M-Sport Ford World Rally Teams

[Fast Eddie WRC]

As I said at the time, the first two events of 2017 were the best chance for the others to take points off Ogier.

Meeke & Neuville could have blown their title chances already if Ogier gets his M-Sport Fiesta more to his liking...

[Andre Oliveira]

http://performance.ford.com/series/rally/news/articles/rally/2017/03/fiesta-wrc-leads-wrc-standings-after-three-races.html

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Auto-Hebdo:
After the Monte-Carlo Rally, the Frenchman seems to want to fight again for the victory at the 10,000 Virages Rally held on the weekend of April 9th.

"I think the Ford Fiesta will be very comfortable on the asphalt, maybe even more than on the ground ," said Sébastien Ogier. We are still too slow in the technical sectors, I am still struggling with the balance of the car. We have a planned test program and maybe we will change our approach with the settings. "

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Cars on beach holiday... :cool:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8pgxGgWsAABMtN.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8pgxGfXUAI6B3E.jpg

[Francis44]

I am not sure if it was like this before but notice how the One Bet ads no longer feature the word "Bet"?! I find that curious.

[SubaruNorway]

I am not sure if it was like this before but notice how the One Bet ads no longer feature the word "Bet"?! I find that curious.

Betting laws in France? In Norway they only have the cube and "It's all about the rush" on the R5

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The full 'ONE BET' wording is on Tanak's car at the service park ...

https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/17807623_10154519717900678_3045984374951870807_o.j pg?oh=d26a47cce4d6e4c69c539f96e8997a9a&oe=595C2F5F

[Sulland]

Have M-Sport been able to adjust the diffs more to Ogiers liking for this rally?

[dimviii]

we will know after first day

[jparker]

we will know after first day
of Monte Carlo 2020?

[danon]

pathetic...


Cars on beach holiday... :cool:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8pgxGgWsAABMtN.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8pgxGfXUAI6B3E.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

pathetic...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8k758lXUAA9nnz.jpg

[EstWRC]

Tänak saying in estonian media that they have a lot work to do with their car, reliability wise and speed wise. Saying that if even the champ is struggling on tarmac then there they have to come up with something. Understeer is their biggest problem.

[Simmi]

Tänak saying in estonian media that they have a lot work to do with their car, reliability wise and speed wise. Saying that if even the champ is struggling on tarmac then there they have to come up with something. Understeer is their biggest problem.

Yeah you got the sense that Ogier's patience ran out on this rally. Four rounds in and with a 13-point championship lead haha.

They wanted to sign the best and this is what you get. He takes no sh*t.


Reminds me of what Malcolm Wilson said when Carlos Sainz first linked up with the team when M-Sport took on the factory role. He basically laid down the law and demanded that they step up to his level. And I think Ogier will do the same now. They will welcome it I believe.

[RAS007]

Reminds me of what Malcolm Wilson said when Carlos Sainz first linked up with the team when M-Sport took on the factory role. He basically laid down the law and demanded that they step up to his level.

Which was totally understandable at the time, since it was basically still Malcolm Wilson Motorsport. But M-Sport has been a world rally team for 20 years now, so official factory backing or not, it's not like they're the new kid on the block anymore.

[Simmi]

Which was totally understandable at the time, since it was basically still Malcolm Wilson Motorsport. But M-Sport has been a world rally team for 20 years now, so official factory backing or not, it's not like they're the new kid on the block anymore.

Very true but look at the new benchmark VW set in the WRC. They changed the game, so there's surely lots M-Sport can do to improve. Okay a lot of that takes money - but some of it Ogier can help instigate.

[jparker]

Yeah you got the sense that Ogier's patience ran out on this rally. Four rounds in and with a 13-point championship lead haha.

They wanted to sign the best and this is what you get. He takes no sh*t.


Reminds me of what Malcolm Wilson said when Carlos Sainz first linked up with the team when M-Sport took on the factory role. He basically laid down the law and demanded that they step up to his level. And I think Ogier will do the same now. They will welcome it I believe.

I don't believe they will. MW is using WRC to make money. I don't see Ogier staying any longer than this season with them.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Østberg team deveoping their Fiesta away from M-Sport:

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129157/ostberg-takes-different-direction-to-msport

[macebig]

They can't really change anything.Group A days where anyone could use their own kit are long.Every part now is homologated by the manufacturer and there isn't an option for using something else.So, we are talikng about a few clicks on the suspension at best.Can they make any significant difference?I highly doubt it.

[AnttiL]

So, we are talikng about a few clicks on the suspension at best.

The diffs as well, but it must be mostly just setup stuff.

[Mirek]

They can't really change anything.Group A days where anyone could use their own kit are long.Every part now is homologated by the manufacturer and there isn't an option for using something else.So, we are talikng about a few clicks on the suspension at best.Can they make any significant difference?I highly doubt it.

Center differential mapping is quite a lot more than just few clicks. Also are You sure that what's inside dampers is all homologated?

[AMSS]

Center differential mapping is quite a lot more than just few clicks. Also are You sure that what's inside dampers is all homologated?

I`m not 100% sure about WRC but at least R5 than inside of dampers is completely free, basically only damper body is homolagated. And since the teams do so much suspension testing the shim setting must be free for WRC as well!

[br21]

You can modify all damper internals (I doubt Ostberg team did it), of course damper clicks, springs, ride height, anti-roll bars, track, wheel-base, balance, center diff mapping, setup of front and rear diffs. So basically you can make completely different car regarding the handling.

[Mirek]

You can modify all damper internals (I doubt Ostberg team did it), of course damper clicks, springs, ride height, anti-roll bars, track, wheel-base, balance, center diff mapping, setup of front and rear diffs. So basically you can make completely different car regarding the handling.


I`m not 100% sure about WRC but at least R5 than inside of dampers is completely free, basically only damper body is homolagated. And since the teams do so much suspension testing the shim setting must be free for WRC as well!

Thanks, that's exactly why I asked. I know that some teams use their own dampers on R5 cars but I was not sure about WRC.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Østberg was saying that they werent getting the test findings on the best set-up from M-Sport. But if M-Sport arent running the car for him then why should they pass on their info ?

Btw, Bertelli is testing with M-Sport so he should get the latest improvements...

[Simmi]

Additional 'Fiesta' branding on the front intake.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-a4QXVXkAEC_Gm.jpg

Small things.

[Andre Oliveira]

Already had it on Tour de Corse ;)

[Andre Oliveira]

Yesterday and today, after finish test, Sébastien Ogier gone to crowd and take pics and talk with us. Many applauses to him. Great attitude.

https://scontent.fopo2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18402949_1724944627534957_5721595979527864690_n.jp g?oh=75f3bc727b276a26aa0536fbea9fa5d3&oe=59819D51

[Andre Oliveira]

What the hell??? Someone bought a new "old" Fiesta WRC

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18425229_1028732910590148_4501411965848692337_n.jp g?oh=55264f7b0df9458dd9298c2e8f2cb63f&oe=59BBD597

[macebig]

What the hell??? Someone bought a new "old" Fiesta WRC

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18425229_1028732910590148_4501411965848692337_n.jp g?oh=55264f7b0df9458dd9298c2e8f2cb63f&oe=59BBD597

https://www.ewrc-results.com/driver_info.php?e=40435&d=1467266&t=Plains-Rally-2017
https://mtc1.uk/Entry/Plains17/EntryList.php

[Simmi]

Malcolm Wilson said in today's Motorsport News he will have no issues applying team orders to make sure he wins the drivers championship with one of his drivers.

"I want to win the drivers' championship and this is the best chance I've had and, from where I'm standing right now, it could be my last chance to do that."


So clearly he isn't convinced Seb is coming back next year.

Also interesting and something I hadn't read regarding Ogier's issues in Argentina. Malcolm thinks they went the wrong way on diff set up. Ogier had tested and liked a new spec diff in pre-event testing. They only had two sets of these differentials and Ogier wanted them both. So he was running a different set-up which just didn't work, and also led to increased tyre wear versus his team-mates.

