[IRC] Rally Russia 2009... [Archive]

Andrey

22nd June 2009, 12:54

Also for 2009, CricketsFilm will be to Rally Russia...

You are welcome! Wich drivers you will support in Vyborg?

First entries in N4 class:
Alexander Zheludov (RUS, Peugeot 207 S2000)
Franz Wittmann (A, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX)
Patrik Flodin (S, Subaru Impreza N14)
Sergey Uspenskiy (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexander Gavrilov (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Andrey Goloborod'ko (BY, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexander Mironenko (RUS, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX)
Gennadiy Kulaev (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexey Katkov (RUS, Subaru Impreza N9)

Mirek

22nd June 2009, 18:23

Škoda officialy confirmed they presence in Russia with both Hänninen and Kopecký.

Tom206wrc

23rd June 2009, 10:33

If Abarth officially goes there too it's 100% sure Anton Alen will be too, seeing how fast he's on such gravel :p :

teufel

23rd June 2009, 11:17

]Škoda officialy confirmed they presence in Russia with both Hänninen and Kopecký.

Great news, at least Juho can show his winning skills aswell ;)

CricketsFilm

23rd June 2009, 12:11

You are welcome! Wich drivers you will support in Vyborg?

First entries in N4 class:
Alexander Zheludov (RUS, Peugeot 207 S2000)
Franz Wittmann (A, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX)
Patrik Flodin (S, Subaru Impreza N14)
Sergey Uspenskiy (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexander Gavrilov (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Andrey Goloborod'ko (BY, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexander Mironenko (RUS, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX)
Gennadiy Kulaev (RUS, Subaru Impreza N12)
Alexey Katkov (RUS, Subaru Impreza N9)

I don't not, I'll be to Russia for Eurosport like all IRC of last year...

23rd June 2009, 12:24

Novikov in a 207 would be great!

I thought Rautenbach was considering doing Russia with PH Sport though?

alleskids

23rd June 2009, 12:32

Have you heard about rumour Evgeny Novikov could drive the PH Sport 207 S2000 there ???? :confused:

If it's confirmed, Kronos and Meeke don't need to go in Russia, seeing what Novikov did in his first outing with the car :p :

And how did young Novikov perform in his first outing? And when did he drove the Peugeot 207 S2000?

Mirek

23rd June 2009, 12:42

He used Peugeot from Munaretto last year in some Russian rally (I don't remember exactly which one). Novikov won almost all stages and despite having a puncture on one stage he was only few seconds from the first spot after the penultimate stages. Finaly he won thanks to another puncture for leading crew in the very last stage (Zheludov?).

noel157

23rd June 2009, 13:43

Kronos does not have a plan in Russia, wants to return to Rally Madeira

And that is still the case, at least as far as Meeke is concerned as of today. Next outing will be Madeira for him.

Regarding Novikov, his win in the Munaretto 207 was the White Night's rally I think, no?
Is there a BFG programme for Russia? If so he would be No 1 choice I think.

alleskids

23rd June 2009, 13:50

Then Novikov wil be usefull for Kronos/Meeke to keep Kopecky from <steeling> 10 points and taking the lead from Meeke in the IRC.

wwbroe

23rd June 2009, 13:52

And that is still the case, at least as far as Meeke is concerned as of today. Next outing will be Madeira for him.

As it will be the case also for Loix and Vouilloz. Kronos won't be going to Russia, so Madeira will be their next event. ;)

Andrey

23rd June 2009, 15:18

]He used Peugeot from Munaretto last year in some Russian rally (I don't remember exactly which one). Novikov won almost all stages and despite having a puncture on one stage he was only few seconds from the first spot after the penultimate stages. Finaly he won thanks to another puncture for leading crew in the very last stage (Zheludov?).

Yes, on Rally White Nights in June. Novikov has a puncture on SS2, and then won 9 very fast stages in the row. His main and very unhappy contender at this rally was Andrey Zhigunov (Mitsubishi), not Alexander Zheludov (Subaru).

Cloverleaf

23rd June 2009, 15:27

Is there a BFG programme for Russia? If so he would be No 1 choice I think.
No Kronos=No BFG Car I think.
I still insist Abarth should wake up and give the car to Gardemaister instead of Basso.

Mirek

23rd June 2009, 15:38

Yes, on Rally White Nights in June. Novikov has a puncture on SS2, and then won 9 very fast stages in the row. His main and very unhappy contender at this rally was Andrey Zhigunov (Mitsubishi), not Alexander Zheludov (Subaru).

Thanks for correcting me ;)

How about Proton? Will they go to Russia?

Tom206wrc

23rd June 2009, 15:41

Would Janika go in Russia with Peugeot Hungary ???? :confused: :confused:

Andrey

23rd June 2009, 17:06

]
How about Proton? Will they go to Russia?

Hotel for Proton team already booked :)

WRC1

23rd June 2009, 17:36

Would Janika go in Russia with Peugeot Hungary ???? :confused: :confused:

janika will do veszprem rally in hungary one week before rally russia..so i can not imagine that he can do 2 gravel rallyes in 1 week... :(

WRC1

23rd June 2009, 17:42

Hotel for Proton team already booked :)

hey andrey, tell us a bit more about hotel reservations ;)

is there 1 proton or 2 ? novikov? privat peugeot teams?

reg

wrc1

teufel

23rd June 2009, 21:03

Would Janika go in Russia with Peugeot Hungary ???? :confused: :confused:

He drives in the IRC only Barum this year :(

Andrey

23rd June 2009, 22:18

hey andrey, tell us a bit more about hotel reservations ;)
is there 1 proton or 2 ? novikov? privat peugeot teams?

Wait a little - all becomes known on next Monday :)
At the moment we have only 30 entries, but expect about 70

J4MIE

24th June 2009, 01:59

I thought Wilks was to do all remaining IRC rounds in the Proton this year? :s

24th June 2009, 11:49

Then Novikov wil be usefull for Kronos/Meeke to keep Kopecky from <steeling> 10 points and taking the lead from Meeke in the IRC.

Don't forget that Kopecky missed Brazil, so this would make it even :)

24th June 2009, 11:52

No Kronos=No BFG Car I think.
I still insist Abarth should wake up and give the car to Gardemaister instead of Basso.

Gardemeister would be good for this event, but over a year, I doubt he would be better than Basso.

