World Rallycross Championship a.k.a RALLYX [Archive] - Page 4

Fast Eddie WRC

14th May 2016, 20:54

http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/_mediaimages/imagesource.php?image=8857.jpg&maxwidth=900

Sweden’s Mattias Ekstrom leads the third round of the FIA World Rallycross Championship after the first day of action at Mettet in Belgium.

EKS driver Ekstrom set the fastest time in Q2, backing up his second fastest time in Q1 to top the order at the close of day one for the third event in a row. France’s Sebastien Loeb set his first ever fastest World RX qualifying time in Q1 and is second behind Ekstrom.

World RX Team Austria’s Timur Timerzyanov was second quickest to Ekstrom in Q2 and is third overall with double World RX champion Petter Solberg fifth and 2015 Euro RX Super1600 champion Janis Baumanis sixth after Q2. Anton Marklund, Timmy Hansen, Reinis Nitiss, Kevin Eriksson and Davy Jeanney are all currently inside the qualifying positions for the semi finals. Local ace Francois Duval is inside the top ten in his OlsbergsMSE Fiesta, the Belgian is ninth overall with Q3 and Q4 set to take place tomorrow morning.

BleAivano

15th May 2016, 12:24

I read an article about Ekström a few days ago where he said that as far as Audi is concerned, DTM is Ekström top priority (over WRX).

However do you think that if ME continue to do this good in RX and if he his DTM results won't be as good, that Audi will let him focus on WRX?

AndyRAC

15th May 2016, 13:03

No!

Fast Eddie WRC

15th May 2016, 13:58

Poor weekend for new Focus RS RX drivers... and for Doran in the MINI. :(

pantealex

15th May 2016, 15:30

Jack4688`

15th May 2016, 18:14

Poor weekend for new Focus RS RX drivers... and for Doran in the MINI. :(

I think of greater concern to Doran than the driveshaft falling out (!) is his dreadful haircut. I think someone did a third of the job then just gave up....

USER47

15th May 2016, 18:59

Regarding the problems of Focuses:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BFZobFUo6fo/

"Not a great day for @AndreasBakkerud and I here at @FIAWorldRX round 3 in Belgium. Started off our first Qualifying Race in a good position (I was 2nd off the start, Andreas was 3rd), but a freak electrical issue happened to both cars at the EXACT same time - from the landing of a jump. This race was the first time we have jumped our new Ford Focus RS RX racecar and it caused a failure on both our cars on the same jump on the same lap! Bummer. Then, in Q2, I had a bad race with some wheel damage and had to DNF. We'll see what we can salvage tomorrow, but it is not looking good. Consistency is the game in WRX, and this development issue has really set us back this time. Brand new racecar development ain't easy, somedays - but we are working on it."

Simmi

15th May 2016, 21:18

Rallyper

15th May 2016, 21:26

stefanvv

15th May 2016, 21:39

Mattias Ekström is Swedens most talented driver ever. Racing, rallying, RX, ROC. More than 10 years I´ve seen his skills (and mentioned it before on this forum) and now he proves it in WRX as well. Given enough time and he´d been WRDC also. Now it´s too late I´m afraid.

Quite talented indeed. There are not so many drivers in the world currently to handle such different types of races with success. Loeb, Ogier, Ekstrom.....

skarderud

15th May 2016, 22:13

Mattias Ekström is Swedens most talented driver ever. Racing, rallying, RX, ROC. More than 10 years I´ve seen his skills (and mentioned it before on this forum) and now he proves it in WRX as well. Given enough time and he´d been WRDC also. Now it´s too late I´m afraid.
He was fast both in Mitsubishi and a fabia wrc in sweden, i remember. He has earned his money in dtm, but i should loved to se him in some different cars earlier in his carriere!

Jack4688`

15th May 2016, 22:28

That Focus is a beautiful machine

Simmi

15th May 2016, 22:55

He was fast both in Mitsubishi and a fabia wrc in sweden, i remember. He has earned his money in dtm, but i should loved to se him in some different cars earlier in his carriere!

For sure I think if he'd gone down the Le Mans route like a lot of his Audi team-mates I think he would have won there too. Interesting that he didn't. Maybe it was due to his love of more aggressive driving.

SpeedEstRacing

16th May 2016, 12:42

my vidéo of rx rallycross Belgium: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEZYgi4knSo

Viking

16th May 2016, 21:42

https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13254568_10154241642162922_650511533309169937_n.jp g?oh=073079ee1dd4170394386e2e2077add7&oe=57DE7386

Brill to see the three best drivers on the podium.

MrJan

16th May 2016, 22:08

Puts into perspective just how new those Focuses are that they hadn't even taken it off a jump in testing. All things considered making 2 out of 3 finals so far is a very decent achievement.

It really was fresh out the box, think they only got a shared day on an airfield with the WRC boys before the start of the season.

Just caught up on yesterday's action, not as interesting as last week but I like Mettet as an RX circuit, gives the drivers a test even if it's difficult to pass. Some impressive drives through the field, not least Bakkerud in Q4(I think). THought the penalty on Baumanis was harsh though when you consider the contact we saw through the qualifying and previous events. Think it's the first time in RX that I've thought the stewards have got it properly wrong. I know some people don't like the level of contact, but they at least need to be consistent.

Can't wait for Lydden though, hopefully it'll be dry :eek:

MrJan

17th May 2016, 20:17

Not sure what countries it's available in but this just went up on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL9cOKkc4bY

Simmi

17th May 2016, 20:31

Not sure what countries it's available in but this just went up on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL9cOKkc4bY

A 47-minute highlights package dedicated to a support series. WRC take note!

MrJan

17th May 2016, 21:12

A 47-minute highlights package dedicated to a support series. WRC take note!

