[WRC] News & rumours (part II)

[OldF]

In an interview Petter himself said that Loeb told him the mechanical diff is faster. Sounds about right, they would be reluctant to supply them to him anyway.

Conclusion: Active differentials => lot of wasted money.

[Psycho!]

According to another source Citroen said to Petter that they have only c4 diffs.But they are trying to find a solution together....(I read it somewhere on tha Net but I don't remember the site.........)

[Barreis]

Somebody is scared to s... that with passive diffs P..Solberg could make Xsara 2001 faster than new C4 2009..

[DonJippo]

Somebody is scared to s... that with passive diffs P..Solberg could make Xsara 2001 faster than new C4 2009..

Who that would be and why would they be scared of that?

[Iskald]

Who that would be and why would they be scared of that?

Perhaps because Petter was faster that Loeb on the gravel in Cyprus...?

[Barreis]

Who that would be and why would they be scared of that?

Mr. Quesnel. Because Xsara is 2001 and new C4 is probablly 2009..

[I am evil Homer]

C4 was designed in 2004/5

[DonJippo]

Perhaps because Petter was faster that Loeb on the gravel in Cyprus...?

True but Seb had no real reason to push after Friday so I doubt Citroen is scared because of that.


Mr. Quesnel. Because Xsara is 2001 and new C4 is probablly 2009..

But why would Mr. Quesnel be scared, Petter is not driving for manu points so what's the point?

[alleskids]

Markko Martin will probarly switch to rally raids. At this moment he is testing a BMW X3CC of X-Raid in the UAE Desert Challange. The car of Leonid Novitsky was flow to the rally, but Novitsky had to cansel his rally. If X-Raid and Martin are borth satisfied, Martin will do rally raids with the team. Hopefully Martin will find his spirit and speed again in the open rally raid roads.

[bluuford]

Last year Märtin did some demonstration runs with Nissan Navarra in one of off road events in Estonia. So, he has already some idea what are these cars all about:-)

[White Sauron]

Last year Märtin did some demonstration runs with Nissan Navarra in one of off road events in Estonia. So, he has already some idea what are these cars all about:-)

Bluuford, do you know what team did Markko test for that time? Was it an Overdrive Nissan? Do you have any photos from that test?
Thanks in advance!

[paddocknews]

Bluuford, do you know what team did Markko test for that time? Was it an Overdrive Nissan? Do you have any photos from that test?
Thanks in advance!

http://static.kalev.ee/apps/kalev_media/200808/455x455/30704_IMG_3479.JPG

http://www.kalev.ee/est/?news=954719&category=30&Fotod--Nissan-Klaperjaht-2008

[bluuford]

It was just a demonstration runs and some promotional runs and then some more testing runs (to better get know about the car). Here is one more picture:
http://pilt.delfi.ee/en/show_original/4304369/
But no one says which team was running the car. They are just saying that.. ".. Paris-Dakar's NISSAN Navara .."

[wwbroe]

It was just a demonstration runs and some promotional runs and then some more testing runs (to better get know about the car). Here is one more picture:
http://pilt.delfi.ee/en/show_original/4304369/
But no one says which team was running the car. They are just saying that.. ".. Paris-Dakar's NISSAN Navara .."

That looks like Overdrive Nissan to me. ;)

[bt52b]

GPWeek (http://www.gpweek.com/) is back

http://www.gpweek.com/PDF/GP037.pdf

http://www.gpweek.com/PDF/GP038.pdf

Usually some good rally news every week during the season.

[Hartusvuori]

Tommi Mäkinen tried his skills on two wheels on this weekend's classic Enduro competition 74. Päijänteen Ympäriajo ("Tour de Lake Päijänne", you could say). He however was already out of the race on Friday after fifth stage, said because his BMW bike stopped to work proper. This is Tommi in action (http://www.jxfoto.fi/2009/pic.php?id=314147), I believe, on the first spectators stage. Tommi have parted in Päijänteen Ympäriajo ("Päitsy") twice earlier.

"Päitsy" is a legendary Finnish enduro race that starts from Helsinki, turns around at Jyväskylä and heads back south. 900 kms altogether with 27 stages in wet yet snowy forests. This year the temperature is close or below zero so it's better for the stages; on years when it's warmer those stages are really, really hard.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LserBOiP95k

[Nenukknak]

CEO at PSA(Peugeot/Citroen) REPLACED:

Apparently PSA is suffering hard from the economic crisis and it was believed that the current CEO didn't do enough to soften the burden at PSA. Possible implications for WRC-involvement?

[eppel]

http://www.vgtv.no/?id=21809

Petter Solberg tests Arne Fredly´s (rich friend of Petter) Ferrari F1 from 2005..

[tmx]

Do anyone know if Prodrive will continue with Marcus on the next rally or was this a one off?

[SubaruNorway]

Do anyone know if Prodrive will continue with Marcus on the next rally or was this a one off?

It was originaly just a one off. But seeing how well it actualy went i wouldn't be surprised to see him do more rallies, Finland perhaps ;)

[SubaruNorway]

http://prodrive.com/p_releases.html?id=226

[jbmarcus21]

maybe Sardinia, Greece....

[teufel]

bring him back soon, the championship is boring without such a driver!

[Barreis]

S14 costs 470 000GBP plus FAT (70k more then S12b) and is bad car around Citroen and Ford.. Clean road and Gronholm and around fouth place is possible. But first on the road podium is possible only from Mr.Richards hellicopter..

[wrc_flipper]

M-Sport announces development of new Ford Fiesta Super 2000 rally car.

Work is due to commence soon on the car, which will be ready for homologation in January 2010.

[c4]

The Fiesta story:

http://www.rallybuzz.com/m-sport-ford-fiesta-s2000/

[JAM]

S14 costs 470 000GBP plus FAT (70k more then S12b) and is bad car around Citroen and Ford.. Clean road and Gronholm and around fouth place is possible. But first on the road podium is possible only from Mr.Richards hellicopter..

But the ideia must be rent the cars instead selling it.

Renting is a very good business to Prodrive.

[MJW]

Couple of chinks of light at the end of the tunnel of doom - the above stories about the Fiesta S2000 being ready for January 2010 and in Motorsport News today Citroen say their S2000 will be ready middle of 2010 for 'winter calendar' Citroen drivers contracts up end of 09, - (I guess an 'acceleration of the programme' would be possible, especially with the synergy with the Pugeot 207)and a strong hint that Loeb is considering a switch to endurance racing. I dont believe that S2000 is fantastic as a concept but if it brings more teams, cars, and drivers rather than 'gentlemen with fat wallets' then I am all for the move as soon as possible.

[AndyRAC]

Sounds like good news. This 'Winter calendar' is a mistake though - the thinking behind it doesn't make sense - no other major Motorsport series does it, so why now?

[Finni]

a strong hint that Loeb is considering a switch to endurance racing. .

Why would Loeb go into less noticed series? In my view F1 is the only option beside rallying and perhaps DTM.

[AndyRAC]

Why would Loeb go into less noticed series? In my view F1 is the only option beside rallying and perhaps DTM.

I'm not sure I agree with that. Every race in the ALMS is live on Motors TV, plus live radio coverage from Radio LeMans. Plus, Le Mans 24 Hours which is one of the Blue Ribands of Motorsport, the WRC isn't, well not any more. That's why I feel Petter has made a mistake in turning down the Oreca drive for Le Mans. Remember there are different classes and more Manufacturers, i;e competition!

[tmx]

Now that you mentioned it I also thought Petter could have taken up that deal and perhap gain some more experience in driving by switching to circuit racing and then go back to rallying next year. I don't know if that makes any sense though if it will make it harder for him to find a drive in rally after being distant from the sport for a while. But I used to watch ALMS and the Le Mans series all the time on speedvision or speedtv as they called it. I stopped following circuit racing when Audi began to dominate everything with their R8 and R10, still there is a more competition and manufacturers than in WRC.

[alleskids]

The FIA has it's first adition of the ranking list of all rally championships, 839 drivers.
1. Loeb, Sebastien 171,669 pts (32 ralis)
2. Hirvonen, Mikko 170,348 pts (32 ralis)
3. Solberg, Petter 158,489 pts (31 ralis)
4. Latvala, Jari-Matti 158,206 pts (32 ralis)
5. Sordo, Daniel 154,214 pts (32 ralis)
6. Solberg, Henning 153,585 pts (32 ralis)
7. Wilson, Matthew 143,145 pts (32 ralis)
8. Atkinson, Christopher 134,491 pts (29 ralis)
9. Aava, Urmo 98,788 pts (21 ralis)
10. Rautenbach, Conrad 96,472 pts (26 ralis)
11. Villagra, Federico 86,183 pts (20 ralis)
12. Andersson, Per-Gunnar 76,308 pts (20 ralis)
13. Prokop, Martin 73,355 pts (24 ralis)
14. Gardemeister, Toni 72,290 pts (18 ralis)
15. Gronholm, Marcus 67,292 pts (14 ralis)
16. Mikkelsen, Andreas 64,753 pts (15 ralis)
17. Hanninen, Juho 59,549 pts (16 ralis)
18. Al-Qassimi, Khalid 58,339 pts (17 ralis)
19. Sandell, Patrik 56,090 pts (20 ralis)
20. Ostberg, Mads 55,865 pts (13 ralis)
21. Araujo, Armindo 51,290 pts (15 ralis)
22. Duval, Francois 50,445 pts (11 ralis)
23. Stohl, Manfred 49,454 pts (13 ralis)
24. Galli, Gianluigi 44,453 pts (11 ralis)
25. Aigner, Andreas 44,029 pts (14 ralis)
26. Ogier, Sebastien 43,966 pts (12 ralis)


http://autosport.aeiou.pt/gen.pl?p=stories&op=view&fokey=as.stories/69164

[Sardalense]