If Novikov does drive, there should be a nice three way fight on this rally between Hanninen-Alen-Novikov :)

alleskids

24th June 2009, 12:49

Don't forget that Kopecky missed Brazil, so this would make it even :)

That's true. They would be even on points after 4 rallies each. But Kopecky/Skoda will only do 2 more events later this year, 6 at total. Meeke/Kronos will do 5, 9 in total. The best 7 results count for the IRC. SMekee can loose the zero result in Monte Carlo. Kopecky needs to add an other event or hope that Meeke will not score maximum in the second part of the year.

Andrey

25th June 2009, 11:04

Novikov say, that he will not start in Rally Russia.
Sorry, Tom :)

Tom206wrc

25th June 2009, 16:35

Novikov say, that he will not start in Rally Russia.
Sorry, Tom :)

;(

Pinto

25th June 2009, 17:08

Gardemeister would be good for this event, but over a year, I doubt he would be better than Basso.

If Novikov does drive, there should be a nice three way fight on this rally between Hanninen-Alen-Novikov :)

i think gardemeister would be good for a few more events fiat ill have to do somthing with their driver line up its pretty poor why not bring some one with wrc experence maybe atkinson even p-g andersson id be better than what they have! their programe has realy taken a step backwards this year

Mirek

25th June 2009, 17:42

In my opinion the basic problem is that their car is off the pace. They need to do a looooot work on the car at first...

Fiat-131-Abarth

25th June 2009, 18:32

]In my opinion the basic problem is that their car is off the pace. They need to do a looooot work on the car at first...

It also depends on the surface. On slow tarmac stages the car is at least as good as the 207 (f.e. Madeira ´08, San Remo ´08, Asturias ´08, Targa´09). On fast tarmac stages and on gravel the Fiat has really very big problems.

But I´m nnot so pessimistic for Russia because last year Alen and even Basso could easily control the Pugs - except Hänninen. But in my poinion you can´t explain Hänninen´s dominace last year only with the car.

An other problem for Fiat is that they had a one man show in the IRC this year until now. Rox crashed already in the first of MC and Alen was slow and he made lots of mistakes. Alen is only fast once a year; in Russia (maybe he can surprise in Scotland this year). I can´t understand why Fiat doesn´t fire him.

I´m really looking forward for the tarmac events when Basso gets supported by Rox, because I think will be muchg stronger on the next tarmac rallies - without the Barum - and fight for the victory.

For the next year they need a second strong driver which is as fast on tarmac as on gravel. At the moment there would be quite a lot of good drives without a contract, Duval, Aava, Aigner, PG Andersson,...

A new chief engineer might be good as well. I think the best solution for Fiat would be Mario Fornaris.

Mirek

25th June 2009, 18:38

Mario Fornaris has been working for Škoda since last year ;)

Andrey

26th June 2009, 12:52

Confirmed entries:
Basso
Alen
Kopecky
Hanninen
Wilks
Wittmann

Total 41 at the moment

Tom206wrc

26th June 2009, 12:58

I have the feeling it'll be the poorest entrylist of 207 S2000s :rolleyes:

Karbonyl

27th June 2009, 11:00

Tom, and what about the Safari? :D

Tom206wrc

28th June 2009, 18:07

Tom, and what about the Safari? :D

At Safari there were no IRC S2000s at all ;)

Tom206wrc

29th June 2009, 08:52

When is final entrylist published ??? :confused:

WRC1

29th June 2009, 16:46

When is final entrylist published ??? :confused:

according to the regulations tomorrow 30.06.2009 at 19:00 local time!

means 17:00 in middleeurope.

reg

wrc1

Tom206wrc

29th June 2009, 18:15

Thanks WRC1 :)

Tom206wrc

30th June 2009, 12:54

according to the regulations tomorrow 30.06.2009 at 19:00 local time!

means 17:00 in middleeurope.

reg

wrc1

In four hours we should get the entrylist ;)

Andrey

30th June 2009, 15:08

In four hours we should get the entrylist ;)

54 entries in total, and only 17 4WD cars.

WRC1

30th June 2009, 16:06

54 entries in total, and only 17 4WD cars.

come on andrey, give us the list, i am sure you have it already!

reg

wrc1

noel157

30th June 2009, 16:28

come on andrey, give us the list, i am sure you have it already!

reg

wrc1

Yes, before Tom gives up the will to live...

Tom206wrc

30th June 2009, 16:31

... and only 17 4WD cars.

Gosh !!!! :s :s

Andrey

30th June 2009, 16:52

come on andrey, give us the list, i am sure you have it already!
reg
wrc1

Yes, I have the List, but wait for definitions because one Entrant sent to organizers two forms with two different cars in different classes :)

Wait a little, friends - in few minuts all will be :)

Tom206wrc

30th June 2009, 17:23

You mean all will be on the official website http://www.rallyrussia.com/ ??? :confused:

Andrey

30th June 2009, 17:30

Entry list & start numbers:
http://rallyzone.ru/.db/Spisok_Russia_2009.pdf

Tom206wrc

30th June 2009, 17:33

Thanks Andrey ;)

tolis

30th June 2009, 17:48

So, only 16 registered for the IRC.

vino_93

30th June 2009, 19:52

What is Zhedulov's car ? It's the PH Sport 207 ? :confused:

Andrey

30th June 2009, 20:03

What is Zhedulov's car ? It's the PH Sport 207 ? :confused:

No, it's car from Munaretto.

Small changes in Entry List: http://rallyzone.ru/.db/Spisok_RRussia_2009.pdf
Only 15 IRC contenders...

WRC1

30th June 2009, 21:50

thanks andrey!

so IMHO it will be a battle for the win between hänninen and alen (alen will take advantage of his late start position on first day) than wilks - kopecky - flodin for 3rd place and basso - zheludov - wittmann - uspenskyi for the points...

my prediction
1-hänninen
2-alen
3-flodin
4-wilks
5-wittmann
6-zheludov

@andrey: how do you rate zhigunov? is he good?

Andrey

30th June 2009, 22:05

thanks andrey!
@andrey: how do you rate zhigunov? is he good?

Zhigunov was much faster than Uspenskiy at the moment, and a little faster than Zheludov on Subaru this season - Andrey finished second after Flodin on two first rounds of Russian Rally Championship.

Last year in Rally Russia Zhigunov was 8th overall before his crash.
My prediction - Andrey will be in top-6.