Indeed, for free, online for all to enjoy. It also comes on the back of a 2 hour show for the main series, a chunk of which is live and is also streamed around the world on Youtube....and you can also watch all the races from the last 2 seasons on Livestream. I almost feel required to drink Monster just to show my support for the series :laugh:

tbtstt

26th May 2016, 08:50

Uploaded some photos from Mettet last night, few of my faves...

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7161/27216203986_0553e2f0ca_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7411/27250248305_8807bee86d_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7459/27216254586_7bab4091fc_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7266/26644779833_cf2b653585_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7235/27216304876_48048b6c3c_b.jpg

...few more here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/22961613@N06/albums/72157666353413354

If any of you interested. Two more days of work, then it's time for round 4 at Lydden: can't wait!

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

26th May 2016, 11:25

Does M-Sport Fiesta is more expensive than OMSE & Stohl..?

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

tbtstt

26th May 2016, 11:42

Does M-Sport Fiesta is more expensive than OMSE & Stohl..?
I don't know the exact cost of a Stohl or OMSE Fiesta but, based on what I've read in the past, the M-Sport Fiesta was more expensive.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

26th May 2016, 16:24

I don't know the exact cost of a Stohl or OMSE Fiesta but, based on what I've read in the past, the M-Sport Fiesta was more expensive.
No wonder why nobody driving that in Europe..

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

Fast Eddie WRC

27th May 2016, 11:10

Guy Wilks Fiesta for Lydden... sponsored by yet another energy drink ! :rolleyes:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CjT2McOVAAAPp85.jpg:large

Great to have him here but a shame he's not in a second MINI... :(

Sulland

28th May 2016, 21:09

I guess Doran would not liked to be beaten by a jump-in driver....

Petter leads after heat 1 and 2 with max points!

Fast Eddie WRC

28th May 2016, 21:18

Guy Wilks #37 ‏@GuyWilks

Difficult day ! We will back tomorrow with a renewed setup and a refreshed brain ! Lying 14th overnight.

Doon

29th May 2016, 14:46

Is there any way that we can watch it live in the UK? Quest TV says it's live but the final will be finished before the programme starts. Livestream doesn't work in the UK either.

Rallyper

29th May 2016, 16:41

Ekström fastest allround driver in the world? At least Swedens´.

N.O.T

29th May 2016, 16:46

Ekström fastest allround driver in the world? At least Swedens´.

Loeb.

BleAivano

29th May 2016, 17:00

Loeb.

No I agree with Per. Loeb is faster then Ekström in Rally but Ekström is faster in WRX and circuit racing though if you put Ekström
in a Polo WRC I am sure that he could give the top boys there a very good run for their money.

N.O.T

29th May 2016, 17:41

Loeb has won on Track and in Rally and quite likely he will win in RallyX... so Loeb.

N.O.T

29th May 2016, 17:56

Nice win by Ekstrom.

USER47

29th May 2016, 20:22

Good race again, Ekström is very strong.

Shame about Bakkerud, he was very fast in the heats and the semi-finals, he could have fought for the podium, maybe a win. Anyone knows what happened in the finals? It looked like some technical issue with the Focus.

janvanvurpa

29th May 2016, 20:55

Ekström fastest allround driver in the world? At least Swedens´.

Fastest allround driver in the world with the name of a tree? and a creek? in his name?

Dags for en mukki te.

Rallyper

29th May 2016, 21:01

Fastest allround driver in the world with the name of a tree? and a creek? in his name?

Dags for en mukki te.

Ek, oak = strong
Ström, vihrta = creek, power (electricity) = fast as en electrons going in cicles (you know, racing I think it´s called).

Now time to sleep. Work on NPP morningshift tmrw.

MrJan

30th May 2016, 13:36

Loeb has won on Track and in Rally and quite likely he will win in RallyX... so Loeb.

He's not making it look quite as easy as some people said he would though. Okay so this weekend he had reliability problems, but he often didn't seem to have the pace of Solberg and Ekstrom. TBH I think his style is still too reserved to really excel at RX, he needs to be more aggressive.

Was a good weekend, interesting to see a S1600 roll and then a lap later another car roll, land on the first one and burst into flames! Some great racing, think Solberg was a cut above everyone else but ran out of tyres in the final. Also a shame that Bakkerud had an issue as he'd seemed quick. Wasn't to be for the Brits either, seemed like Wilks had a load of understeer and I think he may have been quicker in the 1.6 Mini last year!

Not many photos as I mostly just watched, they were also mostly crap so have been through the Windows 10 editor very quickly, here's a couple though:
https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7657/26741267154_2b8e0f3320_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GK2Z5f)
Zanni S1600 (https://flic.kr/p/GK2Z5f) by Jan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mrjanyeo/), on Flickr

https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7417/27251032902_cb78d4f53e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Hw5EES)
Munnich - Ibiza Supercar (https://flic.kr/p/Hw5EES) by Jan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mrjanyeo/), on Flickr

https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7436/27348574805_dd8642327d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HEGAtP)
Loeb - 208 Supercar (https://flic.kr/p/HEGAtP) by Jan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mrjanyeo/), on Flickr

N.O.T

30th May 2016, 14:06

MrJan

30th May 2016, 14:51

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oB41Gka0EsQ

AndyRAC

30th May 2016, 19:35

Loeb will not succeed in WRX, he hates dirty tactics, that was evident in the final were he backed off from 3rd position to avoid hitting anyone. He might win an event though if he gets good momentum.

You might be right - a bit similar to the WTCC; were you have to bump & bash to succeed - and it's just not the way he races.
I actually think he'd be more suited to the WEC.....

Sulland

30th May 2016, 20:03

Does anyone know what is happening with the Gigi Galli Kia programme for this year?

