Rally Wrc Australia 2013

[jbmarcus21]

Rally Road program with timetable
Wrc Rally Australia 2013 (http://planetemarcus.com/saison-wrc/australie-2013/)

[Barreis]

Probably the best event on calendar (for me).

[MSP AU]

Rally Spectator has been working on a full spectating guide for the Rally Australia event this year as we did in 2011. With a big difference, we have been employed by the organisers. The full guide will be online at Rally Australia 12-15 September 2013 (http://www.rallyaustralia.com.au/) soon, but for now some basic overview maps have been posted without the spectating routes.

If you attended 2011, all of the great stages are still used, and the stages that weren't ideal have been left out. My advice would be don't go by the 2011 event, as this event has spectating points on every stage, and a Super Pass allows you to move to any point in the same way as the WRC New Zealand is run.

Thank you for the supportive words from fans in 2011, the key reason we are doing what we love is because of the feedback from fans :-) And I can assure you, the event is worlds apart from 2011. The Coffs Coast was a new event in 2011, the 2013 event has built on many lessons learnt from the first event.

Let me know if you would like any information included in the guide when launches, as it is always evolving. Graeme Bray is a user on here and has worked as part of Rally Spectator to bring fans the information needed. Nigel

[6789]

Can you just make sure JML wins this time :D

[MSP AU]

Not sure if I can guarantee that one :-) Check out the lastest google map of stages with spectating areas. Very much a work in progress, but a good indication of the amount of spectating Coates Hire Rally Australia 2013 - Google Maps (http://bit.ly/RallyAu13_GoogleMap)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I'm seriously looking forward to this. I actually live pretty close to Coffs Harbour, so I'm hoping I can get up there, work allowing. I went in 2005, and it was amazing.

[6789]

I'm seriously looking forward to this. I actually live pretty close to Coffs Harbour, so I'm hoping I can get up there, work allowing. I went in 2005, and it was amazing.

Do you live in Armidale? I'm from there. Roads are very good around Coffs, the WRC cars just make it better!

[Hartusvuori]

Paddon for Australia: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=535766929792434

[noel157]

Got to admire Paddon in gathering support for his drives in such a small market as NZ. That's NORF, RG and OZ so far.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Do you live in Armidale? I'm from there. Roads are very good around Coffs, the WRC cars just make it better!
I went to university in Armidale, but I've since graduated. No, I'm about two hours north of Coffs.

I always thought the road from Armidale to Kempsey through the Styx River Forest would make for a fantastic rally stage.

[MSP AU]

The full spectating guide is very close. A quick interview with event manager discussing the difference in spectating points for the event.

iRally | The free independent Rally App for the iPhone, iPad and Android (http://www.irallylive.com/ir_pod.htm?00000514)

[MSP AU]

The results of many visits to the stages some five hours return drive. Lots more to add as the spectating areas are cleared. Spectators | Rally Australia 12-15 September 2013 (http://www.rallyaustralia.com.au/spectators/)

After driving the stages this week, I can report the surface is the best of any Rally Australia I have attended and the spectating will be the best yet. Too many options really, which means less crowds and better viewing for spectators.

[Plan9]

Due to the rotation system I am going to be heading across the ditch to see Rally Australia for the first time. I hope it will not be the last time we have glorious WRC cars in the asia pacific region. But I am very excited all the same.

[GigiGalliNo1]

No, it'll be the last time for the glorious, breathtaking Rally NZ thought... which was last year... doesn't look good for 2014... though I'd rather Rally NZ than Aus any day!

[Bartolbia84]

Lappi Skoda S2000 WRC2

[raybak]

I'll be there in the National field sitting next to Peter Roberts ex NSW Champ.

Ray

[pantealex]

Manufacturer entry list:WRC 2013 Rally Australia: Entry list | Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (http://www.fia.com/news/wrc-2013-rally-australia-entry-list)

Only 9 as expected (no Nasser,Kosciuszko and Prokop)

Is there gonna be any other WRC ?
Atkinson? Pozzo? Block?

[Teme]

Will Sordo get the fourth DS3 like in Sweden, or will he stay home?

[rallyfiend]

Manufacturer entry list:WRC 2013 Rally Australia: Entry list | Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (http://www.fia.com/news/wrc-2013-rally-australia-entry-list)

Only 9 as expected (no Nasser,Kosciuszko and Prokop)

Is there gonna be any other WRC ?
Atkinson? Pozzo? Block?

I think a local will be wheeling out the Mini WRC that was to be used by Kosciusko.

[Bartolbia84]

Gill Skoda Fabia S2000
Al kuwari fiesta rrc/r5

[Eli]

Will Sordo get the fourth DS3 like in Sweden, or will he stay home?

stay home probably, unless Khalid Al Quasimi can't compete.

[noel157]

stay home probably, unless Khalid Al Quasimi can't compete.

Did Khalid hurt his wrist or something recently?

[jbmarcus21]

#WRC Google Earth Map Rally Wrc Australia 2013 is out Wrc Rally Australia 2013 (http://planetemarcus.com/saison-wrc/australie-2013/)

[Plan9]

I can't wait to get to see this event! I hope Meeke has a good rally and a great finish.

[Teme]

Entry list: http://www.rallyaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Rally-Australia-2013-WRC-Entry-List-final.pdf

Nathan Quinn with Mini. No sign of Lappi or Gill though.

[Doon]

30 cars. Is that a record low for the WRC?

Drop Australia, bring back NZ. It's been rubbish since it moved from Perth anyway.

[tommeke_B]

30 cars. Is that a record low for the WRC?