Tom206wrc

30th June 2009, 23:10

Zheludov wasn't performing fantastic in the 207 at Rally San Marino(gravel event of italian championship)...but he didn't know the terrain and had to discover the car, though :confused:

Andrey

1st July 2009, 10:46

Zheludov wasn't performing fantastic in the 207 at Rally San Marino(gravel event of italian championship)...but he didn't know the terrain and had to discover the car, though :confused:

RSM for Tsunami Rally Team was a simple long test of new car that Alexander not use before. I think, in Vyborg you will see another Zheludov :)

1st July 2009, 12:22

Hanninen must be a bit pissed that he has to sweep again even though he doesn't lead the championship :(

The entry is a bit small but I always enjoy Russia for the fast roads and spectacular driving.

Mirek

1st July 2009, 12:24

Hänninen has FIA A priority as the only regular IRC driver...

PuddleJumper

3rd July 2009, 22:20

For anyone interested, pickems are now open. Sorry it's a bit late!

Tom206wrc

7th July 2009, 11:05

Don't forget this event this coming week-end :p :

Andrey

7th July 2009, 15:19

Xsara Fan

7th July 2009, 22:59

Unfortunately, Sergey Uspenskiy will not start on Rally Russia. I don't know the reason at the moment.

AFAIK he crashed his car at the tests...

Motorsportfun

8th July 2009, 02:37

Unfortunately, Sergey Uspenskiy will not start on Rally Russia. I don't know the reason at the moment.
Also Lada Rally Team cancelled they entries due to problem with money - all of them AvtoVAZ put to his stupid WTCC project...

http://www.fiawtcc.com/html/gallery/img/gallery/foto/1ROM4144.jpg

:D :D :D :D go rallying and leave tracks...! neither thompson made a good result with a lada haha...

hari

8th July 2009, 21:29

Shakedown results (rallyrussia.com):

1. J. Hanninen (Skoda), 1.08.2
2. J. Kopecky (Skoda), 1.09.7
3. A. Alen (Abarth), 1.10.9
4. G. Wilks (Proton), 1.11.9
5. G. Basso (Abarth), 1.12.3
5. A. Zheludov (Peugeot), 1.12.3
7. A. Zhigunov (Mitsubishi), 1.13.0
8. F. Wittmann (Mitsubishi), 1.13.3

VFTS

8th July 2009, 22:49

Patrik Flodin was third on shakedown today. Is he not in the list because he is not driving IRC?......thats typical!

Mirek

8th July 2009, 22:55

It's problem of Subaru that they don't care about their customers...

DonJippo

9th July 2009, 02:03

]It's problem of Subaru that they don't care about their customers...

Or Subaru has intrests on other series than IRC...

noel157

9th July 2009, 12:02

Mirek

9th July 2009, 12:10

Or Subaru has intrests on other series than IRC...

Yes, that's obvious, You're right, but since gr.N cars are bussines at first, I don't see the point of ignoring important series with reasonable media coverage. How can it help selling their cars to customers who are than invisible both in results and media? Will these owners even keep using Subaru? That's what I mean. I don't talk about some official team...

Anyway here are complete results:

1 1 Juho Hänninen (Škoda) 01:08,2 6
2 4 Kopecký Jan (Škoda) 01:09,7 6
3 9 Flodin Patrik (Subaru) 01:10,5 6
4 8 Alen Anton (Abarth) 01:10,9 5
5 3 Wilks Guy (Proton) 1:11,9 4
6 6 Želudov Alexandr (Peugeot) 01:12,3 5
7 2 Basso Giandomenico (Abarth) 01:12,3 4
8 5 Žigunov Andrej (Mitsubishi) 01:13,0 3
9 7 Wittman Franz jun (Mitsubishi) 01:13,3 4
10 50 Malirov Artem (Subaru) 01:17,8 2
11 15 Kulajev Genadij (Subaru) 01:20,1 4
12 28 Kojtla Kaspar (Honda) 01:20,4 4
13 16 Katkov Alexej (Subaru) 01:21,3 3
14 24 Volkov Sergej (Honda) 01:21,8 2
15 37 Nebogatkov Alexandr (Citroën) 01:21,9 4
16 25 Michajlov Vadim (Peugeot) 01:22,4 2
17 30 Kovalenko Konstantij (Renault) 01:22,9 1
18 33 Petuchov Andrej (Citroën) 01:23,3 3
19 20 Storčak Igor (Ford) 01:24,5 4
20 36 Šmiakovskij Anatolij (Ford) 01:25,0 3
21 35 Kabanov Vladimir (VW) 01:25,7 3
22 22 Kucher Ruslan (Citroën) 01:26,8 3
23 34 Gorčakov Dmitrij (Citroën) 01:26,9 2
24 19 Michajlov Alexandr (Ford) 01:27,2 5
25 41 Skripnikov Michail (Dacia) 01:28,9 3
26 40 Ivanov Sergej (Dacia) 01:29,5 3
27 46 Mějtes Jevgenij (Dacia) 01:31,8 2
28 44 Demin Vůladimir (Dacia) 01:34,3 3
29 43 Kasianov Vladimir (Dacia) 01:35,0 2
30 42 Kvatov Andrej (Dacia) 01:35,1 3
31 45 Michail Arkipov (Ford) 01:37,0 1
32 56 Vasin Jurij (ВАЗ 2108) 01:42,3 2

Mirek

9th July 2009, 12:27

It's raining in Russia...

Moriarty

9th July 2009, 12:43

25 41 Skripnikov Michail (Dacia) 01:28,9 3
26 40 Ivanov Sergej (Dacia) 01:29,5 3
27 46 Mějtes Jevgenij (Dacia) 01:31,8 2
28 44 Demin Vůladimir (Dacia) 01:34,3 3
29 43 Kasianov Vladimir (Dacia) 01:35,0 2
30 42 Kvatov Andrej (Dacia) 01:35,1 3

There is no Dacia in Russia. It is Renault Logan :)

alleskids

9th July 2009, 16:40

When does the first special stage starts?

Mirek

9th July 2009, 16:46

17:58 Cet

alleskids

9th July 2009, 16:56

thanks :)

9th July 2009, 17:38

Ok, it's only shakedown but will Kopecky be faster than Alen here as Hanninen was than Basso in Ypres? If so, then Abarth have a real problem...