Did Galli kill off the project, or is he still sorting it out?

MrJan

31st May 2016, 14:03

Just been looking at Hell, shame that I don't have more time off work/live closer to Gatwick as it seems quite simple to do. A 8pm flight on Friday night to Trondheim, rent a tiny car for 3 days (about £50 a day) to cover the short drive to the track (think you could do it on bus/walking if you arrived a bit earlier), pay £90 or so for camping, £45 for camping and you're done. Not a cheap weekend, but if you can do it with a few of you then the car hire/camping can be split.

giu canbera

31st May 2016, 18:13

Galli (KIA) and Mancin (FIAT500)... 2 good projects that I'd like to see in WRX or at least in EuroRX.
BTW... 2 (maybe 3) new manufacturers comming to "MURICA's" RedBull Global RallyCross.. One american and one International (rumors saying Its Chevy and Toyota due huge Market in US).
PLUS, international races at the Pacific. (Australia + Asia)

MrJan

31st May 2016, 18:44

Toyota might make sense seeing as they're in production of a WRC programme anyway, so will have a bit of the groundwork done.

TO be a true World series then I think World RX needs to have a race in Asia, but I guess that the cost of those long haul flights (like with Argentina and Canada) puts a big strain on entrants. We're already moving towards it being the big budgets that can win, whereas in the first season at Lydden I remember the wildcards doing okay. Also I'm not sure which of the current circuits I'd drop in favour of an Asian round, I guess Hockenheim because Germany have two rounds, but it was actually a pretty decent race there this year....I suppose Montalegre, but I like to see the 'proper' rallycross tracks rather than the ones adapted from circuits like Turkey was.

giu canbera

31st May 2016, 19:04

Hard to pick
I'd remove Latvia and bring Finland back.. About Asian and Australian races, I'd change for Hockenheim and Barcelona.. If theres no problem on the budgets for the series, teams, crews, etc

MrJan

31st May 2016, 20:03

JUF

31st May 2016, 20:34

I'm waiting to decide on Latvia, all depends on the circuit. Judging by the number of Latvian flags at Lydden there's a decent fanbase over there and quite a few drivers too, in that respect I'd say it's more important than a round in Spain or Portugal.

Yes, you´re right. I´m very excited about the circuit, as I will fly to Latvia to see the event. The track seems to be great and it´s reachable by public transport. That´s something special in World RX. And we absolutely need a track in Eastern Europe (although it´s more Northern Europe), as there are many drivers and fans from the Baltic countries and Russia, Poland....

I would keep Portugal, too, as I like the track, but there is no need for Spain. That´s true. Finland isn´t necessary, as there are already rounds in Sweden and Norway and Latvia isn´t far away.

pantealex

1st June 2016, 09:50

You are right, there is not good RX track in Finland atm, so no need to get back. Both Norway and Sweden are very good events and that new Latvia track should be good.

giu canbera

1st June 2016, 15:01

What about those old EuroRX track, in Hungary (Nyirad) and Austria (Greinbach)? Those tracks were pretty great. I always enjoyed Kouvola (Fin) track too.
They used to race too in Netherland, Poland, Czech...
The RallyCross Challenge Europe (RCE) races on those tracks and its cool too. More amateur, but still..
Italy and Lithuania too!
Estonian RX tracks are interesting too.. but not for the WorldRX series.
The Scandinavian championship (RallyX Nordic / RallyX OnIce) also have cool track, but not WRX level

Lousada

1st June 2016, 16:19

giu canbera

1st June 2016, 16:29

Keep dreaming. The calendar is decided by the 13 biggest cheques and nothing else.

haha youre right mate. Im just talking about other good tracks in Europe.
I dont think the schedule is going to change much. But this year we have only 12 races I believe

Lousada

1st June 2016, 16:36

haha youre right mate. Im just talking about other good tracks in Europe.
I dont think the schedule is going to change much. But this year we have only 12 races I believe

Valkenswaard, Greinbach and Sosnova were already to small and backwards in the pre-IMG days. They will never get top rallycross at those tracks anymore. It is the same for most old-rallycross tracks. It is sad because they often gave great races but okay... the memories live on I suppose.

Simmi

2nd June 2016, 08:37

Here are my photos from sunny Lydden Hill if anyone is interested: https://www.flickr.com/photos/94998505@N03/albums

sindroms

2nd June 2016, 08:48

Yes, you´re right. I´m very excited about the circuit, as I will fly to Latvia to see the event. The track seems to be great and it´s reachable by public transport. That´s something special in World RX.

Definitely it is:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cj7bMz8WsAAxui3.jpg:large

Martins Tolks

2nd June 2016, 12:12

Yeah, I was about to post it, but sindroms was first. :D
Track is in the city and perfectly reachable by public transport
Only concern might be weather - in the beginning of october it can be from +20 and sunshine to almost first snow.
Ok, in recent years it's mostly former but still. Otherwise, organizers have done great job to prepare the track and we will see
first race in just short of 2 months - NEZ RX round will be held in last weekend of july.

MrJan

2nd June 2016, 17:58

That merge from the joker could create some interesting last laps. Doesn't look like a lot of options for spectators though.

Martins Tolks

2nd June 2016, 21:33

Well, yes, track is not in natural amphitheater like some other ones, but still, there are plenty of nice options. That stationary tribune (long one) has nice view for entire track and is quite large actually. And there will be temporary tribunes built for event. One large next to stationary one and one (also quite large and long) on the other side of track, right in front of jump. There was some mentions of total capacity but I can't find them at the moment. Still, best tribunes were sold out in few hours.

