Rally Sweden 2012

[Tom206wrc]

I really hope Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah will impress all of us in Sweden :)

[SubaruNorway]

If anyone knows of a good, cheap place with WIFI around Torsby/Hagfors or not too far away, please PM me.
It's just for me.

[Langdale Forest]

Should be a good rally in Sweden, 4 drivers are capable of winning, and Mads Otsberg is entred in a Ford Fiesta WRC, and this will, of course be the first time the Minis have done a full snow rally.

[EightGear]

And Jari Ketomaa is there as well. And Sandell in a WRCar. :)

[Langdale Forest]

How many drivers are registerd for SWRC & PWRC points in Sweden?, and I cannot see any WRC academy drivers on the entry list.

[tolis]

How many drivers are registerd for SWRC & PWRC points in Sweden?, and I cannot see any WRC academy drivers on the entry list.
SWRC entries for Rally Sweden:

31 H. Paddon-Skoda Fabia S2000
32 C. Breen-Ford Fiesta S2000
33 PG Andersson-Proton Satria S2000
34 A. McRae-Proton Satria S2000
35 M. Oleksowicz-Ford Fiesta S2000
36 Y. Al Rajhi-Ford Fiesta RRC


Neither PWRC nor WRC Academy had Rally Sweden in their programme.

[hari]

SWRC entries for Rally Sweden:

31 H. Paddon-Skoda Fabia S2000
32 C. Breen-Ford Fiesta S2000
33 PG Andersson-Proton Satria S2000
34 A. McRae-Proton Satria S2000
35 M. Oleksowicz-Ford Fiesta S2000
36 Y. Al Rajhi-Ford Fiesta RRC


+ Pontus Tidemand (Skoda Fabia S2000) and Marius Aasen (Ford Fiesta S2000) als wildcard entries

[Barreis]

Can't wait for the start.

[pantealex]

21 drivers for qualifying stage ( 18 x Priority1 + 3 x Priority2 )
Maybe there is somebody who wants start first for pr-reasons (VW´s Ogier maybe?)
What you think is best roadposition? 8-10 or 14-16 maybe?

[Maxi]

I really hope Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah will impress all of us in Sweden :)

I hope so too...but I doubt he will.

[Koceens]

rallyfinnskog.no (http://www.rallyfinnskog.no/bildegalleri/6)

Some pictures from upcoming rally Finnskog. Seems like conditions are perfect at the moment. At least for the 1st proper day of rally Sweden.

Edit: And Mads in Fiesta WRC as well in Finnskog. Will be interesting to compare with Mikko before Sweden. :)

[Leon]

I hope so too...but I doubt he will.

Not at this event. Look for that with a big Maybe in Mexico, Acropolis, Jordan type events....

[Leon]

I really hope Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah will impress all of us in Sweden :)

Not at this event. Look for that with a big Maybe in Mexico, Acropolis, Jordan type events....

[SubaruNorway]

Fiesta WRC for Eyvind Brynildsen according to Cato Menkerud on FB.

[RICARDO75]

+ Pontus Tidemand (Skoda Fabia S2000) and Marius Aasen (Ford Fiesta S2000) als wildcard entries

Marius Aasen is from Norway.

[hari]

Marius Aasen is from Norway.

Yes, i know. I also wondered about it.

But it says so here: http://www.rallysweden.com/ingen-flodin-%e2%80%93-wild-card-till-aasen
And also the entry list is updated with priority for Aasen: http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen-2012/anmalda

So there is probably some possibility for the wildcard.

[hari]

Here is the explanation for Aasens wildcard:

http://www.rallysweden.com/brynildsen-byter-till-wrc-fiesta

[SubaruNorway]

Marius Aasen is from Norway.

And the rally runs a whole day in Norway so why shouldn't he get it?

Brynildsen will do Rally Finnskog as a test in the Fiesta WRC. So now there are 4 WRC and 2 others in the same class with not specified cars yet.

[MTA]

This weekend it was running a local event caled Finnskogsvalsen in the area of Torsby.
A ss that was run was Bjälverud that was running the first day of the Swedish Rally 2009.
There was more snow and ice on the road than I thought it would be and the roads held very good.

The picture from the car was taken a just few 100 meters from the start of Rämmen so it was very good winter there to.
A little more snow and it will be perfect!

For more pictures from two different ss visit ...::: Rallyfoto.se :::... (http://www.rallyfoto.se) and then select "Besökta Tävlingar"

[MTA]

Near Rämmen

[Salist]

Here isn't too much snow on the road. :(

[Karukera]

What about a nice mess on the stages when Nobre starts first on the road after shakedown classification ?

[DonJippo]

Here isn't too much snow on the road. :(

By look of the Rämmen picture it is from tarmac road and you don't normally see much snow on such roads.

[Coach 2]

Brynildsen in WRC-Ford.

[dimviii]

whats this? :dozey:

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/403939_10150607600265733_206160890732_11272550_926 112307_n.jpg

[Viking]

whats this? :dozey:

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/403939_10150607600265733_206160890732_11272550_926 112307_n.jpg

Livery of the year?? ehh :D

Hem (http://www.swedenworldrallyteam.com)

[Salist]

DonJippo: OK it's true.

[N.O.T]

Does Sweden allow super-rally or not ?

[hari]

Does Sweden allow super-rally or not ?

Yes its allowed.

[RobertS]

some older results >

Sainz & snow :eek:

1996 / 2nd with the old gr.A Escort
juwra.com**|**Rallies - Sweden 1996 final results (http://www.juwra.com/sweden_1996_results.html)

1997 / 2nd with the Escort WRC
juwra.com**|**Rallies - Sweden 1997 final results (http://www.juwra.com/sweden_1997_results.html)

1998 / 2nd with the Corolla WRC
juwra.com**|**Rallies - Sweden 1998 final results (http://www.juwra.com/sweden_1998_results.html)

1999 / 2nd with the Corolla WRC
juwra.com**|**Rallies - Sweden 1999 final results (http://www.juwra.com/sweden_1999_results.html)

Hmm...a good series...

[Salist]

Livery of the year?? ehh :D

Hem (http://www.swedenworldrallyteam.com)

MINI WRC (http://www.swedenworldrallyteam.com/19968.mini_wrc.html)

[Sulland]

MINI WRC (http://www.swedenworldrallyteam.com/19968.mini_wrc.html)

They need to switch around the two colors in the livery, then it will be nice actually!

[Plan9]

They need to switch around the two colors in the livery, then it will be nice actually!

And reconsider the black. Interesting that this will be run as the 52 car.

[SubaruNorway]

They need to switch around the two colors in the livery, then it will be nice actually!

And make the Swedish government change the Swedish flag to the same then :p

[Red bull]

Eyvind Brynildsen jois Adapta team for Rally Sweden - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97171?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[Koceens]

Starting to plan my trip to Sweden so maybe locals can give some useful information about interesting places? I don't know nothing about Mitandersfors and Finnskogen stage, but would like to see 3 stages on Friday and I think SS2 and SS5/8 are the best option to do it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V48DZIJ5aIY
Also would like to know place in Rammen stage (00:19 in this video with Solberg jumping). I guess it's somewhere near the finish, but where exactly?

Thanks in advance!

[DonJippo]

From Simon de Banke tweet


Stage One Technology to be in #WRC Rally Sweden in full capacity, with our full systems!