Mirek

9th July 2009, 18:19

Zhigunov?

cali

9th July 2009, 18:19

Ok, it's only shakedown but will Kopecky be faster than Alen here as Hanninen was than Basso in Ypres? If so, then Abarth have a real problem...
Jan will be faster ;)

alleskids

9th July 2009, 18:20

Good start voor Hanninen, 7,7 sec in fornt of Basso and 8.9 for Kopecky.

Mirek

9th July 2009, 18:23

Aaaa, Žigunov with +7 minutes :(

[Madeira-Rally]

9th July 2009, 18:31

A good start for Basso...

9th July 2009, 19:19

Alen with a problem?

If he can't be fast here, he needs to be given the boot :(

Mirek

9th July 2009, 19:22

Zheludov has probably some engine troubles. Zhigunov seems to retire after disasterous SS1...

This results are fastest and including Flodin etc.: http://www.rally-online.ru/Default.asp?lang=en#

alleskids

9th July 2009, 20:43

Kopecky and Haninen are a class of their own with Wilks following close with Kopecky. The rest is already far away. Abarth looks in deep trouble this year.

Mirek

9th July 2009, 20:52

Basso had a puncture on SS3. Zheludov drove on 3 cylinders on SS1 and 2. Some problems obviously for Alen on SS3 and for Flodin in whole 2nd section...

Driver complain about low grip and very deep water splashes after previous rain.

White Sauron

9th July 2009, 21:50

Just got an sms from the rally news service that Hanninen was deprived of his driving license for overtaking on a railway crossing...

HaCo

9th July 2009, 22:00

'deprived' is lost? :(

Mirek

9th July 2009, 22:16

Just got an sms from the rally news service that Hanninen was deprived of his driving license for overtaking on a railway crossing...

Please, keep us informed.

Since Novikov was able to start in Rally Russia before he got driving license I guess Markkula (Juho's co-driver) may drive on road sections and they may continue in rally. Am I right?

Wim_Impreza

9th July 2009, 22:27

Flodin lost over a minute in SS4. Had he a puncture?

White Sauron

9th July 2009, 22:43

]Please, keep us informed.

Since Novikov was able to start in Rally Russia before he got driving license I guess Markkula (Juho's co-driver) may drive on road sections and they may continue in rally. Am I right?

not lost. Police took it (his driving license card) from him for overtaking a zero crew on a railway crossing on a road section.
We (here in Russia) think he can continue anyway - in Russia you can drive for 2 months with a temporary permission or until the rule breakage is officially approved. We'll see tomorrow.
But I agree with our guys on a russian forum that it may prevent him from competing in Finland. Depends on whether there's any exchange of information between Police departments in Russia and Finland. If there's no, then coming back to his native land Juho can say he just lost his license - and they will issue him a new one... But if our police officials pass this information to the colleagues in Finland... Than Hanninen is really in trouble for his home event...

White Sauron

9th July 2009, 22:47

Flodin lost over a minute in SS4. Had he a puncture?

Nope. Power steering broke in the middle of SS3...
Pity. He was doing really great against much stronger S2000 cars.
But don't forget that his main priority is the Russian championship, and he's 2nd now in the respective classification (behind Zheludov).

Mirek

9th July 2009, 22:55

Thank You. We'll see what happens. NORF is not very important, next roud of IRC is Barum at the end of August...

Wim_Impreza

9th July 2009, 23:05

Nope. Power steering broke in the middle of SS3...
Pity. He was doing really great against much stronger S2000 cars.
But don't forget that his main priority is the Russian championship, and he's 2nd now in the respective classification (behind Zheludov).

Thank you.

wwbroe

9th July 2009, 23:08

]Thank You. We'll see what happens. NORF is not very important, next roud of IRC is Barum at the end of August...

It depends ofcourse for how long he would loose his license and what Czech police will do with it. It would be very bad tough if he could not drive in Barum. :(

noel157

10th July 2009, 00:13

Obviously the rain is an issue but are the stages as rough (boulders, rocks etc) as last year's event?

DonJippo

10th July 2009, 00:13

not lost. Police took it (his driving license card) from him for overtaking a zero crew on a railway crossing on a road section.
We (here in Russia) think he can continue anyway - in Russia you can drive for 2 months with a temporary permission or until the rule breakage is officially approved. We'll see tomorrow.
But I agree with our guys on a russian forum that it may prevent him from competing in Finland. Depends on whether there's any exchange of information between Police departments in Russia and Finland. If there's no, then coming back to his native land Juho can say he just lost his license - and they will issue him a new one... But if our police officials pass this information to the colleagues in Finland... Than Hanninen is really in trouble for his home event...

Nope he is not, it would be another thing if Russia was part of EU but as it is not he is free to drive in Finland.

White Sauron

10th July 2009, 00:35

Nope he is not, it would be another thing if Russia was part of EU but as it is not he is free to drive in Finland.

If it so, then I'm glad for Juho. I wouldn't want this talent to miss his home event. However overtaking on a railway crossing is a serious (and dangerous!) violation, and I sincerely hope it will serve him as a good lesson for the future.
My own opinion is that drivers must show an example of polite driving on normal roads for amateur drivers, no matter where they're driving - in their home country, in Europe, in Africa or in Russia. Rules are the same everywhere.

Sulland

10th July 2009, 00:40

Abarth looks in deep trouble this year.

Did the 09 upgrades not work as intended ?

White Sauron

10th July 2009, 00:45

Obviously the rain is an issue but are the stages as rough (boulders, rocks etc) as last year's event?

Well... From what I heard from my friends (I will only come on Friday stages) what we had today were "the smoothest" tests of the event. Stages on Friday and Saturday are much rougher, however they were prepared better than last year. The main problem is that these preparations were made not in advance, but almost on the eve of the competition. So even though the surface seems to be smooth, its upper layer is just not strong enough to sustain the load. And probably tomorrow on the 2nd pass there can be some big rocks exposed and deep ruts made... I'll make some photos of the surface tomorrow, but probably some of my colleagues (like Xsara Fan who I believe was there today) can also upload some photos and share his thoughts on the road conditions.
PS: the "good" thing from other side is that only 45 cars started the event, and some of them have already retired. So hopefully there won't be too much pressure on the surface to expose big stones.

noel157

10th July 2009, 01:03

Well... From what I heard from my friends (I will only come on Friday stages) what we had today were "the smoothest" tests of the event. Stages on Friday and Saturday are much rougher, however they were prepared better than last year. The main problem is that these preparations were made not in advance, but almost on the eve of the competition. So even though the surface seems to be smooth, its upper layer is just not strong enough to sustain the load. And probably tomorrow on the 2nd pass there can be some big rocks exposed and deep ruts made... I'll make some photos of the surface tomorrow, but probably some of my colleagues (like Xsara Fan who I believe was there today) can also upload some photos and share his thoughts on the road conditions.
PS: the "good" thing from other side is that only 45 cars started the event, and some of them have already retired. So hopefully there won't be too much pressure on the surface to expose big stones.