Jack4688`

3rd June 2016, 14:06

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124606

"I'm looking to create an arena in and around Stowe, so we'll have grandstands all around Stowe, and then we can do things like Race of Champions, World Rallycross and music concerts,"

Dear God I hope not. Flat boring aerodromes might be what F1 want, but RX? Noooooo thank you

MrJan

3rd June 2016, 22:19

I'd like to think that Lydden has enough charm to stay on the calendar ahead of Silverstone. After all the title sponsor does have the owner's son as one of it's 'athletes'

AndyRAC

4th June 2016, 11:11

Do IMG care about the history of the sport and continue with Lydden or do what you'd expect them to do - chase the money and go with Silverstone??

MrJan

4th June 2016, 11:58

Simmi

4th June 2016, 17:27

Hmm, Lydden definitely has a few issues. Until the new control centre is built then it's a bit sparse, and it's a nightmare getting out the car park. It's also not going to be long (on current increase) until there are too many fans for the size of venue.

Have to agree with you if the popularity keeps growing. They might have to cap the tickets and call it a sell-out. Was stressful getting out and we were (tactically) parked super close to the exit!!

MrJan

4th June 2016, 21:14

We were camping and put the van close to us to make a quick getaway. We were already moving when Bakkerud came across the line but as soon as we got into the bottom of the car park (by the joker lap) we hit a standstill and it took 90 minutes from there.

Fly

6th June 2016, 08:29

Reading François Duval's interview in Auto-Hebdo, he says a World RX car for one week-end costs 45000 euros. That is about 2000 euros per lap. Quite expensive don't you find?

MrJan

6th June 2016, 09:55

Very! Would be interested to know what that package includes though, I'd guess it comes with a supply of x number bumpers and mechanics. Possibly also hospitality etc.

Sulland

6th June 2016, 19:21

Reading François Duval's interview in Auto-Hebdo, he says a World RX car for one week-end costs 45000 euros. That is about 2000 euros per lap. Quite expensive don't you find?

If this is correct, it s a stiff price!

noel157

8th June 2016, 15:57

Ali, Liston, Frazier and.....Solberg?

Am I missing something or is this a load of PR drivel?

http://us12.campaign-archive2.com/?u=437ba8a93acd79cf5458e6058&id=26b34ba219

N.O.T

8th June 2016, 16:15

Ali, Liston, Frazier and.....Solberg?

Am I missing something or is this a load of PR drivel?

http://us12.campaign-archive2.com/?u=437ba8a93acd79cf5458e6058&id=26b34ba219

Solberg should educate himself on boxing and Ali before spouting out all that generic Ali praise...

But that is what you get when you let the pleb majority involve in sports they do not understand.

Ali was a loud mouth degenerate when it came to boxing especially the way he handled the frazier fights... in the end he got the life and the end he deserved.

MrJan

8th June 2016, 18:00

Yay, NOT's back and being offensive again :bounce:

Franky

8th June 2016, 18:39

Yay, NOT's back and being offensive again :bounce:

shhh, it's his second favourite sport.

stefanvv

8th June 2016, 19:27

shhh, it's his second favourite sport.

what??? cars going in circles???

danon

8th June 2016, 19:58

^ tennis

N.O.T

12th June 2016, 14:43

Dominant performance by Bakkerud throughout the weekend...

MrJan

12th June 2016, 15:19

Superb from Andreas, bit of a shame that Timur got a puncture in the final as could have been a bit closer. Not as exciting as last year's racing but still a good event, as a bit of a Bakkerud fan I'm happy to see him get the clean sweep through Q1-4, SF and Final.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

12th June 2016, 18:29

Focus wins.. :cool:

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

tbtstt

13th June 2016, 14:40

Meant to post these sooner! I have uploaded a few pictures from Lydden, few of my faves...

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7561/27514972081_6638dea342_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7201/27311061690_b371d97cfa_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7455/27587877135_2be760477e_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7333/27489305822_cae184f6d3_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7255/26978002064_eea10cd469_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7116/27311018720_be11cedc21_b.jpg

...and a few more shots here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/22961613@N06/albums/72157669591452305

For those of you who are interested!

Jack4688`

13th June 2016, 16:54

What event were the 6R4s from? It would have been nice to see a bit of that on the TV coverage!

MrJan

13th June 2016, 16:56

What event were the 6R4s from? It would have been nice to see a bit of that on the TV coverage!

It wasn't a race, just a display by the Retro Rallycross lot. At first it was going to be a race, but then two of the cars hit each other and for the rest of the weekend it was more of a fast parade.

tbtstt

13th June 2016, 17:03

It wasn't a race, just a display by the Retro Rallycross lot. At first it was going to be a race, but then two of the cars hit each other and for the rest of the weekend it was more of a fast parade.
It was always supposed to be a parade: they had a license for demonstration, not for racing!

MrJan

13th June 2016, 17:29

It was always supposed to be a parade: they had a license for demonstration, not for racing!

I'm not convinced by that, the first run was very definitely a race as all cars went off the line at the same time and running very close together. Prior to the contact (I think it was one of the 6R4s that got damaged on the first lap) both Shirley whatsherface and the commentator referred to it as a race, it was only on the Sunday that they said they didn't have a license (I presume they meant MSA permit). Also last year it was very much a race.

Sulland

13th June 2016, 19:10

Good to see that drivers dare to use the C Segment cartype again, and not only B segment!

dimviii

15th June 2016, 17:59

Pirelli and Michelin for rally cross?
http://www.diariomotor.com/competicion/breve/michelin-pone-su-mirada-tambien-en-el-mundial-de-rallycross/

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

24th June 2016, 00:21

I find the lack of Impreza disturbing..