Drop Australia, bring back NZ. It's been rubbish since it moved from Perth anyway.
Thank the system of WRC2 for it! ...

[amilk]

Thank the system of WRC2 for it! ...
Because of....?

[6789]

Because of....?

There is no longer a requirement to do rallies outside of the EU, please correct me if I am incorrect

[tommeke_B]

Earlier, with the "old" JWRC, PWRC and SWRC, there was always one non-european event on the calendar, if I'm correct. Now they can choose their events, and European events are much cheaper regarding logistic costs, and the return for sponsors is probably better too...

[amilk]

Earlier, with the "old" JWRC, PWRC and SWRC, there was always one non-european event on the calendar, if I'm correct. Now they can choose their events, and European events are much cheaper regarding logistic costs, and the return for sponsors is probably better too...

OK I see, I forget this one - but seems there is nor interest to go outside Europe. If FIA force it the WRC2 will be even more the reach boys category.

[Bartolbia84]

no lappi? no gill??

[pantealex]

There is no longer a requirement to do rallies outside of the EU, please correct me if I am incorrect

There is requiremant to do long-haul, but there is no penalty if you don´t do it. (7 WRC-2 have started Mexico or Argentina)

[pantealex]

Why Molly Taylor is not in WRC-3 ?

All year long she has said in her press releases that she will drive WRC-3 in Australia.

Tyre rule ?

[ThomasS]

I heard a rumour that Paddon has purchased a Fabia S2000 car for Australia, anybody confirm this ?

[Andre Oliveira]

He postted this on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=542747955760998&set=pb.184390891596708.-2207520000.1377254983.&type=3&theater

[ThomasS]

He postted this on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=542747955760998&set=pb.184390891596708.-2207520000.1377254983.&type=3&theater

Is that a BRR car or one he has purchased though ?

[dupanton]

Is that a BRR car or one he has purchased though ?

As there is a BRR truck on the background, I suppose it is shipped from their homebase, so probably a BRR car :)

[leighton323]

Is that a BRR car or one he has purchased though ?

I haven't heard any information about him actually purchasing the car but a picture from the Highlands Motorsport Park and Museum page said this..
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=505666199527916&set=pb.335325423228662.-2207520000.1377748203.&type=3&theater
Seems to suggest it is in fact his and he wants to display it on the rally off season? But i still don't believe he has purchased any car. I just didn't think he had the funding to buy it.

[Carlo]

I haven't heard any information about him actually purchasing the car but a picture from the Highlands Motorsport Park and Museum page said this..
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=505666199527916&set=pb.335325423228662.-2207520000.1377748203.&type=3&theater
Seems to suggest it is in fact his and he wants to display it on the rally off season? But i still don't believe he has purchased any car. I just didn't think he had the funding to buy it.

They are getting to be old cars now and pretty much out classed by RRC, R4 & R5 cars and Just as a thought, perhaps it is now less expensive to own a bare car and lease the mechanicals than is it to lease a complete car

[leighton323]

They are getting to be old cars now and pretty much out classed by RRC, R4 & R5 cars and Just as a thought, perhaps it is now less expensive to own a bare car and lease the mechanicals than is it to lease a complete car

Definitely not R4 but yes they are starting to become outdated machinery. Still doesn't make sense to me due to the huge running costs/rebuild costs. Never heard of leasing the mechanicals though? Also the car would require a trained engineer wouldn't it?

[ThomasS]

They are getting to be old cars now and pretty much out classed by RRC, R4 & R5 cars and Just as a thought, perhaps it is now less expensive to own a bare car and lease the mechanicals than is it to lease a complete car

Had a sniff around and found this

eWRC-results.com - Rally cars history (http://www.ewrc-results.com/carinfo.php?cid=3&car=100&t=Skoda-Fabia-S2000)

could be old news , buts its curious.

[mousti]

Paul Nagle will replace Mikko Markkula at Australia for navigating Mikkelsen

[pantealex]

Never heard of leasing the mechanicals though? Also the car would require a trained engineer wouldn't it?

ie. EP Lappi did NORF fith EvenRallys (from Norway) Fabia and had service from BRR (from Austria)

and companies like printsport here in Finland do services for customers cars in rallies. In Finnish Championship printsport could have 10 cars in their service. At Arctic Lapland Rally they did Andreas Mikkelsen Skoda´s service.

[leighton323]

ie. EP Lappi did NORF fith EvenRallys (from Norway) Fabia and had service from BRR (from Austria)

and companies like printsport here in Finland do services for customers cars in rallies. In Finnish Championship printsport could have 10 cars in their service. At Arctic Lapland Rally they did Andreas Mikkelsen Skoda´s service.

Yeah but no one from this part of the world would have that knowledge? Unless he's planning to learn himself (him and his crew). Or he just might not run the car in NZ and when he does, and/or if he does, just fly in some engineers etc.

[ThomasS]

I think because the car was going to take over 6 weeks to ship to Australia it may have been cheaper to buy the car and have BRR techs service the car during Rally Oz. Either that or nobody would commit a car for that amount of time just for one rally. I expect it'll be shipped back to Europe and sold again.

If in fact he has actually purchased one at all...

If he has maybe he is going to sell his EVO and have the Fabia as his home car ?

[Barreis]

So leading citroen driver in the championship is out, what can we expect here?

[stefanvv]

So leading citroen driver in the championship is out, what can we expect here?

VW 1-2 of course :)

[Karukera]

So leading citroen driver in the championship is out, what can we expect here?