The FIA has it's first adition of the ranking list of all rally championships, 839 drivers.
1. Loeb, Sebastien 171,669 pts (32 ralis)
2. Hirvonen, Mikko 170,348 pts (32 ralis)
3. Solberg, Petter 158,489 pts (31 ralis)
4. Latvala, Jari-Matti 158,206 pts (32 ralis)
5. Sordo, Daniel 154,214 pts (32 ralis)
6. Solberg, Henning 153,585 pts (32 ralis)
7. Wilson, Matthew 143,145 pts (32 ralis)
8. Atkinson, Christopher 134,491 pts (29 ralis)
9. Aava, Urmo 98,788 pts (21 ralis)
10. Rautenbach, Conrad 96,472 pts (26 ralis)
11. Villagra, Federico 86,183 pts (20 ralis)
12. Andersson, Per-Gunnar 76,308 pts (20 ralis)
13. Prokop, Martin 73,355 pts (24 ralis)
14. Gardemeister, Toni 72,290 pts (18 ralis)
15. Gronholm, Marcus 67,292 pts (14 ralis)
16. Mikkelsen, Andreas 64,753 pts (15 ralis)
17. Hanninen, Juho 59,549 pts (16 ralis)
18. Al-Qassimi, Khalid 58,339 pts (17 ralis)
19. Sandell, Patrik 56,090 pts (20 ralis)
20. Ostberg, Mads 55,865 pts (13 ralis)
21. Araujo, Armindo 51,290 pts (15 ralis)
22. Duval, Francois 50,445 pts (11 ralis)
23. Stohl, Manfred 49,454 pts (13 ralis)
24. Galli, Gianluigi 44,453 pts (11 ralis)
25. Aigner, Andreas 44,029 pts (14 ralis)
26. Ogier, Sebastien 43,966 pts (12 ralis)


http://autosport.aeiou.pt/gen.pl?p=stories&op=view&fokey=as.stories/69164

They took this list from juwra.com.


Curiosamente, o nosso colega do site http://www.juwra.com tem desde há muito um 'ranking' semelhante, obviamente de acordo com critérios próprios, que aqui apresentamos como curiosidade.

Here is the link :

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

[alleskids]

So Juwra is secretly a spy for the FIA ? :( Writing on the forum how bad the FIA is, in the mean time being a core member of the FIA :rotflmao:

[bluuford]

M-Sport announces development of new Ford Fiesta Super 2000 rally car.

Work is due to commence soon on the car, which will be ready for homologation in January 2010.
Well that says to me that 2010 season will be hopefully only S2000 and WRC not allowed anymore. It was the first sign that Ford gave to us that their car will be ready by the beginning of 2010. Maybe they understood that they cannot fight with C4 anyway.. lets just start from clean sheet. And that news came just after Portugal when they started with upgraded engine. So, they found no point to develop the ship that is meant for drowning..

[cyr]

petter test abarth with a view to participating in a few international rallies"

http://www.rally-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/090409180257.shtml

[kakus]

Quesnel want Kris Meeke for the futur (With S2000 Cars )

In French :
http://news.caradisiac.com/Rallye-WRC-Citroen-Quesnel-veut-Kris-Meeke-223

[alleskids]

The Welsh Assembly has drow back its financial participation in the organization of the Rally of Great Britain. The loss is estimated at 2.5 million euros by the organizing committee of the event is being said today "in danger". ???!!
http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/wrc/breve-26-1-542/150409-le-rallye-gb-en-danger

[Buzz Lightyear]

The Welsh Assembly has drow back its financial participation in the organization of the Rally of Great Britain. The loss is estimated at 2.5 million euros by the organizing committee of the event is being said today "in danger". ???!!
http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/wrc/breve-26-1-542/150409-le-rallye-gb-en-danger

If an rally is relying on €2.5m to run, then is obviously is top heavy with management, and doesnt deserve any help. Go find a proper sponsor.

[Barreis]

1 million $ to register to FIA WRC.. Where is other money? They must rent private property roads and pay stewards.. Clocks and stuff is from WRC..

[bowler]

1 million $ to register to FIA WRC.. .

it is not that much

[wrc_flipper]

Press release from IRC...

Conrad Rautenbach makes his Intercontinental Rally Challenge debut on Sata Rally Azores on May 7-9.

Rautenbach, who drives for the Citroen Junior Team in the FIA World Rally Championship, will compete at the wheel of a Peugeot 207 Super 2000 run by the French PH Sport operation.

[urabus-denoS2000]

PH should start ordering another 207....

[curry]

PH should start ordering another 207....

Good call!

[Helstar]

rotfl poor 207 ...

[alleskids]

Maybe he could better drive a fire brigade truck, to make sure he has enough fire extinguisers and water to put out any upcoming fires. :) For his speed it should not make any difference.

[urabus-denoS2000]

I can't imagine what's going through the mind of the poor Peugeot right now...

He must have made a cruel joke on the PH Sport boss because I don't know why should he be punished like this... :)

[N.O.T]

no rally car deserves such fate.... :( :( :( :(

[paddocknews]

Urmo Aava says that Suzuki are currently building an S2000 car for WRC

http://www.rallybuzz.com/aava-suzuki-s2000-wrc/

[pettersolberg29]

^Hopefully true...

[Gard]

the worst is that Rautencash is going to kick IRC regualars asses

[bennizw]

Not Meeke and Hanninen, but maybe Basso.

[RS]

the worst is that Rautencash is going to kick IRC regualars asses

We will see :) ...

Points could be possible, but I don't think he will get close to the top guys on speed.

[urabus-denoS2000]

but maybe Basso.


HAH!!!

Seriously,no way man ;)

[cali]

HAH!!!

Seriously,no way man ;)

On tarmac he is lightyears away from Basso...so no way :)

[Mirek]

Cali, this is gravel rally ;)

[urabus-denoS2000]

Anyway,the main point is....

No way man ;)

[wwbroe]

the worst is that Rautencash is going to kick IRC regualars asses

Dream on, he won't be on the podium, because he will crash the car way before. :D :D :D

[Helstar]

Not Meeke and Hanninen, but maybe Basso.
AHAHAHAH omg you are really funny XD

Oh, wait, that wasn't a joke ?!

[Xsara Fan]

URT team ('Uspenskiy Rally Tecnica') stop all sport`s activity. AFAIK Patrick Flodin will start in Sardinia (only if they find money) and that`s all...

[Mirek]

What is the reason? Money?

[Xsara Fan]

]What is the reason? Money?

As I know yes. Uspenskiy own`s auto dealership and for the moment it`s not a good business...

[Mirek]

That's understandable.

[bennizw]

I've never been a Conrad fan, and never will be. If he in anyway shows some speed with the 207, maybe he can gain a little more respect from my side ;)

[cali]

On tarmac he is lightyears away from Basso...so no way :)
Hi Mirek! I was thinking more generally, not just only this rally ...

[tolis]

URT team ('Uspenskiy Rally Tecnica') stop all sport`s activity. AFAIK Patrick Flodin will start in Sardinia (only if they find money) and that`s all...
So, Patrik won't contest in the other PWRC rallies this year?? :( :( :(

[Xsara Fan]

So, Patrik won't contest in the other PWRC rallies this year?? :( :( :(

As I understand no :(

[COD]

URT team ('Uspenskiy Rally Tecnica') stop all sport`s activity. AFAIK Patrick Flodin will start in Sardinia (only if they find money) and that`s all...


The Russians tend to do that, there are so many examples....

[DonJippo]

The Russians tend to do that, there are so many examples....

I also read that Novikov has lost one of his main sponsors and his WRC program after Sardinia is in jeopardy.

[ARF]

So Novikov lost his dad? That would be sad...

[Xsara Fan]

I also read that Novikov has lost one of his main sponsors and his WRC program after Sardinia is in jeopardy.

No, there is another problem with Novikov`s program. His father want other companys to help his son with money. For the moment the situation is better than (f.ex.) Aava`s but is not good than Rautenbach`s ;)

[Tom206wrc]

And no news about Chris Atkinson's future in rallying ??? :mark:

[Barreis]

No, there is another problem with Novikov`s program. His father want other companys to help his son with money. For the moment the situation is better than (f.ex.) Aava`s but is not good than Rautenbach`s ;)

This sport became total sh.. . From all this drivers only S.Loebs father didn't pay his son's drive.. That's why Seb.Loeb is the best driver of WRC..

[Xsara Fan]

This sport became total sh.. . From all this drivers only S.Loebs father didn't pay his son's drive.. That's why Seb.Loeb is the best driver of WRC..

For the moment there are only 2 factory teams with 4 drivers. All others must find money...

[Mirek]

Compared to that 7 in 3 IRC factory teams (I think) is pretty sad from WRC perspective...

[Psycho!]

Aris Vovos will compete in Acropolis with an Impreza WRC 2008!!The same as Marcus drove in Portugal I think!!

[tolis]

Aris Vovos will compete in Acropolis with an Impreza WRC 2008!!The same as Marcus drove in Portugal I think!!
Yes, fantastic news!!! :bounce: ! Yep, finally he won't take part with the Evo 9 that he had planned to do.