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

BleAivano

29th June 2016, 06:25

An interview with Petter Solberg; http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/valdigt-viktigt-att-ta-ekstrom-i-holjes%E2%80%9D

It seems that he is close to securing a manufacturer backing for next season. The plans seems to be to establish a "factory" in Torsby
of which Petter's current team would (hopefully according to Petter) be the core.

Jack4688`

29th June 2016, 08:47

Toyota? Makinen was Solberg's mentor at Subaru....

BleAivano

1st July 2016, 05:37

Interview with Ekström: http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/omstridd-ekstrom-jagar-trippeln

BleAivano

2nd July 2016, 07:39

Weather forecasts for Höljes this weekend:
http://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/ortsprognoser#ws=wpt-a,proxy=wpt-a,geonameid=2705425
http://www.yr.no/sted/Sverige/V%C3%A4rmland/H%C3%B6ljes/time_for_time.html
some pics from Höljes:

Pics are from EKSRX twitter (https://twitter.com/EKSRX).

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CmVsVEPUIAICZR4.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CmVxYs0WgAAbxm1.jpg

MrJan

4th July 2016, 17:35

Solid win again for Bakkerud. No one really set qualifying alight but Bakkerud came through well in the semi and the final with a very sensible drive. If the Focus can maintain reliability then he could be a real danger for the championship, I can see the car being strong in Canada and Argentina, which are quite open. I suspect they'll struggle a bit with the tighter sections on the other tracks, particularly Barcelona, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him still do okay at the remaining rounds.

Meanwhile Petter and Ekstrom had poor weekends by their standards, and Hansen still hasn't found the form he had at the end of last year. I think it's shaping up for a 3 way fight, Loeb is currently still in the mix but I still think he lacks the instinct needed. He's developing his race craft but doesn't seem to have properly worked out how to overtake properly!

skarderud

11th July 2016, 12:45

At gatebil in Norway this weekend, Liam doran been put to jail after complete idiot behavior both on and off track. On track he crashed into cars, off track he been drunk and probably some drugs, and run over cars in pitlane, don't listen to guards and start fighting with People. gatebil going to report him to FIA, and he even got his own #tag: #bandoran

Tragic.

N.O.T

11th July 2016, 12:49

skarderud

11th July 2016, 13:01

Link to norwegian newspaper about this

http://www.vg.no/nyheter/innenriks/tre-paagrepet-for-uprovosert-vold-paa-gatebil-treff/a/23736309/

Lousada

11th July 2016, 15:34

It is not the first time for Liam Doran. He has already been suspended by the MSA in 2014 for similar behaviour.

See: https://issuu.com/motorsportsassociation/docs/issu_msa_winter2014/1 <-- page 55

rallyfiend

11th July 2016, 15:53

EightGear

11th July 2016, 15:57

What an idiot.

MrJan

11th July 2016, 17:40

It is not the first time for Liam Doran. He has already been suspended by the MSA in 2014 for similar behaviour.

See: https://issuu.com/motorsportsassociation/docs/issu_msa_winter2014/1 <-- page 55

Yeah, he went missing from the second half of the World RX season because he lost his license. They tried to dress it up as some other lame excuse though.

Is there an article confirming that it was Doran? I know Bakkerud was there too (although obviously wasn't him) so wondered who else attended.

skarderud

11th July 2016, 17:58

Bakkerud was driving his new mustang something racecar for the Scandinavian raceseries NTCC this weekend at gatebil, he is not involved with this doran-stuff.

skarderud

11th July 2016, 18:03

https://www.instagram.com/p/BHpv1Z8jsAW/

Video from earlier that afternoon.

skarderud

11th July 2016, 18:07

Nice little video with "our man" fighting the guards...

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10154310618787329&id=636102328

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

11th July 2016, 18:57

Guy to replaces Liam..??

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MrJan

11th July 2016, 20:20

Guy to replaces Liam..??

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Liam brings in quite a bit of cash I think, Guy wouldn't be able to get the budget to replace him sadly.

N.O.T

11th July 2016, 21:24

Nice little video with "our man" fighting the guards...

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10154310618787329&id=636102328

maybe he was hamburger deprived for more than 2 hours... addictions is nothing to laugh about.

MrJan

11th July 2016, 21:29

Bakkerud was driving his new mustang something racecar for the Scandinavian raceseries NTCC this weekend at gatebil, he is not involved with this doran-stuff.

Pleased to hear it. I'm not surprised to hear about Doran being involved with stuff like this but would probably be a bit disappointed if Bakkerud was, I really like his style and he comes across as a decent bloke.

skarderud

12th July 2016, 07:26

Liam brings in quite a bit of cash I think, Guy wouldn't be able to get the budget to replace him sadly.
If the cash is the only thing the team and sponsors think about, they really don't understand what marketing is about.
Who will have a dickhead with bad behavior to represent your brand?

MrJan

12th July 2016, 12:23

Some brands like that image. Not saying that Monster is one of them but they are certainly out there. I also don't think Monster would sponsor Wilks, he doesn't quite fit into their normal role....although Petter doesn't too much either.

MartijnS

18th July 2016, 10:27

His team terminated his contract, so he won't compete in WRX anymore.

rallyfiend

18th July 2016, 10:31

Not with that team.

I assume he still has his Citroen kicking around - he was at Goodwood with it - so he'll probably just enter himself.

He's come back from suspension before...

skarderud

18th July 2016, 10:51

The statement:
http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/article/9268/jrm-racing-team-statement-about

MrJan

18th July 2016, 11:19

Good news that JRM won't stand for that shit.

Thought that Dan Rooke was driving Liam's old DS3 in BRX so will be interesting to see what happens.

Fast Eddie WRC

18th July 2016, 11:48

Would love JRM to bring in Guy Wilks but I guess its down to money...