[Tarmop]

Could be that or maybe he is referring to tight competition...also we know that they can`t say anything. Tänak for example had the contract several months before the end of 2016 season (and yes, we can`t say that all goes according to the contracts, but...).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Makes sense to maximise your leading driver's points where possible. I'm sure other teams will do the same ie. Hyundai to help Neuville. Winning the WDC is arguably greater publicity than winning the Manufacturers.

[Watson]

The funny thing is that he already let Tanak finish in front of Ogier in Sweden and Argentina. I am not a fan of team orders but it is what it is.

Also he might just say it to please Ogier (he sounds a bit frustrated in interviews and Malcolm wants to turn around his mood asap), as well as to remind Tanak and Evans of the bigger picture and explain he might do it so they don't get pissed during the rallies.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier looking pretty happy before Rally Portugal
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAGL8bLUIAAQYkc.jpg:large

[Watson]

1337

Not a bad time especially with no pacenotes.

[A FONDO]

Last year when Elfyn was running in the WRC 2 category at the Tour de Corse, I had a customer ask if he could buy a car like Elfyn’s. I told him he could have that very car and we did the deal there and then – with him taking the car away straight after the rally...

[KKS]

Ogier show true happiness after first stage in Portugal. As usual he show a fake happiness for TV

[Andre Oliveira]

Crazy and €€€ fans of Seb Ogier here in Portugal :)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAI5mycWsAEN7GA.jpg

[Franky]

Crazy and €€€ fans of Seb Ogier here in Portugal :)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAI5mycWsAEN7GA.jpg

So now it's worth 51 euros?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier transformed after new car changes:

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/may-2017/wilson-praises-ogier/page/4558--12-12-.html

[EstWRC]

here is the interview with Malcolm i was talking about in rally portugal thread http://sport.err.ee/597382/malcolm-wilson-tahaksime-tanakut-naha-meeskonnas-ka-jargmisel-hooajal

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It's official: there's a new head honcho at Ford. Current CEO Mark Fields is replaced by autonomous cars chief Jim Hackett.

That gives me no confidence at all that Ford will make an official return to WRC. :(

[jparker]

It's official: there's a new head honcho at Ford. Current CEO Mark Fields is replaced by autonomous cars chief Jim Hackett.

That gives me no confidence at all that Ford will make an official return to WRC. :(

Of course no return for Ford. It's not about the money, rather the humiliation that they have suffered in the last 30 years dealing with M-Sport. Despite Portugal success, a lot more is needed to convince the bosses.

[rallyfiend]

Of course no return for Ford. It's not about the money, rather the humiliation that they have suffered in the last 30 years dealing with M-Sport. Despite Portugal success, a lot more is needed to convince the bosses.

This post shows so little level of knowledge of either the sport or business it's embarrassing.

[Watson]

It's official: there's a new head honcho at Ford. Current CEO Mark Fields is replaced by autonomous cars chief Jim Hackett.

That gives me no confidence at all that Ford will make an official return to WRC. :(
Let's keep our heads up. They are still doing cars like the Fiesta ST and Focus ST/RS. They wanna be associated with motorsport. In many ways I think the WRC is the best way to get bigger amounts of people excited about your regular road cars. The whole GT3 racing they are engaging in now is nice too but a Ford GT costs more than a 488 Ferrari.


Of course no return for Ford. It's not about the money, rather the humiliation that they have suffered in the last 30 years dealing with M-Sport. Despite Portugal success, a lot more is needed to convince the bosses.

Sweet Lord you're just a miserable little hater, aren't you?

[Andre Oliveira]

Heartburn is so bad :)

[Gregor-y]

The GT is an inexpensive marketing exercise. If they were serious about motorsport it Ford would build a competitive prototype rather than a GT40 throwback to run against a pack of mass produced Porsches. It gets lots of articles in the US media, though, that always go on about the sixties. The WRC has a shot if someone over in Ford Europe can make a compelling case and keep the cost low.

The continued existence of the ST and RS models is a good sign, but we'll see what happens with new leadership.

[macebig]

M Sport hasn't stop getting support from FoMoCo.Or you guys believe that Wilson found unreleased Fiesta chassis and designs falling down the sky at Cumbria.If they want to pay Ogier the salary he wants is a different kind of thing but rest assured that those Fiestas are running the stages because Ford wants it.

[Tarmop]

Ofc, i can`t see how its possible to think that there isn`t support (trademark ecoboost logos everywhere etc) but the question is in the total sum.

[Watson]

M Sport hasn't stop getting support from FoMoCo.Or you guys believe that Wilson found unreleased Fiesta chassis and designs falling down the sky at Cumbria.If they want to pay Ogier the salary he wants is a different kind of think but rest assured that those Fiestas are running the stages because Ford wants it.

Nobody here thinks that. They get minor development support and a bit of pocket money for the ecoboost stickers but they are by far the poorest team. Ford is nowhere near as committed as any of the others.

[Watson]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/index.php?id=336&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=86597&tx_ttnews%5Byear%5D=2017&tx_ttnews%5Bmonth%5D=05&tx_ttnews%5Bday%5D=18

Ogier is willing to stay but he wants clarity about how the M-Sport operation is going to be run next year, specifically that they will have the dough to stay competitive and to pay him. Apparantly he wants to know by this summer (no specifics when that is) so he can sign a new contract with Ford or another team so he won't have to do last second pre-season preperations again.

Wilson says they are in contact with Ford Europe and the headquarters in North America yet they have yet failed to promise anything.

Reminds me of 2002 when they waited around until Sainz and McRae left and 2004 when they didn't confirm their backing and Märtin and Duval saw themselves forced to walk away.

[A FONDO]

Nobody here thinks that. They get minor development support and a bit of pocket money for the ecoboost stickers but they are by far the poorest team. Ford is nowhere near as committed as any of the others.

That's true. But there's also a positive note on their side, there's no politics in their team. Just engineering and racing. They may have smaller resources but they use them optimally, there are no obstructions or distractions.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The fact that the new boss is into the development of autonomous cars, I cant see him being swayed into having Ford use WRC as a future promo tool. Hope I'm wrong.

[Tarmop]

Haven`t heard from Nasser in a while. Last info was, if i remember correctly that he is still planning to compete. Like Wilson said, Ford or some other big supporter, no difference.

[macebig]

Haven`t heard from Nasser in a while. Last info was, if i remember correctly that he is still planning to compete. Like Wilson said, Ford or some other big supporter, no difference.

Al Attiyah?He just bought a brand new R5 Fiesta and will compete ERC Acropolis and the full MERC calendar.

[Tarmop]

Al Attiyah?He just bought a brand new R5 Fiesta and will compete ERC Acropolis and the full MERC calendar.

Thanks, didn`t know that but i actually ment WRC. After the VW deal failed, there was a paus and maybe a month or two ago? there were new talks about another possible deal with one of the current teams.

[Ctesibios]

This post shows so little level of knowledge of either the sport or business it's embarrassing.
What would it take for Ford to return officially? Why are the 3 others in it anyway?

To me, Hyundai is in it for the prestige and raise the level of its brand. Citroën for pride? Toyota,I have no clue! They seem to be bouncing in and out of motorsport disciplines with no clear purpose.

As for the Ford GT program, it seems to be run by nostalgics. Their financial situation still isn't that great.

Sent from my LG-H831 using Tapatalk

[Francis44]

As for the Ford GT program, it seems to be run by nostalgics. Their financial situation still isn't that great.

Sent from my LG-H831 using Tapatalk

Their financial situation is horrible because their CEO talked constantly about electric and autonomous cars without any clue on what costumers want in their car TODAY!

That's why he is out of the door today, no one forgets he's conference about autonomous car where he clearly expected a reaction from the audience but no one cared.

[Watson]

Their financial situation is horrible because their CEO talked constantly about electric and autonomous cars without any clue on what costumers want in their car TODAY!

That's why he is out of the door today, no one forgets he's conference about autonomous car where he clearly expected a reaction from the audience but no one cared.

I'm sorry if I sound a bit daft here but I'm unaware of the politics in Ford's top branch.

They only just fired the previous CEO because he was too fixed on autonomous and electric cars and they replaced him with the head of the autonomous cars department? How is that going to help?