[GigiGalliNo1]

And no news about Chris Atkinson's future in rallying ??? :mark:

http://rally.com.au/home/latestnews/articleid=3195

[swordsman]

Sorry for posting a blog link, but I thought this could be of interest considering the rumours about Urmo Aava. For short it says that Urmo's rumours are all made up by the Estonian journalist, and that it's all bull. Too bad to the WRC, a Suzuki comeback would have been great... :S

Link: http://www.maxattack.net/2009/04/the-truth-about-the-suzuki-rumours/

[padWRC]

Aris Vovos will compete in Acropolis with an Impreza WRC 2008!!The same as Marcus drove in Portugal I think!!
WILL BE A ADAPTA CAR!

[Barreis]

Bad choice for Vovos.. I was just lookin' how many points has Latvala and how many has Rautenbach..

[Leon]

Bad choice for Vovos.. I was just lookin' how many points has Latvala and how many has Rautenbach..

Is not only a matter of choice. I quess Subaru is cheaper than the C4 and Focus, plus I' m not sure if he was happy with last years' experience with the Munchis Focus.

[urabus-denoS2000]

I agree with Leon,I think a top-spec S14 from Prodrive is better then a second class Focus or C4

[Barreis]

Probablly you are right.. Guy has 30 race horses so he can choose..

[DonJippo]

No Russia, Indonesia and probably no Monte Carlo in WRC 2010 calendar.
http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wmsc/2009/Pages/wmsc_290409a.aspx

[AndyRAC]

No Russia, Indonesia and probably no Monte Carlo in WRC 2010 calendar.
http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wmsc/2009/Pages/wmsc_290409a.aspx

Sorry if I upset anyone, but Russia and Indonesia are not a loss. Monte is though - how on earth have the WRC managed to lose it?

[MJW]

But there is a very positive report in Autosport published today, basically it says that ISC have woken up to what rally fans have been saying for years. Rallying (at WRC level) needs to return to its roots where amatuer drivers, who may have saved and spent their own money can enter and driove the same rallies as the works drivers, where rally routes are not cloverleaf and can include a 'night away from base' remote servicing, and that rallies should have their own identity and dont try and mimick the 'paddock with a service park' If only the suits had listened at the time and not wake up a smell the coffee now. My fear is that whilst all this sounds good, is it too late?
Also says that whilst ISC are sad to loose Monte from 2010 WRC calendar they will make every effort to get it back in 2011 when the "new" wrc is launched. I have to laugh when 'new is used to refer to non cloverleaf, night time rallying'

[RS]

But there is a very positive report in Autosport published today, basically it says that ISC have woken up to what rally fans have been saying for years. Rallying (at WRC level) needs to return to its roots where amatuer drivers, who may have saved and spent their own money can enter and driove the same rallies as the works drivers, where rally routes are not cloverleaf and can include a 'night away from base' remote servicing, and that rallies should have their own identity and dont try and mimick the 'paddock with a service park' If only the suits had listened at the time and not wake up a smell the coffee now. My fear is that whilst all this sounds good, is it too late?
Also says that whilst ISC are sad to loose Monte from 2010 WRC calendar they will make every effort to get it back in 2011 when the "new" wrc is launched. I have to laugh when 'new is used to refer to non cloverleaf, night time rallying'

This is all good stuff, but my concern is that they are being "reactive" to the crisis they have found themselves in by now listening to the opinions of others rather than "proactive" and actually having reached this point through their own vision. Anyone understand what I'm saying?

[MikeD]

2 questions:

1.) Will Mikkelsens Skoda be one of Kongsruds?

2.) Does anybody know who will run Lorenzo's Impreza WRC? Aimont Racing?

[Rallyper]

But there is a very positive report in Autosport published today, basically it says that ISC have woken up to what rally fans have been saying for years. Rallying (at WRC level) needs to return to its roots where amatuer drivers, who may have saved and spent their own money can enter and driove the same rallies as the works drivers, where rally routes are not cloverleaf and can include a 'night away from base' remote servicing, and that rallies should have their own identity and dont try and mimick the 'paddock with a service park' If only the suits had listened at the time and not wake up a smell the coffee now. My fear is that whilst all this sounds good, is it too late?
Also says that whilst ISC are sad to loose Monte from 2010 WRC calendar they will make every effort to get it back in 2011 when the "new" wrc is launched. I have to laugh when 'new is used to refer to non cloverleaf, night time rallying'

Just like in Sweden where a more private and local but anyway national series of rally championship has made a good progress with a lot more participants than the official swedish championship developed during the last years. The series called Supercup has used a traditional way of rallies far from todays more PR related events.

[VFTS]

2 questions:

1.) Will Mikkelsens Skoda be one of Kongsruds?

2.) Does anybody know who will run Lorenzo's Impreza WRC? Aimont Racing?


Mikkelsen will not start in Sardinia even he is on the entrylist.

[pettersolberg29]

Why?

[ste898]

Sorry if I upset anyone, but Russia and Indonesia are not a loss. Monte is though - how on earth have the WRC managed to lose it?


TRUE.....Russia and Indonesia are not a loss from WRC

But why would Monte want to come back after they were able to run a proper rally in 2009 with a thing called night stages!!!! (they are a stage run when the sky goes black).........remember them?

[Rally Power]

No Russia, Indonesia and probably no Monte Carlo in WRC 2010 calendar.
http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wmsc/2009/Pages/wmsc_290409a.aspx

Why not profit the reduce number of rallies for 2010 (for now only 9, but who knows how many more will run off) in order to anticipate the introduction of the winter calendar and S2000 ???

Will the sport benefit with one more year of Citroën’s and Loeb’s bothersome domination ???

Wake up Mr. Mosley !!!
It's urgent to get more manufactures and top drivers into WRC !!!

[AndyRAC]

Why not profit the reduce number of rallies for 2010 (for now only 9, but who knows how many more will run off) in order to anticipate the introduction of the winter calendar and S2000 ???

Will the sport benefit with one more year of Citroën’s and Loeb’s bothersome domination ???

Wake up Mr. Mosley !!!
It's urgent to get more manufactures and top drivers into WRC !!!

No winter calendar - it's been knocked on the head - ISC asked all the major broadcasters who weren't keen. Citroen & Ford aren't happy - I don't know why - it was a stupid idea.

[Brother John]

No winter calendar - it's been knocked on the head - ISC asked all the major broadcasters who weren't keen. Citroen & Ford aren't happy - I don't know why - it was a stupid idea.

We have only 3 teams and maybe they are the problem for the current WRC problems. F.I.A, Ford and Citroën, which are the 3 teams which want a
"paddock with a service park" like the F1.
To all Drivers move to IRC and leaves these 3 teams, let them burst with their idiot ideas. ;)

[JRodrigues]

Solberg out of Sardinia?? No explanations given..

http://www.abola.pt/nnh/ver.aspx?id=163751

[MJW]

According to Norwegian media Petter says he has entered Sardinia but not stated what car he will use. Also as a private entrant he can wait to May 11th to enter. I think the entry list published last week may make people assume that Petter wont be at Sardinia. It may ofcourse be correct that he is not entered........

[Psycho!]

A new car on cards??Hopefully...

[muscrae]

Mikkelsen will not start in Sardinia even he is on the entrylist.

Why?

[Barreis]

What they are waiting for in ford? Why they don't replace Latvala with P.Solberg? Or Latvala's dad payed extra money..

[pettersolberg29]

Meanwhile, Andreas Mikkelsen will not be starting Rally d'Italia - Sardegna even though he appears on the entry list in a Skoda Fabia WRC, according to norsk-rally.com.

[Donney]

After his good results probably Solberg is trying to get his hand on something more modern than his current Xsara. I hope he does.

As suggested before maybe Ford should take a look onto this matter, maybe building and all Solberg Stobart team.

[Gard]

After his good results probably Solberg is trying to get his hand on something more modern than his current Xsara. I hope he does.

As suggested before maybe Ford should take a look onto this matter, maybe building and all Solberg Stobart team.

Those who say they know what they are talking about :p : say that putting those two in the same team is not a good idea. They are almost ready to start ww3 over a Playstation game ;)

[Rallyper]

After his good results probably Solberg is trying to get his hand on something more modern than his current Xsara. I hope he does.

As suggested before maybe Ford should take a look onto this matter, maybe building and all Solberg Stobart team.

Petter could easy take Ogiers place or why not spare another car swapping Rautenbach?? ;)

[Racing Ka]

JML is going to drive a Escort on Lahti european historic rally championship event.

[Xsara Fan]

Petter could easy take Ogiers place or why not spare another car swapping Rautenbach?? ;)

Raut bought his own place in CJT.
Ogier has strong links with Citroen and CitRacing will try to made a 'new Loeb' from him.

[MJW]

Raut bought his own place in CJT.
Ogier has strong links with Citroen and CitRacing will try to made a 'new Loeb' from him.
Yes but Ogier's programme was for the first 6 rounds and then it would be reviewed. I think Ogier has had the most difficult events in the WRC for him, many of these rallies he had not seen in his JWRC year. Now whilst I am admittedly a fan of Ogier and do believe in his ability, maybe a step away from the top, maybe in a Pug 207 or selected i.e. strong events for him would do him more good than harm. Also we have to remember that Chris was hoping to do more rallies in teh Citroen, and Citroen were hopeful of that, at present that seems unlikely so maybe there is a C4 waiting...........it would look good in Johs Lunde colours. photoshop and time on your hands anyone?

[Camelopard]

Petter could easy take Ogiers place or why not spare another car swapping Rautenbach?? ;)

Surely Citroen could use some of their share of the 6 Billion Euro bailout from the French tax payers to fund a top spec car for Petter. :)

[serial jeff]

Also we have to remember that Chris was hoping to do more rallies in teh Citroen, and Citroen were hopeful of that

Yeah I'm disappointed that Chris only drove the one rally. Seriously, he got more points from that one rally than Sebastien Ogier got from the first four. And he's still ahead of the other two Citroen Junior drivers.

