2010 Cars, teams, drivers [Archive] - Page 3

alleskids

15th February 2010, 18:56

Franz Wittmann plans to stay ‘match fit’ ahead of his next Intercontinental Rally Challenge event by contesting a handful of national rallies in his Interwetten Racing Peugeot 207 S2000.
Wittmann isn’t scheduled to return to the IRC until the fourth round of the series, Rally d’Italia-Sardegna, which will take place from 4-6 June. Before then, however, the 26-year-old and his Romo Motorsporttechnik team hope to gain further knowledge of their Super 2000 machine on selected gravel events.
“It’s a big worry if I don’t drive before Sardinia because I don’t have the experience with my car and still need to get comfortable with it and get the feeling,” said Wittmann. “We are looking at doing some small gravel rallies, possibly in Italy, and we also hope to do some tests.”
Wittmann, from Wels in Austria, will take part on a total of eight IRC events this season alongside experienced German co-driver Klaus Wicha.
http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=1535

eloyf1

16th February 2010, 21:16

Príncipe de Asturias is out of the IRC if my feeds aren't mistaken... They've already organised a press conference for tomorrow

The Rally will still take place for ERC and National Championship

principe IRC

17th February 2010, 15:04

Príncipe de Asturias is out of the IRC if my feeds aren't mistaken... They've already organised a press conference for tomorrow

The Rally will still take place for ERC and National Championship

ACPA president, Julian Moreno has today confirmed the news at a press conference in Oviedo :bigcry: .
No money, no IRC.

alleskids

17th February 2010, 15:22

It wil have big influences in the planning of all the drivers and teams. Moving the Spanish IRC round from he mainland Europe in septembrer to an island trip in may. All of the championship contenders, except Skoda Motorsport, had Asturias planned as 1 of the 7 needed rounds. So Meeke, Wilks, Mikkelsen, Magelhaes, Proton, Oliviera have to hussle their planning for this year, moving the cars a lot sooner from Argentina.
Rally Sardinia still stands in IRC, or have they dropped also (and being replaced by the Acropolis Rally) ?

atsiotras79

17th February 2010, 19:05

Rally Sardinia still stands in IRC, or have they dropped also (and being replaced by the Acropolis Rally) ?

Rally Sardegna stands as it is!

17th February 2010, 20:40

Hopefully Sardinia won't be a problem. There are a lot of good entries expected for there, which I guess also helps the finances.

PLuto

17th February 2010, 21:54

Rally Sardegna will be...

VFTS

17th February 2010, 23:57

[quote="alleskids"] So Meeke, Wilks, Mikkelsen, Magelhaes, Proton, Oliviera have to hussle their planning for this year, moving the cars a lot sooner from Argentina.
quote]

No problem for Mikkelsen, he will not start in Argentina.

RICARDO75

18th February 2010, 02:17

So Meeke, Wilks, Mikkelsen, Magelhaes, Proton, Oliviera have to hussle their planning for this year, moving the cars a lot sooner from Argentina.
quote]

No problem for Mikkelsen, he will not start in Argentina.

It doesn't mean they are obliged to go to canarias

Mirek

18th February 2010, 02:19

It's still not sure that Canarias will be in IRC. I would wait for final decision...

alleskids

18th February 2010, 07:01

It doesn't mean they are obliged to go to canarias

I meant that most off the drivers have to be carefull with their budget, (maybe with the exception of Meeke) and adding the Canaris Island to the scedule will have bigger impact than the Asturias rally. So most of the drivers have to hussle their planning. Not many drivers will take the boat to the Canaris Island and will pick an other (European) rally. Maybe some of them would rather havbe done the Brasil/Argentina tour instead. The IRC should eather put an rally on the mainland of Europe on the scedule, or skip the 12th rally.

Eyvind

18th February 2010, 09:59

I hope these two years of Asturias on IRC you liked it. Canarias will not be the same.

In Asturias, the ERC will continue. We wait and you will be welcomed as always.

Luis Pacheco

18th February 2010, 10:47

Basso and Rossetti get factory Abarths for Sanremo

Abarth has put itself in a strong position to add to its tally of wins in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge by confirming that it will enter a pair of factory-supported Abarth Grande Punto Super 2000s on Rallye Sanremo in September for two former event winners.

The Turin manufacturer, which has claimed six overall wins since the IRC began in 2007, has signed star drivers Giandomenico Basso and Luca Rossetti to lead its assault on the Italian Rally Championship, which runs alongside the IRC on the Sanremo-based Tarmac rally from September 23-25.

Basso and Rossetti have both claimed four victories apiece in the IRC (Rossetti was driving a Peugeot 207 when he landed his quartet of wins), and both have won in Sanremo before, with Rossetti triumphing in 2007 and Basso taking the laurels the following season.

Team Trico Motor Sport will run the factory Abarths this season

IRC Press

18th February 2010, 11:21

sal

18th February 2010, 11:37

Posted yesterday in the calendar thread:

From http://www.motorcanario.com translated by Bablefish as I'm in a hurry!

Thus it has communicated it the RFEDA in today, that has praised the concerted effort that the Automobile Club Principality of Asturias has carried out to try to maintain the prestigious Asturian rally in the IRC but that it has announced officially its resignation in today. According to manifest the own Spanish federation " it is necessary to be thankful for the support shown towards the test on the part of the Asturian liking, as well as of tie Institution and mass media to the Rallye." The RFEDA admits that " after knowing previously the resignation the ACPA to celebrate the Intercontiental Challenge Rally, an encounter between Marcello Lotti has been organized (Chief of a main directorate of the IRC), Fran1cois Ribeiro (Eurosport Events), Luis Monsoon (promotional of the Canary Islands Rally) and Carlos Grace (president of the RFEDA) with the aim of approaching positions on the possibility of celebrating the IRC in the Rally of Canarias." " In this encuentro" " continues the national federation; the different possibilities that the calendar of competition 2010 offers, as well as the costs have studied that must assume the Organization of the canary rally so that the international test can move to the islands. In the next days, the different implied parts will maintain a series of meetings to make specific a possible agreement so that edition 2010 of the IRC in our country is celebrated in Canarias" it concludes.