[AnttiL]

They'll fire Ogier and win the championship with an autonomous car? :D Hiring Ogier was actually only to collect data of his driving style, which will be then fed into the driving computer

[Watson]

They'll fire Ogier and win the championship with an autonomous car? :D Hiring Ogier was actually only to collect data of his driving style, which will be then fed into the driving computer

Hahaha yeah something along these lines. :D

[Francis44]

I'm sorry if I sound a bit daft here but I'm unaware of the politics in Ford's top branch.

They only just fired the previous CEO because he was too fixed on autonomous and electric cars and they replaced him with the head of the autonomous cars department? How is that going to help?

Perhaps because Jim Hackett is still very focused on selling waht they have to offer today. In his first comments on the job he says the autonomous and electric strategy has to be completely rethinked and that shall take time. I think those are some strong comments from a man who clearly was very involved in that strategy before, just because he was the head of the autonomous department doesn't mean it's his solo focus.

[Watson]

Perhaps because Jim Hackett is still very focused on selling waht they have to offer today. In his first comments on the job he says the autonomous and electric strategy has to be completely rethinked and that shall take time. I think those are some strong comments from a man who clearly was very involved in that strategy before, just because he was the head of the autonomous department doesn't mean it's his solo focus.

So if anything the chances of them approving of a works WRC team have improved through the regime change?

[Francis44]

So if anything the chances of them approving of a works WRC team have improved through the regime change?

Atleast I think so, but the data about the effects of such investment on their sales only they know. It's hard to really know how much "bang for buck" they have in the WRC, seeing as they can easily spend a quarter of that on some other series. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

[Watson]

Atleast I think so, but the data about the effects of such investment on their sales only they know. It's hard to really know how much "bang for buck" they have in the WRC, seeing as they can easily spend a quarter of that on some other series. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Alright, thank you very much for the insight.

[Francis44]

Alright, thank you very much for the insight.

Please, I do not have any "insight" :D, those are just my thoughts about what happened recently with what has been made publicly available in the news.

[Watson]

Please, I do not have any "insight" :D, those are just my thoughts about what happened recently with what has been made publicly available in the news.

Well, yeah but I didn't have a clue about these guys and what they publically said.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I wonder if a Tanak or Evans win would also help convince Ford, making the success of the Fiesta and M-Sport not appear so reliant on Ogier ?

They are both coming close...

[dimviii]

Citroën Racing‏*@CitroenRacing May 21

Bravo @SebOgier, Julien and @MSportLtd ! A win at #RallyPortugal reminds us great memories from 2010! #WRC #TheVeryFirstOne #PortugalMasters

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAWYvxwXUAE8mKL.jpg

and Ogiers answer

Sébastien Ogier‏
Verified account
Merci!!
#TheVeryFirstOne is one of those you never forget!!
@rallydeportugal

[mknight]

So they hire Mikkelsen for Sardinia and then congratulate Ogier.

Something has changed for sure.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So they hire Mikkelsen for Sardinia and then congratulate Ogier.

Something has changed for sure.

You could see from Meeke's face that he and the team was under massive pressure from Matton.

[Rally Power]

Perhaps because Jim Hackett is still very focused on selling waht they have to offer today. In his first comments on the job he says the autonomous and electric strategy has to be completely rethinked and that shall take time. I think those are some strong comments from a man who clearly was very involved in that strategy before, just because he was the head of the autonomous department doesn't mean it's his solo focus.

Big Corps are a bit like foot clubs: when results are poor, sacking the coach is the easiest way to boost the team and please the masses. Shareholders were criticizing Ford’s strategy as stock price kept slumping, that’s why Field’s head is rolling. Surprisingly, or not, the new CEO was totally aligned with the strategy and, worse, he’s not a car guy (Hackett came from office furniture business). But there’s still hope (for MSport and Rally): Jim Farley (Ford Europe current president and a known petrolhead) is keeping his FoMoCo vice president post and was promoted to Global Markets president. Fingers crossed!
http://www.autonews.com/article/20170522/OEM02/170529994

[Rally Power]

Steven Armstrong, a 52 years old brit and former James Farley deputy, is the new Ford Europe president. Will Ford’s empowered Farley and Armstrong finally give full support to MSport? Fingers crossed!

https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/people/steven-armstrong.html

[macebig]

Steven Armstrong, a 52 years old brit and former James Farley deputy, is the new Ford Europe president. Will Ford’s empowered Farley and Armstrong finally give full support to MSport? Fingers crossed!

https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/people/steven-armstrong.html

I have to inform that things have changed in Ford.This is not the 70s when the rally team was run by Dagenham or the 90s that M Sport got backing from Cologne.All decisions nowadays are made in Dearborn, Michigan.Those are the guys that support Ganassi and the GTLM program plus Block and M Sport in World RX.Also, they are guys Roger Penske is talking with regarding the Australian V8SC program.

[Rally Power]

As you probably know, Farfley lead Europe and he's now returning to the US as FoMoCo vice president. He's a petrolhead and has direct knowledge about MSport WRC effort. Being back at Dearborn may be a positive factor.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

MW treating the staff to little get together to celebrate the successful start to the season !

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAw1WyNWAAA0JMA.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAw1XYLWsAAP7IK.jpg

[Andre Oliveira]

With portuguese wine

[dimviii]

Malcolm Wilsons rally teams new circuit being built out West. @MSportLtd

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DBfbIMtXsAA9Yw2.jpg

[Andre Oliveira]

http://performance.ford.com/series/rally/news/articles/rally/2017/06/ogier-looks-for-third-win-at-rally-italia-sardegna.html

[Andre Oliveira]

http://performance.ford.com/content/dam/fordracing/series/rally/image/news/2017/06/WRCItaly_800_3.jpg

http://performance.ford.com/series/rally/news/articles/rally/2017/06/taenak-finds-victory-in-sardinia.html

[Watson]

Since the contracts for the following season are usually sorted around the time Rally Finland takes place, Ford will probably publish their decision by that time.

I'm hopeful, but I'm a fan. At Monte we heard some positive sounds. It has gone really well since then. M-Sport is leading both championships, won the most rallies, had a car on the podium at every rally and are the only team to have multiple drivers winning. Poland and Finland should suit the car and Tanak is on fire.

Ogier says he will stay if Ford returns. The other drivers are strong too and could certainly be kept. They could be the ones to beat for years to come.

It is all set. Will it go through?

Edit: Also the WRC is interesting and thrilling now with good competition between many teams. It's not just them against Citroen anymore or VW walking over everybody.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Suninen in action in his M-Sport Fiesta:

http://www.teemusuninen.com/files/01.jpg

His main sponsor: http://www.konecranes.fi/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rovanpera linked to M-Sport & BRC in 2018:

No deal had been done on a car for Rovanpera next season, but it would likely come down to sticking with the current Skoda Fabia R5 or switching to an M-Sport-run Ford Fiesta R5.

M-Sport has plenty of experience of running Jouhki’s juniors; Latvala and Mikko Hirvonen were part of the Ford WRC team from 2006 until Ford’s withdrawal at the end of 2012. Teemu Suninen – who makes his debut in a Ford Fiesta WRC in Poland this week – is another Jouhki driver under an M-Sport contract for this year’s WRC2 series.

M-Sport managing director Malcolm Wilson told MN: “We’re be very interested in working with Kalle – he’s clearly a young driver with a very exciting future. We’ve talked about a few things with Kalle and Timo and Harri, but nothing is done. There are different options, but a BRC programme would be a good plan with the world rounds mentioned.”

https://www.motorsport-news.co.uk/news/rovanepera-targets-brc-campaign/

[NickRally]

There will once again be some very difficult questions asked in M-Sport's offices tomorrow with (relative) lack of speed on Ogier's side of the garage and (repeat) wing failure leading to overdriving on Tanak's side of the team.

[Simmi]

After eight rounds both Tanak AND Evans have scored more fastest times than Ogier. Even regardless of road position that is incredible really.

[AnttiL]

After eight rounds both Tanak AND Evans have scored more fastest times than Ogier. Even regardless of road position that is incredible really.

And still Ogier has about the same amount of points as those guys together.

[noel157]

There will once again be some very difficult questions asked in M-Sport's offices tomorrow with (relative) lack of speed on Ogier's side of the garage and (repeat) wing failure leading to overdriving on Tanak's side of the team.