Thanks WS, appreciate your report and look forward to the pictures. Enjoy your day on Friday.

Xsara Fan

10th July 2009, 01:20

I was at SS1/3 today.

1. Both Skoda`s, Flodin, Wilks and Zheludov are flying!
2. Alen & Wittmann were amazingly slow.
3. Too much punctures.
4. Hanninen overtake one of the 'zero-cars' at the railway crossroads. And there was a police-car... But 3 hours ago Juho said: "They gave my license back to me. Good Russian police..."

Mirek

10th July 2009, 01:25

Thanks, as far as I know Wittmann had some supension troubles and two punctures and Alen overheating engine and puncture. Maybe that was the reason because Wittmann is usualy very crazy driver ;)

Anyway thanks for good news :)

White Sauron

10th July 2009, 01:31

Latest information from our championship's secretary:

Xsara Fan is right - Juho's been returned his driving license. Thanks God))
Zhigunov's car has been successfully repaired and is ready for the start tomorrow. BTW, he's using Yokohama tyres on this rally, and the company's representative conducted a massive PR campaign out of it, bringing "2 buses" of VIPs to Vyborg.
Returning to the road condition subject - it's quite bad... Already after the first pass today were there big ruts and exposed stones. As a consequence, about 10 cars finished SS3 with punctured or even shreded tyres...

Xsara Fan

10th July 2009, 01:37

]Thanks, as far as I know Wittmann had some supension troubles and two punctures and Alen overheating engine and puncture. Maybe that was the reason because Wittmann is usualy very crazy driver ;)

Anyway thanks for good news :)

I was at the first part of the SS1/3 (7-8 km). Alen & Wittmann was slow here already ;)

Mirek

10th July 2009, 09:28

SS5 cancelled because of zero-car crash.

ProRally

10th July 2009, 09:38

]SS5 cancelled because of zero-car crash.

Seems that the organizers have their fair share of troubles....

darkstar

10th July 2009, 09:57

]SS5 cancelled because of zero-car crash.

:eek: zero car crash, how stupid is that? :D

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:03

Looks like they were even injured by this crash? :(

darkstar

10th July 2009, 10:08

Looks like they were even injured by this crash? :(

oh realy? thats not so funy then...where do you get those news from?

[Madeira-Rally]

10th July 2009, 10:11

Fiat is clearly in problems...

Even Proton is faster than both Fiat boys...

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:15

oh realy? thats not so funy then...where do you get those news from?

I have read that on Czech forum, at least that is what i made out of it. :D

darkstar

10th July 2009, 10:20

...at least that is what i made out of it. :D hehe, ok, i understand :D

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:21

Another besttime for Haninen on stage 6, with Wilks in second and Kopecky third. The Abarth's are realy a disaster once again. :(

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:47

Wilks loosing 3'44" on stage 7 :( :confused: Another besttime for Haninen, but Kopecky is loosing only 9" on this longest stage of the rally. Basso loosing almost 45". :(

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:49

Alen taking third overall, after a decent time on this long stage, passing in front of Wilks and his teammate Basso. ;)

[Madeira-Rally]

10th July 2009, 10:49

Only a mistake or something like that, from one of the Skoda drivers will allow Fiat to achieve a better result...

They are really disappointing once again.

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:52

]Only a mistake or something like that, from one of the Skoda drivers will allow Fiat to achieve a better result...

They are really disappointing once again.

I must agree with you, realy disappointing once again, if things doesn't change quickly i think they might quit IRC rather soon. :(

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 10:53

Patrick Flodin is loosing some time also (1'39"), maybe he had puncture or something :confused:

Mirek

10th July 2009, 11:02

Basso left front punctue, Zheludov both rear tyres.

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 11:16

]Basso left front punctue, Zheludov both rear tyres.

Thanks Mirek for that info, do you have any news about injuries of zero-car crew?

Mirek

10th July 2009, 11:19

On rally-online.ru they write that driver has broken collarbone. Co-driver should be ok. Car rolled on 3rd kilometer of stage 5.

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 11:25

]On rally-online.ru they write that driver has broken collarbone. Co-driver should be ok. Car rolled on 3rd kilometer of stage 5.

Ok, thank you. ;)

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 11:44

Now we have to wait for second run trough these stages, but i have to go to work this afternoon. I will try to have a quick look at results this later on. ;)

Mirek

10th July 2009, 12:48

Wilks had a puncture and problem with stucked car jack while changing tyre. Wittmann had rear differential problem. Zimin had also puncture.

10th July 2009, 14:25

Alen out?

Mirek

10th July 2009, 14:26

Probably...

Mirek

10th July 2009, 14:41

SS10 canceled.

Moriarty

10th July 2009, 14:41

Stage 10 canceled. Reason - no more zero cars for this stage....

Barreis

10th July 2009, 14:45

They should put zero's on police car's just for one day not to "take" money behind hand! xd Please I need link with results.. :)

10th July 2009, 14:45

Stage 10 canceled. Reason - no more zero cars for this stage....

That's embarassing. Mechanical problems?

Mirek

10th July 2009, 14:49

They should put zero's on police car's just for one day not to "take" money behind hand! xd Please I need link with results.. :)

Here: http://www.rally-online.ru/default.asp?lang=en

AGA

10th July 2009, 15:05

Just to imagine road conditions

http://photofile.ru/photo/ozzyk73/115419788/small/128813344.jpg (http://photofile.ru/users/ozzyk73/115419788/128813344/)

AGA

10th July 2009, 15:18

That's embarassing. Mechanical problems?
Broken gearbox

HaCo

10th July 2009, 16:32

Alen out again...

10th July 2009, 16:37

Alen out again...