Ambitious expectations : Hirvonen to finish 4th and Meeke to keep it together to the finish line.

[GigiGalliNo1]

I won't be attending which really sucks...

But this round is Literally open to anyone! Remember when Loeb crashed???

It'll be a tough rally for everyone and at this stage, anyone will win!

Novikov? Meeke? I'll place them in the top 4.

[Rallying UK]

RALLY AUSTRALIA: Here's the whole history of Rally Australia, in a single interactive image:

Rally Australia: A WRC tale - ThingLink (http://bit.ly/149mYtM)

[6789]

I won't be attending which really sucks...

But this round is Literally open to anyone! Remember when Loeb crashed???

It'll be a tough rally for everyone and at this stage, anyone will win!

Novikov? Meeke? I'll place them in the top 4.

I think Ogier will be fast, hopefully Jari-Matti Latvala and Thierry Neuville can put in a fight

[Plan9]

I will pick Mikko to win this event.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Rally New Zealand pulls out of 2014 Calendar to let Rally Australia have a 3 year stint, to make sponsors happy and then NZ will hold a WRC round for 3 years.

[Toyoda]

Rally New Zealand pulls out of 2014 Calendar to let Rally Australia have a 3 year stint, to make sponsors happy and then NZ will hold a WRC round for 3 years.

NZ Might hold a WRC for 3 years after...a lot can happen in those 2 years before NZ gets a chance...

[raybak]

I'm heading up there on Monday, a good 2 solid days of Recce Tuesday and Wednesday. Car is all ready to go, seems we are organised well before :) Just hope the weather stays good. If it's wet Newry stage will be interesting, apparently they have graded a heap of old goat tracks to make some link roads.

Ray

[Kielder]

Paddon's livery:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BTS9uKaCMAAuira.jpg:large

[Mintexmemory]

Paddon's livery:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BTS9uKaCMAAuira.jpg:large

Fly Kiwi, fly!!!

[Karukera]

Fly Kiwi, fly!!!

If i didn't know your immense taste for geopolitical matters, i'd say you're being sarcastic with this :D .

[Mintexmemory]

If i didn't know your immense taste for geopolitical matters, i'd say you're being sarcastic with this :D .

No, it just seemed a good paradoxical statement of support for Hayden and John who are a crew that enhance every rally they compete in. So much fun watching them in Germany last month. Pretty funny national emblem though!!

[bluuford]

Well.. when red bulls are already flying then it should not be a problem for Paddon to teach one Kiwi how to fly.

[Barreis]

So, who'll faster go off, Latvala or Meeke?

[Rallyper]

So, who'll faster go off, Latvala or Meeke?

Ogier.

[kober]

Why Molly Taylor is not in WRC-3 ?
She's chosen to chase the FIA ERC Ladies’ Trophy instead and will start on Rally Poland. She's currently on equal points with Stratieva.

[Rallying UK]

RALLY AUSTRALIA: Here you can find an interactive map of all Special Stages on Rally Australia 2013. Have a look around!:

Rally Australia 2013: Interactive Stage Map - ThingLink (http://bit.ly/17Nd4uY)

[tfp]

I will pick Mikko to win this event.

That may not be as crazy as it sounds, Mikko has one hell of a record down under.
I believe only the great juha kankkunen has more Ozzie wins than Mikko.

[6789]

In 2009 he won because Loeb was excluded and in 2011 Latvala stopped to let him win. Personally, I don't think he will win the event.

[dimviii]

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1239830_711725522178141_123470372_n.jpg
https://sphotos-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1075798_546260978760594_563818264_n.jpg
http://img11.hostingpics.net/pics/266861111.jpg
http://img11.hostingpics.net/pics/308609111.jpg

[dimviii]

http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/369959111.jpg
http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/185850111.jpg
http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/373264111.jpg

[dimviii]

http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/3177146411.jpg
http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/7731781111.jpg
http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/16073111111.jpg
http://img4.hostingpics.net/pics/234916111111.jpg

[Karukera]

In 2009 he won because Loeb was excluded and in 2011 Latvala stopped to let him win. Personally, I don't think he will win the event.

Loeb was not excluded in 2009, he won the rally on the stages but eventually got a penalty and finished 2nd.

You can add to Hirvonen's OZ record that he also won Aus 06 when Grönholm ended up in a ditch, handing over the title to a broken shoulder Loeb watching the rally from his armchair.

[raybak]

A good day of Recce today. Dust is going to be a major factor. Even with 2 minute gaps the dust will still be hanging. Trying to do recce writing notes in thick dust takes a bit longer than normal.

Also the dust on stages turns to Bulldust which will sort out the men from the boys.

Ray

[Olivier]

Agreed, ray.

I live pretty much in the centre of the stages, and it hasn't really rained here for about 12 weeks. We've got cracks in the dirt an inch wide in our lawn.

There is the possibility of a little rain, but not much, forecast for Friday and Saturday. If we get it, conditions should be absolutely perfect. If not, then the dust is going to be pretty full on. If it wasn't for the possibility of a settling shower, it would almost be worth the winner of qualifying choosing to run first on the road.

Also, Friday and Sunday's stages are in forest, so the dust may be a little better there than through the open farmland of Saturday where the roads are in full sun. But not much.

[Toyoda]

Often dust can hang in the forest due to the stagnant air

[Olivier]

That's true.

I haven't been up to have a look, but the other thing with it being so dry is that there won't be much water in the watersplashes on Shipmans on
Sunday. The river at our place is the second lowest it's been in the 12 years we've lived here, and I imagine that will be the same throughout the region.

