3 WRC cars, Robert Kubica is going to join M-Sport for the 2013 ERC season:

AUTOhebdo.fr | Robert Kubica engag en ERC pour 2013 (http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/article-26-2-14797/171212-robert-kubica-engage-en-erc-pour-2013)

[mousti]

For the RRC versions it was also needed, so it was not a meaningless request and u never know what he'll do in the future. Looks to be almost sure now that he'll do ERC :)

[PLuto]

Autohebdo is claiming that despite Ford and Citroen requesting permission to move the gear shift of the Fiesta and DS3 WRC cars, Robert Kubica is going to join M-Sport for the 2013 ERC season:

AUTOhebdo.fr | Robert Kubica engag en ERC pour 2013 (http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/article-26-2-14797/171212-robert-kubica-engage-en-erc-pour-2013)

Ahhh, Auto Hebdo... Ford and Citroen was asking for their cars on basis S2000 1,6T car, so it is applicable for both cars. I dont know what was plans of Ford, but Matton didnt planned Kubica in WRC car...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Matton does strike me as being far too conservative in his driver choices. I get the impression that he doesn't like to gamble on unproven drivers, and would rather let them get their feet wet in a Ford or a Mini before poaching them away.

[dimviii]

Nice article
Holidays? What holidays? (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Holidays-What-holidays)


ps why the Sebastien Loeb thread is locked? :rolleyes:

http://www.motorsportforums.com/wrc/152244-sebastien-loeb-vs.html

[Kielder]

Sordo is near to confirm a full program: "It’s looking good for Sweden and France now and, of course, I want to drive. I am hungry and really want to do everything."
Besides, it's known that he would be transferred to the Abu Dhabi Citroen Total World Rally Team in those rallies, as it will happen in Monte Carlo and Argentina.

[KickenRallySport]

3066
Found this picture on Facebook today, A joke or an opening for Prodrive??
Kuwait World Rally Team

[rallye-vid]

Who knows..

Citroen with Abu Dhabi
Ford with Qatar
Mini with Kuwait?

[tolis]

3066
Found this picture on Facebook today, A joke or an opening for Prodrive??
Kuwait World Rally Team
I don't think it has something to do with WRC...Meshal Al Nejadi is driving the Mini S2000 1.6T in Kuwait championship. That's all.

[tolis]

Eyvind Brynildsen will do Rally Sweden, most probably in a Ford Fiesta WRC...

Hello everyone. We are working very hard this days to see if we can be able to do some WRC events in 2013. But I can already confirm our start in Rally Sweden 2013 with Adapta World Rally Team! Can't wait!

[aykutbilir]

3066
Found this picture on Facebook today, A joke or an opening for Prodrive??
Kuwait World Rally Team

Yes it is a Mini with Kuwait WRT branding but not Prodrive.. Its going to be Tok Sport of Turkiye. Some remember them with Al Kuwari 2012 season :) Still not comfirmed.

[SubaruNorway]

Eyvind Brynildsen will do Rally Sweden, most probably in a Ford Fiesta WRC...

Hello everyone. We are working very hard this days to see if we can be able to do some WRC events in 2013. But I can already confirm our start in Rally Sweden 2013 with Adapta World Rally Team! Can't wait!

Where was this posted?

[tolis]

Where was this posted?
FB

[mousti]

Twitter of Paddocknews Valmar Viisel

[SubaruNorway]

FB

Didn't know about his FB fan page :)

[Barreis]

New playground for champ.
Sebastien Loeb tests McLaren GT3 he will race in 2013 at Navarra - GT news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104888)

[Francis44]

http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/281647_577180418963940_2122778846_n.jpg

New facelift for the Fiesta WRC?!

Published by Gerard Quinn on facebook.

[mousti]

Probably

Although this will be for the RS streetcar version of it, although don't know if they'll really produce it with a WRC spoiler on it :D

[Ralph-Mario]

Any news about Toyota WRC ?

[tommeke_B]

Interview with Malcom Wilson in the second player ("Deel 2"), starts at 3min55... :)

» HERBELUISTER (http://www.powerandpassion.be/?page_id=5)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Any news about Toyota WRC ?
I've heard that their plans hinge on the sucessful launch of their R-class models. They'll build a WRC version once they're established in the feeder categories. I'm guessing they want to foster a bit of talent in the junior leagues, and then promote them staright into a WRC team or two.

[vino_93]

Any news about Toyota WRC ?
Pascal Vasselon said some weeks ago in AutoHebdo that the programm was a bit late, due to the efforts done to finish the WEC season in order to win more races ;)

[tolis]

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/576514_10151325196863728_1251924538_n.jpg

[makinen_fan]

Video message from JML: Merry Christmas from Jari-Matti - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5x-iEU7EpE)
He said he had an operation recently to remove the plates added due to his collarbone accident.

[gtimad73]

found this on twitter( paddocknews )HBS to produce World Rally Championship TV coverage - Sports Broadcast & Sports Agencies news - Motorsport Global - SportsPro Media (http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/hbs_to_produce_world_rally_championship_tv_coverag e/) http://www.hbs.tv/news-archive/news/article/hbs-appointed-as-tv-production-partner-of-world-rally-championship-for-2013.html

[makinen_fan]

Harsh word from Yve Matton on Thierry's exit from Citroen:
Google'i tõlge (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=de&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=et&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallye-magazin.de%2Frallyes%2Fwm%2Fnachrichten%2Fnews-detail%2Fd%2F2012%2F12%2F20%2Floeb-mehr-zu-tun-als-je-zuvor%2Findex.html)

[gtimad73]

HBS will produce both the daily news and a 26-minute highlight show of each rally, as well as a 52-minute show featuring all the highlights of the WRC season. no word of any online stuff yet

[RS]

HBS will produce both the daily news and a 26-minute highlight show of each rally, as well as a 52-minute show featuring all the highlights of the WRC season. no word of any online stuff yet

Sounds like not much change. Filmworks will still be doing the legwork it seems. I presume still on Motors TV as last year.