19th February 2010, 10:14

Atko tested the Proton: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81590

alleskids

20th February 2010, 14:43

Despite some doubts, which emerged a few weeks ago, finally this year Rally d'Italia - Sardegna place. Ride the premiere as the fourth part of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, and is expected to start riding high occupancy.
The organizer of the race is again Automobil Club d'Italia and the headquarters will be located in the northeast of Sardinia in Olbia. The participants in the race, however, will make several changes to previous years. After a five-year break, the service park returns to Molo Brin, headquarters and media center will be in the nearby Museum of Archeology.

Much more fundamental changes, "admitted the whole scheme of lines. Ceremonial Start will take place on Friday 4 June millionaire Porto Cervo this time, however, replace the main town of the island, Cagliari. Directly in the south of Sardinia is then carried out on Friday night and two spectator stages.

Saturday's leg is from Cagliari to Olbia and the program will have six stages. First, in the neighborhood north of Oristano Cagliari will ride two tests and Grighine Giara, service zone will be located in Oristano. The next two tests will be crossing the direction of Olbia, one of them will, despite one of the most legendary places of car competitions in Sardinia - jump on Monte Lern.

Last Sunday's stage will again have six stages, which will lead near Olbia in Monte Acute. Local experts say the legendary track certainly names Monte Olia, Coiluna (known as Loelle) and Terranova.

alleskids

20th February 2010, 14:54

According to Italian forums, Evgeny Novikov is trying to secure a Ford Fietsa S2000 for some IRC rallies and part of the italian championship

alleskids

22nd February 2010, 18:35

The Brazilian team of Rafael Tulio/Cesar Valandro has signed a six-step program in the IRC 2WD category. They plan to drive in Curitiba, Argentina, Italy, Spain (was planned in Asturias, could change now it is on the Canarias Island) and two stages in Portugal (Azores and Madeira). In South America he Peugeot 207 will be serviced by the RT One team owned by driver Rafael Tulio. In Europe the car will be serviced by Team CRN.

Luis Pacheco

22nd February 2010, 18:46

Luis Pacheco

23rd February 2010, 18:55

Portuguese driver, Carlos Oliveira, will be in Brazil and Argentina. He will make team with Rafael Tulio also in a 207 2WD.

alleskids

26th February 2010, 20:42

The organization of the 34th Rally of Canaries Edición have rescheduled the rally to 29, 30 April and 1 May 2010
Daniel Oliveira wil have Denis Giraudet as navigator Rally de Curitiba. In Monte Carlo he drove with Carlos del Barrio.
Andreas Mikkelsen has announced that it will continue with Hankook in the 2010 IRC
Thierry Neuville is close to a 5 rally deal with Peugeot Belgium-Luxembourg told his new navigator Nicolas Klinger

alleskids

4th March 2010, 17:33

http://autosport.aeiou.pt/gen.pl?p=stories&op=view&fokey=as.stories/82291
the new livery of Bernardo Sousa. Team Manager of Team Ford Quinta do Lorde is ... Rui Madeira

alleskids

12th March 2010, 16:59

http://www.rallyreportnews.com.ar/
Proton will do IRC with Alister McRae and Chris Atkinson, with Tom Cave in a (private) third Proton. Later this year there will possible be oppertunities for Francois Duval, Anton Alen, Matti Rantanen and Heikki Kovalainen.

The English structure that manages the fates of Proton in the International Rally, the MEM World Rally Team, who commands Chris Mellors, plus the backing of David Felton, are in the final negotiations for establishing the campus of Proton drivers from Sardinia on IRC this season, and after performing various tests at its headquarters in Britain, is a fact that the main driver will be the Scotsman Alister McRae, who also take part in the APRC with another unit of Satria Neo S2000.
While the second seat in the square with the economic sporte from Malaysia was destined for the Australian Chris Atkinson, who would return to international action after his steady pace from 2005 to 2008 with Subaru WRT and a sporadic presentation with the Junior Team, using the C4 WRC in Ireland 2009, now it's squire Atkinson Proton on IRC, telling the team also with young British star Tom Cave with a broad agenda of skills in the discipline in the SWRC and the IRC.
Finally folder are also in the names of Francois Duval, Anton Alen and Matti Rantanen, who, with Heikki Kovalainen could have some way with the Proton Rally sometime in 2010.

PLuto

12th March 2010, 17:43

I think this is only "new translation" version of Proton PR published few weeks ago...

13th March 2010, 20:45

What Proton PR? Did I miss something? Is Atkinson confirmed?

Red bull

14th March 2010, 10:45

Put any of this IRC drivers to beat Seb.Loeb in WRC..
OR PUT sebastian back to irc in a s2000 car and see how he ll be beaten by young drivers who if given a chance can do well in a wrc car,irc is full of new sherrifs :D :D :D

alleskids

14th March 2010, 11:03

You are spot on Red Bull :) . I would have loved to see Sebastien Loeb in a S2000 in Rally Monte Carlo, whit no special treatment from his team, just the same equipement and specifications as Meeke and Ogier and all the others had. Why did he miss his most favortie rally? Citroen allowed him to drive a Peugeot

Barreis

14th March 2010, 11:48

IRC is second league.. Meeke and Wilks were in JWRC and Sordo beat them both.. So where are they now? In IRC. Don't forget that Seb.Loeb won 55 WRC rallies..

Red bull

14th March 2010, 12:10

just watch out for the wrc drivers who have switched to irc how they will get a beating from the irc regulars,sebastian is on top cause of full citroen support otherwise if left at the same level with the irc drivers in same car he cant beat them.Ever wondered why he doesnt want to drive any other car apart 4rm citroen?