Sorry, may have missed it but did Tanak's rear aero pack "just" fall off or did he get a knock or something somewhere?

[EstWRC]

just fell off on the straight

[macebig]

They should probably take a look at the design of their mounting system. A repeat of that failure may prove very costly in Finland.

[EstWRC]

they must have a very serious look at it, IMO thats where actually Tänak lost the win.

[noel157]

they must have a very serious look at it, IMO thats where actually Tänak lost the win.

Or at least lost the chance to finish, may not have been going so hard today. But I suppose if my auntie was a man she would be my uncle.....

He'll get his day in the sun soon.

[EstWRC]

Or at least lost the chance to finish, may not have been going so hard today. But I suppose if my auntie was a man she would be my uncle.....

He'll get his day in the sun soon.

well thats the difference i was referring, he had 14 secs lead after the stage he lost the wing...would have been a completely different scenario.

but i dont want to sound like Neuville in sardegna...it was what it was and hopefully it wont happen again.

[Andre Oliveira]

So good debut to Teemu Suninen. Hope more rounds after Finland

[Simmi]

Maybe if the WRC2 title is beyond reach for GB that could be something nice. And put Kalle into the R5 car instead.

[AnttiL]

So good debut to Teemu Suninen. Hope more rounds after Finland

Probably it's a budget issue. I bet his sponsors were delighted to see him featured so much on the official WRC TV highlights. For example Østberg wasn't shown practically at all. If Finland goes well, I could see him do one more rally in WRC, most likely Wales.


Maybe if the WRC2 title is beyond reach for GB that could be something nice. And put Kalle into the R5 car instead.

Right, Tidemand's title is now pretty secured...Suninen announced that his WRC2 program would include Germany, Spain and Wales. He would basically have to win them all and Tidemand to have very bad luck for him to take the WRC2 title. And for the wholeness, a drive in WRC2017 would be more useful than that.

I think Kalle will drive R5 anyway.

[Ctesibios]

Is Suninen under contract with a team? Is he someone's protégé? I would sign him for next year! Even if it was for a partial season.

[pantealex]

Is Suninen under contract with a team? Is he someone's protégé? I would sign him for next year! Even if it was for a partial season.

M-Sport for now, Timo Jouhki is his manager, So would I ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Who is funding these two drives for Suninen in the 2017 car, just MSport or the Crane people ?

[noel157]

Who is funding these two drives for Suninen in the 2017 car, just MSport or the Crane people ?

Would guarantee M-Sport isn't. Jouhki does the money side.

[AnttiL]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DD39R3AXsAAMG7g.jpg

Kremer's livery for Deutchland 2017

[Ctesibios]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DD39R3AXsAAMG7g.jpg

Kremer's livery for Deutchland 2017
Is Armin borrowing someone's car or is it a new build?

[EstWRC]

Bertellis car i guess.

[Andre Oliveira]

Ogier will have new car at Germany

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Bertellis car i guess.

Or Suninen's ! ;)

[KKS]

Bertellis car i guess.
btw who was that? :D
he do only 3 rallies this year and back home ?

Suninen use his car in Poland

[AnttiL]

btw who was that? :D
he do only 3 rallies this year and back home ?

Suninen use his car in Poland

The Absolute Rally podcast said his 2016 Fiesta was on ebay and they said he retired, but then again he has already driven two events on the 2017 car. Anyway, I won't miss him if he quits.

[sonnybobiche]

Shame, we need as many 2017 cars on each rally as possible. And Bertelli was getting a lot better in the last year or so. Privateers should be celebrated, I think.

BTW what's the deal with Onebet-Jipocar in terms of getting Prokop competing again? Is he ever going to get his own 17 car? I can't believe it would be a question of finances...

[GigiGalliNo1]

His calendar only included two WRC rounds this year (Bertelli) He will be back but no one knows when...

[AnttiL]

His calendar only included two WRC rounds this year (Bertelli) He will be back but no one knows when...

Yet he's done already three (Sweden, Mexico and Argentina). Interestingly he chose the non-European events to his limited programme...

[tommeke_B]

Yet he's done already three (Sweden, Mexico and Argentina). Interestingly he chose the non-European events to his limited programme...
Probably because there aren't so many R5 cars to compete with in non-European events...

[GigiGalliNo1]

I believe M-Sport were already packing four WRCars (2017 spec) on these events specifically the two long haul - expect the same for Australia - Ogier Tanak Evans + Privateer WRCar...

[rallyfiend]

If someone doesn't pay, the car doesn't leave M-Sport and get on a plane...

[kure91]

BTW what's the deal with Onebet-Jipocar in terms of getting Prokop competing again? Is he ever going to get his own 17 car? I can't believe it would be a question of finances...
AFAIK Prokop is focusing on his Dakar adventure. In reccent interview in Czech media he sad that he would like to do Finland and Catalunya, but its a question as he isn´t entered to Finland

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p480x480/19959093_1800599386636147_7480745389503981934_n.jp g?oh=dc72e8dc150d3df21e43ccfaab5ac6d3&oe=5A06C8C1

https://screenshots.firefoxusercontent.com/images/eb336a57-3ace-451e-b9d8-a0532797442f.png

[EstWRC]

Damn I don't like how they are acting. I know they are still supporting Malcolm but they are acting like they are full manufacturer in the series.

[Andre Oliveira]

On Facebook they add M-Sport at least ;)

[macebig]

Damn I don't like how they are acting. I know they are still supporting Malcolm but they are acting like they are full manufacturer in the series.

Remember, M-Sport is out there with FoMoCo's consent. They have every right to use the results for marketing purposes.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p480x480/19959093_1800599386636147_7480745389503981934_n.jp g?oh=dc72e8dc150d3df21e43ccfaab5ac6d3&oe=5A06C8C1



I replied on Twitter that their Ford Fiesta would win even more if they give their full support... :rolleyes:

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Remember, M-Sport is out there with FoMoCo's consent. They have every right to use the results for marketing purposes.

True.. but they arent paying the driver's, a pretty important factor in the car's success this year.

[Andre Oliveira]

I think they should use WRC car to advirtise new Fiesta road car

[skarderud]

Mads Østberg is using his R5 in germany, instead of the wrc17 car.
Mainly because of limited testing and parts avalible on tarmac.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

I wonder if Mads is skipping Spain as well, if the lack of tarmac suspension and its testing and financing is a true issue

[Daviesalaam]

And, What about his Co Driver Ola Floene.. Dropped out ?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

And, What about his Co Driver Ola Floene.. Dropped out ?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

That was covered in the news thread.

[Rally Power]

Not the big news we’re waiting for, still two interesting rumours about MSport that are growing on the net.

The first was, apparently, started by Italian magazine Autosprint, that claimed MSport is developing a Suzuki Swift R3T which will replace the Fiesta R2T in JWRC from 2019. http://www.diariomotor.com/competicion/breve/m-sport-desarrollando-un-suzuki-swift-r3t-en-italia-creen-que-es-posible/

The other, launched by endurance racing sites, reveals MSport can be chosen by Ford to undertake European costumer service for the new Mustang GT4, a car developed by Multimatic Motorsport from Canada and already competing at some US GT series. http://www.endurance-info.com/fr/m-sport-en-passe-de-devenir-la-base-technique-europeenne-du-programme-ford-gt4/

[Andre Oliveira]

https://screenshots.firefoxusercontent.com/images/eb734ed4-d5e7-4ab2-b0e5-c3d3335ea179.png

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://screenshots.firefoxusercontent.com/images/eb734ed4-d5e7-4ab2-b0e5-c3d3335ea179.png

Yes, M-Sport.. not you.

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DFQ638sXgAEHs9m.jpg

[Rally Power]

If the rumours are right, this is the car MSport is developing as a R3 (yep, not a Ford!), eventually to become the next JWRC model. Base car uses a 1.4T engine and weighs around 1050kg.

https://www.diariomotor.com/imagenes/picscache/1100x440c/suzuki-swift-sport-p_1100x440c.jpg

[Andre Oliveira]

Next M-Sport R3T car will be Fiesta with 1.5T engine, 3 cylinder and 240hp based in ST

[Rally Power]

Maybe they can do both! MSport is a private company and, for what we know, has no exclusivity contract with Ford.