Does this mean splits are back?

[Barreis]

NOS back?! Horror for sport.

[Viking]

NOS back?! Horror for sport.

S1T is not NOS.

[Salist]

Göransson livery

http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Bil-1-WEBB1.jpg
http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Bil-2-WEBB1.jpg

[OldF]

From Simon de Banke tweet



Does this mean splits are back?


So it seems.

Timing and tracking return for Sweden's WRC round - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97189?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Interesting detail.

” The system for the WRC opener was based on a mobile telephone signal. GSM signals are notoriously patchy in the mountains, but when combined with the number of people using mobile telephones on the stages, the mobile networks were unable to cope on a local level.

The Stage 1 Technology system uses a repeater plane constantly flying at 20,000 feet above the cars. Data between all competing cars, the plane and the service park is constantly being transferred, giving the teams a complete picture of where the cars are at any given point.”

[Barreis]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTQ1wqgZT3E&sns=fb

[Iskald]

Starting to plan my trip to Sweden so maybe locals can give some useful information about interesting places? I don't know nothing about Mitandersfors and Finnskogen stage, but would like to see 3 stages on Friday and I think SS2 and SS5/8 are the best option to do it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V48DZIJ5aIY
Also would like to know place in Rammen stage (00:19 in this video with Solberg jumping). I guess it's somewhere near the finish, but where exactly?

Thanks in advance!

Good choice for friday. SS2 Mitandersfors starts in Sweden, but then crosses the border into Norway. After a few km it joins the classic Varaldskogen stage from the Finnskog Rally. There is only one possible road into the stage, to a junction two thirds into the stage. Good place with a fast left into open hairpin right. If you walk a few hundred metres from the junction towards the start, you will be able to see the cars absolutely flat.
SS 5/8 Finnskogen, is also an old Finnskogrally classic called Frysjøen. Several roads leading into the stage, but I don`t actually know which ones are actually open for spectators, you have to consult the maps and make a try yourself. Anyway when we did this stage in Rally Norway 2009 I remember smoke from spectators bonfires all along the stage. There was really a lot of people on this stage in 2009, and I suspect that quite a few of the roads were open. Good luck with your spectating,

[SubaruNorway]

Video from the junction on ss2 from Varaldskogen section
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xx3YIPM3Z7Q

And this first stage is maybe 700m after the junction where PG Andersson was spectating too.
Rally Finnskogen 2008 - Car Videos on StreetFire (http://www.streetfire.net/video/rally-finnskogen-2008_150618.htm)

[Koppomsbo]

And this first stage is maybe 700m after the junction where PG Andersson was spectating too.
Rally Finnskogen 2008 - Car Videos on StreetFire (http://www.streetfire.net/video/rally-finnskogen-2008_150618.htm)

And me, dont forget about me ;)

[WRCfan]

Looking forward to this rally. Always picturesque and a great rally to watch on TV. Hope Solberg runs well as does Jari Matti and Mikko.

[tfp]

Looking forward to this rally. Always picturesque and a great rally to watch on TV. Hope Solberg runs well as does Jari Matti and Mikko.

Me too! I hope theres a fight at the front aswel, not like Monte when it was over after the first day.

[A FONDO]

What's going on with that domstic rally with Hirvonen, Prokop, Breen etc?

[N.O.T]

testing...

[SubaruNorway]

And me, dont forget about me ;)

Sorry!

I will be filming Rally Finnskog next weekend. rallyfinnskog.no (http://www.rallyfinnskog.no/paameldte2/6)
Service 3 times and next to no transport so good rally for testing. And it's important to get a good setup for stages being run two times with ruts which you can try there.

[A FONDO]

testing...
thats obvious, I mean where can I see the results?

[Coach 2]

rallyfinnskog.no (http://www.rallyfinnskog.no/resultater)

[mousti]

Neuville will get some teaching of Tommi Makinen helping him to prepare for Sweden.

[mousti]

Oleksowicz and Brynildsen will drive with Dmack's.

[skarderud]

Marius aasen, norway, has dmack on the side of his fiesta s2000, so he's probably going to use dmack's to :)

[banksy87]

I will be attending my first Swedish rally this year. Cant wait. As others have said any information on some good spots to watch will be much appreciated!

Does anyone know if there is any national rallies running behind the WRC and if so is there any info on this?

Thanks,

[BleAivano]

I will be attending my first Swedish rally this year. Cant wait. As others have said any information on some good spots to watch will be much appreciated!

Does anyone know if there is any national rallies running behind the WRC and if so is there any info on this?

Thanks,

The national championship have its next rally at the weekend after Rally Sweden, so they won't be at RS this year.

[SubaruNorway]

The weather forecast i have until the 10th does not look good, snow all the time worst on thursday morning with 5cm.

[Salist]

My friend live near Hagfors and he said there is 25cm snow.

[SubaruNorway]

My friend live near Hagfors and he said there is 25cm snow.
Looks like another 25cm from wednesday to friday next week. The new WRC tires makes it really boring to watch when it's snowing.

[Salist]

Snow report:
Snödjup - SMHI | SMHI (http://www.smhi.se/klimatdata/meteorologi/sno/snodjup-2.722)

[VidarH]

Hello friends abroad.
Have made a little website about Rally Sweden in Norway and our special stage Opaker SS 3 and 6 Friday, February 10.

Would you like to visit us, we write a little about nice places to watch, who to contact......

Finally a few words in which the renowned codriver and TV personality Henning Isdal (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001259732614) describes driving this spesial stage.

English - Naf (http://www2.naf.no/NAF-lokalt/Motorsport-klubber/Alle-klubbene/NAF-Motorsport-Asker-og-Barum/English/)

BY NAF Motorsport Asker og Baerum

[bluuford]

The weather forecast i have until the 10th does not look good, snow all the time worst on thursday morning with 5cm.
Do not worry, long term forecasts almost always overestimate windspeeds, temperatures and snow/rainfall intensity. Wednesday+Thursday forcast says up to 20 cm of fresh snow. Three days ago, it said that there will be 25 cm of snow on Monday. New and corrected forecast says 1-2 cm of snow on Monday:-)

[SubaruNorway]

Do not worry, long term forecasts almost always overestimate windspeeds, temperatures and snow/rainfall intensity. Wednesday+Thursday forcast says up to 20 cm of fresh snow. Three days ago, it said that there will be 25 cm of snow on Monday. New and corrected forecast says 1-2 cm of snow on Monday:-)

Ok, hopefully it won't be too bad then.

Anyone got a mobile USB broadband to recommend in Sweden?

And inboard of Rämmen, Lesjöfors and Fredriksberg would be nice to have. I think one of the national drivers last year had inboard but can't find it again. Think it was from a Fiesta ST.

[danon]

A warm-up vid...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFw5X74o_y8&feature=related

[Koceens]

Fredriksberg stage:


http://youtu.be/XP-2ieTvsqA?hd=1

Lesjofors stage (there was a better video, but can't find it now):


http://youtu.be/uOOqDy2GeZU

And Rammen stage I'm searching too.

[HarriK]

Thierry Neuville got some snow rally lessons from Tommi Mäkinen (Yesterday and today in Finland, Uurainen)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgIwWORD5rM&feature=player_embedded

[mousti]

Find it interesting eventhough it's Tommi but is an official partner of Subaru and offcourse they drove with the Impreza..