HaCo

14th March 2010, 12:14

Why compare to Loeb? Loeb is not the level of WRC, but is a level on his own. If you can't see that, you don't know anything about the sport. Never has anyone be so dominating before, and he has beaten all the good old drivers (from Makinen, McRae to Sainz and Burns, ...).

alleskids

14th March 2010, 12:26

Red bull

14th March 2010, 15:14

If Loeb is in his own league, then why does Citroen not give Sordo the same equipement and freedom to fight for his prices? Loeb is an exceptional driver, that's true, but he can be more exceptional if he drives for other teams, or let his teamamtes really fight against him. The really great drivers drove for different teams and makes. Gronholm was succesful in a Peugeot and a Ford, even on his first year in a SEAT. It would suit loeb to fight with differen type of cars and teams. And within his team
YES that is true hes a one car make champion(citroen)in fact if there are no wrc cars in 2011 he ll have to switch to other series probably le mans other than get a beating 4rm irc drivers,he knows it its his biggest worry :s mokin:

DonJippo

14th March 2010, 18:41

just watch out for the wrc drivers who have switched to irc how they will get a beating from the irc regulars

You mean like in Monte 2009 & 2010?

HaCo

14th March 2010, 19:44

You mean like in Monte 2009 & 2010?

Exactly.

I'm a big fan of IRC, but please don't put it next to WRC. Right now Loeb is the fastest man in the rallyworld and you keep on dreaming he wouldn't be able to follow in an S2000. Look how Miko performed in Monte, he was right on top with the IRC guys and who was in front of him, Ogier? :)
Meeke for sure is fast, as well as some other IRC boys, but getting to the top of WRC is not so simple!

noel157

14th March 2010, 20:49

Exactly.

I'm a big fan of IRC, but please don't put it next to WRC. Right now Loeb is the fastest man in the rallyworld and you keep on dreaming he wouldn't be able to follow in an S2000. Look how Miko performed in Monte, he was right on top with the IRC guys and who was in front of him, Ogier? :)
Meeke for sure is fast, as well as some other IRC boys, but getting to the top of WRC is not so simple!

I would agree with you HaCo to some extent but I think championships may have also been an influencing factor. Would have been interesting to see how the Fiesta would have performed on BFGs.

14th March 2010, 21:14

You mean like in Monte 2009 & 2010?

Fair point, but I would like to see some top guys try another event other than tyre lottery Monte.

A little statistic.... the 2009 and 2010 winners of Monte scored only 4 stage wins beween them.

AlfaWRC

15th March 2010, 07:41

Fair point, but I would like to see some top guys try another event other than tyre lottery Monte.

A little statistic.... the 2009 and 2010 winners of Monte scored only 4 stage wins beween them.

Because Mikko could back off after just 4 stages... driving it home safely....
For sure situation was a different for Ogier in 2009, but it was his first rally in S2000 and his first Monte (not 100% sure about that).

15th March 2010, 14:14

Because Mikko could back off after just 4 stages... driving it home safely....
For sure situation was a different for Ogier in 2009, but it was his first rally in S2000 and his first Monte (not 100% sure about that).

Come on, that's not true after the first 4 stages (140km) Mikko's gap was only 40s.

I'm not pretending Mikko didn't do the best job overall on Monte (which showed he was the best driver there) but I would like to see some top guys from WRC try on a pure performance rally because I don't think the gap would be that big.

IMO the top IRC guys are a little bit behind the top WRC guys (Loeb, Sordo, Hirvonen, JML, Petter and Ogier) but ahead of the M2 guys (Henning, Wilson, Villagra, Raikkonen....) and in some situations maybe better than some of the first group too.

noel157

15th March 2010, 14:32

AlfaWRC

15th March 2010, 15:13

Come on, that's not true after the first 4 stages (140km) Mikko's gap was only 40s.

I'm not pretending Mikko didn't do the best job overall on Monte (which showed he was the best driver there) but I would like to see some top guys from WRC try on a pure performance rally because I don't think the gap would be that big.

IMO the top IRC guys are a little bit behind the top WRC guys (Loeb, Sordo, Hirvonen, JML, Petter and Ogier) but ahead of the M2 guys (Henning, Wilson, Villagra, Raikkonen....) and in some situations maybe better than some of the first group too.

I absolutely share your opionion regarding WRC / IRC drivers.

But my opionion regarding the situation in Monte is exactly like described above. If your name is not Sebastien Loeb you will not manage to close a gap of 40 seconds to Mikko... There was no need to set great stage times. He only had to show it once after his puncture on second day...

Barreis

15th March 2010, 16:52

It's not the same to drive 2 or 3 days.. I like IRC but the best drivers are in WRC.. :)

GigiGalliNo1

15th March 2010, 18:43

I think if you put the best World Rally driver in a less specified car ie S2000 IRC version , he will beat the IRC drivers no doubt.

The IRC drivers are in their own class - the WRC drivers are too. but like RS said - the IRC guys are a little behind the big boys in WRC but ahead of the M2 guys. It might sound funny but it's true. Loeb being one of the best drivers for a long time, after the previous best drivers in the world... you could not compare him to any other really except Mikko, in today's world.

If you put the IRC drivers in Grp N cars they will beat the Grp N drivers... see where I am getting at? Solberg, Gronholm.... um wait... I can't think of any more - but they would be good in the IRC and champions there as it would be a little step backwards.... Sorry.

OK - even with practice - a Grp N driver will progress to IRC and become a winner or contender... an IRC driver to WRC will progress and would become a contender and perhaps a round winner. Hope this makes sense...

15th March 2010, 21:56

Maybe one day there will be more teams in WRC and these drivers will get a chance there. Beyond unemployed super-talents like Atkinson or PGA, I think IRC should be the first place they should look.

noel157

16th March 2010, 18:01

Now official, Asturias out, Canaries in:

http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=1601

Another island rally Bluuford :)

16th March 2010, 20:55

Al-Attiyah has the budget for all 10 remaining rounds if neccesary: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82184

Luis Pacheco

25th March 2010, 16:32

http://www.tomcaveracing.com/Tom_Cave_Racing/News/Entries/2010/3/25_Tom_Cave_confirms_2010_rally_programme.html

Mirek

25th March 2010, 18:29

Gustavo Trelles is planning Acores according to the IRC website.