Alpha

18th July 2016, 19:24

A lot of the main assholes at Gatebil were wearing Monster Energy clothes. Monster got a lot of complaints on their Facebook page the last week. Their response? Delete the comments and disable user posts on their page. It's bullshit. They should do like JRM and cancel the contract with that asshole.

He's really pissed off the Gatebil community. Vandalizing random cars in the pits is pretty much the worst you can do. One car had a plastic hood and when fat Liam threw himself on it he went right through and his ass broke some sensors beyond repair so they didn't get to drive at all on Sunday.

Luckily he's banned for life from Gatebil so that won't happen again. Monster is lucky they aren't banned as well. They really need to get out, apologize, and drop this douche.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

18th July 2016, 20:31

Would love JRM to bring in Guy Wilks but I guess its down to money...
Or promoting Riku..

2013 X Games Munich, anyone..?

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MrJan

18th July 2016, 23:35

They really need to get out, apologize, and drop this douche.

Yep, although for some reason I get the feeling it won't happen :(

MrJan

21st July 2016, 17:23

Launch video for Latvia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iImjpk-IsqM

Mostly a bit of a puff piece as these things usually are, but interesting to see at least a bit of the track. Think it looks good, the first and last corners are going to create some carnage, and the joker exit could produce some interesting races. Think I prefer when the joker is later in the race, if it's first corner like Lydden or Holjes then sometimes you get a split in the field and a race can be tame (not too often at Holjes though!)

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

21st July 2016, 23:47

From WRX website
On top of the regular permanent teams and drivers entered for the Canadian round, Sweden’s Sebastian Eriksson is entered in an Olsbergs MSE-built Honda Civic Supercar. The Swedish team has been racing the new car in the American-based GRC this season and is now in the process of getting the Civic added to the list of non-homolgated cars approved for use in rallycross so that Eriksson can give the car its World Championship debut at Trois-Rivieres.

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MrJan

22nd July 2016, 13:42

Interesting that Doran is still on the entry list. Does anyone know if the regs allow JRM to substitute the driver following release of entry list? Presumably his idiocy and subsequent sacking happened after the wheels were in motion to get the cars to Canada?

Alpha

22nd July 2016, 14:14

Yeah, those wheels have been turning since before Holjes. Not sure if they can substitute him. Sucks for JRM to ship a car over and not use it, it's expensive.

Fast Eddie WRC

23rd July 2016, 09:28

JRM have confirmed they wont be running the car in Canada. Shame for them and a waste of a chance for another driver.. :(

MrJan

24th July 2016, 08:43

Shame they can't send the bill to the ballbag.

Martins Tolks

24th July 2016, 11:05

Currently attending inauguration race (NEZ rx) in Latvian wrx track. Must say, viewing opportunities from sector A are very nice. Altogether, track is very compact and I see no problems for other grandstands too.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

24th July 2016, 11:30

OMSE + Andrew Jordan + Euro Civic RX = ???

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Fast Eddie WRC

26th July 2016, 14:33

Olsbergs won't field its GRC-spec Honda Civic during Canada round: https://t.co/XLEMVieoCX https://t.co/X9gzls726U

MrJan

7th August 2016, 22:18

Simmi

7th August 2016, 22:33

Pretty crazy if it turns out Timur never touched Topi. Have to admit at first glance I thought he'd edged him, but then on second viewing it wasn't definitive. At all. So would be interesting to see how they made the decision.

MrJan

7th August 2016, 22:44

So would be interesting to see how they made the decision.

Balance of probability :D I mean, if I was a gambling man I'd usually put some money on Timur crashing into other cars and static things :laugh:

dimviii

8th August 2016, 07:41

Petter Solberg RX ‏@Petter_Solberg 6 ώρεςΠριν από 6 ώρες

Hi from the hospital bed. We are leading the Championship!
Just want to let you know that I'm ok after the crash.

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

Sulland

8th August 2016, 16:22

Some crazy racing today and a good win by Hansen. Not sure if he should have been in the final though, hard to tell from the angles we had whether Timur actually hit Topi...although he should have had a penalty for the moved he pulled on Solberg. Solberg must have been gutted when it started raining, threw an element of the unknown into an event he'd been bossing. Another solid podium for Bakkerud too, even when the Focus didn't seem too quick to begin with, and Block showed good pace too so they must be reasonably happy.

Big shunt after the line for Marklund & Petter, sounds like Marklund had brake problems and smashed into Petter going pretty fast. THey didn't really show it but looked like Petter had then hit the wall, read on Twitter that he's gone to hospital for checks and probably didn't help as he was earlier complaining of back problems (although I felt maybe that was for the benefit of the stewards to try and get Timur a penalty).

If Timur should have been punished, it could have happenend in heat 3, coming way to fast amd blocking wheels into turn 1, pushing all on the outside out. But most likely a race incident. But Timur was maybe too offensive in his driving in Canada?
In semi his driving seemed ok, did not see any touch btw him and Heikkinen, so strange decision by jury.

Marklund had 142 km/h at impact, Petter had 40 km/h, so a very hard hit. Petter thanking HANS collor to not have a bad neck injury.
Marklund lost brakes completely, but steering could maybe have been used. But have not seen film from the accident.

MrJan

8th August 2016, 18:34

At the end of the race I noticed in the background Marklund hitting Solberg. He was definitely using steering but looked to me that he was also locked up. Don't think he had much time to react, he wasn't far behind and must have only realised when he stood on the brakes.

Agree that Timur was more likely to have a penalty in heat 3, that's what I meant by "although he should have had a penalty for the moved he pulled on Solberg." :) His driving is often too aggressive, most of the other drivers are quite 'clean' but Timerzynov seems to quite often be involved in controvosy. It's a shame because he can be a quick driver and deserves a decent car.