Also some lessons from Kaj it seems.

[Barreis]

Tommi has rally school.

[SubaruNorway]

Has anyone gone to the start of old Torntorp now Torsby stage before and if it's possible in a easy way? Was hoping to do 4 stages on friday but it seems to be a bit tight on time with the long distances, Opaker is almost 2 hours away ...

[Hartusvuori]

Thierry Neuville got some snow rally lessons from Tommi Mäkinen (Yesterday and today in Finland, Uurainen)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgIwWORD5rM&feature=player_embedded

Good video. Thierry didn't seem too self-confident at the end though ;-) Loved the bit when Tommi was explaining - in a rally English no one else has - at the end: "You need to built you eye also. - - -Eye is like a muscle (masshaagle), you can train it."

[sindroms]

And Rammen stage I'm searching too.

Here it is - J.Semerád (Lancer EVO IX) - Swedish rally 2008 (RZ20) - onboard | Rally Videos CZ (http://rallyvidea.blog.cz/0803/j-semerad-lancer-evo-ix-swedish-rally-2008-rz20-onboard)
Rammen stage on board from 2008. Stage is same as this year, except small changes in the very end of the stage.

[onthepacenote]

Preparing for Rally Sweden, make your job organised & easy with the 5 Star Rated 'Ultimate Rally Co-Driver App' http://itunes.com/apps/ultimaterallycodriver (http://www.facebook.com/l/9AQEy15Su/itunes.com/apps/ultimaterallycodriver)
Let The App prepare your recce schedules, fuel calculations, programme of events during the rally, record & compare stagetimes, etc...
Rally Co-Driver? There's an app for that. (http://www.worldrallyreview.com/2012/rally-co-driver-theres-an-app-for-that/)

[Rallyper]

When is Pickem coming up for Rally Sweden? It seems to be narrow time for making predictions...

[dekkerm1]

hello all, i am new at this forum and have a question: all the way from holland i come visit the WRC for the first time of my life :) i am looking forward to it and want to see at much as possible. because the short time (work) i will only be there on thursday and friday. on friday we want to see much as possible and traveling by car to the stages.
but how does it work?? are you driving by car (when all WRC cars have passed) on the same track with your own car 20km further to the next stage or is that not how it goes? could you please inform me a bit so i can make a small planning. thank you in advance. regards Patrick

[Priorat]

First of all you have to buy the RallyMagazine at a OKQ8 Petrol Station in Sweden. In the magazine there are maps of the stages with the places where you can watch and the roads that direct you to them. You will also need a Rally Pass for the day: Tickets « Rally Sweden (http://www.rallysweden.com/take-part/tickets?lang=en)

[Viking]

http://www.bilnorge.no/export/bb_110970.jpeg

- www.BilNorge.no (http://www.bilnorge.no/artikkel.php?aid=38983) - Bilsport

[BleAivano]

hello all, i am new at this forum and have a question: all the way from holland i come visit the WRC for the first time of my life :) i am looking forward to it and want to see at much as possible. because the short time (work) i will only be there on thursday and friday. on friday we want to see much as possible and traveling by car to the stages.
but how does it work?? are you driving by car (when all WRC cars have passed) on the same track with your own car 20km further to the next stage or is that not how it goes? could you please inform me a bit so i can make a small planning. thank you in advance. regards Patrick

since the WRC cars also uses the regular roads to transport themselves between the stages & the service park you will indeed drive on the same roads as the wrc cars.

[dekkerm1]

thanks for reply. i do have a rallypass for all days and i do have the rallymagazine. so extually you can watch all stages on that day? or is that with the time not possible?
anny tips for good places or stages on friday?

[Gregor-y]

Does Lemminkainen have any meaning in Norway? I would normally associate the name with Finland. A sponsor of some kind?

[janneppi]

Lemminkäinen is a Finnish company that does construction work and that sort of thing. It's their logo too, so sponsor it is.

[Viking]

Does Lemminkainen have any meaning in Norway? I would normally associate the name with Finland. A sponsor of some kind?

Lemminkäinen Oyj - Building construction, infrastructure construction, technical building services and building products (http://www.lemminkainen.com) -> Asfalt og asfaltering samt pukk og grus - Lemminkäinen (http://www.lemminkainen.no) -> Asfalt Remix AS (http://www.asfaltremix.no) -> Per Brynhildsen (Eyvinds dad)

[Iskald]

thanks for reply. i do have a rallypass for all days and i do have the rallymagazine. so extually you can watch all stages on that day? or is that with the time not possible?
anny tips for good places or stages on friday?

Understand you are new to the wonderful sport of rallying. In theory you can watch all stages, in practice its impossible. You need to pick a couple of the stages on the friday, and I will suggest SS2 and SS8, as both these stages have usable access roads into the stages. In between you will have time to visit "remote service" in the middle of Kongsvinger town. SS7 is possibly the most accessable during friday with big parking places close to the main Road 20, but the stage itself isn`t representive of proper rallying as it is run on a constructed road along the big Glomma River. The stage is also very twisty in parts and will probably be the slowest stage of them all in this years rally.

[dekkerm1]

Iskald thanks a lot for your help. we will do that. extually you don`t see a lot then :s but we will see :) it will be fun i guess.

[Franky]

Iskald thanks a lot for your help. we will do that. extually you don`t see a lot then :s but we will see :) it will be fun i guess.

Seeing the cars is only a small part, the journey of the rally is the addictive part because essentially you are also racing against the clock. You want to be at the next stage before the first car comes.

[dekkerm1]

ok, well we are driving an audi TT quatro so we will make a fast time:P also SSS seems to be fun to watch i`ve seen on tv

[SunDanceRanch]

@dekkerm1 and beware off speedcontrol because there is more police in the region.

[dekkerm1]

and what is the max speed in sweden?

[gravelman]

Me and 4 other Irish lads are going out on Tuesday,can't wait for it, third year going.

[cali]

In that area 90, but very often 80 areas occur. Audi TT is maybe not the best car to have for this rally as it's too low (some of the access roads are deep in the woods ;) ) and do not speed as Swedish police is very strict + roads conditions may vary and can be very slippery. Proper winter tires is a must! We have witnessed a "dutch" off (studless winter tires) 2 years ago and had to pull them back to a road from a ditch. Just take it easy and plan your route well in advance.

[danon]

No Eurosport TV coverage for Rally Sweden - Eurosport sagt Übertragungen ab | Automobil | MOTORSPORT aktuell (http://www.motorsport-aktuell.com/automobil/eurosport-sagt-uebertragungen-ab-4367639.html)

[danon]

Rally Sweden, or Rally Scandinavia? (http://www.best-of-rallylive.com/en/2012/02/02/rally-sweden-or-rally-scandinavia/)

[Brother John]

and what is the max speed in sweden?

Overal staan borden, in de bebouwde kom is het 50 en soms 30. op verbindings wegen zie je soms 60,70, 80 en 90.
Zelf zou ik daar nooit zonder studs rijden. Je moet ook op tijd aan de KPs zijn want soms een flink stuk wandelen vanaf een parkplaats.
Vergeet het maar om alle KPs te kunnen zien iedere dag.