[Andre Oliveira]

That news should be bluff or pressure ;)

[AnttiL]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DFuA5UnXcAA-VYs.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DFuA44xWAAAyM8o.jpg

Suninen's livery has been updated a bit for Neste Rally, actually with more Neste sponsoring, and the green lines on the bumper are also the Neste brand colour.

[Daviesalaam]

What is happening Ogier's new Car...?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

[Eli]

What is happening Ogier's new Car...?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using TapatalkOgier's getting a new car in Germany, not here.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

[Andre Oliveira]

Do you think that Malcolm will use Suninen and maybe Mikkelsen in GB and Australia to win positions of Neuville? The last play... Ott. Don’t think Hyundai can use Sordo and Paddon. Wilson will try everything that it is allow to be champion.

[racerx1979]

Ogier gets a new car almost every rally.

[seb_sh]

Ogier gets a new car almost every rally.

not quite https://www.ewrc-results.com/cars/69-ford-fiesta-wrc-17/

[Tarmop]

For that M-Sport needs money (extra cars) and although probably he would get it, i don`t think that Andreas is the best joker for Ogier`s championship as he`s a good friend of Neuville. We also know that Finland didn`t suit Hyundai but on every other remaining event or most of them Neuville should be able to fight for the top3, whereas Teemu lacks experience and Andreas SS km`s plus none of them have been driven in a Fiesta.

[AnttiL]

This was brought up in Twitter: Andreas is too expensive for M-Sport at this point, and won't pay to drive.

[tommeke_B]

This was brought up in Twitter: Andreas is too expensive for M-Sport at this point, and won't pay to drive.

Regarding how competitive both Lappi and Suninen already are, with their limited experience, Mikkelsen's value could quickly drop. I think he should be happy if he gets a works seat for the whole season next year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Do you think that Malcolm will use Suninen and maybe Mikkelsen in GB and Australia to win positions of Neuville? The last play... Ott. Don’t think Hyundai can use Sordo and Paddon. Wilson will try everything that it is allow to be champion.

No.

[EstWRC]

Regarding how competitive both Lappi and Suninen already are, with their limited experience, Mikkelsen's value could quickly drop. I think he should be happy if he gets a works seat for the whole season next year.

oh man you just upset a bunch of norwegians!

[mknight]

Regarding how competitive both Lappi and Suninen already are, with their limited experience, Mikkelsen's value could quickly drop. I think he should be happy if he gets a works seat for the whole season next year.

Mikkelsen beat Sunninen in R5s by over 1 minute after first day both in Corsica and Portugal and then basically just controlled the lead => quite a different level.

There is no direct comparison with Lappi available, but
a) they have same manager
b) Lappi most likely already has a deal at Toyota so don't see how it changes M-Sport choices

The outings with Citroen certainly didn't increase Mikkelsen's value, but comparing the Citroen drivers in Poland and now in Finland, it's rather inconclusive.

Atm Mikkelsen and Tanak have about same value, Tanak has obviously better recent results, but does not have any good result on tarmac yet.

For reference: I am not Norwegian.
------------

Anyway I'd say the main point here is that if M-Sport does not get a lot of money from Ford they will either:
1. Use all money on Ogier and get very cheap/paying driver for other spot (so neither Tanak nor Mikkelsen).
Or
2. They let even Ogier go and go fully money-making like so many times in the past. Malcolm has a long history of picking drivers for money and just recently said that he's mostly interested in driver titles.

I don't think it's likely that they let Ogier go and pay Tanak or Mikkelsen to be #1. The signals from various interview seem to suggest that Malcolm is trying to focus on option 1. atm.

[Andre Oliveira]

Something like RedBull M-Sport WRT should be enought. Like RedBull F1 team

[Tarmop]

2. They let even Ogier go and go fully money-making like so many times in the past. Malcolm has a long history of picking drivers for money and just recently said that he's mostly interested in driver titles.

Actually before Finland, i think that Tänak said to Estonian media that M-Sports main objective is manufacturers title. I can`t find the article to check at the moment but probably ESTwrc or someone can confirm.

[mknight]

Actually before Finland, i think that Tänak said to Estonian media that M-Sports main objective is manufacturers title. I can`t find the article to check at the moment but probably ESTwrc or someone can confirm.

Malcolm said in the WRC radio interview in Finland that his priority was drivers cause he had 2-manu titles from before.

[EstWRC]

I can't confirm Tarmop. Maybe I missed the article because I was in Finland but I haven't seen it .

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If private team M-Sport win the Manufacturers in 2017 that will be enough. A great achievement unprecedented in the WRC.

In 2018 they can do what they like.

[Andre Oliveira]

I am surprised why Ford France didn’t support his champion. And Ford Europe don’t use the Fiesta WRC to advertise the Fiesta road car.

[Tarmop]

Well, Ford Europe is probably responsible for Focus RS recce cars (German numberplates).

[dimviii]

Malcolm said in the WRC radio interview in Finland that his priority was drivers cause he had 2-manu titles from before.

haven't listen this interview ,but Evans told wrc.com that manufacture championship is very important for M sport.

“I think there was an element that I was going to go for it, but there was a bit of a difficult situation. It’s very important for M-Sport to win the manufacturers’ title this year and I think they wanted to make sure they collected as many points as possible,” Evans said.

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/august-2017/evans-second/page/4751--12-12-.html

[electroliquid]

Of course Evans and Tanak says that manufacturers title is very important. Do you expect they say "our team's main goal is to have Ogier as champion, and we just drive..." and only Malcom knows what's most important for M-Sport and himself.

[stefanvv]

Manufacturer title might be important for Ford Motor Co. to comeback.

[Eli]

Manufacturer title might be important for Ford Motor Co. to comeback.

Hopefully they'll take it this year and will see the Blue Oval return after 5 too long years without them. Malcolm Wilson deserves at least one of the titles if not both, he has put so much effort for this year.

[eib1]

if Malcolm wants manu title more than WDC, then Tänak would have finished 2nd in Poland

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DGNj8ssW0AAKTyf.jpg

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/893378097592111105

Kalle Rovanperä testing today at M-Sport...probably the Fiesta R5.

[Andre Oliveira]

So Red Bull is personal sponsor of Sébastien Ogier, Elfyn Evans and the future (?) Kalle Rovanpëra M-Sport drivers. Maybe the answer to Malcolm Wilson "problems" are the called (by me) Red Bull M-Sport WRT.

[mknight]

That might not be enough money for 2nd top driver (Tanak or Mikkelsen), so that would be Ogier + Evans cheaply + Suninen for free or some paydriver (Camilli).

Little chance in manu-championship vs Hyundai and Toyota + Ogier alone might struggle with further car development and with having someone to compare with. Don't like that much.

[Andre Oliveira]

Reb Bull team like F1, not a simple sponsor... that could work

[Andre Oliveira]

Difficult convice Ford like this

https://scontent.flis8-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/20992838_1841562629206489_3416786465755706923_n.jp g?oh=7c0edfdba0ea2c4d0e6a78175c91c5ed&oe=5A172CF9

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/MSportLtd/status/899139191568826368


Just 50 more kilometres to go @ADACRallye! Wish us luck, this one would mean a lot... #WRC #ADACRallye ��

would mean a lot? hmm...

[Rally Power]

So, MSport is almost manus champ and Ogier is also the best placed to become drivers champ; if Ford doesn’t full support MSport next year, I hope Mr. Wilson can be able to look for manu support elsewhere…he deserves better!

[N.O.T]

So, MSport is almost manus champ and Ogier is also the best placed to become drivers champ; if Ford doesn’t full support MSport next year, I hope Mr. Wilson can be able to look for manu support elsewhere…he deserves better!

he will not.... ford expertise makes him rich and thats what counts.

Plus he managed to win both titles without any support why he would need it ?

the other teams are nothing when it comes to drivers.

[macebig]

Seriously people, you need to calm down. That team is out there because Ford WANTS it to be out there. Does it really matter if they are gonna have a bit bigger Blue Oval stickers or not? Results are what matter. And for Ford the current deal is fine. If they want to invest more to keep the team as it is, it's up to the higher ups in Dearborn. For me, as long as the cars are out there, sometimes with more and some times with less chance of winning, it's great.