WRCKE

26th March 2010, 11:15

Freddy Loix

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee320/WRCKE/img-6199.jpg

Historic Driver Didier Vanwijnsberghe

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee320/WRCKE/vwb.jpg

J.Lindstroem

26th March 2010, 11:23

http://www.tomcaveracing.com/Tom_Cave_Racing/News/Entries/2010/3/25_Tom_Cave_confirms_2010_rally_programme.html

Pretty good news! I really like IRC, the actoon reminds me of what Wrc used to be!

106 sport

26th March 2010, 12:25

Freddy Loix

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee320/WRCKE/img-6199.jpg

Historic Driver Didier Vanwijnsberghe

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee320/WRCKE/vwb.jpg

Is there any chance to enjoy those cars in Rally Islas Canarias??? :eek:

wwbroe

26th March 2010, 12:59

Is there any chance to enjoy those cars in Rally Islas Canarias??? :eek:

Well, i don't think so, Vanwijnsberge will use it only in IRC rally of Ypres and Loix wanted to do Islas Canarias, but due to logistical problems it will not take place. He will do Madeira instead of Asturias.

wwbroe

26th March 2010, 13:00

By the way, i like Loix' livery very much, that is one good looking car i must say. :D

Madeira

26th March 2010, 13:12

Loix wanted to do Islas Canarias, but due to logistical problems it will not take place. He will do Madeira instead of Asturias.

Is this confirmed wwbroe?

26th March 2010, 13:19

Do we know anything else about Loix's IRC programme? How many rounds and where?

Mirek

26th March 2010, 13:21

Ypres, Barum, Madeira, Sanremo I guess.

pucky54

26th March 2010, 16:17

Neuville will drive 7 IRC rounds with the support of Peugeot Belux, with Kronos!!! :D

Amazing. First event will be?

alleskids

26th March 2010, 17:48

http://www.autonews-magazine.com/blog/?p=10108
Neuville will do 6 IRC rallies, starting in Rally Canarias, plus Rally Condroz

RICARDO75

26th March 2010, 18:11

Canarias, Sadegna, Ypres, Barum, Sanremo and Scotland.
No Rally Azores :mad:

106 sport

26th March 2010, 21:04

http://www.autonews-magazine.com/blog/?p=10108
Neuville will do 6 IRC rallies, starting in Rally Canarias, plus Rally Condroz

:D

RICARDO75

26th March 2010, 21:42

Do we know anything else about Loix's IRC programme? How many rounds and where?

Geko Ypres Rally, Barum Rally Zlin and Sanremo. The fourth round will be chosen according to the results obtained.

karlzoro

27th March 2010, 10:24

Geko Ypres Rally, Barum Rally Zlin and Sanremo. The fourth round will be chosen according to the results obtained.

a small video presentation of the Skoda for Freddy & his 2010 program..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5-HpgLqTa0

I hope you enjoy,

best regards,
K.

Sulland

27th March 2010, 12:39

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/03/27/neuvielle-bekommt-irc-programm/index.html

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/index.php?eID=tx_cms_showpic&file=uploads%2Fpics%2Fnews_int_20100327.jpg&width=500m&height=500&bodyTag=%3Cbody%20bgColor%3D%22%23ffffff%22%3E&wrap=%3Ca%20href%3D%22javascript%3Aclose%28%29%3B% 22%3E%20%7C%20%3C%2Fa%3E&md5=54da66345c301ef6d2d18ae2d7fc458d

Sulland

27th March 2010, 12:42

a small video presentation of the Skoda for Freddy & his 2010 program..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5-HpgLqTa0

I hope you enjoy,

best regards,
K.

So he will drive for this team: http://www.s2000rally.com/car-detail.php?car=236

Sulland

27th March 2010, 12:42

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/top/topnews/d16/d/2010/03/27/neuvielle-bekommt-irc-programm/index.html
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/index.php?eID=tx_cms_showpic&file=uploads%2Fpics%2Fnews_int_20100327.jpg&width=500m&height=500&bodyTag=%3Cbody%20bgColor%3D%22%23ffffff%22%3E&wrap=%3Ca%20href%3D%22javascript%3Aclose%28%29%3B% 22%3E%20%7C%20%3C%2Fa%3E&md5=54da66345c301ef6d2d18ae2d7fc458d

Very nice livery !

karlzoro

27th March 2010, 13:09

So he will drive for this team: http://www.s2000rally.com/car-detail.php?car=236

no, he will drive wit hthe team of René Georges, that car came from kit-racing.cz just for the presentation, because the other cars were not "at home" :) )

wwbroe

27th March 2010, 17:01

Yes, that is correct, there wan't even an engine in this car for the presentation of the program. Freddy's car will only arrive later on, in time for his first rally of the season, wich will be Rally de Wallonie end of april. :)

Wim_Impreza

27th March 2010, 19:00

Geko Ypres Rally, Barum Rally Zlin and Sanremo. The fourth round will be chosen according to the results obtained.

Loix prefers another tarmac rally, as example one of the two rounds in Portugal.

Madeira

27th March 2010, 22:30

Loix prefers another tarmac rally, as example one of the two rounds in Portugal.
Tarmac in Portugal only Rally Vinho da Madeira....(of course, thinking in the IRC series)

wwbroe

27th March 2010, 22:58

I think there is a good chance that you might see Loix coming to Madeira. :)

Sulland

28th March 2010, 13:53

no, he will drive wit hthe team of René Georges, that car came from kit-racing.cz just for the presentation, because the other cars were not "at home" :) )

Ahh, understand. How many Fabias will RGRS have to rent out ?

Madeira

28th March 2010, 18:49

I think there is a good chance that you might see Loix coming to Madeira. :)
Thanks, I hope you are right ;)

wwbroe

29th March 2010, 08:18

Ahh, understand. How many Fabias will RGRS have to rent out ?