[Rallyper]

Overal staan borden, in de bebouwde kom is het 50 en soms 30. op verbindings wegen zie je soms 60,70, 80 en 90.
Zelf zou ik daar nooit zonder studs rijden. Je moet ook op tijd aan de KPs zijn want soms een flink stuk wandelen vanaf een parkplaats.
Vergeet het maar om alle KPs te kunnen zien iedere dag.

English, please.

[NiekJ]

Overal staan borden, in de bebouwde kom is het 50 en soms 30. op verbindings wegen zie je soms 60,70, 80 en 90.
Zelf zou ik daar nooit zonder studs rijden. Je moet ook op tijd aan de KPs zijn want soms een flink stuk wandelen vanaf een parkplaats.
Vergeet het maar om alle KPs te kunnen zien iedere dag.

Rough translation, dutch to english:

There are roadsigns everywhere, in the city it is 50 km/h or 30 km/h. On the main roads it is eather 60, 70, 80 or 90 km/h. I would never drive there without studs. You have to arrive at the stages in time because sometimes there is a long walk from the parking.
You can forget the idea to watch every stage on every day.

[Brother John]

English, please.

Sorry this was for dekkerm1, Here is a translation.
Everywhere there are signs in urban areas is 50 and sometimes 30. on connecting roads, you may see 60.70, 80 and 90.
I personally would never ride without studs. You also have to be on time at the stages because sometimes you have to walk a long way from a parking to the stage.
Forget to see all stages every day. You are not in the Netherlands or Belgium. ;)

[Martin Luijk]

Sorry this was for dekkerm1, Here is a translation.
Everywhere there are signs in urban areas is 50 and sometimes 30. on connecting roads, you may see 60.70, 80 and 90.
I personally would never ride without studs. You also have to be on time at the stages because sometimes you have to walk a long way from a parking to the stage.
Forget to see all stages every day. You are not in the Netherlands or Belgium. ;)

Even in Holland it's not possible to see every single stage ;)

[Mirek]

wwbroe may prove You wrong :D

[BleAivano]

and what is the max speed in sweden?

it varies, from 120 km/h to 30km/h. Usually only freeways and the largest roads have a 100km/h or higher speed limit.
regular interstate usually have 70-90km/h limit.

However in winter conditions its recommended to go a little slower then allowed since winter roads can be very treacherous.

a few links:

Läget i trafiken - Trafikinformation (http://trafikinfo.trafikverket.se/litmenu/litmenu.htm#id=380)
How to Drive in Sweden - Driving Tips for Sweden Travelers (http://goscandinavia.about.com/od/mapstransportation/tp/drivinginsweden.htm)
Driving in Sweden - Wikitravel (http://wikitravel.org/en/Driving_in_Sweden)
Driving in Sweden, some rules and regulations (http://www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Travel-guide/Getting-around-in-Sweden/By-Car/Driving-in-Sweden/)

[Brother John]

wwbroe may prove You wrong :D

If you are only will look a few rally cars at all stages! :p :

[Priorat]

For me it is worthier to try watching the firsts cars in as many stages as possible than stay the whole day in the same stage to watch the whole field.

[Rallyper]

For me it is worthier to try watching the firsts cars in as many stages as possible than stay the whole day in the same stage to watch the whole field.

That might be possible if you are one or two persons knowing each other very well. A gang of ten fellows in a minbus having fun and drinking beer except for the driver... It´s impossible. I think the organiser is trying to make it as difficult as possible for spectators to move on to more than one stage a day.

[Barreis]

Organiser doesn't think about that at all.

[Rallyper]

Organiser doesn't think about that at all.

I think they make it easier for the average man to stay and watch only one stage twice, for sure they do. Then the traffic intense will decrease on the main roads in the area of the rally.

[wwbroe]

wwbroe may prove You wrong :D

I never realised that in Sweden tough, i was there about 10 times, but never managed to see all stages over there. :D

[Priorat]

That might be possible if you are one or two persons knowing each other very well. A gang of ten fellows in a minbus having fun and drinking beer except for the driver... It´s impossible. I think the organiser is trying to make it as difficult as possible for spectators to move on to more than one stage a day.

Visiting a foreign rally just to stay drunk in a samll piece of forest at -30ºC for the whole day really sounds stupid to me.

[cali]

Visiting a foreign rally just to stay drunk in a samll piece of forest at -30ºC for the whole day really sounds stupid to me.

Believe me, in a cold below -20 you wish you would be drunk

[Rallyper]

Visiting a foreign rally just to stay drunk in a samll piece of forest at -30ºC for the whole day really sounds stupid to me.

That´s no problem. I´ve seen hundreds of foreigners and swedish guys as well, drunk and not conscious about what happens around them. If not always on stages they are in the evenings.

[Priorat]

I don't agree in that organizers help people to stay in the same stage when there is a gap of 5 hours between the 2 passes.

[Rallyper]

I don't agree in that organizers help people to stay in the same stage when there is a gap of 5 hours between the 2 passes.

No problem for me if we´re not agreed. I´ve been at SR since middle of 70´s and have seen the changes during the years. Compared to the old times nowadays it´s much harder travelling between different stages even taken the traffic situation in mind.

[A.F.F.]

That might be possible if you are one or two persons knowing each other very well. A gang of ten fellows in a minbus having fun and drinking beer except for the driver... It´s impossible. I think the organiser is trying to make it as difficult as possible for spectators to move on to more than one stage a day.

Why folks are drinking beer on the stages? I mean I like beer very much thank you but at the rally, I want to watch rally. I can think about a thousand better places to get drunk. :mark:

[danon]

Van Merksteijn

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/398760_291354350926005_157126557682119_785342_1153 44230_n.jpg

[mousti]

Neuville tested today aswell.

[Rallyper]

Why folks are drinking beer on the stages? I mean I like beer very much thank you but at the rally, I want to watch rally. I can think about a thousand better places to get drunk. :mark:

That´s the way it is. I too cannot think about drinking a cold beer when it´s -20 degrees.

[tolis]

Ketomaa's new weapon!

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/422057_3208342373244_1406751981_3225329_294509333_ n.jpg

[A.F.F.]

Ketomaa's new weapon!

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/422057_3208342373244_1406751981_3225329_294509333_ n.jpg

Hmm... there's something missing in that picture....




















oh yes, the highest step of the podium :D

[Barreis]

Don't be silly.

[rallyfiend]

That car actually looks pretty cool on those tyres.

I like the fact they don't use those silly narrow tyres any more.

[dimviii]

That car actually looks pretty cool on those tyres.

I like the fact they don't use those silly narrow tyres any more.

they use.

[A.F.F.]

Don't be silly.

Ketomaa settles for positions 3-6 in this first rally. I don't.

[Barreis]

Maybe. If he doesn't go off.
Sad day today.

[SubaruNorway]

That car actually looks pretty cool on those tyres.

I like the fact they don't use those silly narrow tyres any more.

Those are gravel tires. And those silly narrow tires are much better to watch and drive especially if it's snowing compared to the new ones that fit on gravel rims.

[Miika]

Ketomaa's new weapon!

Me likes as well:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcW4uA40dGU

[Kielder]

iRally has published this: "There will be television coverage from the Rally, with pictures on Viasat and Swedish Television". Does anyone know something about it?