[tommeke_B]

Maybe M-Sport needs Ford more than Ford needs M-Sport? ;) Isn't it still the manufacturer that needs to give an approval to homologate a new rallycar? See the struggle with the Mitsubishi R5 for example... M-Sport has built a very successful business with hundreds of R5 cars (not even mentioning WRC, S2000 and R2 cars) competing around the world. They must make a decent profit from all cars/parts sold and maintained. But, if Ford decides to stop approving the rally programme, and doesn't give their approval for next homologations, the story could stop... Or am I wrong? ;)

[Rally Power]

And for Ford the current deal is fine

For Ford is great, for sure. They only provide tech support and MSport does all the hard work, including getting the running budget. Besides, there's no rational argument on why they're backing WRX and not WRC.

No doubt MSport needs to have Ford tech support, but as rally fans can't we ask for Ford's WRC return as a manu or wish that MSport could find a more involved partner?

[jparker]

No doubt MSport needs to have Ford tech support, but as rally fans can't we ask for Ford's WRC return as a manu or wish that MSport could find a more involved partner?
Problem is the partner, not many I guess.
Prodrive found one, but not in rallying.

[stefanvv]

For Ford is great, for sure. They only provide tech support and MSport does all the hard work, including getting the running budget. Besides, there's no rational argument on why they're backing WRX and not WRC.

No doubt MSport needs to have Ford tech support, but as rally fans can't we ask for Ford's WRC return as a manu or wish that MSport could find a more involved partner?

Ford provides the cars, but I don't know how deep the tech support goes from there. For sure M-Sport are using the aero developing facilities from Ford and since the engine is built by M-Sport now, probably Ford has finger in that process as well. But if they want to keep winning perhaps they should invest more in drivers too, the best variant is to keep the current line-up, but if Tanak decides to go away, a team with Ogier, Evans & Suninen is not much more weak.

[Francis44]

Ford Motor Co was and is still a deceitful company when it comes to money. Dont forget this was a company that some years before had an habbit of paying the familys victims instead of fixing their cars simply because it was cheaper.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

For Ford is great, for sure. They only provide tech support and MSport does all the hard work, including getting the running budget. Besides, there's no rational argument on why they're backing WRX and not WRC.

No doubt MSport needs to have Ford tech support, but as rally fans can't we ask for Ford's WRC return as a manu or wish that MSport could find a more involved partner?

I ask @FordPerformance to come back officially after every rally. They will never have a better chance to get the Ford name properly associated with motor sport success again.

Ford stayed in rally even when Citroen were kings, but now M-Sport are leading the way they need to come back.

[mknight]

if Tanak decides to go away, a team with Ogier, Evans & Suninen is not much more weak.

I disagree, a team like that has no chance to win manu title against (probably in that case), Toyota with Latvala, Lappi, Tanak and Hyundai with current lineup.

[stefanvv]

I disagree, a team like that has no chance to win manu title against (probably in that case), Toyota with Latvala, Lappi, Tanak and Hyundai with current lineup.

Well my point was more oriented to M-Sport line-up disregarding the others. Evans has shown real progress this year, and even tyres are playing some role on some performances (meaning Argentina), as some driver said - there is still someone who must drive the car, though in most of the events he seem hampered with them. Kind of similar with Tanak last year going with the same brand.

As for Suninen, why not? Who had thought Lappi was going to win in Finland? Suninen might fall in the same category.

[AnttiL]

Ogier-Evans-Suninen team would be about as strong as Hyundai's team this year –*one driver winning a lot and others collecting points here and there but no winning pace.

[mknight]

Pretty impossible to judge how good Evans really is, any good stagetime/rally he does can be mostly due to tires.. same for any bad one. Also remember he has two full WRC seasons from before.

Suninen is imo not ready and going too early to WRC would most likely hurt him in the long term. Sure it was good to show himself on 2 rallies, maybe GB on top, but R5 results vs various drivers indicate there are things to learn.

[Tarmop]

Suninen is too raw i think to be nominated to score points. Although maybe it was his itention to go and see what happens, but in those two outings he had several lucky close calls.

[EstWRC]

as far as i know about the situation, Wilson isnt satisfied that Ford just promises to give more money and support because it isnt fully guaranteed. They can change their minds every moment, so thats why full factory support or nothing.

this is the info i got.

[stefanvv]

Suninen is imo not ready and going too early to WRC would most likely hurt him in the long term. Sure it was good to show himself on 2 rallies, maybe GB on top, but R5 results vs various drivers indicate there are things to learn.

Yeah, lots of people consider every class as a step of the ladder necessary to be taken. But I'm more of the others, which may consider real talent only when it comes to the top level of a championship. There are plenty examples of drivers which are not so good in 1 category and much better in higher category, and of course the opposite (who of course are the majority, but that is where the difference comes - the majority don't become world champions one day). Suninen had 2 chances to prove himself fast so far in WRC car and he did it more than probably 99% of the people expected. Of course there will always be critics of overdriving, offs, luck, and so, so on, but IMO he did fine job getting results and learning as much in the process.

[Rally Power]

Problem is the partner, not many I guess.
Prodrive found one, but not in rallying.

Yep, Prodrive getting Renault into WRX was a surprise; likewise to see Overdrive as BAIC new partner on rally-raid and some other oriental brands getting into motorsport on a serious way. The car market is rising worldwide and we’re having the best WRC season since the earlier 00’s. Hopefully, it’s just a matter of time to have new manus coming into WRC. Fingers crossed.

[Andre Oliveira]

10th podium this season.

[AnttiL]

Suninen had 2 chances to prove himself fast so far in WRC car and he did it more than probably 99% of the people expected. Of course there will always be critics of overdriving, offs, luck, and so, so on, but IMO he did fine job getting results and learning as much in the process.

A lot of team bosses and managers say it's hard to build up speed if you don't have it naturally, but it's easy to build assurance through experience. And Suninen proved he's got the speed, but needs more experience driving a WRC car and driving all the different rallies in the season. I'm just worried that Camilli has stronger funding and will be Wilson's first choice for a possible remaining seat.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Saw the interview with Ogier on the WRC Germany highlights asking if he will retire. His reply that he will continue if 'everything is in place' again suggests he needs Ford factory support or he's off. :(

[jparker]

Saw the interview with Ogier on the WRC Germany highlights asking if he will retire. His reply that he will continue if 'everything is in place' again suggests he needs Ford factory support or he's off. :(

Ogier to retire?
I don't buy this for a second.
Looks like he wants something, and is not getting it.

[N.O.T]

lol...

[Rally Power]

A lot of team bosses and managers say it's hard to build up speed if you don't have it naturally, but it's easy to build assurance through experience. And Suninen proved he's got the speed, but needs more experience driving a WRC car and driving all the different rallies in the season. I'm just worried that Camilli has stronger funding and will be Wilson's first choice for a possible remaining seat.

Camilli isn’t a paying driver; Wilson said it several times. It’s true that he was backed by FFSA and TMG, but not anymore since he entered MSport. His only personal sponsors are a small perfume company and the city of Nice. Even Sunninen is showing to have more sponsors than him.

Btw, without Ogier and Tanak a possible MSport line up could be: Evans, Sunninen and Ostberg (he’s always ready to pay, while Mikkelsen isn’t). All 3 on DMack’s.

[mknight]

... All 3 on DMack’s.
*shrug*

So we would never know if any good/bad performance is due to car or tires, no thanks from me.

[stefanvv]

Saw the interview with Ogier on the WRC Germany highlights asking if he will retire. His reply that he will continue if 'everything is in place' again suggests he needs Ford factory support or he's off. :(

That's not what he said, but may be I watched other interview. Can You please post a video link of Yours? Thanks.

[AnttiL]

Camilli isn’t a paying driver; Wilson said it several times. It’s true that he was backed by FFSA and TMG, but not anymore since he entered MSport. His only personal sponsors are a small perfume company and the city of Nice. Even Sunninen is showing to have more sponsors than him.