So I don't understand why he hasn't driven with them again.

[Gard]

Yeah I'm disappointed that Chris only drove the one rally. Seriously, he got more points from that one rally than Sebastien Ogier got from the first four. And he's still ahead of the other two Citroen Junior drivers.

So I don't understand why he hasn't driven with them again.

Chris doesn't have €180.000 for each rally. This is what Citroen demands for running another car

[Xsara Fan]

Chris doesn't have €180.000 for each rally. This is what Citroen demands for running another car

You arу not completely right. They want from €140.000 to €220.000 :)

[MJW]

You arу not completely right. They want from €140.000 to €220.000 :)
Depending on the rally or who you are? Surely Citroen costs for going to Rally Spain are less than Argentina so in theory the cost per event should be less.

[VFTS]

I heard that Stobart and Munchis want 100.00Euro for an WRC-event in Europe.

[MJW]

I heard that Stobart and Munchis want 100.00Euro for an WRC-event in Europe. Thats 'ball park figures' Prodrive want €120k for the S14, unless your name is Marcus, when the finances flow the other way

[Barreis]

There are some hungry children in Africa and this money is wasted for this ***t.. Horrific..

[Gard]

There are some hungry children in Africa and this money is wasted for this ***t.. Horrific..

Tell that to the people that earns this money to feed their famiiy and paying their morgages.

[Xsara Fan]

Depending on the rally or who you are? Surely Citroen costs for going to Rally Spain are less than Argentina so in theory the cost per event should be less.

Depending on rally.

[Woodeye]

JML is going to drive a Escort on Lahti european historic rally championship event.

Poor Escort. I wonder how much it costs in € and in hours to fix one historic Escort after crash.


There are some hungry children in Africa and this money is wasted for this ***t.. Horrific..

It's awful that people die in hunger, but you really cannot blame sport for that. If ending all sports would be the solution for this problem, sport would've been banned ages ago.

If you want to do something against the hunger, start from here example. http://www.unicef.org/

[ProRally]

Chris Atkinson will drive 0 car in Rally Queensland this weekend.

[Barreis]

I'm in program of UNICEF. And I'm not Warmbold..

[bluuford]

There is a rumour in Estonian press that NORF will be included in 2010 calendar instead of Russia or Indonesia. At the moment it just seems to be the idea of the journalist :-)

And like I said before.. there is no point to give food or money to Africa. Give them education or/and for example sporting Idols like Loeb or Grönholm in Rally etc. Then they have the motivation. Giving just pure money or food increases the problem. More food, more money, more time for making children=need for more money and food.
Educatio+motivation (idols)=less time for thinking about new children=more money left=more money for education=less children in hunger.

[Camelopard]

There are some hungry children in Africa and this money is wasted for this ***t.. Horrific..

Be careful, conrad's dad has very very close ties with mugabe and he can get you wherever you are! :)

[Barreis]

Bluuford, You're cool as VK!!! :)

[DonJippo]

There is a rumour in Estonian press that NORF will be included in 2010 calendar instead of Russia or Indonesia. At the moment it just seems to be the idea of the journalist :-)

Russia and Indonesia were dropped from 2010 calendar so there needs to be two new events on it if they keep 12 rounds calendar so I guess NORF is as good as any other candidate to replace those dropped ones.

[bluuford]

Well Russia was planned 18th of July, very close to the normal slot of NORF. next round is Bulgaria 8th of August. distance from Findland to Bulgaria is approximately 2500km. So, nothing too bad. maybe good Idea would be Australia just after New Zealand (2 weeks in between to allow ships reach from NZ to Australia strating near 30th of May and then summer vocation until the end of July:-)

[Psycho!]

Or Acropolis before Bulgaria!!!

[bluuford]

Or Acropolis before Bulgaria!!!
Yeah, why not, NORF somewhere near to the midsummer day and and Acropolis just one week before Bulgaria. Then it will be one hell of a hot Acropolis :-) Anyway, it will be only one night trip from Acropolis to Bulgaria. Lets say, they pack their stuff of Sunday afternoon, then trucks are driving overnight and on Monday morning they can already start to prepare their cars for Bulgaria. Two and half full days should be enough for the teams. And that sound quite cost effective as well (if they don't destroy their cars in Greece). Bulgaria was tarmac? So, then they should agree that they must convert the same cars in tarmac spec if the car is not destroyed in Greece ;)

[pettersolberg29]

Rumours in a UK paper - Motorsport News - say Petter is looking to drive a Pug 307 in Sardinia. Apparently the whale deals fsar better with hot temperatures, and Citroen are not giving him the parts he wants as he could challenge the full team.

[Brother John]

Russia and Indonesia were dropped from 2010 calendar so there needs to be two new events on it if they keep 12 rounds calendar so I guess NORF is as good as any other candidate to replace those dropped ones.

We need NORF to have a meeting and to have fun like always. :s mokin:

[muscrae]

Rumours in a UK paper - Motorsport News - say Petter is looking to drive a Pug 307 in Sardinia. Apparently the whale deals fsar better with hot temperatures, and Citroen are not giving him the parts he wants as he could challenge the full team.

Intresting. See what happens :rolleyes:

[Donney]

A whale??? Are those still around? And are they any good? I'm surprised but for sure he knows better.

Good luck anyway!

[bluuford]

Well As far as I know there are quite many new parts homologated for the whale and it should be as good as Xsara. Tom206 would be happy :-) Ask him, he knows more about whale.

[MJW]

Rumours in a UK paper - Motorsport News - say Petter is looking to drive a Pug 307 in Sardinia. Apparently the whale deals fsar better with hot temperatures, and Citroen are not giving him the parts he wants as he could challenge the full team.
Also says that Citroen have denied him the mechanical diffs, 2006 intercooler and better engine cooling, reading that in conjunction with the story that Loeb is about to commit to a two year extension of his Citroen deal makes me think its extremely unlikely that Petter gets a factory Citroen drive in 2010. Maybe an opening at Ford, or self funded until these (yet to commit) manufactureres join, and if S2000 doesnt come in til 2011 that leaves 2010 with Loeb / Sordo, Hirvonen / Latvala championship.

[MJW]

more here.
http://209.85.227.132/translate_c?hl=en&sl=no&u=http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php%3Fartid%3D562888&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dnorsk%2Brally%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfi refox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB :o fficial%26hs%3DAZQ&usg=ALkJrhibEbvJTU0vtlrxoallb9PS35YKig

[Saabaru]

Rumours in a UK paper - Motorsport News - say Petter is looking to drive a Pug 307 in Sardinia. Apparently the whale deals fsar better with hot temperatures, and Citroen are not giving him the parts he wants as he could challenge the full team.

This is the best decision Petter has made in a long time. Citroen and Ford aren't going to give hem the parts or the power to beat there own team(ford would be better though), he should have known this. He should have been in a EVO or 307 from the beginning of the season.

[Psycho!]

307 has a great and powerful engine,but I am a little afraid for reliability issues...But, lets think positive, cause Petter won't have any restrictions.Good luck to him!!!

[alleskids]

It is already mentioned that the next generation S2000 cars should have a 1600cc turbo engine. It was planned for 2013, but the World Council ooks like to decide in june, appart from the 2010 calandre, that the 1600 cc turbo will be introduced from 2011, when the WRcars will be banned and the FIA makes a complete new start of the rally area. So all already devellop S2000 cars have to be re enigineerd to a S1600 turbo?

[Halvis]

This is the best decision Petter has made in a long time. Citroen and Ford aren't going to give hem the parts or the power to beat there own team(ford would be better though), he should have known this. He should have been in a EVO or 307 from the beginning of the season.

Well, it is good that this is posted in the Rumours thread, as I have just read on both the major TV-stations Text-TV that Petter will have a new Xsara, a genuine 2006-model for the next rally.

Appearently, he was "threatening" to change make if he didn't get the newest possible car from Citroen.

No confirmation on his webpage, but this seems very reliable!

[Blitzerflitzer]

a new Xsara, a genuine 2006-model

Here it is:

Petter Solberg fikk ny bil (http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php?artid=562888)

Petter Solberg had a new car (http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=de&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vg.no%2Fsport%2Fmotor%2Fartikke l.php%3Fartid%3D562888&sl=no&tl=en&history_state0=)

and here (http://74.125.43.132/translate_c?hl=de&ie=UTF-8&sl=no&tl=en&u=http://msn.tv2sporten.no/ovrig/article2714509.ece&prev=_t&usg=ALkJrhhNPRJ1ZyfWc7o699YkbRRSe7AAeQ)

[alleskids]

And what extra performance does the new Xsara have? the 2005 car Petter had was the latest develloped model of the Xsara as I understood.
Is it know which car manufacturer he will meet tomorrow?

[Psycho!]

Well, it is good that this is posted in the Rumours thread, as I have just read on both the major TV-stations Text-TV that Petter will have a new Xsara, a genuine 2006-model for the next rally.

Appearently, he was "threatening" to change make if he didn't get the newest possible car from Citroen.

No confirmation on his webpage, but this seems very reliable!
Not only that!On motorsport.no he says that if his car still doesn't work he will switch to another in Acropolis.Also,he told that had a word with Ford as well...!!! :)

[tolis]

Burcu Cetinkaya will compete in 4 rounds of WRC (Poland,Finland,Spain,GB) with the new Fiesta R2.

[muscrae]

Burcu Cetinkaya will compete in 4 rounds of WRC (Poland,Finland,Spain,GB) with the new Fiesta R2.