I think it's game over for Alen as far as 2009 IRC goes. It is like the Latvala story again, but worse. Shame, he showed promise early on in his Abarth career.

wwbroe

10th July 2009, 16:55

So, second run trough longest stage cancelled as well due to problems with zero-car. Together with first stage this morning, that makes almost 40 kms of SS that they didn't run, not so good points for organisator.
Without any major problem, it looks like Skoda will score an easy double in this rally. :)

Helstar

10th July 2009, 17:55

This rally is an half farce ... yes it's due to unluck but ... omg

And Alen is just, bah, no comment.

10th July 2009, 18:09

There is no tv programming for Russia until highlights on Tuesday evening, but there is a short online clip from days 1&2 online at

http://www.rally-irc.com

PLuto

10th July 2009, 21:03

I think it's game over for Alen as far as 2009 IRC goes. It is like the Latvala story again, but worse. Shame, he showed promise early on in his Abarth career.

It isnt the same. Latvala is fast before crash, Latvala is able to fight for podium...

Barreis

10th July 2009, 21:43

Another paying driver so we don't have to worry about him as long as dad can pay..

Mirek

10th July 2009, 21:44

Photos from Petr Lusk: http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=717&fotograf=2&all=1

10th July 2009, 21:54

Another paying driver so we don't have to worry about him as long as dad can pay..

Alen? Don't think he is a pay driver. Abarth have not been afraid to boot him out for the asphalt rounds, and now there is no more gravel until Scotland in November...

Sulland

10th July 2009, 22:21

Does Lada have a R3 car in this model : Lada VAZ 21124 ?

OldF

10th July 2009, 22:39

Another paying driver so we don't have to worry about him as long as dad can pay..

Barreis, shouldn’t you visit someone?

OldF

10th July 2009, 22:43

Why isn’t there any coverage from Russia on Eurosport? Is this how Eurosport support their own series????

Honza H.

10th July 2009, 22:44

Apart from a short Eurosport video, any other video available?
Come on, Russian guys, let´s bring us some action!!!

Mirek

10th July 2009, 22:47

Does Lada have a R3 car in this model : Lada VAZ 21124 ?

The car is Kit Car 1600. It's just a matter of R-classes system which is used in Russia or in GB. You can place any car except A8+WRC into class R1-R5.

Why isn’t there any coverage from Russia on Eurosport? Is this how Eurosport support their own series????

Yep, this time it's thumb down for Eurosport :(

Honza H.

10th July 2009, 22:49

Why isn’t there any coverage from Russia on Eurosport? Is this how Eurosport support their own series????

Yes, it´s strange that that e.g. Monte or Ypres had so large coverage on Eurosport, on the other hand, other IRC rallys (also supported by Eurosport), are practically invisible....

Mirek

10th July 2009, 22:51

Probably the only remaining live stages will be shown in Scotland.

Honza H.

10th July 2009, 22:59

]Probably the only remaining live stages will be shown in Scotland.

I was hoping for some live coverage from Barum, but never mind: I´ll be there in person anyway....

OldF

10th July 2009, 23:13

Well, we have to settled with this http://videos.eurosport.com/irc/rally-russia-highlights_vid110031/irc-player.shtml . Nice to see a Proton on gravel.

Barreis

11th July 2009, 00:08

Barreis, shouldn’t you visit someone?

Who?

Helstar

11th July 2009, 01:46

Who?
lol ! He doesn't know ^^ it was sarcastic, do you know what is it ? =)

Mirek

11th July 2009, 09:44

Zheludov probably went off in SS12.

HaCo

11th July 2009, 10:12

Why is Alen still in the results so close to the first ones? Thought he had superallied?

Wim_Impreza

11th July 2009, 10:21

HaCo

11th July 2009, 10:42

Maybe it has something to do with cancelation of SS10?

PLuto

11th July 2009, 11:14

That is indeed very strange, normally when you do SupeRally in IRC (and ERC too), than you aren't classified in the overall results and only in the SS. Probably Mirek, PLuto or a Russian member can help us?

I have get up only few minutes ago and I am surprised too. I understand, that for Russian championship should be classic old superally system. But for IRC, when you retire once, you cannot take points. So I think that our version (http://mmcr.vysledky-rally.cz/rallysport/2009/irc/russia) is correct.

PLuto

11th July 2009, 11:20

Maybe it has something to do with cancelation of SS10?

No

HaCo

11th July 2009, 11:42

One stage to go and first victory for Skoda!

Mirek

11th July 2009, 11:51

Double is there :)

HaCo

11th July 2009, 11:53

Good job from the guys at Skoda! Did they have any punctures at all? Hope they can beat the Pugs in Barum!

Filip

11th July 2009, 11:55

Congratulations Škoda Motorsport!! :)

Wim_Impreza

11th July 2009, 12:09

I have get up only few minutes ago and I am surprised too. I understand, that for Russian championship should be classic old superally system. But for IRC, when you retire once, you cannot take points. So I think that our version (http://mmcr.vysledky-rally.cz/rallysport/2009/irc/russia) is correct.

Thank you. Still it is strange that he ends before Wittmann jr. and had only 5 minutes penalty for a stage which he couldn't end. He was very lucky that SS10 was cancelled due to the zero-car.

Well done Škoda Motorsport.

Moriarty

11th July 2009, 12:14

Congratulations Juho and all Skoda team!

11th July 2009, 12:15

Congratulations to Skoda, Juho & Jan :)

That was pretty easy work though, I get the impression both were cruising throughout.

PLuto

11th July 2009, 12:21

Thank you. Still it is strange that he ends before Wittmann jr. and had only 5 minutes penalty for a stage which he couldn't end. He was very lucky that SS10 was cancelled due to the zero-car.

Well done Škoda Motorsport.

Yes, it is true - no stage 10, so only 5 minutes. But I still think he cannot take points...

Barreis

11th July 2009, 13:09

Finally.. :)

Honza H.

11th July 2009, 13:48

That was pretty easy work though, I get the impression both were cruising throughout.

Yes, it may seem like Skodas having had an easy pleasant ride, but sometimes the easiest task is the hardest to fulfill. Congrats!

noel157

11th July 2009, 13:52

A good result for Juho and Jan. Granted, not a lot of opposition (other than Mother Russia's weather and her stages) but more importantly opens up the championship with Jan at 29 pts, 1 pt behind Meeke.
Good to see Wilks getting more developements kms under his belt and getting a finiish.
Poor old Abarth. Has to be the cars more than the drivers, no?