[skarderud]

Svt, swedish television, is like always, doing theire own Stuff on swedish rally, its probably theire production viasat going to put on the air! Thats good, the swedes know's how to produce rally :)

[tolis]

Solowow's car for Sweden.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/427200_315536755148509_177791658923020_785344_6770 69303_n.jpg


http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/429003_315536871815164_177791658923020_785347_3390 06747_n.jpg

[Mirek]

Those are gravel tires. And those silly narrow tires are much better to watch and drive especially if it's snowing compared to the new ones that fit on gravel rims.

Those on the photo of Ketomaa's car are "Monte Carlo" winter tyres on 8x18 rim ;)

[Sulland]

Why folks are drinking beer on the stages? I mean I like beer very much thank you but at the rally, I want to watch rally. I can think about a thousand better places to get drunk. :mark:

I would guess that most of the really drunk people are from the same country as me......

[cali]

I would guess that most of the really drunk people are from the same country as me......
True :p

[Tom206wrc]

No pics of Al Attiyah's livery yet :confused:

[mousti]

Much chance it's the one like he had on the 207.

[rp]

From Matthew Wilson´s Twitter : "No rally Sweden for me unfortunately!! Broke and dislocated left ankle. Operation tomorrow hopefully!"

[N.O.T]

From Matthew Wilson´s Twitter : "No rally Sweden for me unfortunately!! Broke and dislocated left ankle. Operation tomorrow hopefully!"

YES !!!!!!!!! (this goes to the first part of the phrase do not get me wrong)

Wish him a speedy recovery and pursue things that he is good at from now on...he is still young and can achieve a lot of things elsewhere...

[bobby88]

Ketomaa's new weapon!

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/422057_3208342373244_1406751981_3225329_294509333_ n.jpg

Ohhh the tings I'd do to get in that! ;) ......Wish it was the first time I'd said that........

[Salist]

from matthew wilson´s twitter : "no rally sweden for me unfortunately!! Broke and dislocated left ankle. Operation tomorrow hopefully!"

-1 wrc :(

[N.O.T]

-1 wrc :(

looooooooooool

[BleAivano]

Svt, swedish television, is like always, doing theire own Stuff on swedish rally, its probably theire production viasat going to put on the air! Thats good, the swedes know's how to produce rally :)

actually they are covering the entire season this year. Viasat HAD a tv deal with north one.
when no went bust all deals became void and Svt
apparently managed to secure the rights to wrc 2012.

[skarderud]

I would guess that most of the really drunk people are from the same country as me......

Of course, Vidar! I've been at colins crest once, that has nothing to do spectating rally! Drunk people everywere, one actually fall out of his chair and into his fire, we saw him and get him out, his pals wasnt able to do anything, one of them was sleeping in the snow, in normal clothes and was wet from melting snow..... Sad to see.

I really cant understand the point to drink and look at cars, cold beer in a cold forrest isnt really specialy good. Its sad to have to use my old tricks from my former work as a security at a nightclub, when i go watching rally with my kids.

[noel157]

From Matthew Wilson´s Twitter : "No rally Sweden for me unfortunately!! Broke and dislocated left ankle. Operation tomorrow hopefully!"

He could still drive............ :)

Seriously, unfortunate.

[Franky]

He could still drive............ :)

Seriously, unfortunate.

No he can't, he'd be too fast because he couldn't brake.

[Martin Luijk]

No he can't, he'd be too fast because he couldn't brake.

He don't need brakes.

[tfp]

Wishing Matt W a quick recovery! Hope everything goes well with the operation!

[MJW]

He could still drive............ :)

Seriously, unfortunate. Freddy Loix drove Sweden 10years ago with a broken leg.

[tolis]

Hayden Paddon's livery:

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/420345_321209931248136_184390891596708_774647_1204 954309_n.jpg

[A.F.F.]

I would guess that most of the really drunk people are from the same country as me......

Oh I've seen many others as well.

[Koceens]

Just came back from rally Finnskog in Norway and I have to say conditions out there is almost perfect. At some places our cars thermometer showed -32°C :) In comparison in Oslo was only -16°C so these woods are bloody cold :)

At the first leg of stages Hirvonen looked really fast and the results show the same. Maybe he tried some new setups for 2nd pass, but he looked more cautious.

And I think that in this rally running 1st on the road was actually an advantage because the interval between cars was 1 min and in such a cold weather with no wind at all the snow dust was just staying on the road and making a bad visibility in some corners for the following cars.

Now really looking forward for Sweden!

Here some pictures from Finnskog and will be short video soon as well.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/8232/p1020072s.jpg

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/2706/p1020069q.jpg

http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/7640/p1020074q.jpg

[Barreis]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_l78_Mh_5U

[DonJippo]

Oh I've seen many others as well.

In Rally Sweden they mostly are Sulland's countrymen, been there seen it.

[SubaruNorway]

A short but insane clip of Henning Solberg from Rally Finnskog yesterday, he was trying to catch Mikko Hirvonen ;) Full lenght video should be up tonight.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtOrkw6MgHk&feature=youtu.be

[Viking]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_l78_Mh_5U

Excellent! :up: Can someone tips them that wrc tv production 2012 is up for grabs :)

[danon]

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/429759_321209847914811_184390891596708_774645_8909 71273_n.jpg

[Brother John]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_l78_Mh_5U


Nice video!
Remove all WRC cars on this video and you see real rally again.

[Mirek]

Can You elaborate why?

[SubaruNorway]

Nice video!
Remove all WRC cars on this video and you see real rally again.

Or go back to the narrow tires so they can go more sideways.

[Koceens]

http://youtu.be/w0NYJ7khhtY?hd=1

[Brother John]

Can You elaborate why?

That is only because I drove cars from that period, each with his own enthusiasm as a rally fan, or not Mirek?
Yes and I still go to WRC RALLIES if possible! ;)

[Juha_Koo]

Or go back to the narrow tires so they can go more sideways.

Narrow tyres and sideways, wtf?

These new tyres give less grip = more slides.

[SubaruNorway]

Narrow tyres and sideways, wtf?

These new tyres give less grip = more slides.

You can't drive so sideways with the new tires as they don't grip so well when you let the rear out of line, you could see how cautious Mikko was yesterday on the 2nd loop. And since the wide tires gives you less grip and predictability drivers don't dare to go on the limit so much. You can go very sideways with a road tire too, but it's very slow :)

Have you heard one driver being happy with them?

[Mise]

Henning was driving very wide lines. Was it due to the car or
the tyres which seem to be the narrow ones?
I don't think he has such wide lines with the Ford.

I also think Mikko has changed his driving. With Fiesta he was much more sideways.

[alleskids]

Henning had Go Fast on his Mitsubishi in the Finnskog rally, so we may assume Go Fast WRT will be present in Sweden? Maybe they are not an Enenrgy drink but a betting company, and you can already place youre bet: will Henning and Mathew start in Mexico? 1:4,5. Otherwise it is a cheap marketing trick, let the rally fans wonder if Go Fast WRT will start in Monte Carlo, and again in Sweden.

[Miika]

Good news, we´re only 300k short and then we´ll get some moving pictures from this event (meaning, we´ll listen this one from the radio instead).

iRally | The free independent Rally App for the iPhone, iPad and Android (http://www.irallylive.com/ir_news.htm?00000214&6)
TV issue still alive (http://www.rallysweden.com/tv-issue-still-alive-%E2%80%93-decision-on-tuesday?lang=en)

[Wasted Talent]

So if Matt Wilson is out of Sweden, and also some more rallies as it will take weeks to get fit again, will we see anyone else in the Go Fast Fiesta??