Great News... :) Burcu really deserves that :)

[bluuford]

There is a rumor that Robert Kubica has bought Skoda Fabia WRC. It is not yet know what are his plans with it. Possibly rally Poland? But there will be some difficulties as he is working for BMW but Skoda belongs to VW group :-)

[I am evil Homer]

Not only that!On motorsport.no he says that if his car still doesn't work he will switch to another in Acropolis.Also,he told that had a word with Ford as well...!!! :)

Ford won't give him a latest spec car either so i'm not sure what he hopes to achieve with that.

[COD]

Burcu Cetinkaya will compete in 4 rounds of WRC (Poland,Finland,Spain,GB) with the new Fiesta R2.


As I have heard, the new Fiesta will be homologated beginning of July, so how can she do Poland with the car??

Otherwise allways a pleasure to see a fast nice looking girls in rallies...

[Mirek]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2009/news/fiesta_r2.jpg

[bennizw]

Even wrc.com have written about Solberg considering a switch to the 307.

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=4783&desc=Solberg%20ponders%20switch%20to%20307

But as it seems now, Petter is going to get the parts he wants for the Xsara.

[Tom206wrc]

Solberg in a whale would look great to my mind :bounce: :D

[Brother John]

It is already mentioned that the next generation S2000 cars should have a 1600cc turbo engine. It was planned for 2013, but the World Council ooks like to decide in june, appart from the 2010 calandre, that the 1600 cc turbo will be introduced from 2011, when the WRcars will be banned and the FIA makes a complete new start of the rally area. So all already devellop S2000 cars have to be re enigineerd to a S1600 turbo?

Not the next generation S2000 cars but the next generation WRC cars! :dozey:

[Saabaru]

Pougeot should support Solberg switching to a 307, he could put them on top of the podium again!

[Bazza2541]

Pougeot should support Solberg switching to a 307, he could put them on top of the podium again!


Ha ha ha ha ha ha (breath) ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha !!!!!!!
Brilliant, just brilliant. Best joke I have heard in ages.

[pettersolberg29]

Why?

[HaCo]

1. Pug is old car
2. Pug = PSA = Citroen, so if Citroen doesn't support Solb, why would Pug do that?
3. Solberg is quick, but to get on the first spot with old car would be miraculous... :)

[Mirek]

HaCo: I don't think that Peugeot 307 spec. 06 is worse than Xsara spec. 05. 307 06 was pretty succesfull car with Stohl and Henning. Both made their best results with it ;)

[MJW]

car would not necessarily be from Peugeot (Olivier Quensel) but sourced from a satellite team e.g Bozian. Also remember that FX engineered the 307, and like a few cars before (Ford Escort Mk2 stopped being a factory car in 1979, and had some notable successes with Ari, after that and to a lesser extent with the Corolla WRC in 2000 with Markko) the 307 evolved into a better car after it ended its 'factory team' life. The engines of the 307 are built by Pipo abd are very strong. There is no reason why a PSWRT 307 wouldnt challenge for a podium. Quensel / Loeb combination wont give Petter any chance of upseting the corporate goal of PSA.

[Bazza2541]

The engines of the 307 are built by Pipo abd are very strong. There is no reason why a PSWRT 307 wouldnt challenge for a podium. Quensel / Loeb combination wont give Petter any chance of upseting the corporate goal of PSA.

Excellent joke. On his very very best day Solberg is not worthy of doing up Loebs belts. I'd bet big money that Loeb doesn't ly awake at night worrying about Petter beating him. ;)

[ste898]

Solberg in a whale would look great to my mind :bounce: :D

I bet that would be a dream come true for you Tom?

[MJW]

Excellent joke. On his very very best day Solberg is not worthy of doing up Loebs belts. I'd bet big money that Loeb doesn't ly awake at night worrying about Petter beating him. ;)
So why did Loeb veto Petter getting a C4 earlier this year, and Quensel had to be persuaded by his bosses to let Petter get the Xsara?

[Bazza2541]

So why did Loeb veto Petter getting a C4 earlier this year, and Quensel had to be persuaded by his bosses to let Petter get the Xsara?
If what you say is true, maybe Loeb was afraid of Solberg embarassing Citroen? Maybe he was worried that Solberg couldn't afford it? But this is the first time I have heard that Loeb stopped Solberg getting the car.
As for the other question, Citroen don't sell to privateers.

[kakus]

As for the other question, Citroen don't sell to privateers.

Exactly and he wanted to buy

[pettersolberg29]

Bazza - what you got against Petter? No-one is saying he'll beat Loeb in any car but he can challenge for podiums already. Arguably he's better than JML and Sordo, even in worse machinery.

I think if Petter had a top spec Ford or C4 then it would be a 3 horse-race for WDC with Mikko and Seb.

[Bazza2541]

Bazza - what you got against Petter? No-one is saying he'll beat Loeb in any car but he can challenge for podiums already. Arguably he's better than JML and Sordo, even in worse machinery.

I think if Petter had a top spec Ford or C4 then it would be a 3 horse-race for WDC with Mikko and Seb.

I have nothing against Petter, I am sure he is a very nice man. I do have problems with the delusions of some of the people on here who at different times since the start of this season have stated that Petter will win every rally, get Loebs seat, get Hirvonens seat, get Latvalas seat, drive for Citroen, drive for Ford, start his own team with Henning, drive for Stobart, drive an EVO, drive a Subaru, beat Loebs C4 with a Xsara and now challenge Loeb in a 306. Every post seems to start with 'IF', well 'IF' your Auntie had balls she'd be your Uncle.

[cut the b.s.]

I have nothing against Petter, I am sure he is a very nice man. I do have problems with the delusions of some of the people on here who at different times since the start of this season have stated that Petter will win every rally, get Loebs seat, get Hirvonens seat, get Latvalas seat, drive for Citroen, drive for Ford, start his own team with Henning, drive for Stobart, drive an EVO, drive a Subaru, beat Loebs C4 with a Xsara and now challenge Loeb in a 306. Every post seems to start with 'IF', well 'IF' your Auntie had balls she'd be your Uncle.

and if you had balls? ;)

[Bazza2541]

and if you had balls? ;)

I'd be doing your Ma, oh wait I am. ;)

[serial jeff]

So why did Loeb veto Petter getting a C4 earlier this year, and Quensel had to be persuaded by his bosses to let Petter get the Xsara?

Where did this information come from? I hadn't heard of it, and it would surprise me very much if it was true.

Anyway, I don't think its a delusion to consider Petter to be a fast driver. He and Marcus are the only drivers that can beat Loeb. It could be that things have changed in the several years that Subaru was making crappy cars, but they were always very close in 2004 and 2005. But almost every 2006 rally ended with some unexpected mechanical failure for Petter, though up until then he was usually setting some solid times.

Loeb is undoubtedly an awesome driver. But the bigger reason for his current dominance is that there's no one left who can challenge him. Mikko was never as fast as Marcus, but became Ford's principal driver due to Marcus's retirement. It even looked like Marcus was going to get the title in 2007 until the last few rallies.

[Bazza2541]

I never said he wasn't a fast driver. He is not in the same league as Loeb. Five or six years ago when Loeb was still learning yes maybe Solberg was able to beat him, now Loeb is the defination of a champion and there is noone, not even Marcus, who can touch him.

[serial jeff]

Loeb wasn't just learning five or six years ago. They've basically had the same timeline. Both were born in 1974, Petter started in '98 while Loeb started in '99, and both got their first victory in 2002. Petter then won the championship in 2003 and Sebastien won in 2004, then the Subarus went bad and that's the story ever since.

edit: That said, I don't think even in a C4 he could consistently beat Loeb. I suspect, though, that he'd be very close and probably get a couple wins in a season.

[Bazza2541]

Loeb started in 2001, not 98. Solberg has 142 rally starts compared to Loebs 118. Loeb has 52 wins compared to Solbergs 13. That tells the story right there.

[urabus-denoS2000]

Loeb started in 2001, not 98. Solberg has 142 rally starts compared to Loebs 118. Loeb has 52 wins compared to Solbergs 13. That tells the story right there.

;)

Finally someone who understands

[Josti]

Loeb started in 2001, not 98. Solberg has 142 rally starts compared to Loebs 118. Loeb has 52 wins compared to Solbergs 13. That tells the story right there.

Actually, Loeb started doing rally´s I think around 1995, while Solberg debuted in 1996. WRC wise, 2001 is wrong, Loeb started in 1999 as serial jeff said and his first World Rally Car experience came in 2000, followed by a works seat the next year, while he was already in the Citroën project for some time, which for years is basically a team build around him.

Solberg might have been competing at high level longer, but he started out when WRC was in a more competitive state. He was a good match for Loeb from 2002-05, but 2006 onwards needs no explanation if you know the facts.

Anyway, statistics don´t say everything. But had Subaru stayed competitive, the numbers surely would have been tweaked a bit different.

[Bazza2541]

Actually, Loeb started doing rally´s I think around 1995, while Solberg debuted in 1996. WRC wise, 2001 is wrong, Loeb started in 1999 as serial jeff said and his first World Rally Car experience came in 2000, followed by a works seat the next year, while he was already in the Citroën project for some time, which for years is basically a team build around him.

Solberg might have been competing at high level longer, but he started out when WRC was in a more competitive state. He was a good match for Loeb from 2002-05, but 2006 onwards needs no explanation if you know the facts.

Anyway, statistics don´t say everything. But had Subaru stayed competitive, the numbers surely would have been tweaked a bit different.

Loeb first started rallying in 1995, Solberg first started in 1991. Loeb entered S1600 in 98 and WRC in 01. Solberg entered WRC in 98, hence the difference in WRC starts.

[bennizw]

Petter didn't start rallying before in 1996. In 1992 - 96 he did rallycross, bangerracing and hillclimbing.