Edit: found a pic, and I was right: https://twitter.com/voiceofrally/status ... 04/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/voiceofrally/status/377648096446255104/photo/1)

Hardly a drop in it.

[Mintexmemory]

A good day of Recce today. Dust is going to be a major factor. Even with 2 minute gaps the dust will still be hanging. Trying to do recce writing notes in thick dust takes a bit longer than normal.

Also the dust on stages turns to Bulldust which will sort out the men from the boys.

Ray
So selecting first on the road after quali could be the preferred option!!

[NxOxT]

A good day of Recce today. Dust is going to be a major factor. Even with 2 minute gaps the dust will still be hanging. Trying to do recce writing notes in thick dust takes a bit longer than normal.

Also the dust on stages turns to Bulldust which will sort out the men from the boys.

Ray
So selecting first on the road after quali could be the preferred option!!

no

[danon]

Your images may only be up to 480 pixels high.
Your images may only be up to 640 pixels wide.

How to post a full size image...

[danon]

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/9576/y25m.jpg

[GallardoGT]

Should be nice if 'eye in the sky' will be over the forest again. It's already 8 years ago when I saw that memorable rally live and that François Duval took the win.

Can you aussies arrange that again, you are the best in it ;)

[6789]

On shakedown, a lot of dust if there's no wind. Sticks around for 2 minutes easily

[Toyoda]

QS
1 krismeeke 2:39.268
2 Ogier +0.336
3 Neu +0.6
4 Ost +1.2
5 Mik +1.4
6 Mikko +2
7 Nov +2.1
8 Lat +2.2
9 khal +6.6

can Kris hold it together? will they go 1st pick picks last place?

[Olivier]

Ogier ran first in QS, and Meeke near the end of the field. He'll pick 10th for sure.

[stefanvv]

"Three minute instead of two minute gaps between all drivers on the Qualifying Stage due to the dusty conditions!"

Probably they'll make it through the Rally too

[bluuford]

There is minimal chanche of rain on Friday, however, it will be quite windy, sometimes even very windy. The most quiet moment is expected on Sunday morning stages.

[6789]

One of my shots from Shakedown

http://twitter.com/jameshunter6789/stat ... 64/photo/1 (http://twitter.com/jameshunter6789/status/378051715263524864/photo/1)

[Mintexmemory]

One of my shots from Shakedown

http://twitter.com/jameshunter6789/stat ... 64/photo/1 (http://twitter.com/jameshunter6789/status/378051715263524864/photo/1)

Nice! have a good one

[wwbroe]

Has Chris been running in Australia before or is it his first time down under? Also great to see Thierry taking third place in QS in his first attempt at Rally Australia, or am i wrong? ;)

[Mintexmemory]

Has Chris been running in Australia before or is it his first time down under? Also great to see Thierry taking third place in QS in his first attempt at Rally Australia, or am i wrong? ;)
First time for Kris - Prodrive missed the event in 2011

[noel157]

First WRC event outside Europe for him.

Serious dust in Q stage:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0azutTKIFY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0azutTKIFY)

[wwbroe]

So, first two stages will be live in about 20 min's time?

[stefanvv]

yes

[Kielder]

Day 1 start order:
1, Quinn (Mini). 2, Al-Qassimi (Citroën). 3, Latvala (VW). 4, Novikov (Ford). 5, Hirvonen (Citroën). 6, Mikkelsen (VW). 7, Ostberg (Ford). 8, Neuville (Ford). 9, Ogier (VW). 10, Meeke (Citroën).

[Kielder]

Latvala driving the QS: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151671573810678

[wwbroe]

Haydon Paddon live on first stage now, stage is being run in inverse order.

[Mintexmemory]

Bloody WRC frozen

[wwbroe]

Working fine over here

[arko5]

Who knows the rules on these two SS? Difference between 1 and 2 is only 10 minutes...

[noel157]

Finally, WRC Australia starts.

[wwbroe]

Fastest time sofar for Mikkelsen, beating Thierry by 1,4 sec.

[makinen_fan]

Who is doing the end of stage interviews? He does not sound like Julian Porter

[rage82]

It's Colin at the end!

[noel157]

Irish men 1st and 2nd in a WRC event.

[Dug83]

Dean Herridge, local Australian rally driver/presenter

[wwbroe]

Mikkelsen leading the rally for the moment, in front of Meeke.

[Astro83]

Go Meeke! He will be fast again!

[mm1]

Allready is:)

[dimviii]

Dean Herridge, local Australian rally driver/presenter

and very fast driver!

Mikkelsens polo
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BT9D2hyCAAAJ8j1.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Julian Porter ?@The_Rally_Guru

Found out the reason for Latvala been off the pace in QS, they changed the car & he didn't like the feeling...they have changed it back now.

Looks like JML has put himself in trouble before the rally has even started... :crazy:

[noel157]

Citroen Racing video with their star driver..........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gy8Azxw9v2w

[Tom206wrc]

Can't wait for tomorrow friday :p

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pl ... Mt7koyc_Ak (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6Mt7koyc_Ak)

[stefanvv]

:vader:

[dimviii]

:vader:
Ogier

[stefanvv]

http://www.wrc.com/news/meeke-everything-depends-on-my-result-here/?fid=19035

[Rallying UK]

RALLY AUSTRALIA: Here's an interactive image of video and photos from Day One of Rally Australia 2013:



http://bit.ly/1aFv7ZU

[NxOxT]

my advice to you is to pay the forum owners and have a banner of your web page on the forum....this is ridiculous.

[danon]

As always nagging like an old maid.