They have two for the moment and another two are ordered and will be delivered pretty soon. :)

29th March 2010, 14:07

They have two for the moment and another two are ordered and will be delivered pretty soon. :)

1820mm facelift models I presume?

Mirek

29th March 2010, 14:08

I don't think so.

wwbroe

30th March 2010, 11:03

Seems like Duval blew up his last ever change to become a rallydriver again, he refused an offer from Proton to do 13 rally's with them, gaining 125000 Euro's. He had to do some rally's in Asia and the rest in IRC, but Mr. Duval prefers to stay in his garage. Nobody understands him anymore, even his manager, his parents and his good friend Olivier de Wilde (from La Derniere Heure) don't know what he is trying to prove.

Here is the article from La Derniere Heure, unfortunally in French :( :

Duval devient le roi des occasions… manquées
(30/03/2010)

© LPR

Il préfère refuser un beau contrat Proton pour se consacrer à son garage. Le début de la fin…

CUL-DES-SARTS Sans volant officiel depuis quelques années après s’être grillé les ailes chez Citroën, Ford, Kronos et Skoda et s’être mis à dos des mécènes comme Christian Kelders ou Steven Vergalle (il a même encore décliné récemment une proposition de Geko pour rouler en Belgique !), François Duval a refusé ce week-end la dernière occasion sans doute de faire rebondir sa carrière internationale.

Peut-être encore marqué par ses accidents au Japon en 2008 (son équipier Patrick Pivato s’en remet seulement aujourd’hui), à Ypres et au Condroz l’an dernier, Dudu n’a plus le feu sacré. Au creux de la vague, il a maintenant touché le fond.

Après avoir surmonté des problèmes sentimentaux et récupéré sa compagne Marion à Paris, on le croyait mieux mentalement. Mais il n’en est, hélas! rien.

Lentement mais sûrement, le pilote de Cul-des-Sarts a continué à faire le vide autour de lui. Au point que même ses plus fervents supporters ne croient plus aujourd’hui qu’il puisse redevenir celui qu’ils ont adoré. Car si Obélix reste certainement un des cinq meilleurs rallymen de la planète, il n’a plus l’envie de le prouver. De s’investir. Le ressort est cassé.

Il vient de refuser un contrat en or avec le constructeur malaisien Proton qui le voulait à tout prix après un essai plus que concluant et lui proposait un contrat de 125.000 euros pour apparemment 13 courses dont les six du championnat Asie-Pacifique où il ferait équipe avec Alister McRae.

Pourtant pas en position de faire la fine bouche, Duval Jr préfère se consacrer au garage familial dont il est devenu le patron. À négocier des Auris d’occasions plutôt que de saisir cette magnifique opportunité de rebondir avec un constructeur.

“C’est difficile à expliquer,” confie un trentenaire à côté de ses pompes. “Ma décision est liée à tout un ensemble de choses. Il n’y a pas que le garage. J’ai dit que je voulais bien rouler en IRC mais pas en Asie. Je ne pense pas que cela puisse me servir d’aller gagner face à des Groupe N et des pilotes sans nom. Tout le monde trouvera cela normal. Cela fait beaucoup de voyages et de jours d’absence pour un championnat qui ne m’excite pas. Il y a cinq ans, je n’aurais pas hésité, mais depuis ma victoire en 2005 en Australie, je n’ai plus rien fait de bien. Et aujourd’hui, si je gagne honnêtement ma vie, c’est grâce à l’achat et la vente des voitures d’occasions.”

L’ex-numéro 1 belge préfère donc désormais disputer des courses de villages, faire du rallycross ou tourner à Mettet après ses heures ou quand le garage est fermé.

Avec un tel talent, on peut parler de réel gâchis, sans doute le plus grand du sport automobile. Une carrière nous rappelant l’ascension puis la descente aux enfers d’un certain Frank Vandenbroucke. En espérant que l’issue finale ne soit pas la même...

Olivier de Wilde

© La Dernière Heure 2010

30th March 2010, 12:04

Very disappointing :(

I was sticking with Francois through and through because he has a lot of natural talent and untapped potential, but maybe we have to give up on him now...

So now what will Proton do? Francois was probably the best option. I would try for Gardemeister or Atkinson.

Barreis

30th March 2010, 12:23

I agree with you.. Duval is better then Garde and Atkinson..

30th March 2010, 17:02

IRC driver related news, Jan Kopecky will compete on the Italian Championship: http://skoda.rallye-info.com/article.asp?sid=6&stid=8536

noel157

30th March 2010, 19:30

IRC driver related news, Jan Kopecky will compete on the Italian Championship: http://skoda.rallye-info.com/article.asp?sid=6&stid=8536

"We started this project last year, it has been strongly developed in the last months and in 2010 we will take part in the Italian Championship with 2 cars. I would like to thank Škoda Motorsport for their support. We are proud to have this opportunity, and we are sure that Jan Kopecký will show his skills on the Italian roads too”.

Who is in the other car?

stepunk

30th March 2010, 20:23

"We started this project last year, it has been strongly developed in the last months and in 2010 we will take part in the Italian Championship with 2 cars. I would like to thank Škoda Motorsport for their support. We are proud to have this opportunity, and we are sure that Jan Kopecký will show his skills on the Italian roads too”.

Who is in the other car?

Rumours say Marco Signor, but it's not confirmed yet.

30th March 2010, 20:45

I ran the Duval article through Google translate and it seems as if his main issue was that he did not want to compete in Asia but only in IRC. Especially seeing as he was being offered money to drive and not the other way round you would think he would have taken that deal! It's a pity, on the other hand it's also a shame that maybe Proton did not bow to those wishes.

Maybe Atkinson is a real possibility as I am sure he wouldn't have a problem with the Asian events? He probably wouldn't be as quick as Duval on asphalt events, but he would be quicker on gravel I suspect.

Gardemeister, IMO, would be a safe pair of hands for both surfaces but wouldn't be as quick as the top IRC drivers on gravel or tarmac.