OldF

11th July 2009, 22:10

White Sauron

11th July 2009, 22:42

It seems that in general Rally Russia was not so popular among forum members. I counted for 1107 posts in the Monte thread, 226 posts for Curitiba, Safari none, Sata Acores 740, Ypres 651 and Rally Russia 175 posts (so far). Monte of course has been the most popular so far but even Curitiba has more posts than Rally Russia. Was the lack of interest in Rally Russia because there where not many drivers usually attending IRC events or some other reason? Maybe that’s why (only 175 posts) there’s only half hour coverage next week from Russia on Eurosport. ;)

There will be no IRC Rally Russia next year.
...and that's good when you hear the promoter of IRC in Russia saying to one of the crews: "You'd better come to circuit racing, but Ok, this time you chose rallying"... that's good when there's almost no information in english on the event's official web-site (I say more - there's not more information in Russian either...)... that's good when you see only 45+ crews at the start of World Rallying second best series with only a few of them being the series' regulars.... that's good when they start preparing the route a few weeks before the competitions... that's good when they use media documents back from 2007 edition... that's good when you're spectating on SS10 and first crew comes without any safety car beforehand. Thanks God we were warned by our local sms service... that's good when road conditions on liaisons are worse than those on special stages... that's good when the organiser knew about possible customs problems with competition 102 fuel, but didn't do anything to prevent those problems... that's good when you go in team's overalls and security doesn't let you come in the service, however letting go children and "babushki" (grandmas)... Oh yeah, and that's good when spectators put stones and logs on the road...
The organisers were lucky that the event was officially promoted by Eurosport, otherwise nobody would have ever heard any good words about it.

And with all bashing of Indonesia and Russia candidate events, I can honestly say that the WRC candidate Novorossiysk Rally of Russia back in october was organised WAY better than this IRC event... This year rally in Novorossiysk will be held as a round of the Eeast European Cup, and hopefully the next year it will return as a WRC candidate, but with its good organisers having by that time even more experience behind their belt.

And as for IRC Rally Russia, I can say from... three positions (as a spectator on this particular event, as an official on some other international events and as a team member from another series): this rally, the way it was conducted this year, doesn't deserve a place in the IRC.

Honza H.

11th July 2009, 22:54

My point of view why there has been so few posts in this thread:

1) Many top drivers missing (above all Peugeot drivers)
2) Skodas were dominating from the very beginning - no excitement in the fight for victory
3) Russia is no traditional place for rallys
4) Practically no Eurosport coverage before and during the rally
5) Holidays

For next season, the IRC promoters have lots to think about. In my opinion, there should be something done so that all IRC rallys get proper attention (at least there shouldn´t be so big differences in rally forums threads :) )

Honza H.

11th July 2009, 23:12

White Sauron - I´m so sorry for all you, true Russian rally fans. Russia in not a bad place for rallys but I can see there is a lot of hard work in front of you there in Russia. On the other hand, organisers are not 100% perfect anywhere (I´m Czech, so I know what I´m talking about :) ).

Reading your comment, I understand more clearly now, why there has been so few IRC regulars taking part and why even Eurosport were ignoring the event....

Wish you better better luck in the future!

alleskids

11th July 2009, 23:22

Anton Alen is still classified in the official IRC standings, although Franz Wittmann scored 4 points in Russia and Alen 3. Alen got 5 minutes penalty after stage 9.
Subaru announced that they would participate in IRC, or at least have their cars nominate for points., but Flodin is not included in the standings

Wim_Impreza

12th July 2009, 00:10

My point of view why there has been so few posts in this thread:

1) Many top drivers missing (above all Peugeot drivers)
2) Skodas were dominating from the very beginning - no excitement in the fight for victory
3) Russia is no traditional place for rallys
4) Practically no Eurosport coverage before and during the rally
5) Holidays

I will add:
5) Holidays: Tom206wrc couldn't post during the rally, otherwise we had more than 200 posts in this topic.

Honza H.

12th July 2009, 00:42

I will add:
5) Holidays: Tom206wrc couldn't post during the rally, otherwise we had more than 200 posts in this topic.

:) :) :)

noel157

12th July 2009, 01:39

There will be no IRC Rally Russia next year.
...and that's good when you hear the promoter of IRC in Russia saying to one of the crews: "You'd better come to circuit racing, but Ok, this time you chose rallying"... that's good when there's almost no information in english on the event's official web-site (I say more - there's not more information in Russian either...)... that's good when you see only 45+ crews at the start of World Rallying second best series with only a few of them being the series' regulars.... that's good when they start preparing the route a few weeks before the competitions... that's good when they use media documents back from 2007 edition... that's good when you're spectating on SS10 and first crew comes without any safety car beforehand. Thanks God we were warned by our local sms service... that's good when road conditions on liaisons are worse than those on special stages... that's good when the organiser knew about possible customs problems with competition 102 fuel, but didn't do anything to prevent those problems... that's good when you go in team's overalls and security doesn't let you come in the service, however letting go children and "babushki" (grandmas)... Oh yeah, and that's good when spectators put stones and logs on the road...
The organisers were lucky that the event was officially promoted by Eurosport, otherwise nobody would have ever heard any good words about it.

And with all bashing of Indonesia and Russia candidate events, I can honestly say that the WRC candidate Novorossiysk Rally of Russia back in october was organised WAY better than this IRC event... This year rally in Novorossiysk will be held as a round of the Eeast European Cup, and hopefully the next year it will return as a WRC candidate, but with its good organisers having by that time even more experience behind their belt.

And as for IRC Rally Russia, I can say from... three positions (as a spectator on this particular event, as an official on some other international events and as a team member from another series): this rally, the way it was conducted this year, doesn't deserve a place in the IRC.

I think that is sad WS. Russia has so much to offer the rallying world within such a vast country. Just a pity the human side was not so well presented this weekend. I hope the Novorossiysk Rally will become a candidate event in the future. Best of luck for the rest of the season.

12th July 2009, 11:35

There will be no IRC Rally Russia next year.

That is a shame because I always enjoyed watching the tv footage from Russia for the fast and spectacular action. I hope IRC will replace it with another fast loose surface event.