[NxOxT]

it is what i do best...

[NxOxT]

it is what i do best...

[danon]

... beating the rest

[NxOxT]

always and everywhere...even on their field...

[danon]

Is that the current local time of the event -> http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=1501

[stefanvv]

Yes, it is

[danon]

A cup of coffee away from rolling...

[noel157]

You'll need more than one Danon to stay up....assuming you are in Europe :)

Amusing name of SS3 - Tuckers Nob........

[danon]

A bigger one will do :D

[danon]

WRC Rally Australia 2013 - Evgeny SSS01 -> http://vimeo.com/74373071

[NxOxT]

It is just 30 min away now...

[danon]

Radio is on...

[leighton323]

For once i'm not the one staying up all night following the rally! You can see how we feel every rally :p

[stefanvv]

:D
BTW all top drivers opted for hard tyres. Latvala is the only one to take 2 spares

[jonkka]

For once i'm not the one staying up all night following the rally! You can see how we feel every rally :p

I feel your pain... Yawn...

[Tom206wrc]

I went to bed early yesterday in order to be able to Wake-up early today ;)

[Tom206wrc]

Problem for Novikov ??? He lost many times in the end :confused:
Edit: mistake, they removes him 1 minute ;)

[jonkka]

Me too but still getting up at 3AM hurts... When I was younger, these "night rallies" were fun...

What happened to Novikov?

[NxOxT]

Lots of cleaning for the first 4 crews.... times are dropping very fast....

[Tom206wrc]

Mikkelsen a bit slower than Hirvo despite starting after him ;)
Edit: Hirvo in front of Mikkelsen after stage :cool:

[jonkka]

Lots of cleaning for the first 4 crews.... times are dropping very fast....

Not so anymore... But waiting for Thierry, Ogi and Meeke (especially interesting)

[danon]

:D

[stefanvv]

Hirvonen seems comfortable in slippery gravel

[Tom206wrc]

For now only Ogier a bit faster than Hirvonen(split 1) ;)

[jonkka]

Judging from just 1st split, Ogi is not that much faster than Mikko? :eek:

[Tom206wrc]

Pitty Meeke slower than Hirvonen and Ogier: :mark:

[NxOxT]

Pitty Meeke slower than Hirvonen and Ogier: :mark:


you expected something different ?

[danon]

For once i'm not the one staying up all night following the rally! You can see how we feel every rally :p
Life's too short to sleep it through :laugh:

[Tom206wrc]

Pitty Meeke slower than Hirvonen and Ogier: :mark:


you expected something different ?

In fact I was hoping, yes ;)

[danon]

Wake up...

[stefanvv]

Meek's priority is to finish this Rally :) He won't go for podium probably

[leighton323]

Paddon already with electrical troubles, i was expecting this.. If you want to know why PM me. :mad:

[Kielder]

In any case, I hope the thread "Kris Meeke - the fastest driver with no seat" to be closed next season. :)

[NxOxT]

Pitty Meeke slower than Hirvonen and Ogier: :mark:


you expected something different ?

In fact I was hoping, yes ;)

hoping is different from expectation... I cannot see how Meeke can be faster than Hirvonen on gravel, on tarmac i think he is faster. Ogier is on a totally different level from anyone else for now so no need to compare.

[Tom206wrc]

Problem for Paddon on SS3 !!!! Hasn't started stage yet :s

[NxOxT]

Meek's priority is to finish this Rally :) He won't go for podium probably

why ? finishing a rally is easy for someone with the ability of Meeke... finish a rally and be fast is the goal if you want to earn a seat with a factory team... otherwise there is no point

we have enough tourists and enough stupid fans who cheer for finishers no matter the speed as long as they see WRC cars on the stages.

[tolis]

Hayden Paddon: Electrical problems, stopped at the start of SS3. :(

[stefanvv]

Meek's priority is to finish this Rally :) He won't go for podium probably

why ? finishing a rally is easy for someone with the ability of Meeke... finish a rally and be fast is the goal if you want to earn a seat with a factory team... otherwise there is no point.
Looks like this is going to be his passport for Citroen seat next year. But of course we also expect him to be fast too, just not as usual

[NxOxT]

who is going to replace if he cannot be faster than Hirvonen on gravel and Sordo on tarmac ?? a wise choice would be to replace hirvonen for tarmac rounds and Sordo on gravel.... but then citroen cannot have a driver to aim for the championship.

[Tom206wrc]

This time Mikkelsen faster than Hirvonen(split 1) :mark:
Edit: but in the end Hirvo remains faster :D

[stefanvv]

who is going to replace if he cannot be faster than Hirvonen on gravel.
He was faster in Finland
EDIT: mistake, he wasn't, but close for long time with no competition

[jonkka]

Meeke up to 2nd o/a after SS4?

[Tom206wrc]

Meeke almost as fast as Ogier in SS4 :eek:

[danon]

Only a kangaroo can stop Ogier from winning the rallye.

[Tom206wrc]

Yazeed Al Rajhi is very fast among the WRC2 on australian roads ;)

[Tom206wrc]

Mikkelsen in problems on the longest SS5 :confused:

[stefanvv]

Mikkelsen in problems on the longest SS5 :confused:
Probably a spin, he's taking time back now

[Tom206wrc]

Meeke FASTER than Ogier and Hirvonen on split one SS5 !!!! :bounce:
Edit: Kris 4" slower than Seb on penultimate split :(

[jonkka]

Neuville missing split 2

[Tom206wrc]

Neuville :confused:
Edit: problems with splits only ;)

[danon]

Good night, guys. Time to get some sleep. Mind the kangaroos... :D

[Tom206wrc]

Apparently Meeke hit a stone in SS5 :confused:

[Tom206wrc]

SS6 running ;)

[dimviii]

Meeke very good pace till now.Lets see at 2nd pass which drivers will have the confidence to push more.