Anyone else in the pipeline?

principe IRC

30th March 2010, 21:05

The young Spanish driver (19 years old) Jose Antonio Suarez "Rocket" in Azores with Mitsubishi Evo X.

http://translate.google.com.ar/translate?u=+http%3A%2F%2Fwww.citadecampeones.com% 2F2010%2Freports%2Fr_cesp%2F01villajoyosa%2Fnotici as.htm&sl=es&tl=en&hl=es&ie=UTF-8

fmcv

30th March 2010, 22:29

eloyf1

30th March 2010, 23:12

How good is he? what kind of driving style has he got?
He's still too young to do something big in Açores (Which will be only his third or fourth gravel rally), but last year it was his first year, and he was doing C2 R2 times with a C2 GT... when I saw him, he was always on the limit.

Not only he is quick, but he has money, so let's hope he won't spoilt his talent...

fmcv

30th March 2010, 23:53

Luis Pacheco

30th March 2010, 23:53

Let´s see how many of all this names will come to Azores really. :D

eloyf1

31st March 2010, 00:11

Thanks! It's allways good to know somethig about our visitors. Two years ago another young driver from spain came and most of the people, including local media didn't have a clue about him. I'm talking about Yeray Lemes. Of course he could not battle for the lead but his driving was really thrilling.
Well, Lemes is another high-talented driver with two big problems:
- He is too much spectacular to do the best possible times
- He needs too many recce runs to be quick... (Let's say it's a massive problem for Spanish drivers...)
We will see what he can do in JWRC, and if "Cohete" doesn't adopt Spanish bad habits by racing outside our frontiers...

fmcv

31st March 2010, 16:00

Let´s see how many of all this names will come to Azores really. :D
Mikkelsen is coming :)

muscrae

31st March 2010, 18:57

Mikkelsen secures Hankook backing (http://www.crash.net/world+rally/news/158267/1/irc_mikkelsen_secures_hankook_backing.html)

Luis Pacheco

31st March 2010, 23:29

Mikkelsen is coming :)

Sometimes he read many intentions but in the end...
Look Goudezeune and his plans to compete in some IRC events announced at the end of last year. Now is sure he will not be here (Azores).

Mirek

31st March 2010, 23:35

Mikkelsen's program was confirmed by Hankook.

http://www.rallybuzz.com/andreas-mikkelsen-2010-irc/

alterdaxter

1st April 2010, 00:06

Sometimes he read many intentions but in the end...
Look Goudezeune and his plans to compete in some IRC events announced at the end of last year. Now is sure he will not be here (Azores).

Completely different story!
First of all, I think Goudezeune is one of the only drivers who will come and contest such an international programme with his private team. Secondly, don't forget to mention there are two rallies on his program that are also IRC rallies (Ypres & Barum) next to ERC where the main focus of his programme lays.

For sure it is not as simple as some people may think to put up a realistic programme. Maybe some people will be happy to see a Polo S2000 back in the international stages...

Still a lesson to learn: one will only start a rally when the car passed the podium at the start, before that nothing is sure.

Luis Pacheco

1st April 2010, 11:11

Like I said before Goudezeune will not compete in Azores. This is sure.

MartijnS

1st April 2010, 11:23

This is his programme: http://www.gabygoudezeune.be/?pagina=nieuws&id=11

1st April 2010, 12:13

Looking at PG's times in Jordan I think Proton should be chasing him!

Luis Pacheco

1st April 2010, 15:42

http://formularali.wordpress.com/2010/04/01/mikko-hirvonen-mostra-fiesta-rs-wrc-em-primeira-mao-no-sata-rallye-acores/

Hirvonen will test the Fiesta WRC at Azores! :D :D :D

Francis44

1st April 2010, 16:10

http://formularali.wordpress.com/2010/04/01/mikko-hirvonen-mostra-fiesta-rs-wrc-em-primeira-mao-no-sata-rallye-acores/

Hirvonen will test the Fiesta WRC at Azores! :D :D :D

This wins, best April fools joke :) .

Cloverleaf

1st April 2010, 16:24

Burcu Çetinkaya reveals her IRC program.

Sardinia
Ypres
Açores
Madeira
Barum
Sanremo
Scotland
+
WRC Rally of Turkey

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/5219/peugeotsportturkiye022.jpg

http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/3759/peugeotsportturkiye055.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/7082/abi2711.jpg

Luis Pacheco

1st April 2010, 16:34

This wins, best April fools joke :) .

:D

1st April 2010, 16:56

Nice livery on Cetinkaya's car and it looks like they put some effort into the launch :up:

Wittmanello

1st April 2010, 20:47

I like the direction where the IRC is heading - I hope they keep it this way and do not let anyone from the outside mess it up...

dimviii

1st April 2010, 20:56

Wittmanello which is going to be yours first rally?

Mirek

1st April 2010, 20:57

It was Monte Carlo :D

Sorry Franz to answer instead of You :)

dimviii

1st April 2010, 21:22

]It was Monte Carlo :D

Sorry Franz to answer instead of You :)

Sorry Mirek my english are not so good.
I was meaning which is the next rally he is going to participate.
Feel free to answer if you know that to :D

Wittmanello

1st April 2010, 21:49

He does not know it ... yet :D

dimviii

1st April 2010, 21:52

so.. :p

Wittmanello

1st April 2010, 21:56

and I will not tell it .... yet :P

dimviii

1st April 2010, 21:58

wish you good luck Franz. :)

PLuto

1st April 2010, 22:24

But I know it :D

Mirek

1st April 2010, 22:38

But Franz knows You and that will be Your biggest future problem :D

muscrae

1st April 2010, 23:04

Burcu Çetinkaya reveals her IRC program.

Cetinkaya becomes IRC´s first lady. (http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=1667)

Burcu Cetinkaya will become the first female driver to contest an expanded programme of Intercontinental Rally Challenge events when she starts her IRC campaign on Rally d’Italia-Sardegna from 4-6 June.

muscrae

2nd April 2010, 18:48

Cetinkaya becomes IRC´s first lady. (http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=1667)

Burcu Cetinkaya will become the first female driver to contest an expanded programme of Intercontinental Rally Challenge events when she starts her IRC campaign on Rally d’Italia-Sardegna from 4-6 June.