[Halvis]

Loeb first started rallying in 1995, Solberg first started in 1991. Loeb entered S1600 in 98 and WRC in 01. Solberg entered WRC in 98, hence the difference in WRC starts.

Well, the experience is pretty equal I would say, and if you consider all the rallies where Petter have been forced to quit due to mechanical problems I think Seb has driven more mileage than Petter!

Also, there's no doubt that Seb is very, very fast and without a doubt the most consistent driver WRC has seen, but I don't think that he is so invincible that you are claiming. If you go back a few years, everyone knows that Petter won in 2003, but as many might not remember, he was clearly the fastest driver also in 2004, with 95 SS victories, while Seb had 65 (Marcus had 69 BTW). The reason why Petter didn't win overall, was due to the unreliability of the Impreza, amongst many problems, it was the year of the watersplash problems, where the car stopped when crossing water several times. Then from 2005 on, the Impreza got even worse.

Marcus has always been on par with Seb (on gravel that is) also, but the years in the 307 took away his chance for another win. In 2006, when he swapped to Ford, he was just as fast as Seb (123 SS wins, Seb 86 - Seb was out the last rallies that year). His last season, he lead most of the year and should have won, just the error with the thickness of the rear side windows in Portugal where he got 5 min. penalty and a stupid spin in Irland took away his title.

Another factor is of course also the car, there's no doubt that Seb has had the best car from 2004 and up to now, especially invincible on tarmac - which have been the decisive factor on the years where there have been close fights for the title.

Don't misunderstand me, Seb will go into history as the most winning driver ever and one of the greatest, but in my opinion there is a combination of several factors that has made his success, not only driving skills.

[Iskald]

Petter didn't start rallying before in 1996. In 1992 - 96 he did rallycross, bangerracing and hillclimbing.

Partly correct. He did very little bangerracing (bilcross) in this period, no more than a handful of races. Petter debuted in hillclimb with a Ford Escort RS2000 MK2 in april 1993. He did a couple of seasons hillclimb and rallycross in this car, and then he advanced to a Supernational Volvo 242 for 1995.With the Volvo he won the Norwegian Rallycross and Hillclimb championships both in 95 and 96. (A couple of years ago he actually bought his Volvo back from another driver, and he has now restored it to mint condition.)

Petters first proper rally was Rally Hedmarken september 1996. For this rally he borrowed a Toyota Celica GT4 (ST165) from his brother Henning, and famously he managed to roll heavily and damage the car extensively. Btw. well documented by an inboard camera in his car.

He and Henning formed a team for 1997 with identical Celica 4WDs (ST185), but lost out to Birger Gundersen (Ford Escort Cosworth) in the championship. In 1998 Petter and Henning "upgraded" to the Celica GT4 (ST205), and Petter won the championship. This is actually his first and only Norwegian Rally Championship title to date. The rest of the story is well known, as he joined Ford M-Sport as their 3rd driver in Sweden 1999.

[cali]

Well, the experience is pretty equal I would say, and if you consider all the rallies where Petter have been forced to quit due to mechanical problems I think Seb has driven more mileage than Petter!

Also, there's no doubt that Seb is very, very fast and without a doubt the most consistent driver WRC has seen, but I don't think that he is so invincible that you are claiming. If you go back a few years, everyone knows that Petter won in 2003, but as many might not remember, he was clearly the fastest driver also in 2004, with 95 SS victories, while Seb had 65 (Marcus had 69 BTW). The reason why Petter didn't win overall, was due to the unreliability of the Impreza, amongst many problems, it was the year of the watersplash problems, where the car stopped when crossing water several times. Then from 2005 on, the Impreza got even worse.

Marcus has always been on par with Seb (on gravel that is) also, but the years in the 307 took away his chance for another win. In 2006, when he swapped to Ford, he was just as fast as Seb (123 SS wins, Seb 86 - Seb was out the last rallies that year). His last season, he lead most of the year and should have won, just the error with the thickness of the rear side windows in Portugal where he got 5 min. penalty and a stupid spin in Irland took away his title.

Another factor is of course also the car, there's no doubt that Seb has had the best car from 2004 and up to now, especially invincible on tarmac - which have been the decisive factor on the years where there have been close fights for the title.

Don't misunderstand me, Seb will go into history as the most winning driver ever and one of the greatest, but in my opinion there is a combination of several factors that has made his success, not only driving skills.
Yeah, but 2003 Märtin was clearly the fastest driver but struggled with the reliability of new Focus. In my opinion Petter scored certainly a lucky championship title to himself. Also Seb was very-very close to him on points, only backed off by Citroen team at the Wales GB rally to secure manu title. I know that norwegians are very proud and nice people, but i have been argueing about sports with many norwegian before and honestly - you guys never admit that some non-norwegians could be better.
But just by looking purely statistics, then Seb is in a class of his own. Most of all, he came to WRC as a tarmac specialist who got into grips with gravel in very short time. Petter has never managed to do that (never been good on tarmac, his only win came with the help of conditions and tyre strategy). Yes, Seb has been driving for only one very successful team and been there clear no. 1 driver with all the benefits. But nobody has dominated this sport like he has. Petter is just a good driver like Hirvonen, Märtin, Burns (too many to mention), but that's it.

[N.O.T]

Most of all, he came to WRC as a tarmac specialist who got into grips with gravel in very short time.

Mr Loeb was gravel rally champion in France.....

[cali]

Mr Loeb was gravel rally champion in France.....
But not very good in gravel compared to the old guys in WRC

[Rallyper]

Loeb wasn't just learning five or six years ago. They've basically had the same timeline. Both were born in 1974, Petter started in '98 while Loeb started in '99, and both got their first victory in 2002. Petter then won the championship in 2003 and Sebastien won in 2004, then the Subarus went bad and that's the story ever since.

edit: That said, I don't think even in a C4 he could consistently beat Loeb. I suspect, though, that he'd be very close and probably get a couple wins in a season.

Jepp, that´s the way it is! Maybe Petter is a bit better than you´d expect even today. ;)

[Barreis]

http://www.nic.fi/~globe1/rally/paradise/stat/prof_loeb_sebastien.htm

http://www.nic.fi/~globe1/rally/paradise/stat/prof_solberg_petter.htm

[Halvis]

Yeah, but 2003 Märtin was clearly the fastest driver but struggled with the reliability of new Focus. In my opinion Petter scored certainly a lucky championship title to himself. Also Seb was very-very close to him on points, only backed off by Citroen team at the Wales GB rally to secure manu title. I know that norwegians are very proud and nice people, but i have been argueing about sports with many norwegian before and honestly - you guys never admit that some non-norwegians could be better.
But just by looking purely statistics, then Seb is in a class of his own. Most of all, he came to WRC as a tarmac specialist who got into grips with gravel in very short time. Petter has never managed to do that (never been good on tarmac, his only win came with the help of conditions and tyre strategy). Yes, Seb has been driving for only one very successful team and been there clear no. 1 driver with all the benefits. But nobody has dominated this sport like he has. Petter is just a good driver like Hirvonen, Märtin, Burns (too many to mention), but that's it.

And were have I said anything else than that Seb is one of the greatest? The statistics is overwhelming, especially his consistency is somewhat special.

I have not said that Petter (or Marcus) is better either, I've just said that from different reasons, Seb hasn't been challenged as much as he could have been. I still believe that with equal machinery, the statistics would have been quite different - I think both Petter and Marcus (as he showed in his last year) could have snatched a title or two.

This is pure speculation of course, but I don't think that there are many followers of WRC that doesn't believe that the Citroens have been better than certainly the Subaru the last years, and also the Ford. Do you disagree?

Actually, I think that Petters pace in the old Xsara is a clear proof of how superiour machinery Seb has had vs. Petter since 2005!

[OldF]

It is already mentioned that the next generation S2000 cars should have a 1600cc turbo engine. It was planned for 2013, but the World Council ooks like to decide in june, appart from the 2010 calandre, that the 1600 cc turbo will be introduced from 2011, when the WRcars will be banned and the FIA makes a complete new start of the rally area. So all already devellop S2000 cars have to be re enigineerd to a S1600 turbo?

A 1600 turbo engine would have higher torque compared to NA S2000 but as long there’s a restrictor the cars will still be low rev boring sounded engines. Boost limit without a restrictor would be better.

[ste898]

Where did this information come from? I hadn't heard of it, and it would surprise me very much if it was true.

I think its just Bazza talking out of the hole in his arse like many of his posts on here!!!!

[Bazza2541]

I think its just Bazza talking out of the hole in his arse like many of his posts on here!!!!

I didn't post it. I don't know where the OP got it as it was news to me too. As for talking out of your hole, well you are an authority.

[Daniel]

Now now ladies!

[bluuford]

A 1600 turbo engine would have higher torque compared to NA S2000 but as long there’s a restrictor the cars will still be low rev boring sounded engines. Boost limit without a restrictor would be better.
Yes, but if you compare current 2000 turbo engine and 1600 turbo engine then the later one should sound better. The restrictor must have much bigger air intake to reach to the same level of power. And i think that most car makes have already 1600 turbo engine, which is very positive side of the rule. That means, they are developing their main product not something from zero that is just meant for WRC.

[alleskids]

Gigi Galli and Petter Solberg will be present in Germany during a demonstration event of the American SCORE series, well known of the Baja 5000/1000. Armin Schwarz has been hooked up by the pick up/buggy and has organized this event in Lauzitz (East Germany)24/25 july.

http://www.marathonrally.com/news/12262.0.html

[Bazza2541]

How many car companies have 1.6 turbo'd engines?