[Tom206wrc]

This time Meeke a bit slow on split 1 :(

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Mikko is quite good, 5th on the road and still some pace. But Ogier is so fast again.

[jonkka]

Mikko is quite good, 5th on the road and still some pace. But Ogier is so fast again.

Indeed. How fast he would be if starting later? We will see tomorrow.

[Tom206wrc]

I must go to work now and won't be able to follow SS7, 8 and the two SSSs... :mark:

[dimviii]

i will watch ss7 and i will go to work.
Tolis is responsible to inform me with sms about the stage times via sms. :colour:

[jonkka]

So you're mechanics with no internet at work?

[dimviii]

So you're mechanics with no internet at work?

i am not a mechanic.I am at sales,and will be in a meeting with some clients.

[jonkka]

I see...

[noel157]

Morning guys.

Meeke doing just fine so far. P3 7.5 behind Hirvonen after 8 stages. Not bad.

[tommeke_B]

Very nice drive from Meeke indeed! By the way, I didn't know it's allowed to drive the same stage (superspecial) six times! Isn't there any rule about this, for the organizers? Even in the Belgian national championship there's a rule to prevent stages being used more than 3 times.

[noel157]

I guess Tom FIA must have approved the regulations and road book.

[bassist]

Come on Kris!

[noel157]

Mickey Mouse stages are not going down well with the crews.

Minor blip from Meeke but no big deal.

[rage82]

Meeke stall the car at the start and lost 10 sec.

[Kielder]

Despite his start position, Latvala did a good job today. I believe that tomorrow he will climb to second place. I'm sure VW wants their first 1-2 at the same time as Ogier wins the title. Then, Seb II can start to think in Seb I... ;)

[stefanvv]

Lets rock :D - https://twitter.com/VolkswagenRally/status/378438934558027776/photo/1

[NxOxT]

pretty standard gravel rally results so far... Meeke is doing very well but that is that, he is not changing any balances so far.

[makinen_fan]

pretty standard gravel rally results so far... Meeke is doing very well but that is that, he is not changing any balances so far.

I was not expecting him to fight with Ogier anyway... At least he is in front of JML, Mads and Evgeny, something that I am not sure Sordo would manage.
Mikko is a bit of a nice surprise, to still be reasonably close to Ogier

[Mirek]

Did Meeke ever start in Australia before? How about Neuville?

[makinen_fan]

Did Meeke ever start in Australia before? How about Neuville?

No, neither. Only Seb, JML, Mikko and Evgeny have previous experience here

[Mirek]

Thanks

[noel157]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI

[dimviii]

[SS9/10] Thierry Neuville (Ford) 1:21.4 "It was difficult, the first time they put the water and we had no warning at all, and this time I have so much dust, I could not see anything, it is just stupid…"

[Tom206wrc]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI


I thought SSSs had no influence on road position for the day after :confused:

[Sulland]

If Volkswagen would allow him, I think Mikkelsen would be number 3, so a clean VW podium. But during his learning year Mikkelsen is not allowed vy Management to go 100%.

[dimviii]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI

at 2,10 the plan is fantastic!!!

[stefanvv]

[SS9/10] Thierry Neuville (Ford) 1:21.4 "It was difficult, the first time they put the water and we had no warning at all, and this time I have so much dust, I could not see anything, it is just stupid…"
:D :D :D

[NxOxT]

If Volkswagen would allow him, I think Mikkelsen would be number 3, so a clean VW podium. But during his learning year Mikkelsen is not allowed vy Management to go 100%.

LOL...

[stefanvv]

[SS9/10] Thierry Neuville (Ford) 1:21.4 "It was difficult, the first time they put the water and we had no warning at all, and this time I have so much dust, I could not see anything, it is just stupid…"
:D :D :D
They might be running the same stage 6 times, but every time there is some surprise :D I wonder what will be next :D (ice :confused: )

[Doon]

pretty standard gravel rally results so far... Meeke is doing very well but that is that, he is not changing any balances so far.

He just needs to be fast and finish in a decent position. 3rd or 4th, and most importantly ahead of Latvala would be fantastic and I doubt Citroen will have asked any more of him. Once he bags a full time drive, then he can push and challenge for the top spot. Remember his lack of seat time will show on his stage times, and on the evidence of his pace in Finland and Australia so far, there is no doubt that give half a season he will be quicker that Mikko on gravel.

When was the last time an unfunded driver, with so little WRC experience / been out of the car so long, has gone to events and shown the pace of Meeke? I though Neuville was the only one who could challenge Ogier next year, but I'm starting to think Meeke could too.

From Citroens point of view, they want to win the manufactures title this year, however that is probably not going to happen. I think the should start to prepare for next season by putting Meeke in the car for Spain and GB so he at least gets more seat time which is so important. If they don't choose Meeke or don't put him in the car for more events this year, I can't see who else they will choose for next season? Is there someone better, considering Neuville will most probably stay in the Ford?

[NxOxT]

the only problem with Meeke is that if it is worth the risk for a team like citroen to hire him for a full season in favour of Sordo or Hirvonen... the speed is there to support a works drive but i think to hire meeke and let go Sordo or Hirvonen is a HUGE risk. If there was a possibility for a 3rd car then the decision is a no brainer.