Fast Eddie WRC

8th August 2016, 23:13

I think it was very harsh to ban Timur from the final... I've seen much bigger hits go unpunished.

He cant have hit Topi hard as there was no damage on either car.

Hansen lucky then to get a final place but his drive in the final was special.

Good event and a nice close battle for the title now.

MrJan

9th August 2016, 09:31

Team Austria have now released onboard that shows a very light touch, but nothing that would make Topi go wide. They've also pointed out that Hansen in Holjes last season was a much bigger hit and only got a 5 second penalty.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

10th August 2016, 18:14

Guerlain Chicherit will race with JRM from Loheac onward..

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Rallyper

10th August 2016, 18:30

Petter to pay around 25000 Euros to get his crashed car flown (?) back to Sweden from Canada. Half car (the rear) needs to be replaced. If not flown home he couldn´t attend next round.

MrJan

10th August 2016, 19:59

Just saw this from EKS on FB:

"Topi and Petter Solberg were the only guys on slicks in the Canada RX final. Our flying Finn launched off the line like a rocket, but have a look by your own."

Guess that gives a bit of a reason for why Petter was so slow compared to the rest of the event.

pantealex

12th August 2016, 07:54

Guerlain Chicherit will race with JRM from Loheac onward..

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Latvia is not mentioned. (France, Germany and Spain it says)

giu canbera

14th August 2016, 17:23

ouch...

1055

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

14th August 2016, 18:08

ouch...

1055
At least he didn't have to drunk and wreaking havoc..

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Fast Eddie WRC

17th August 2016, 20:36

Lithuania’s Nerijus Naujokaitis to debut brand new Skoda Fabia at Loheac ! :cool:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CqEr9hUWYAASkM-.jpg

http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/article/9302/lithuanias-naujokaitis-joins-world-rx

Fast Eddie WRC

17th August 2016, 20:39

Big job to get Solberg's car ready for the next round...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CqDP-zfWcAAhScY.jpg

JUF

17th August 2016, 21:16

Does anyone knows Naujokaitis? What's his personal motorsport history? Where does his budget come from?

MrJan

18th August 2016, 13:06

Entry list out for Loheac, includes 38 supercars apparently but I note that one of them is Doran entered under JRM :confused: http://media.rallycrossrx.com/docs/France%20RX_World%20RX%20Entry%20List.pdf

Alpha

18th August 2016, 13:11

That has got to be an error.

MrJan

18th August 2016, 13:24

That has got to be an error.

Have just seen a comment from the official FB page, numbnuts is a season entry so will continue to appear on lists. Bit odd, as someone else pointed out, if a driver was to die you wouldn't expect their name to keep appearing. However I guess Liam always has the opportunity to 'change car' and still enter a round.

Fast Eddie WRC

18th August 2016, 16:17

Rumour that Solberg would like to drive a new C3RX for 2017 season.

electroliquid

18th August 2016, 16:36

Does anyone knows Naujokaitis? What's his personal motorsport history? Where does his budget come from?

He is 44 years old multiple Lithuania, Baltic states and two times European (2007 with VW Golf Turbo 4x4 and 2008 with VW Polo 4x4) autocross champion. After last champion title he said that he want to switch into rallycross, but unfortunately then crisis began, and there was no money. About current budget don't know anything, but from what I see on car - his sponsor "Maxima" is the biggest supermarkets chain in Baltic states. Don't expect from him much, but it's nice to see Lithuania's colors in this level of motorsport.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

18th August 2016, 21:39

Rumour that Solberg would like to drive a new C3RX for 2017 season.
If that true, probably a self-tuned version..

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Alpha

18th August 2016, 22:14

Citroën should just give Petter all their money and let him run the team. With a better co-driver than Doran of course.

Can't imagine Citroën being able to do better than PSRX.

giu canbera

19th August 2016, 15:16

heard Petter was urged by Citroen to remove Citroen badge from his car...
Hope it wasnt something like "Hey dude, dont win 2 world titles with our logo on your car"... cuz wtf

I think there are a few fans (like me) waiting to hear from Toyota u'know.... There was said Toyota offered Petter a factory ride for Dakar 2017... who knows? Maybe a YarisRX? Maybe a few WRC rounds with the Yaris... I'd LOVE to see that

Alpha

19th August 2016, 15:24

I'd love to see a Cayman RX.. Toyota.. That's dreary :/

skarderud

19th August 2016, 17:40

As far as i know, Petter will not drive a Citroën next year. Maybe Toyota, or something else?

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Simmi

19th August 2016, 18:04

heard Petter was urged by Citroen to remove Citroen badge from his car...
Hope it wasnt something like "Hey dude, dont win 2 world titles with our logo on your car"... cuz wtf

Really? I'd assumed it was the other way around due to Petter's gripes with PSA.

Alpha

19th August 2016, 18:14

Lots of rumors, from him building a C3 RX to him not doing anything with them.. It can be an issue if the relationship with PSA isn't the best because his relationship with Bertel O Steen is very good. Cue the Mercedes A class RX? :p

Sulland

21st August 2016, 15:32

heard Petter was urged by Citroen to remove Citroen badge from his car...
Hope it wasnt something like "Hey dude, dont win 2 world titles with our logo on your car"t

Maybe they want DS badges on it? 😜

giu canbera

29th August 2016, 21:42

Loheac will be the last race for Nitiss with Munich/SEAT team... He`s not happy with the car and he and the team will end their contract without major problems. Nitiss said he will compete in Latvia in another car and is already focusing in find something for 2017......... Solberg/Nitiss with Toyota please haha

Alpha

29th August 2016, 22:06

It's possible, Nitiss was fast in the Olsberg MSEs Fiesta. He had a win in Hell, and he's got 7 podiums. Third overall in '14.