Interesting to hear. So at the same time Wilson is complaining about things ranging from Ogier's salary to the cost of bumpers lost in Poland, he's paying to let Camilli drive every event in the season? He must really believe Camilli is a future champion. It's clear that Suninen's got sponsors, and is not paid by the team. In Rally Finland he even had extra sponsoring by Neste, who is also backing the whole event.



Btw, without Ogier and Tanak a possible MSport line up could be: Evans, Sunninen and Ostberg (he’s always ready to pay, while Mikkelsen isn’t). All 3 on DMack’s.
The DMack guy said in the Absolute Rally Podcast earlier this year that one of his targets is to get a full WRC team on DMacks. If I remember correctly he was talking about M-Sport in that case.

[Daviesalaam]

When was the last time Msport won tarmac rally?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

[Munkvy]

When was the last time Msport won tarmac rally?!

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

Monte Carlo 2017... So they are the only ones to have won 2 tarmac events this year...

[EstWRC]

Partly right but as Monte isnt considered as PURE tarmac rally then last time that M-sport won tarmac rally was with Markko Märtin in Spain in 2004.

It was full tarmac event that year but then they were official Ford Rally Team not M-sport.

[BigWorm]

Interesting to hear. So at the same time Wilson is complaining about things ranging from Ogier's salary to the cost of bumpers lost in Poland, he's paying to let Camilli drive every event in the season? He must really believe Camilli is a future champion.

He did give Camilli a contract which was ''understood to be longer than 1 year'' and with all the events he's done this year it's pretty obvious it's at least a 2-year contract. Wilson was very impressed with Camilli's progression when he signed him, that's why we've seen Camilli so often. Clearly Wilson rated him highly when he signed him, if he still does I don't know.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

That's not what he said, but may be I watched other interview. Can You please post a video link of Yours? Thanks.

I just saw it on TV, at the start of the highlights of the final day..

What did Ogier say in the one you saw ?

[stefanvv]

I just saw it on TV, at the start of the highlights of the final day..

What did Ogier say in the one you saw ?

Well he didn't mentioned neither Ford involvement, nor "retirement". But I believe it was the post rally interview.

[pokey2014]

will m-sport move to different brands in the near future?

[Tarmop]

There was that rumour about a Suzuki Swift R3T(?) being developed by M-Sport.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I've never considered that... if they win the WRC another manufacturer coming in and saying make and run us a rally car...

Naaaaah ! :D

[Simmi]

That's really what they need to leverage the manufacturer. All of Ford's free WRC publicity goes away with M-Sport.

Unfortunately I don't see anyone else queuing up to join the WRC.

[macebig]

It will be impossible for Wilson to switch manufacturers. Every Ford rally car from the Escort RS Cosworth onwards is serviced by M Sport. And there are probably thousands around the world.p
Plus, most of their owners are M Sport customers for the better part of a quarter of a century. Malcolm cannot throw away that customer backlog.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Yeah, but when they beat the factory teams that's some impressive CV for another manufacturer to look at.

Plus their Dovenby HQ is huge and expanding. Maybe they could service old Ford's and run a non-Ford WRC team.

Unilkely, but I dont think Wilson will happily go back to being the WRC poor relation ..

[mknight]

It will be impossible for Wilson to switch manufacturers. Every Ford rally from the Escort RS Cosworth onwards is serviced by M Sport. And there are probably thousands around the world.plus, most of their owners are M Sport customers for the better part of half a century. Malcolm cannot throw away that customer backlog.

Did Prodrive stop servicing Subarus after they started with Mini?

[Indreq]

M-Sport already runs Bentleys for endurance racing. I dont think it would be impossible to start with other manufacturer for WRC program and continue supporting some Ford-based rally cars.

[cali]

Not true, he has nothing to do with the Escort cosworts and pre 2006 focuses. Not true as well bcs Malcolm ran Ford team already 1999 by signing Colin and Carlos.

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[AnttiL]

Not true as well bcs Malcolm ran Ford team already 1999 by signing Colin and Carlos.


From 1997 onwards, but Escort WRC was already designed by that point. Focus was also designed by M-Sport.

[cali]

From 1997 onwards, but Escort WRC was already designed by that point. Focus was also designed by M-Sport.I stand corrected

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[mknight]

Anyway while this is interesting speculation M-Sport is surely not changing from Ford as long as the 2017 Fiesta is new and competitive, in 2-3 years maybe or when the rule change requires a new car.

[Andre Oliveira]

"But I also think that we would need a little bit more support to be where I want to be"

So, what want Ogier? He wants a team build around him. Tänak should leave to not be "dried".

According some rumours, it will be Ford after Ogier a new era.

[denkimi]

building a wrc car with the chassis of another constructor shouldn't be that much of a problem. they already have all the technology and almost all the parts.

[RAS007]

Not true, he has nothing to do with the Escort cosworts and pre 2006 focuses.

Wrong.

[pantealex]

Not true, he has nothing to do with the Escort cosworts and pre 2006 focuses.

WTF are you thinking ?

[EstWRC]

"But I also think that we would need a little bit more support to be where I want to be"

So, what want Ogier? He wants a team build around him. Tänak should leave to not be "dried".

According some rumours, it will be Ford after Ogier a new era.

Sorry I don't understand the last sentence?

[Andre Oliveira]

M-Sport WRC team will be built around one driver. When was the last time it happened?

[macebig]

M-Sport WRC team will be built around one driver. When was the last time it happened?

Sainz 97,McRae 99,Gronholm 06, basically Hirvonen 08, Latvala 12, Mikko again 14.

[Andre Oliveira]

Marcus ok, after i don’t agree.

[macebig]

OK, Mikko 08 can be excluded. But, JML was clear No 1 in 12. Petter was casted as a supporting driver. And in 14, Mikko was the leader as Evans was very inexperienced.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Well he didn't mentioned neither Ford involvement, nor "retirement". But I believe it was the post rally interview.

Ogier quote from the interview I saw:

“It (retirement) is a possibility but it’s not depending about the title. The truth is I want to do a bit more, I think I will do a bit more,” he said.

“I have no pressure about that. I’m very relaxed and if I feel that I have a good opportunity to do something well again in the future, next year, and get everything I want, then I will continue probably.”

It's now on WRC.com ..http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/august-2017/ogier-future/page/4817--12-12-.html

[Andre Oliveira]

“There are offers. For many weeks I have said hopefully (I’ll have a decision) soon. I guess before the rally in Spain (5 - 8 October) we should know something,” added Ogier.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

“There are offers. For many weeks I have said hopefully (I’ll have a decision) soon. I guess before the rally in Spain (5 - 8 October) we should know something,” added Ogier.

'Offers' must mean from other teams. If Ford or a big sponsor dont come in it's clear he'll be off from M-Sport... :(

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.marca.com/motor/rallies/2017/08/23/599d577a22601dd3338b45ab.html


He was always a lynx for business. Last winter, before the advent of a new era , invested with more zeal than ever in the development of the new Fiesta WRC , to try to return his team to the posts of honor of the World Cup that had occupied in the past, under the halo Of Ford.

A year after beginning its evolution, Malcolm Wilson can already proclaim to the four winds that his bet, once more, has been winner to him. After fulfilling his personal challenge to recruit Sébastien Ogier , the Englishman is living a dreamy season, with the four-time World Champion at his side, and an innate talent, in a state of grace , like Ott Tänak, for which he always Bet

While negotiating fiercely to try to recover the halo of official equipment, M-Sport's capo faces the final stretch of the championship with many ballots to seal, within three months, a historic doublet (drivers and constructors) against the pleiade of Factory teams involved in the World Cup.

Question. In the past, he tried twice to unsuccessfully sign Ogier. What operation did you devise last winter to finally incorporate it?