I would put lack of forum posts down to the reason already mentioned. Normally the IRC events get more views than the WRC events at least. With WRC trying to steal some of the clothes of IRC, IRC will need to produce a "tighter" calendar for next year and ramp up tv coverage as they have promised.

White Sauron

12th July 2009, 12:00

Why isn’t there any coverage from Russia on Eurosport? Is this how Eurosport support their own series????

Well, I think now I have the answer...
I don't know as for other european events, but the promoter (and rights owner) of the IRC Rally Russia used to get a special technical rider from Eurosport, where its demands were described: accomodation of TV crew members, providing helicopters, satellite and internet channels, all other things needed for live coverage as well as payment for bringing Eurosport "Live broadcast" truck with a satellite antenna to Russia. I don't remember exactly, but last year I saw this list personally, and the organiser paid for a part of it as you could witness some coverage at least from the service park. But this year, as I mentioned in my previous post, the organiser and promoter tried to save money on everything (or probably put money into their own pocket), so I wouldn't surprise if the reason for no coverage was that "mANUScript" (the promoter) just didn't accept the rider...

alleskids

12th July 2009, 12:18

Not very smart from the promoter pisisng off IRC owner Eurosport, as their are plenty of (WRC) rallies willing to be in the IRC next year. Poland would be a very smart choose for replacing, or Norway.

HaCo

12th July 2009, 12:44

13Hr30 we have a review of Russie here in Belgium on Sporza. Probably the first broadcast of the rally? :D

PLuto

12th July 2009, 13:13

There is problem, that leadership of Eurosport TV is new and give less money for IRC group, than was expected. Thats why they must save money this year. But (much bigger) plans for next year are authorised...

PLuto

12th July 2009, 13:14

I think that is sad WS. Russia has so much to offer the rallying world within such a vast country. Just a pity the human side was not so well presented this weekend. I hope the Novorossiysk Rally will become a candidate event in the future. Best of luck for the rest of the season.

From what I know about last year. Novorossiysk Rally was one big tragedy...

HaCo

12th July 2009, 13:39

noel157

12th July 2009, 15:12

From what I know about last year. Novorossiysk Rally was one big tragedy...

Human tragedy or just badly run? I thought going by WS's post it was a success.

Andrey

12th July 2009, 15:16

I add that Zheludov retired due to engine problem, not off road :(

Mirek

12th July 2009, 15:54

Thank You for the information. From the online news at rally-online.ru it looked like a crash but I could understand wrong because I don't speak Russian. Anyway, pitty for him. Can You post Russian championship standings?

Andrey

12th July 2009, 16:41

]Thank You for the information. From the online news at rally-online.ru it looked like a crash but I could understand wrong because I don't speak Russian. Anyway, pitty for him. Can You post Russian championship standings?

This year IRC regulars do not receive points in our championship, and standings is following:
1. Flodin 75 pts
2. Zhigunov 40
3. Zheludov 32
4. Zimin 30
5-6. Uspenskiy and Koitla 26

About Zheludov retirement. Due to unknown reason the engine of his Pug worked without oil throughout 3 seconds on high revs (at this time oil did not arrive in motor from oil system) because of what engine completely destroyed

Mirek

12th July 2009, 16:47

Thanks again

12th July 2009, 17:12

Was nice event on tv at least...

They told there was big discussion in Abarth camp: Anton Alen got a chassis that is 4 years old. Alen didn't have an off, but the suspension broke (due to what?). Anyway, father Alen was not happy at all and apparently they were some words with the Abarth team.

It is true that Anton's car was really old, and that seems a bit strange for Rally Russia where Anton really should have excelled. On the other hand, Alen has engineered himself into such a terrible position in the championship, it was probably better to give Basso the "good" car if they didn't have many available.

12th July 2009, 17:13

IvanHUN

12th July 2009, 17:14

Hello everyone. Do you know any web page that has some photos of the rally? I found a few on rallyrussia.com, but I'm interested in Russian contestants also. :)

Thanks in advance.

Mirek

12th July 2009, 17:18

You can find something here:

http://www.rallyrus.spb.ru/gall000/categories.php?cat_id=837
http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=717&fotograf=2&all=1
http://www.ircseries.com/html/Gallery_Details.asp?id=7

IvanHUN

12th July 2009, 17:27

Thanks a lot!

PuddleJumper

13th July 2009, 00:41

Anyone have the full results? Only result I can find is for IRC drivers.

Mirek

13th July 2009, 01:11

http://rally-online.ru/stageresult.asp?db=RUSSIA2009&RouteID={946D8D07-D008-4086-962B-BBF80D1DA780}&PenID={CEEC89F6-180F-43DC-B7D6-236EE81622A5}&lang=en

PLuto

13th July 2009, 01:15

Or here: http://mmcr.vysledky-rally.cz/rallysport/2009/irc/russia

bluuford

13th July 2009, 01:44

Or here: http://mmcr.vysledky-rally.cz/rallysport/2009/irc/russia

By the way, correct writing is Koitla Kaspar.

PLuto

13th July 2009, 01:58

Thanks, I was using expression from official pages...

PuddleJumper

13th July 2009, 09:09

Or here: http://mmcr.vysledky-rally.cz/rallysport/2009/irc/russia

]http://rally-online.ru/stageresult.asp?db=RUSSIA2009&RouteID={946D8D07-D008-4086-962B-BBF80D1DA780}&PenID={CEEC89F6-180F-43DC-B7D6-236EE81622A5}&lang=en

Thanks both.

Andrey

13th July 2009, 12:29

Many photos from Russian Rally Championship site: http://rrch.ru/component/option,com_zoom/Itemid,59/catid,156/

And finally, real name of Kaspar Koitla co-driver is Ain Heiskonen, not Konstantin Shvecov :)

WRC1

13th July 2009, 18:50

my pics from rally russia 2009

http://www.rallyepics.at/bilder/rallye2009/21russiaatmospaere/

http://www.rallyepics.at/bilder/rallye2009/22russiaaction/

i liked the stages, the landscape is great and the people are very friendly and helpfull, the organisation was not always perfect and the safety standard at rally russia was very very low...

private cars wher driving on the stage (in both directions !!!!) just 20min before stage start...people where standing in the outside of very fast corners and junctions, police man where there but did not say anything..

congratulations to SKODA!! Juho,Mikko,Honza and Petr!

regards

wrc1