WT

[N.O.T]

i doubt we are going to see a "go fast" fiesta again...

[SubaruNorway]

My complete video of Rally Finnskog :)
Motorsportfilmer.net (http://motorsportfilmer.net/2012/rally-finnskog-2012)

[J4MIE]

Man, after seeing these videos and photos from the Finnskog, I am depressed :( It feels really weird not to be going over at this time of year as I have been to so many. I'm hoping that this year is an exception and I will be back with Brother John and the rest of the guys in 2013 ;)

[pino]

Man, after seeing these videos and photos from the Finnskog, I am depressed :( It feels really weird not to be going over at this time of year as I have been to so many. I'm hoping that this year is an exception and I will be back with Brother John and the rest of the guys in 2013 ;)

Tell me about it...I haven't missed an event since 2004, can't believe we won't be there this year :(

[Barreis]

They should put someone instead of Wilson in GoFast fiesta.

[Brother John]

Man, after seeing these videos and photos from the Finnskog, I am depressed :( It feels really weird not to be going over at this time of year as I have been to so many. I'm hoping that this year is an exception and I will be back with Brother John and the rest of the guys in 2013 ;)

Yes we have to go back next year!


Tell me about it...I haven't missed an event since 2004, can't believe we won't be there this year :(

I miss it already!!!
Wednesday should I return to the hospital and 2 weeks later again!

[dimviii]

Henning was driving very wide lines. Was it due to the car or
the tyres which seem to be the narrow ones?
I don't think he has such wide lines with the Ford.

I also think Mikko has changed his driving. With Fiesta he was much more sideways.

henning always has wide lines.One reason for too much ''mechanical problems'',flat tyres etc

[Luky_cro]

I'm expecting a big fight beetween Mikko, Loeb, Latvala and Petter. I really hope we won't see team orders. What to expect from Nasser?

[dimviii]

You can't drive so sideways with the new tires as they don't grip so well when you let the rear out of line, you could see how cautious Mikko was yesterday on the 2nd loop. And since the wide tires gives you less grip and predictability drivers don't dare to go on the limit so much. You can go very sideways with a road tire too, but it's very slow :)

Have you heard one driver being happy with them?

narrow tyres are faster,new wide tyres are slower.
just wait some days more,to compare Mikko,Mats,Henning with same tyres...

[Mirek]

henning always has wide lines.One reason for too much ''mechanical problems'',flat tyres etc

The old large cars were faster when driven sideways. The best example of car which was "fast" only sideways was Octavia :D

[Barreis]

The old large cars were faster when driven sideways. The best example of car which was "fast" only sideways was Octavia :D

Yeah, when they were driven by Makinen.

[Mise]

I'm expecting a big fight beetween Mikko, Loeb, Latvala and Petter. I really hope we won't see team orders. What to expect from Nasser?

And the "glass II" isn't bad eather.
Ketomaa, Ostberg, Tänak, Sordo & Sandell.

Would be great if someone could challenge Ogier in S2000.
If not, there's still lots of competition.

[COD]

They should put someone instead of Wilson in GoFast fiesta.

From what I heard, Henning will drive the GoFast Fiesta in Sweden

[A FONDO]

Thanks to the high snow banks, the regular crashers will remain longer in the top. My fav is Loeb

[Luky_cro]

Nothing against Loeb, but I will cheer for Latvala, Petter or Mikko, just to make championship more interesting. If my memory serves me correctly, Loeb said there won't be team orders in Citroen this year. If there is a chance to beat Seb, Sweden is the place.

[Barreis]

From what I heard, Henning will drive the GoFast Fiesta in Sweden

He should drive anyway.

[DonJippo]

Tell me about it...I haven't missed an event since 2004, can't believe we won't be there this year :(

Even that is very hard for me to say it, I also miss your company and this event, will be there next year for sure!

:D

[Viking]

Thanks to the high snow banks, the regular crashers will remain longer in the top. My fav is Loeb

Loeb used to be an regular crasher himself on snow, unfortunately he seems to have improved...

[A.F.F.]

And the "glass II" isn't bad eather.
Ketomaa, Ostberg, Tänak, Sordo & Sandell.

Would be great if someone could challenge Ogier in S2000.
If not, there's still lots of competition.

O would love to see Lappi challenging Ogier.

[tfp]

I cant wait to see Ostberg here!

[Kielder]

I cant wait to see Ostberg here!

I cant wait to see his onboards after the rally. I hope he reaches the end.

[tfp]

I cant wait to see his onboards after the rally. I hope he reaches the end.

Cant wait to see that footage either, lets hope he doesnt bin it on the first stage :)
That guy is destined for big things, I really look forward to see him in the future.

[noel157]

Cant wait to see that footage either, lets hope he doesnt bin it on the first stage :)
That guy is destined for big things, I really look forward to see him in the future.

Still not sure about Mads, very streaky driver. Great 12 months ago in Sweden but quiet season otherwise,good result RGB but only through attrition.
Exciting for sure but hope he can be more of a challenger.

[tolis]

Patrik Sandell tested the MINI!

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/432285_10150580867273815_168020983814_9070754_1792 186295_n.jpg

[Brother John]

Even that is very hard for me to say it, I also miss your company and this event, will be there next year for sure! :D

I miss also your company my friend and hopefully I can see you this year again at the Finland rally.

[rallyfiend]

Patrik Sandell tested the MINI!

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/432285_10150580867273815_168020983814_9070754_1792 186295_n.jpg

That car's had quite the flogging recently.

When's it my turn for a test?

[A FONDO]

As soon as you collect the money ;) the prostitute car :D

[dimviii]

nice livery!
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/408166_347956838559574_160037174018209_1179792_122 5805840_n.jpg

[Viking]

nice livery!


Optimistic start number...

[A FONDO]

very nice indeed, much better combination of the same colors than Paddon! and Yazeed is may be the only arab who drives not for advertising/marketing but just for pleasure (quite good show for spectators in Spain though)

[Koceens]

At last we have a rally where I think no one can predict results before first stage is done. It's so exciting that at least 5 drivers (Loeb, Hirvonen, Latvala, Solberg, Ostberg) are capable to win and hopefully there won't be any early retirements and fight will go on till the power stage finish. I try to figure out who will be the pace setter, but it's useless as everyone has a good reason for winning.
Hirvonen is always fast in Sweden.
Loeb is just Loeb :) Fast everywhere and in proper winter conditions will be a big threat.
Latvala has to win to be back in the championship.
Solberg has a good feeling with new car and he will be at home.
Ostberg is a snow surface specialist and had some really good testing in Norway recently.

And we also have drivers like Ketomaa, Tanak, H. Solberg, Sandell and maybe someone else who can surprise.

[Viking]

It will be interesting to see the debut of qualifying stage, and where the fastest drivers want to slot in.
Some 20'ish P1 and P2 drivers at start (including Ogier).
My guess is that fastest in qualifying will pick slot "10....

[Kielder]

It will be interesting to see the debut of qualifying stage, and where the fastest drivers want to slot in.
Some 20'ish P1 and P2 drivers at start (including Ogier).
My guess is that fastest in qualifying will pick slot "10....