A: "Obviously, it was a completely different situation than the previous ones." Suddenly, when Volkswagen announced that he was leaving, he gave us the opportunity, I had the feeling that it was an opportunity that I could not afford to let go of. We would not be able to continue the same way the following year, but I wanted to do it for a year, because I felt it was an incredible opportunity for us to have the best driver in the world on board. Having done so is an operation that has had a great influence on the whole team. It remains to be seen what happens in the future. "

Q. What do you think the spectacular evolution that Tänak is having this year?

A: "It is a sum of factors, partly because of the material we are giving it, because of the growing experience it has ... But I must also say that when you listen you realize the great influence that Sébastien is exerting I told Ott and Elfyn very clearly at the start of the season: "You need to look at what you do, learn all you can and listen to the best driver in the world." I think that combination of experience, material, In turn, having Sébastien on the team now is basically what has determined the turn Ott needed to give Ott to do what he is doing right now. "

Q. What is it like working with Ogier?

A: "It's very, very gratifying ... It's very ... very demanding, but, in the end, I have to say that it has basically made all the staff on our team more eager." We knew we could do the job, but when You have someone with a record behind them like Sébastien who gets involved in the team, makes everyone concentrate or try a little more. It was what we needed to be in the position we are now.


Q. When he shared a team with him at Volkswagen, Luis Moya said that it reminded him a lot of Carlos Sainz. Do you subscribe to that opinion?

A: "Yes! [Laughs] To be honest, they are very, very, very similar.

Q. In the last decade, he has worked with great talents such as Marcus Grönholm, Mikko Hirvonen, Jari-Matti Latvala, Thierry Neuville ... Is Ogier the best driver to have been on his team?

A: "It's certainly one of the most professional, that's indisputable." "Yes ... He's doing a fantastic job." "Well ... there are three rallies left, let's see if we can win the championship."

Q. Why do you think Tänak is being more competitive lately than he is?

A: "Basically, Ott has been living with this car since the first minute he started rolling in. And it's been a very important part of his development, I think he also feels that this car was designed for him. He was very influential at the beginning, in the tests, asking for exactly what he wanted, which has given him a great deal of encouragement, there is nothing like confidence for a pilot to be able to do his best. That all that process is what it is bringing out right now. "

Q. Do you mean that you have adapted to the Fiesta better than Ogier?

A: "'Seb' found what we already had The news of his joining the team came with very little time We tried to give him as many tests as possible but he was not involved in the development of the car , He was not able to live with him, but that's the reason, it's also true that Ott is undoubtedly evolving very well this season. "

Q. Which of the two has more future in your team?

A: "I do not know. I would like to keep all the drivers I have on the team, but we will see how things are going and what happens at the end."

P. Teemu Suninen has also made the Fiesta shine this season. It was his best standard bearer in the Mil Lakes. Do you also intend to hire it?


A: "I'm impressed with him, being honest, he's one of the guys I worked with who impressed me the most, I'd like to find a way to have him in one of our cars next season, yes."

Q. How are your negotiations with Ford? Do you see it feasible to regain official team status?

A: "I do not know ... It's something we're working on, and hopefully we can find a way to make it happen, but for now, we're not in that position. Ford, to see what happens ... I know exactly what I need to be up to an official team.I am aware that we do not need much to be on the same level as them.But also tell you that, right now, My priority is the business.I have a company with 300 workers and I must focus on that.continuing to keep the equipment and investing a year more as I am doing this season, would be crazy.


Q. What do you think of Nil Solans? Can you have a future in M-Sport?

A: "Next year he will be making a number of WRC2 rallies with us as a reward for the victories he is making. We will see how he can adapt to an R5 in the World Championship. Seen, and their performance is being good. Why not think beyond? ... ".

[mknight]

P. Teemu Suninen has also made the Fiesta shine this season. It was his best standard bearer in the Mil Lakes. Do you also intend to hire it?

A: "I'm impressed with him, being honest, he's one of the guys I worked with who impressed me the most, I'd like to find a way to have him in one of our cars next season, yes."


This is news, since Suninen himself said before germany that "he has not heard anything".

The whole spirit of the last part is that he will let Ogier go and turn to "business". :(

[EstWRC]

exactly, doesnt sound good at all about future. i am very worried about the lineup of this team next year.

[Andre Oliveira]

No. What he said was that will not sacrify his emplooyes.

[Andre Oliveira]

Google translation sucks :)

He said: A finales de septiembre tendremos una reunión con la gente de Ford. A ver qué pasa...

In english: We will have a meet with Ford in final of September. Let's see what happens"

[SubaruNorway]

This is news, since Suninen himself said before germany that "he has not heard anything".

The whole spirit of the last part is that he will let Ogier go and turn to "business". :(

Even though Sunninen is fast he has a way to go before he can be a factory driver. Media training is one part of it, so i would give him a year to get things sorted.

[Andre Oliveira]

Media training? Why?

[EstWRC]

Google translation sucks :)

He said: A finales de septiembre tendremos una reunión con la gente de Ford. A ver qué pasa...

In english: We will have a meet with Ford in final of September. Let's see what happens"


okay that changes the game a lot then...lost in translation like they say.

[Andre Oliveira]

Try it in estonian. I understand spanish cause is identical to Portuguese.

[SubaruNorway]

Media training? Why?

Some rather negative and awkward interviews, I've seen how relaxed he is in Finish so it will come when he gets more confident and used to the pressure.

[Andre Oliveira]

Every persson is different. Who don't remember Henning or Marcus different behaviours?

[Andre Oliveira]

Meanwhile,

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/20953893_1845343058828446_4417164305281916105_n.jp g?oh=39e74c7214296dda5d841af1ffa5f3c3&oe=5A29F3D6

[AnttiL]

Teemu usually doesn't look the post stage interviewer in the eye. That can be perceived as negative. Looks like he's just shy.

[Andre Oliveira]

Kimi Räikkonen was more and less the same.

[denkimi]

Media training? Why?
so he can say the same meaningless bullshit as all other media-trained drivers.

we don't need mediatraining, we need characters in the sport, people with an opinion.

[Munkvy]

so he can say the same meaningless bullshit as all other media-trained drivers.

we don't need mediatraining, we need characters in the sport, people with an opinion.

I think what SubaruNorway was saying is he comes across as having no personality... Which is worse than being media savvy in my opinion! I completely agree having character is great, Petter was a brilliant example of this.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

MW interviewed by AutoHebdo... anyone got it in full ?

http://www.autohebdo.fr/wrc/actualites/wilson-ma-priorite-est-de-perenniser-l-avenir-de-m-sport-188169.html

[Andre Oliveira]

OTt Tänak with fiesta R5 at saarema ralli

[AnttiL]

just one of their employees driving a rally with a private car in his home country :cool:

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Speaking of Tanak... what are the chances of him staying at M-Sport next year ?

[tommeke_B]

Speaking of Tanak... what are the chances of him staying at M-Sport next year ?

Probably not much bigger than the chances of Ogier staying...

[mknight]

Speaking of Tanak... what are the chances of him staying at M-Sport next year ?

Higher if Ogier leaves than if he stays.

[Tarmop]

OTt Tänak with fiesta R5 at saarema ralli

Probably R5, but not specified.

[AnttiL]

Speaking of Tanak... what are the chances of him staying at M-Sport next year ?

The rumors of going to Toyota are pretty strong. If Ford returns, Ogier will most likely go, but has Tänak already made up his mind? If Ford does not return, Ogier's leaving for sure. Wilson could probably afford Tänak as the number one driver, but does he want to stay? Does he also feel the team may get left behind in development like Ogier does?

[racerx1979]

Meanwhile,

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/20953893_1845343058828446_4417164305281916105_n.jp g?oh=39e74c7214296dda5d841af1ffa5f3c3&oe=5A29F3D6

Riding the train before it derails.

[KiwiWRCfan]

299 weeks ago an important announcement was made when Ford posted a youtube video.
300 weeks would be nice to see a similar annonuncement

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/21317620_1859839834045435_7338372238972147778_n.jp g?oh=e7879d8698b3511060d4c6e9e43f60bc&oe=5A59E33D

[pantealex]

Speaking of Tanak... what are the chances of him staying at M-Sport next year ?

Much lower than Ogier´s staying.

I mean Tänak is very close to Toyota deal but Ogier not so close to Citroen deal.

If choices for Ogier are only Fiesta and C3, I seriously hope he will drive Fiesta 2018.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm hoping Tanak's long connection with M-Sport and their boss who has given him chances may mean he gives back some loyalty.

Being No.1 driver there should be a nice situation also.

Money may be his priority though.

[Andre Oliveira]

Connection with Marko Martin is big too.