[Mirek]

Much more than 2.0 turbo. Almost every big car concern has 1.6 or 1.8 turbo (PSA, GM, BMW, VW, Fiat...).

[RS]

the worst is that Rautencash is going to kick IRC regualars asses

Perhaps you might like to go and take a look at the stage times of Ralllye Azores and reconsider your opinion....

[urabus-denoS2000]

Perhaps you might like to go and take a look at the stage times of Ralllye Azores and reconsider your opinion....

;)

[SubaruNorway]

]Much more than 2.0 turbo. Almost every big car concern has 1.6 or 1.8 turbo (PSA, GM, BMW, VW, Fiat...).

Diesel, no thanks!

[Mirek]

Who speaks about diesel?

[MJW]

VW allegeldly pushing for diesel 1.6T in wrc as they say it gives more torque

[Mirek]

Diesel may have more torque only if it has more free rulles. Simply if You have 5.5 V12 bi-turbo diesel, than yes, it has more torque than 6.0 V12 no-turbo petrol engine like in Le Mans...

[OldF]

Yes, but if you compare current 2000 turbo engine and 1600 turbo engine then the later one should sound better. The restrictor must have much bigger air intake to reach to the same level of power.

That’s not correct. Airflow dictates the power and with a restrictor a 1,6 l engine can produce the same power the same power as a 2 l engine but on higher revs. On how much higher revs depends on the boost. By theoretical calculations with 4 bar boost there’s no difference in the revs, with 3 bar boost a 1,6 l engine produce the same power (350 hp) at 500 rpm higher revs (3500 rpm/400 rpm) and with 2 bar boost at 1400 rpm higher revs (4300 rpm/5700 rpm). Limiting the boost by an ECU or a turbo, which can’t produce higher airflow than allowed (power limit), would give engines with higher revs and nicer sound than the high boost and low rev engines of the WRC cars today.

[bluuford]

There is a rumor that Kimi Raikkonen is taking part in an upcoming rally - the 26th Rally della Marca (an asphalt rally) - taking place in/around the city of Treviso and Combai. The shakedown is on Friday May 29th, and the rally runs just one day on Saturday May 30th (the weekend between the Monaco GP and the Turkish GP).

So, that would be his third rally with Fiat this year :-)
We will see how he does in tarmac :-)

[Motorsportfun]

I think for Kimi it will be difficult to be in high positions... there are a lot of recent WRC cars (Ford Focus Wrc07, Xsaras, 307, etc.)

[urabus-denoS2000]

Believe me,he doesn't have a chance against local S2000 drivers ;)

[bluuford]

Believe me,he doesn't have a chance against local S2000 drivers ;)
Well, We will see how he does. I was really surprised by his pace in Finland when he was running in top 10 in his second ever rally.. and on snow :-)
And like you know, Finnish championship level is very strong. I expect at least some very strong stage times from him. For good overall result he needs more km with his car.

[RS]

Well, We will see how he does. I was really surprised by his pace in Finland when he was running in top 10 in his second ever rally.. and on snow :-)
And like you know, Finnish championship level is very strong. I expect at least some very strong stage times from him. For good overall result he needs more km with his car.

This would be his first event with the car on asphalt though.

Would be nice to see Kimi on IRC Sanremo later this year. That would be great publicity for Abarth!

[Ucci]

Believe me,he doesn't have a chance against local S2000 drivers ;)

Well, I would not be so sure about that !! First thing: this is TRA and not CIR, so he will not compete against Rossetti, Ucci, Travaglia, Cavalini, Signor, Michelini....but against Bernardeli, Borsa, Tagliani, Sora...and with all do respect, thay are not so fast as drivers in CIR !!
In general ranking normaly he has no chance against WRC cars, that is for sure !!
Let's wait and see, I am looking forward to see Kimster in rally car again, specially because this is yust an Italian race, without International meaning.
Nice from Kimi and organisers!!

[Helstar]

I agree with Ucci ... but anyway there are too many WRC cars, it will be nice to see how he performs against other S2000 and Gr.N cars anyway.

[Sarac330d]

I think that performance of S2000 vs WRC on this particular rally will depend on type of stages, if there is many hairpins and slow corners and after them big straights then S2000 cars don`t have any chance against WRC cars.
Lack of Turbo is big when there is many slow corners and hairpins.

[Sulland]

Good luck, and have fun Kimi - I guess thats why you do it !!

[driveace]

I agree with Sulland,if you now find F1 boring or tedious then go and rally Kimi and enjoy it,may you have a satisfying result.

[muscrae]

Amazing 35 stages and a totally new route for Repco Rally Australia

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=4825&desc=Thirty-five%20stages%20announced%20for%20Repco%20Rally%20 Australia

[Mirek]

Amazing? 340 km/35 stages is average 9,7 km per stage. Nothing impressive for me...

[lcd]

]340 km/35 stages is average 9,7 km per stage...

What's happenning with WRC ?
All those 'pioneer' Ideas are taking It way from Its roots! :(

[OldF]

Markko is testing Ford.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2Farkistot%2Fralli%2F2009%2F05%2F879262&sl=fi&tl=en&history_state0

[Halvis]

Not exactly rally, but still a little bit interesting, Henning Solberg had a small comeback in rallycross today, in the new Nordic rallycross cup. All the best drivers were competing, Henning drove his self-developed Ford Fiesta - and had the best starting position after being fastest in qualifying. He took the start easily, but since another driver went into the wall on a dangerous place the race were flagged off, for a new start. Henning also took the start in the restart, but unfortunately the drive shaft broke in the first turn.

Bad luck for Henning, after a very convincing drive!

[alleskids]

http://www.lequipe.fr/Formule1/20090516_154347_les-juniors-en-danger.html
The junior Citroen team is under treat. Non of the 3 drivers is really performing well, some bad mistakes of the drivers, technical problems and mistakes from the team. But also the drivers looking of having finacial problems. Novikov is seeking for new sponsors,. even Rautenbachs money tree is looking a bit sick. Plus that the 1 man Munchi's team is performing better than them.

translation:
http://translate.google.com/translate_t#

[AlfaWRC]

]Amazing? 340 km/35 stages is average 9,7 km per stage. Nothing impressive for me...

But at least cool from the spectators point of view.
Looking forward to see maybe about 15 stages in down under....

[Camelopard]

http://www.lequipe.fr/Formule1/20090516_154347_les-juniors-en-danger.html
The junior Citroen team is under treat. Non of the 3 drivers is really performing well, some bad mistakes of the drivers, technical problems and mistakes from the team. But also the drivers looking of having finacial problems. Novikov is seeking for new sponsors,. even Rautenbachs money tree is looking a bit sick. Plus that the 1 man Munchi's team is performing better than them.

translation:
http://translate.google.com/translate_t#

What?

6 BILLION EURO from the french taxpayers isn't enough to keep this team competitive?

Shock, horror or should that be sacre blue........ :) :) :)

[Sulland]

http://www.lequipe.fr/Formule1/20090516_154347_les-juniors-en-danger.html
The junior Citroen team is under treat. Non of the 3 drivers is really performing well, some bad mistakes of the drivers, technical problems and mistakes from the team. But also the drivers looking of having finacial problems. Novikov is seeking for new sponsors,. even Rautenbachs money tree is looking a bit sick. Plus that the 1 man Munchi's team is performing better than them.

translation:
http://translate.google.com/translate_t#


Give Petter a good offer for the rest of the seson, to kill off Ford !

[AlfaWRC]

Give Petter a good offer for the rest of the seson, to kill off Ford !

Killing off is the thing the championship absolutely needs....
.....there are anyway sooooo many manufacturers!

[MJW]

http://www.lequipe.fr/Formule1/20090516_154347_les-juniors-en-danger.html
The junior Citroen team is under treat. Non of the 3 drivers is really performing well, some bad mistakes of the drivers, technical problems and mistakes from the team. But also the drivers looking of having finacial problems. Novikov is seeking for new sponsors,. even Rautenbachs money tree is looking a bit sick. Plus that the 1 man Munchi's team is performing better than them.

translation:
http://translate.google.com/translate_t#
And still people are hoping to drag (bleed money) out another year 2010 for the current WRC format cars.
This next statement is nothing to do with talent, but refering to money trees, personal or sponsors the list of ex drivers is growing, if we loose Conrad, add to that Mikkelsen, Barry Clark, Galli etc, (all that have used money to get their drives)what happens if Expert decide that the rallycross is cheaper and more geographically appropriate to its consumer market countries. We honestly could end up in 2010 with just 2 Fords and 2 Citroen factory cars. Never mind 2011 when we have imaginary manufactureres in imaginary 1.6T cars will come along soon

[AndyRAC]

And still people are hoping to drag (bleed money) out another year 2010 for the current WRC format cars.
This next statement is nothing to do with talent, but refering to money trees, personal or sponsors the list of ex drivers is growing, if we loose Conrad, add to that Mikkelsen, Barry Clark, Galli etc, (all that have used money to get their drives)what happens if Expert decide that the rallycross is cheaper and more geographically appropriate to its consumer market countries. We honestly could end up in 2010 with just 2 Fords and 2 Citroen factory cars. Never mind 2011 when we have imaginary manufactureres in imaginary 1.6T cars will come along soon

It is worrying, and I'm not sure what should happen regarding next year. The problem is that FiA seem equally clueless.

[Psycho!]

Since FIA hasn't conclude to the new rules,teams can do nothing about that...All the blame on FIA!!!!

[ste898]

Give Petter a good offer for the rest of the seson, to kill off Ford !

What a great post........how long did it take you to think of such wisdom!!!