[dimviii]

the only problem with Meeke is that if it is worth the risk for a team like citroen to hire him for a full season in favour of Sordo or Hirvonen... the speed is there to support a works drive but i think to hire meeke and let go Sordo or Hirvonen is a HUGE risk. If there was a possibility for a 3rd car then the decision is a no brainer.

is it a huge risk? Sordo and Mikko didn t work at ALL this year.And the problem isnt because of luck,exit from roads etc.The problem was at pure speed.And i am not talking about hunting Ogier,but Neuville.Mikko can t fight for a win,and Sordo needs luck to win an asphalt event.At last rally while Sordo was fighting at super stage for the win/ss points with Neuville,Ogier was faster easily.
till now from what we have seen so far,i would focus at Meeke-Neuville duo for Citroen.
Mikko is at a point finished.He was for some 4-5 years fast to battle for wins,now seems impossible even in his home rally.Same for Sordo.There is no point to wait progress after some 7-8-9 years at wrc.

[noel157]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI


I thought SSSs had no influence on road position for the day after :confused:



You are 100% correct Tom. My bad.

Here's a "LIKE" for you :)

[NxOxT]

Dim you are correct in everything you say but i cannot see Meeke doing any better or at least be so much better to worth the risk, plus he is not very consistent. If Meeke was 25 it would be a good choice but now....no.

[Doon]

Dim you are correct in everything you say but i cannot see Meeke doing any better or at least be so much better to worth the risk, plus he is not very consistent. If Meeke was 25 it would be a good choice but now....no.

I think Citroens problem is the lack of choice. I really cant think of another driver that can solve their problem? Meeke is getting on a bit in terms of age, but his lack of experience compared to DS and MH at least means there is scope for improvement.

Please no one suggest Solberg, he's a great driver but he's past his peak and will not improve his pace.

[NxOxT]

Please no one suggest Solberg, he's a great driver but he's past his peak and will not improve his pace.

Solberg is more of a marketing choice than a driver choice nowadays...

[raybak]

At 10.30pm tonight there is a few spots of rain here in Coffs Harbour. The dust is bad as it's just hanging. We are setting a good pace in the 4wd series siting 3rd. Rain tomorrow will suit us.

Ray

[dimviii]

from Andre Lavadinho

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BUBjf1oCAAE1OgX.jpg:large

[uranium]

Onboard Ogier SS05/ Coates Hire Rally Australia 2013

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zxACRMWKag

Several big moments for Seb Jr.

[noel157]

Afternoon stages from WRC.com. Meeke lucky to get away with the middle of the road

www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDF204dJAxk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDF204dJAxk)

And rally so far from VW Motorsport:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=reVrfOPAlnk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reVrfOPAlnk)

[bluuford]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI

Strat position was decided before SSS, so no changes there.

[danon]

Meeke slowed down enough to go round the rock having plenty of space and then suddenly decided to pass straight through it...

Unbelievable!

Was it a toughness test or what... :D

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/4481/c1bl.jpg

What a coincidence...
http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/9241/pxut.jpg

[noel157]

It's the rock guy from NORF? :)


Bluuford ref start position, I know. Mentioned it to Tom earlier.

[Rallying UK]

It's the rock guy from NORF? :)


Bluuford ref start position, I know. Mentioned it to Tom earlier.

LOL!

[Rallying UK]

RALLY AUSTRALIA: Catch-up with all Rally Australia 2013 action in these interactive images:

Day One > bit.ly/1aFv7ZU

Day Two > bit.ly/1g9uB3q

[liposh]

No offense, maybe I am from old school, but I don´t like these apps like thinglink.com and storify.com. Honestly it seems to me like total buls.it You can´t turn it better even when you do your best, because the idea off that app itself is wrong. Am I the only one here who think so?

[tolis]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI

at 2,10 the plan is fantastic!!!
Which plan? Are they planning anything?
looooool...

To plano de metafrazetai plan sta agglika re! :D

[makinen_fan]

To plano de metafrazetai plan sta agglika re! :D

Like!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Good luck to Meeke for the next days stages... keep fast, keep safe and earn a result so they cant deny you any more !

Go Chris !! :colour:

[stefanvv]

It's the rock guy from NORF? :)
He has been in Mexico mostly - at least twice :D

[dimviii]

At least Meeke's stall will give him a different road position tomorrow/tonight.................:)

Nice video from Citroen Racing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO0k6SzliSI

at 2,10 the plan is fantastic!!!
Which plan? Are they planning anything?
looooool...

To plano de metafrazetai plan sta agglika re! :D

??? ???????????? ??? :laugh: ??? ??? ??????? : :D

?olis while didn t informed me at all about stages when i was at a meeting,he corrects me about my English.

[dimviii]

as always nice photos from best of rally live.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bestofrall ... 736594778/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bestofrallylive/9736594778/)

[dimviii]

in how many hours is the start of the long stage?

[EightGear]

2 hours 10 minutes.

[dimviii]

thanks mate!

[Doon]

Come on Meekinen! Show them who's boss ;)

All this chat of him taking the car to the finish makes me sleepy, I want him to go full pelt and nail the 47k'er!! If he wins the stage i'll stay up for the next one.....I'll run out of beer by that time though lol!

[noel157]

Is RR working ok, or just me?