Worl Rally Radio also though it will be interesting, so they will go live from Råda at 10.00 local time on Thursday.

[A FONDO]

My guess is that fastest in qualifying will pick slot "10....
I suggest about 4-6 place but we'll see soon... anyway I cant wait to see fast drivers catching the dust of slower ones.... especially Loeb and Solberg who (as usual) compalined the most last year. I can bet my right arm that not later than Acropolis one of these two will want changing the rule AGAIN

[SubaruNorway]

How many runs can they do again when qualifying starts?

[bluuford]

By looking the weather forecast, I would say that winner is going to choose 2nd or 3rd position on the road. Current forecast says no snow until Friday afternoon, very high air pressure, very low wind, temperature below -10 degrees. I quess the teams are gong to put their drivers like 2nd and third or 4th and fifth. Hirvonen front and Loeb behind, Solberg in front and Latvala behind.

[Doon]

I'm really not sure why people keep saying Ostberg is a potential winner of Rally Sweden this year? Yes, he came close last year, but that was on the back of a 1st Leg where the cars running at the front struggled. If you look at last year's stage times, there were a few S2000's mixing it up at the top of the leaderboard on Day 1. On Day 2 P.Solberg, Ogier and Latvala all took a massive chunk of time back.

Granted, he has his best chance to get a decent result in Sweden of all the events, but Ostberg really isn't as quick as people make out.

[Viking]

How many runs can they do again when qualifying starts?

Maximum two practice runs before qualifying run methinks.

[Miika]

Granted, he has his best chance to get a decent result in Sweden of all the events, but Ostberg really isn't as quick as people make out.

And apparently he has already started to look for possible shorcuts in the rally route (?):

http://p.twimg.com/Ak-QMb9CQAMszL-.jpg

"Oooops! I thought I was on a road, but then we went trough the ice, and I realized we wasn't.. Interesting "
Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/MadsOstberg/status/166510254568390656/photo/1)

[Iskald]

I'm really not sure why people keep saying Ostberg is a potential winner of Rally Sweden this year? Yes, he came close last year, but that was on the back of a 1st Leg where the cars running at the front struggled. If you look at last year's stage times, there were a few S2000's mixing it up at the top of the leaderboard on Day 1. On Day 2 P.Solberg, Ogier and Latvala all took a massive chunk of time back.

Granted, he has his best chance to get a decent result in Sweden of all the events, but Ostberg really isn't as quick as people make out.

Think you are wrong. Mads Østberg beat Mikko Hirvonen on three of the eight stages in Finnskog saturday. But with one minute between the cars, and temperatures below -30, Mads was greatly handicapped by snowdust never clearing, resulting in extremely bad visibility. He also had a puncture in SS7. If Mads had started first on the road and Mikko second, there would have been a different winner in the rally...

Btw you shouldn`t forget Henning Solberg in Sweden. He has had a hard time recently, but dusting off the old Mitsu and driving like hell in Finnskog, seems to have been a great mental vitamin injection. He was joking and laughing and really playing with the old car. I haven`t seen him like this in a long time. He even managed to scare Ilka Minor a couple of times, and that doesn`t happen often!

[Mirek]

If, if, if... If my granny had balls she would be my grandad. I really don't like this kind of argumentation. Let's see on Swedish stages.

[danon]

P. Solberg wants to shine at home. The route passes in front of the doorstep of his family home. (http://www.lequipe.fr/Rallye/Actualites/Solberg-veut-briller-chez-lui/261526#xtor=RSS-1)

A quick coffee/tea break marked on the pace-notes is an option. :D

[Rallyper]

Mads Ostberg has the potential, really! What more has he to prove? His results so far shows what he can do.

Just wait and see for yourselves.

[J.Lindstroem]

He had a big benefit laast year with the road position. yes he is fast, but judging only by speed he does not cut into the top five.

[SubaruNorway]

Maximum two practice runs before qualifying run methinks.

Ok it's 40 passes in two hours so not too bad. And then just 1 run for qualifying? I've read through all the rules but can't find anything.

[Koceens]

Yes, then just 1 run for qualifying.

[F1boat]

A qualifying in rally? Now that's something which is new for me.

[SubaruNorway]

He had a big benefit laast year with the road position. yes he is fast, but judging only by speed he does not cut into the top five.

How do you explain his pace on day 2 and 3? Latvala and Ogier had no chance in keeping up with Mikko and Østberg on day 3.

[J.Lindstroem]

How do you explain his pace on day 2 and 3? Latvala and Ogier had no chance in keeping up with Mikko and Østberg on day 3.

Maybe i didn't take a look at the facts before posting... ;)

[SubaruNorway]

Maybe i didn't take a look at the facts before posting... ;)

Hehe, lets just let them drive shall we ;)

A worrying thing i saw in Rally Finnskog with Marius Aasen running DMACK is that they came loose from the rim two times at the rear. He had another puncture after raising the air pressure but I'm not sure what caused that one, could be rock as Mikkelsen and Østberg had a puncture on front right too.

[Barreis]

Can't wait for start.

[Coach 2]

The rally program say free training for two hours, and then qualifying

[A FONDO]

I understood it is two training runs for the priorities in the beginning and then the third one is the qualifying

[Doon]

How do you explain his pace on day 2 and 3? Latvala and Ogier had no chance in keeping up with Mikko and Østberg on day 3.

Didn't they both have problems? Punctures? Sorry but I can't believe Ostberg was quicker. The WRC is pretty easy to predict atm, and last year it was Loeb or Ogier apart from fast gravel/snow events where Mikko and Latvala were quick. Ostberg is still a fraction off the pace. We will see in the coming days, but I don't think he has the final tenth, be it the car or his own pace.....probably the latter.

[alleskids]

A qualifying in rally? Now that's something which is new for me.

the Shake Down counts for something real now. first 2 runs are for settin gup car, third run is for time challange. fastest driver has first right to pick his starting place (first on the road, or second, or fith, or tenth) second fastest driver has second chooise.. So nowe more roadsweeping for Loeb, unless he fails in SD

[Coach 2]

If, if, if... If my granny had balls she would be my grandad. I really don't like this kind of argumentation. Let's see on Swedish stages.
I think you are somewhat unfair now, Iskald's not the type who flings about him with if here or there.
And for us who were present at the Rally Finnskog, we BELIEVE that Mad Mads would have won if he had started first.
We BELIEVE in fact also that Hirv depends on seeing the road to go fast. But of course we can be wrong.
On SS3 where there is a very high speed, rear wing lifted so much snow dusts that Mads hardly saw any brake points in all. This was the worst of course where the speed was highest before the braking. At temperatures as low as they were at the rally Finnskog, snow crystals are so fine that they hang in the air very long time.

[Allyc85]

They should put someone instead of Wilson in GoFast fiesta.

Meeke ;)

He may go too fast, but at least he would live up to the sponsors name ;)

[N.O.T]

Meeke is under contract still...

[tfp]

Still not sure about Mads, very streaky driver. Great 12 months ago in Sweden but quiet season otherwise,good result RGB but only through attrition.
Exciting for sure but hope he can be more of a challenger.

Yeah kinda on/off dont you think? Hopefuly he can sort out some consistency so we dont get a repeat of Germany!
Of the up and coming 3 (IMO-Nuivelle, Tanak and Mads) I'd still pick Ostberg to come out on top!