Here is the "trailer & test day" of Peugeot Sport Turkey's new contenders, the first female drivers competing in IRC:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=105222389516086&ref=nf

And here is the launch of the team in which 207 S2000 is relocated onto a skyscraper; 239 meters high, viewing Istanbul :) :

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=418090415774&ref=mf

bluuford

6th April 2010, 13:30

Mirek

6th April 2010, 13:45

In manufacturer championship You're probably right (although I wound't underestimate Thierry Neuville) but in drivers championship Kris Meeke is the only top driver on every surface. He stays as top favorite for me.

bluuford

6th April 2010, 14:46

]In manufacturer championship You're probably right (although I wound't underestimate Thierry Neuville) but in drivers championship Kris Meeke is the only top driver on every surface. He stays as top favorite for me.
Yes, Meeke is for drivers top. But this year there are a few rougher rallies like Cyprus and Sardegna where Peugeot might not be too reliable and there will be very tight competition between Kopecky, Hänninen, Wilks and hopefully Attiyah (seems that he has found the real speed of Fabia) and Mikkelsen as well in the near future. So, his task is very much harder than last year.

Luis Pacheco

6th April 2010, 17:07

Toni Gardemeister could be back at Sardegna.

6th April 2010, 18:26

Toni Gardemeister could be back at Sardegna.

Proton?

6th April 2010, 18:48

Well, seems like Škoda has superb lineup for this year and also Ford is going to play some jokers later in the season. It looks harder and harder for Peugeot to repeat its win in the IRC manufacturers category. Skoda has all the good drivers so far and Peugeot has only Meeke to fight against their armada.

What are the jokers you talk of that Ford will play? Hirvonen on Sanremo would be nice :)

I too think that Skoda will not be beaten in the manufacturers championship, but Meeke is probably still favourite for the drivers title. He has retired twice but could feasibly score 7 wins this year - there are 9 events to go and Kris already has one!

Luis Pacheco

6th April 2010, 19:13

Proton?

I only know that is quite sure is come back at Sardegna and he´s trying to get more budget to do more IRC events and the 1000 Lakes with a S2000 car.

RICARDO75

6th April 2010, 19:13

Drivers confirmed with Ford Fiesta S2000 in IRC events so far:
CANARIAS:
Sérgio Vallejo
Alvaro Muñiz

SARDEGNA:
Andreas Mikkelsen
Martin Prokop

YPRES:
Andreas Mikkelsen

AZORES:
Andreas Mikkelsen
Bernardo Sousa

MADEIRA:
Bernardo Sousa

BARUM:
Andreas Mikkelsen
Martin Prokop
Jaromir Tarabus

SAN REMO:
Andreas Mikkelsen
Martin Prokop

SCOTLAND:
Andreas Mikkelsen

CYPRUS:
Andreas Mikkelsen

alleskids

6th April 2010, 19:20

The IRC Cyprus rally is also part of the MERC, so me shouldl see Khalid Al Qassimi in the Fiesta S2000 in Cyprus too. Will the MERC entrans start together with the IRC field? In Jordan the MERC started seperated from the WRC?

Mirek

6th April 2010, 19:23

I don't see any problem between IRC and MERC. There are no problematic rules like single tyres or single fuel in IRC.

6th April 2010, 20:35

Hmm, nothing too special amongst the extra Ford starters.

Mikkelsen should be able to pick up some strong finishes but I still see the manufacturers title being Skoda-Peugeot-Ford.

PLuto

7th April 2010, 12:25

VW Trend S2000 (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10202)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/fcccc94b7d3cf01d21052ad0d3fea1b0.jpg

[Madeira-Rally]

7th April 2010, 12:32

VW Trend S2000 (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10202)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/fcccc94b7d3cf01d21052ad0d3fea1b0.jpg

I was posting the same... at the same time as you Pluto...
someone have some more information about this car and project?

The car looks good

modri dirkac

7th April 2010, 12:36

VW Trend S2000 (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=10202)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/fcccc94b7d3cf01d21052ad0d3fea1b0.jpg

Škoda Fabia S2000 with another name?

[Madeira-Rally]

7th April 2010, 12:39

Probably ASO will change the rules for 2011 to penalize diesel engines (VW uses it)

Maybe VW will quit from Rally Raids and join rallys with an S2000 car.. with help and experience from Skoda Boys...

It would be really great :)

Mirek

7th April 2010, 12:48

Škoda Fabia S2000 with another name?

Don't think so. It's private Argentinian Barattero project.

eloyf1

7th April 2010, 14:04

It's not a real S2000, but an Argentinean S2000. Nearly all mechanical parts are standarized and the engine isn't a 2.0 but a 2.4 standard engine done by Berta ;)

alleskids

9th April 2010, 17:20

9th April 2010, 17:27

Stephane Prevot has told that he will navigate Chris Atkinson on 6 Asia-Pacific rallies and 6 IRC rallies, in the Proton. Proton had planned 8-9 IRC ralies, so we will see other drivers too in the Proton?

Proton will do a maximum of 8 since I don't think they are going to Canarias and afterwards there are only 8 left.

PGA said he is also talking to Proton for "some" events. I'm really pleased that Proton are talking to and contracting some excellent drivers. If they have made some steps with the car they could be competitive on IRC this year.