[stefanvv]

Come on Meekinen! Show them who's boss ;)

All this chat of him taking the car to the finish makes me sleepy, I want him to go full pelt and nail the 47k'er!! If he wins the stage i'll stay up for the next one.....I'll run out of beer by that time though lol!
So far VW won all the stages... different winner each time though :D

[Munkvy]

the only problem with Meeke is that if it is worth the risk for a team like citroen to hire him for a full season in favour of Sordo or Hirvonen... the speed is there to support a works drive but i think to hire meeke and let go Sordo or Hirvonen is a HUGE risk. If there was a possibility for a 3rd car then the decision is a no brainer.

Why not go back to rotating specialist drivers. As long as it's not the number one driver there is no requirement to keep the same driver all year is my understanding. So rotate Sordo and Meeke depending on the surface? Worked well for teams a decade ago. Lets face it neither Sordo or Meeke is in the WRC to win the championship, they are there for individual event wins and that of course helps their manufacturer to that crown. Would also be a good opportunity to test out other drivers during 2014 if either of them started to fail to produce good results.

[stefanvv]

Kangaroo style:
http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/fileadmin/user_upload/Fans_Friends/1%20WRC/Rallye/Australien/Berichterstattung/2013/20130913/Galerie_des_Tages/886x498px_vw-20130913-6474.jpg
http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/fileadmin/user_upload/Fans_Friends/1%20WRC/Rallye/Australien/Berichterstattung/2013/20130913/Galerie_des_Tages/886x498px_vw-20130913-6478-max-VW-WRC-2013-10-MC-036.jpg
http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/fileadmin/user_upload/Fans_Friends/1%20WRC/Rallye/Australien/Berichterstattung/2013/20130913/Galerie_des_Tages/886x498px_vw-20130913-6567-max-VW-WRC-2013-10-MC-043.jpg

[noel157]

Is RR working ok, or just me?

Or too early? Anybody?

[stefanvv]

Is RR working ok, or just me?

Or too early? Anybody?
Broadcast starts 1:15 CET

[bluuford]

I am here.. looking weather maps:-)

So, overnight was dry and I am expecting the whole day to be the same.wind 3-7 m/s. Maybe some raindrops in the mornin, then it will be sunny and between +20 and +28 degrees on the stages.

[noel157]

Is RR working ok, or just me?

Or too early? Anybody?
Broadcast starts 1:15 CET

Thanks Stefan.

LIKE.

[Kielder]

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/ibgQhGEMEBijwl_zpsa117c724.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/OAnibal/media/ibgQhGEMEBijwl_zpsa117c724.jpg.html)
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/ibhtvW4GO79Mhh_zps526ed81c.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/OAnibal/media/ibhtvW4GO79Mhh_zps526ed81c.jpg.html)
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/ibmm3M4LUMWEBq_zps8aaf23cc.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/OAnibal/media/ibmm3M4LUMWEBq_zps8aaf23cc.jpg.html)

[NxOxT]

i think i will stay up for the first big stage to see how it goes... but no more....maybe...

[Doon]

the only problem with Meeke is that if it is worth the risk for a team like citroen to hire him for a full season in favour of Sordo or Hirvonen... the speed is there to support a works drive but i think to hire meeke and let go Sordo or Hirvonen is a HUGE risk. If there was a possibility for a 3rd car then the decision is a no brainer.

Why not go back to rotating specialist drivers. As long as it's not the number one driver there is no requirement to keep the same driver all year is my understanding. So rotate Sordo and Meeke depending on the surface? Worked well for teams a decade ago. Lets face it neither Sordo or Meeke is in the WRC to win the championship, they are there for individual event wins and that of course helps their manufacturer to that crown. Would also be a good opportunity to test out other drivers during 2014 if either of them started to fail to produce good results.

Sorry, but that is rubbish. Yes, Sordo wont win a championship. Meeke is a different matter. He's never been given the chance. Sordo has had 5 or 6 full seasons, Meeke on the other hand has done 5 or 6 events! The reason......cash. The thought behind it....mindless. Meeke is a world champion and will prove it!

[NxOxT]

the only problem with Meeke is that if it is worth the risk for a team like citroen to hire him for a full season in favour of Sordo or Hirvonen... the speed is there to support a works drive but i think to hire meeke and let go Sordo or Hirvonen is a HUGE risk. If there was a possibility for a 3rd car then the decision is a no brainer.

Why not go back to rotating specialist drivers. As long as it's not the number one driver there is no requirement to keep the same driver all year is my understanding. So rotate Sordo and Meeke depending on the surface? Worked well for teams a decade ago. Lets face it neither Sordo or Meeke is in the WRC to win the championship, they are there for individual event wins and that of course helps their manufacturer to that crown. Would also be a good opportunity to test out other drivers during 2014 if either of them started to fail to produce good results.

Meeke is a world champion and will prove it!

how he will prove it ?

[Doon]

RR not working for me either. I'll just listen to inspirational music, wishing I was on the stages!

[Doon]

Meeke is a world champion and will prove it![/quote]

how he will prove it ?[/quote]

By winning in 2015!

[danon]

:D

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/1394/6ijv.jpg

[NxOxT]

Meeke is a world champion and will prove it!

how he will prove it ?[/quote]

By winning in 2015![/quote]

i used drugs once... it was terrible.

[Kielder]

RR not working for me either. I'll just listen to inspirational music, wishing I was on the stages!

Their ‘on air’ time for today is in 25 minutes, more than a quarter of hour before the start of SS11 Nambucca I. :)

[danon]

Nambucca rhymes with Chewbacca :D

[stefanvv]

Australia is almost different planet :D

[stefanvv]

It would be interesting Meeke to be in Citroen next year, wish him good luck

[danon]

Eye candy... except all the nasty creatures

[danon]

... but they are all around and the forum has its own too :D