[mm1]

I wouldn`t :)

[Salist]

Karlstad webcam (http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1234294571-Weather-centrum-till-kalrstad-Karlstad)
It will be not too much snow on SS1 Super Special Stage (http://www.rallysweden.com/the-rally-2012/stages-timetable/map/karlstad-sss?lang=en). :(

[Wim_Impreza]

Karlstad webcam (http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1234294571-Weather-centrum-till-kalrstad-Karlstad)
It will be not too much snow on SS1 Super Special Stage (http://www.rallysweden.com/the-rally-2012/stages-timetable/map/karlstad-sss?lang=en). :(

Even in Belgium now, there is more snow than there...

[Rallyper]

Even in Belgium there is more snow than there...

RS dont need snow in Karlstad.

[pete c]

Karlstad webcam (http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1234294571-Weather-centrum-till-kalrstad-Karlstad)

hmmm this webcam isn't working, says image is 3 months old

[Salist]

Another webcams:
Karlstad (http://www.opentopia.com/webcam/4831)

Kopparberg (http://bildersammlung.ch/kopparberg-webcam-live-wetter-webcam-kopparberg-live-cam-zentrum-schweden/webcam.php)

[Bartek]

Solowow had crash on test before rally.

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/424205_249475725126610_203295906411259_534409_6978 72092_n.jpg

photo source; autosport.cz

[Xsara Fan]

Photos from service park (http://www.almrally.ru/novosti-wrc/info/7168/)

[BleAivano]

latest weather forecasts says subzero temperatures and possible some snow on the during the night between Saturday and Sunday.

Prognos Hagfors | SMHI (http://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/land/hourByHourTable.do?geonameid=2709214&starttime=2012-02-07%2016:00:00&endtime=2012-02-16%2022:59:00)

[Viking]

There will be tv from sweden :up:

Positivt beslut i TV-frågan « Rally Sweden (http://www.rallysweden.com/positivt-beslut-i-tv-fragan)

[traxx]

No more use of new Ford HQ Center ?

[Allyc85]

WRC Sweden coverage confirmed...

Rally Sweden finalises its own deal to keep event on international TV - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97394)

[ARF]

No more use of new Ford HQ Center ?

It will return in Portugal.

[Barreis]

Great.

[tolis]

Yazeed Al Rajhi testing!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=lztPKjsPmwc

[Mikkaki]

http://i43.tinypic.com/29lz77c.jpg

Solowow rolls his Fiesta WRC during test in Antilla. Will he start?

[mousti]

Car is not destroyed so probably yes.

[Koceens]

Maybe someone know is there any possibility to get to the Sagen stage from somewhere else except the official spectator place in finish?

Last year I tried to drive in somewhere around middle of the stage, but it failed as the access road was not cleaned and was not driveable.

[SubaruNorway]

Maybe someone know is there any possibility to get to the Sagen stage from somewhere else except the official spectator place in finish?

Last year I tried to drive in somewhere around middle of the stage, but it failed as the access road was not cleaned and was not driveable.

This year there is a new 3-4km from the start going down from the north by Äppelbo.

Sågen with Burns. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWdbiWK_M3s

[SubaruNorway]

Anyone know what stores in Hagfors/Torsby might have mobile broadband? Which is the best?

[Mikkaki]

Tele2/Comwiq is test winner in Sweden. They have the best coverage. Even in the darkest forests ;)

[A FONDO]

Dani Sordo (http://www.facebook.com/DanielSordo)


Terminado el primer día de entrenos en Suecia, muy poca nieve en los tramos y la que hay esta muy blanda, creo que saldrá mucha tierra.
Me gustaría daros una explicación a todo lo que esta pasando entre el equipo y BMW Mini, pero yo se lo mismo que vosotros, cada día sale una noticia nueva, solo os puedo decir que Carlos y yo estamos aquí para defender nuestra segunda posición en el mundial y lo haremos mientras podamos, por nosotros pero también por vosotros, un fuerte abrazo.
www.danielsordo.com (http://www.danielsordo.com/)Finished the first day of training in Sweden, very little snow on the sections and that there is this very soft, I think that it will be plenty of land.
I would like to give you an explanation for everything that is happening between the team and BMW Mini, but I was like you, every day get a new story, only I can tell you that Carlos and I are here to defend our second position in the world and will do that while we can, by us, but also for you, a big hug. (Translated by Bing (http://bing.com/translator))

[MTA]

Anyone know what stores in Hagfors/Torsby might have mobile broadband? Which is the best?
Tele2 - Kundservice - Vårt nät - Täckningskarta (http://www.tele2.se/kundservice/tackningskarta.html)

Täckningskarta för mobil telefoni och mobilt bredband - Support - Kundservice - Privat - Telia.se (http://www.telia.se/privat/kundservice/support/mobiltelefoni/tackningskarta/)

Täckningskarta Mobilt Bredband (http://www.telenor.se/privat/mobilt-bredband/tackningskarta/index.html)

OkQ8 gas stations sells Comviq Surf (same as Tele2 network) and a variety prepaid sim cards.
Tjänster och service | OKQ8.se (http://www.okq8.se/privat/pastationen/utbudetpastationen/tjansterochservice)

Did you see my PM by the way?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rally Sweden finalises its own deal to keep event on international TV

By David Evans Tuesday, February 7th 2012, 16:53 GMT

http://cdn.images.autosport.com/editorial/1328633780.jpg

'The organisers of this week's Rally Sweden have confirmed there will be international television coverage of the event.
Event CEO Glenn Olsson concluded a deal on Tuesday afternoon to ensure that the second round of the World Rally Championship will be filmed with footage available across the world.
Motors TV is expected to screen the footage in the UK, with nightly reports and a round-up on Sunday afternoon.
Olsson said: "We are doing this for all our fans to save the championship and its organisers and teams, and not least for our own sake and our sponsors. This is a multi-million [euro] project and, as we are not ready with the economics, this is very hazardous for us."
Scandinavian fans are well-covered this year. Terrestrial deals are already in place for Sweden, Norway and Denmark, although these will have to be renegotiated now with each round of the series.
This is the first time in 20 years that an individual round of the WRC has negotiated its own television rights. The FIA stated late last week that events would have to do this following the break down in negotiations with Eurosport - the French firm which had been expected to film and distribute WRC footage throughout 2012.'

Great news that there will be coverage :) , but a shame its not gonna be on Eurosport with its better commentators and HD channel :(

[SubaruNorway]

Thanks MTA! Should work in Torsby where I'm staying by the looks of it :)

[DonJippo]

Olsson said: "We are doing this for all our fans to save the championship and its organisers and teams, and not least for our own sake and our sponsors. This is a multi-million [euro] project and, as we are not ready with the economics, this is very hazardous for us."

I doubt it's multi-million euros deal, it may be multi-million krones but not euros.

[Barreis]

Who would give millions of euros for WRC?!

[VFTS]

http://i43.tinypic.com/29lz77c.jpg

Solowow rolls his Fiesta WRC during test in Antilla. Will he start?


Yes, some small damages only, he continued the testing 2 hours after his roll.

[sollitt]

I doubt it's multi-million euros deal, it may be multi-million krones but not euros.I don't believe he's talking about the TV deal, the reference is about the cost of running the event.