[alexlake]

Can someone tell me if wales rally is going ahead this year? it doesnt confirm it on the site.
I want to know before I book a room!
thanks

[noel157]

Can someone tell me if wales rally is going ahead this year? it doesnt confirm it on the site.
I want to know before I book a room!
thanks

Alex, I would delay anything for at least a week (or book a trip to Scotland in November instead....). Court case for breach of contract begins (I think) on Friday.

[MJW]

NORF & Rally GB are back on the calendar for 2010. This will increas epressure regarding the dispute between the organisers and sponsors of WRGB. Welsh Assembly Government terminated the sponsorship deal with the rally citing that they had signed a five year deal to be in the World Championship. When the calendar was published without Rally GB, there was initially a feeling that 'oh GB will be in as one of teh cornerstone events' as the indications then changed and teh reality that GB could be / would be out WAG used that as a reason to terminate the deal, citing that the promoter's proposals indicated World status. We will see where this leads to...........

[MJW]

sorry meant to post calendar here. look at autosport.com.
2010 WRC calendar
Swedish Rally
Rally Mexico
Rally of Portugal
Rally Jordan
Rally Turkey
Rally New Zealand
Rally Bulgaria
Rally Finland
Rally Deutschland
Rally Japan
Tour de Corse
Rally Catalunya
Rally GB
Reserve: Rally Argentina

[pettersolberg29]

Swap Argentina for Bulgaria and Jordan for Monte Carlo and it would be accpetable1 As it is, it's OK I guess.

[AndyRAC]

Swap Argentina for Bulgaria and Jordan for Monte Carlo and it would be accpetable1 As it is, it's OK I guess.

I'd agree with swapping Argentina for Bulgaria. Monte organisers have made their decision - they prefer the freedom of the IRC. Can't believe there isn't room for Acropolis, yet there is Jordan. Hardly anybody goes to watch it. The Acropolis is a 'classic'. I should be pleased about RallyGB, but for some reason I'm not.

[Motorsportfun]

I'd agree with swapping Argentina for Bulgaria. Monte organisers have made their decision - they prefer the freedom of the IRC. Can't believe there isn't room for Acropolis, yet there is Jordan. Hardly anybody goes to watch it.

Me too! :mad:

[Mirek]

Fiesta R2 is here:

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/pics/ba7c2736ea.jpg
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/pics/3b15ae3e9d.jpg

[pettersolberg29]

I'd agree with swapping Argentina for Bulgaria. Monte organisers have made their decision - they prefer the freedom of the IRC. Can't believe there isn't room for Acropolis, yet there is Jordan. Hardly anybody goes to watch it. The Acropolis is a 'classic'. I should be pleased about RallyGB, but for some reason I'm not.

I completely agree. Acropolis really should be there, although Jordan was a good challenge last year if I remember well. Not exactly full of fans though I suppose!

Can't blame Monte Carlo - they are supporting the growing, and currently thriving rally series. It's a shame the WRC can't quite match it at the moment.

And I know what you mean about Rally GB. I'm not ecstatic, but I am pleased that there is at least an opportunity to watch WRC Cars roaring within our countryside, even if it is overpriced, overmarshalled and overall a bit of a mess!

[Larry_Japan]

I think its a really strong calendar. Bulgaria will probably be replaced with Argentina - not enough good tarmac roads on offfer there right now. France on the mainland, not Corsica... Also good - regular events proposed, 3 weeks apart through the year except for a summer/World Cup break of 4 weeks. Even potential for a S2000 trophy run alongside W/P/J as a warm-up for the big rule change maybe?

[Sulland]

]Fiesta R2 is here:



What is the price of the Fiesta R2, anyone have a clue ?

[urabus-denoS2000]

I guess 50-60 000 euros full car

[Sulland]

And a C2 R2 and C2 R2 Max ?

[urabus-denoS2000]

C2 R2 Max costs 50-60 000 ,I don't think the Fiesta will be much different ;)

[OldF]

And a C2 R2 and C2 R2 Max ?

Here are some information and prices for the Citroen C2 R2 Max:

http://www.piecescitroensport.citroen.com/NR/rdonlyres/9F0312EE-F4CA-42A3-8447-7688C32FA6B0/105935/Plaquette_C2R2MAX_2008V5OK.pdf

http://74.125.43.132/translate_c?hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&sl=fr&tl=en&u=http://www.piecescitroensport.citroen.com/NR/rdonlyres/FF41F9D0-C2D4-49A2-AE6F-7CB1AEED1143/160764/031009kits10mars2009diffusion.pdf&prev=_t&rurl=translate.google.com&usg=ALkJrhi032cJJWVrxx8JOxG8d7_gauOx2A

"This comprehensive package of components can either be supplied as a £25,000 kit to be fitted by a third party, or alternatively Citroen Sport will build you a C2-R2 MAX from scratch for a reasonable £46,400."
http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/214425/citroen_c2r2_max.html

[StevieWonder]

according this article: http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2009/06/03/loeb-testete-in-polen/index.html

Citroen was already testing in Poland

[alexlake]

whats the latest news on wales rally guys? anything confirmed yet??

[AndyRAC]

whats the latest news on wales rally guys? anything confirmed yet??

Well according to today's MNews, it's still up in the air. IMS seem determined to get the cash. WAG seem equally determined not to give it to them. Worryingly, the route should have been published by now.
I agree with what Jerry Williams said about MSA disbanding IMS and running a 'back-to-basics' RallyGB. Instead of spending hundreds of thousands - millions on non-essential things.

[anthonyvop]

Swap Argentina for Bulgaria and Jordan for Monte Carlo and it would be accpetable1 As it is, it's OK I guess.
Why would want to swap Argentina with any event?

You do realize that the Rally Argentina is the most attended motorsports event in the World don't you? They average 1 million spectators.

I can understand wanting an event closer to where you live but it is the WORLD Rally Championship. If there is any event that should never be dropped it is the Rally Argentina.

[pettersolberg29]

Why would want to swap Argentina with any event?

You do realize that the Rally Argentina is the most attended motorsports event in the World don't you? They average 1 million spectators.

I can understand wanting an event closer to where you live but it is the WORLD Rally Championship. If there is any event that should never be dropped it is the Rally Argentina.

I think you've misunderstood.

If you look at the calendar, Bulgaria is already in it. I said swap Argentina for Bulgaria which means I want Argentina IN and Bulgaria OUT.

Read the whole thread before posting...

[JFL]

Quote from http://www.bilnorge.no/artikkel.php?aid=34072

"To all of you Petter Solberg-fanatics out there: you can enjoy yourself now. Does he seem competitive now? Just wait until we can tell whether a new, exciting agreement will soon be on the table. It should be able to get him back where he truly belongs, among those with a permanent seat on the podiums.

In about one or two weeks' time, it all should be in place."

Wonder what this means.. Time will show.. ;)

[bluuford]

FIA is planning to increase GrN restrictor from 32mm to 33mm to equalize the performance of S2000 and GrN. I think it is better idea than adding weight to S2000 all the time :-) How much more power it can produce? In my mind they should increase it even more and take that extra 50kg weight away from S2000.

[Psycho!]

Quote from http://www.bilnorge.no/artikkel.php?aid=34072

"To all of you Petter Solberg-fanatics out there: you can enjoy yourself now. Does he seem competitive now? Just wait until we can tell whether a new, exciting agreement will soon be on the table. It should be able to get him back where he truly belongs, among those with a permanent seat on the podiums.

In about one or two weeks' time, it all should be in place."

Wonder what this means.. Time will show.. ;)
Petter with a proper seat??? :eek:

[RS]

FIA is planning to increase GrN restrictor from 32mm to 33mm to equalize the performance of S2000 and GrN. I think it is better idea than adding weight to S2000 all the time :-) How much more power it can produce? In my mind they should increase it even more and take that extra 50kg weight away from S2000.

I think it is silly even trying to equalise them. They may be getting the stage times closer with some tinkering, but the performance can never be equal as the cars have such different characteristics. They will be different to each other on different types of stages.

Better idea is to have the S2000 cars in a seperate class. They are planning an 'S2000 World Cup' for WRC, but this is probably more to try and take some drivers and teams away from IRC than to keep normal N4s and S2000s separate.

[bluuford]

I think it is silly even trying to equalise them. They may be getting the stage times closer with some tinkering, but the performance can never be equal as the cars have such different characteristics. They will be different to each other on different types of stages.

Better idea is to have the S2000 cars in a seperate class. They are planning an 'S2000 World Cup' for WRC, but this is probably more to try and take some drivers and teams away from IRC than to keep normal N4s and S2000s separate.

Yeah, agree, but even more stupid is to add extra weight for S2000 cars and making them less spectacular. I think that the new solution is much better. GrN definitely needs little bit more power.

[AndyRAC]

FIA is planning to increase GrN restrictor from 32mm to 33mm to equalize the performance of S2000 and GrN. I think it is better idea than adding weight to S2000 all the time :-) How much more power it can produce? In my mind they should increase it even more and take that extra 50kg weight away from S2000.

This is a mistake - I don't know why they are trying to make them equal. They're completely different type of cars - why were they put in the same class? Madness.
One is a Production car, the other is a properly designed competition car. The FiA are clueless.....

[PLuto]

I agree with AndyRAC, I wanted to write something similar.

[Mirek]

To tell the truth I don't mind having S2000 without additional limits and more powerfull group N cars in one class. It needn't to be a big problem if the cars are very different. Rallys are also different and if one has advantage on one rally and the other on another one, it's ok for me and also good for the championship in my opinion. I would add N-GTs to the same class as well even though they would be usefull in tarmac only. Variety is what makes championship more interesting for public.

What I realy hate is to make S2000 heavier and heavier to slow them down to match current gr.N performance...