Madeira

10th April 2010, 18:12

Toshi Arai is planning to be present in Ypres Rally
Source:
http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/arai_linked_to_ypres_rally_entry/

alleskids

11th April 2010, 16:51

Maciej Oleksowicz will drive in the European Rally Championship (ERC) at the wheel of a Fiesta S2000. He has already confirmed 4 rounds: Rally 1000 Miglia Rally Croatia (if not canceled), the Rally of Poland and the Rally of Ypres. He will also participate in other 4 innings but he has yet to decide.

http://www.frst.ch/~ne0dyme/images/fiestaS2000/Maciej_Oleksowicz_03.jpg

Barreis

11th April 2010, 19:51

Croatia rally is not cancelled..

alleskids

12th April 2010, 18:24

Daniel Oliveira will contest a total of 10 Intercontinental Rally Challenge events this season in his Stohl Racing-run Peugeot 207 S2000.
The 24-year-old from Brazil hadn’t planned to compete again in the series until the Ypres Rally in Belgium from June 24-26. His next event will now be Rally Islas Canarias from April 29-May 1. The only events he is scheduled to miss are the rounds in Sardinia and Czech Republic.
Manfred Stohl, Oliveira’s team boss, said: “We always wanted Daniel to concentrate on getting experience, not results, because he still has a lot to learn. Doing these extra rallies will be good for him.”
Carlos del Barrio will partner Oliveira on Rally Islas Canarias. The Spanish veteran has extensive experience of the asphalt event, which Oliveira will be tackling for the first time.
http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/oliveira_increases_irc_commitment/

ZequeArgentina

14th April 2010, 20:34

It's not a real S2000, but an Argentinean S2000. Nearly all mechanical parts are standarized and the engine isn't a 2.0 but a 2.4 standard engine done by Berta ;)

That is right. National champ. in Argentinean allows the new argentinean S2000s, which are effectivelly similar to S2000 but with standard engine, gearbox and (I understand) differentials also.
Engine is based on a Honda 2.4 liter, the intention is to create a more robust engine wih less maintainance with same performance (due to higher cc).

I personally do not like the trend, as it will separate our cars to international scene. Currently local temas are very competitive worldwide with Lancers and Subarus N4.

Tom206wrc

17th April 2010, 07:40

I only know that is quite sure is come back at Sardegna and he´s trying to get more budget to do more IRC events and the 1000 Lakes with a S2000 car.

I hope a 207 for Garde :p :

alleskids

29th April 2010, 20:21

Bruno Magelhaes will not compete in the Ypres and Barum rally. The budget is too small, so he will only participate in rallies were he has realistic chance of points. His programe could be over if Magelhaes does not well on Azores and Madeira

30th April 2010, 18:26

PG Andersson confirmed on rally radio that he will drive Sardinia in a Mitsubishi.

Luis Pacheco

30th April 2010, 19:16

Juho Hanninen and Julian Maurien will compete at Rally of Portugal.

noel157

3rd May 2010, 01:15

Is the Corsa S2000 project officially dead? Haven't even heard of any developement work (which it sorely needed) over the past 6 months and Gareth Mchale did say earlier this year that he planned to do some IRC events later this year in the car. Don't think it's been out since Scotland last year when it was rented by somebody who's name I've forgetten (German driver?).

Mirek

3rd May 2010, 01:22

Tim Stebani ;) He said he would like to drive it again this year but it's a question of money. For the moment he stays with his OPC.

noel157

3rd May 2010, 11:52

]Tim Stebani ;) He said he would like to drive it again this year but it's a question of money. For the moment he stays with his OPC.

That's the guy, Tim Stebani.

RICARDO75

6th May 2010, 01:03

Pieter Tsjoen and Patrick Snijers with Peugeot 207 S2000 from Kronos on the Ypres Rally.

Mirek

6th May 2010, 01:54

Not exactly, only Pieter Tsjoen with Kronos. Patrick Snijers will use brand new Peugeot recently bought by Wim Soenens.

RICARDO75

6th May 2010, 02:15

Thanks Mirek.
I saw the news on autoklub.pl but didn´t translate the text

mousti

7th May 2010, 02:05

]Not exactly, only Pieter Tsjoen with Kronos. Patrick Snijers will use brand new Peugeot recently bought by Wim Soenens.
From Barosso Sport :)

Madeira

13th August 2010, 15:01

After Madeira, Luca Rossetti are trying to find the necessary budget to be present in Cyprus Rally. Next season he showed interest in programme for IRC...

http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/breve-26-2-9477/130810-rossetti-veut-faire-plus-d-epreuves

alleskids

14th August 2010, 18:36

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/peugeot_importers_vow_to_carry_on_in_irc/

Two leading Peugeot importers are set to ignore Olivier Quesnel’s threat to withdraw the make from the Intercontinental Rally Challenge by insisting they plan to continue in the series next season.

Quesnel , the boss of Peugeot Sport, said recently that he would not allow the company to be represented in the IRC beyond 2010 if Skoda continued to run its factory team, which has won five rounds so far this season and filled the podium on three events.

Peugeot UK, which guided Kris Meeke to the IRC drivers’ title in 2010, and Peugeot Portugal, a winner in its maiden season in the series this year, have no plans to quit.
“We would like to continue and what like that to be with Kris and Paul [Nagle, Meeke’s co-driver],” said Peugeot UK’s Ian Sedgwick. “Nothing has been agreed but we’re starting our discussions and we hope to get a decision in the autumn.”

Last week’s Rali Vinho Madeira was supposed to be Peugeot Portugal’s last appearance in the IRC this year but company chiefs have released more funds to enable Bruno Magalhaes to contest Rallye Sanremo in September. “The programme has been a big success and the board wants to carry on,” said a spokesman for the importer.

alleskids

21st September 2010, 17:24

2010 Cyprus Rally

Franz Wittmann will be present in the Cyprus Rally, the last IRC in 2010.
"Cyprus counts among the very tough tarmac rallies. That is surely to our advantage. A good result at the season’s finale would definitely strengthen our self-confidence for the next season enormously", explains Wittmann.
With the testing prior to Germany, the WRC-run in Germany itself and the IRC-series Barum Rally, where the Interwetten Racing Team reached a very good eleventh overall place, Franz Wittmann has been able to gather valuable experience on tarmac. Therefore one decided against a start at the Sanremo Rally and in favour of taking part at the season’s finale on Cyprus.

Wittmann: "We made this decision in the light of our further development. Sometimes one has to be able to change one’s arrangements, something which we have already done this season."