Zeakiwi

30th August 2016, 05:12

Won't Nitiss in a Nissan sound better on the World RX commentary? http://nissan-infiniti.com/2017-nissan-pulsar-nismo/
Quite a few Nissan Leaf are sold in Norway so Solberg / Nitiss - Team Nissan Norway?

Alpha

30th August 2016, 05:27

I doubt it, Petter has very good relations with Bertel O Steen, which imports Mercedes, Citroën, Peugeot, Kia and Smart.

Fast Eddie WRC

30th August 2016, 13:39

Wilks is back !! :D

http://www.jrm-group.com/mini-rx/news/August-2016/guy-wilks-returns-to-jrm-racing-for-world-rx-programme

giu canbera

30th August 2016, 14:40

Nissan should join RallyCross with that Juke R. That`d be Iconic and amazing IMO

MrJan

30th August 2016, 16:38

Wilks is back !! :D

http://www.jrm-group.com/mini-rx/news/August-2016/guy-wilks-returns-to-jrm-racing-for-world-rx-programme

Pleased to see that, will be good to have a nice Brit in the pack to cheer for.

Slightly surprised that Nitiss has left part way through the season, will be interesting to see who they bring in to replace him and also what he brings to the party. After initially showing reasonable pace the Seat hasn't really developed much during the season, which is a shame as it looks great. I hope that Munnich stays with it and continues the team next year. Currently RX is in the dangerous position of becoming a race of 4 teams, which will see grids drop dramatically.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

30th August 2016, 19:15

Wilks is back !! :D

http://www.jrm-group.com/mini-rx/news/August-2016/guy-wilks-returns-to-jrm-racing-for-world-rx-programme
Told you.. ;)

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Zeakiwi

31st August 2016, 06:55

Not sure Mercedes likes their road cars being used in the dirt. Probably be able to develop a strong Merc engine though.

http://www.caradvice.com.au/407638/2017-kia-rio-spy-photos/ (Kia maybe if a better RX car than used by Galli can be developed)

http://jalopnik.com/the-subaru-wrx-concept-is-so-hot-it-will-melt-your-eyeb-461441647 (Solberg and Subaru were a good team)

Does Solberg still have M-Sports phone number to get some parts off them? For another Fiesta/ Focus team to join the grid

I would expect something to be worked out with PSA if World RX title #3 goes to Norway.

tolx

31st August 2016, 11:08

Nitiss is back with Olsbergs MSE for round in Spain.

Alpha

31st August 2016, 12:08

I need to change my predictions for Spain then..

MrJan

1st September 2016, 17:15

Does Solberg still have M-Sports phone number to get some parts off them? For another Fiesta/ Focus team to join the grid

I'd imagine it diverts to Ken Block now :D

MrJan

1st September 2016, 17:18

Nitiss is back with Olsbergs MSE for round in Spain.

I think that's a good choice for him. Even though OMSE aren't as quick this season (I don't think they've developed as well as the other top teams) I still think Nitiss can be a semi-finalist in the Fiesta, which seems to have been a rarity with the Ibiza.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

1st September 2016, 21:55

Timo Scheider to replaces Reinis in Latvia & Catalunya.

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pantealex

2nd September 2016, 07:52

Nitiss is back with Olsbergs MSE for round in Spain.

He should be fastest Fiesta driver.

electroliquid

3rd September 2016, 13:58

Naujokaitis won't start in France. Engine failure.

Zeakiwi

4th September 2016, 00:20

Lousada

4th September 2016, 15:30

Crash by Timur. Deeper tyre barriers required to lessen damage to cars? Should power be limited to 500hp? (There appears to be the increasing possibility to have a bad high energy crash on these rather basic circuits with limited safety features) The old ERX series had one or two more powerful cars that used to sprint ahead of the pack, now the power levels appear to be a lot closer making things more dangerous.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-Wz47vA6fc

What? Basic circuit with limited safety features? It is a guardrail with tyres, the safety feauture that is used on every racetrack on every part of the world! The only dangerous thing here is the completely atrocious driving standards as is common in WRX.

JUF

4th September 2016, 17:48

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

4th September 2016, 18:56

pantealex

4th September 2016, 19:29

and they all weight same, size does not matter.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

4th September 2016, 20:02

Prodrive, please give us the Golf RX...!!

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kiil

4th September 2016, 21:08

Prodrive, please give us the Golf RX...!!

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Prodrive is the kind of business that needs payment. If someone will pay, i am sure they will be happy to do a RX version of the Golf. Just like they did with the Mini.

Alpha

4th September 2016, 21:56

Still hoping for a Cayman RX

tomhlord

5th September 2016, 09:43

Prodrive is the kind of business that needs payment.

Like every business in the world.

MrJan

5th September 2016, 14:04

I´m very happy for Johan. Well deserved win! But I´m a little bit worried about the Hoonigan-Focus. For me it looks like a bulldozer in duels. It´s that big that cars like the Seat Ibiza or Peugeot 208 have no chance to prevail. The Focus will win every time...:(

I don't think that the Focus has any advantage at all in that regard. Just watch the Block/Loeb battle, it's Seb who punted first and made up a place. Block the got into the side of the Pug but didn't force it out the way even with quite a bit of contact. Sure Bakkerud tagged someone going into the joker (can't remember who, Hansen or possibly Loeb again) but I still don't think it made a difference being in a Focus, it was much the same as any other car going door to door.

It was all a bit of a banger racing festival yesterday though, the lack of grip meant they were all over the place and it probably went too far. The trouble is that there is a precedent, most of what we saw yesterday is no different to things we've seen all season so it doesn't stack up to start awarding penalties for it. What they need to do is similar to in the BTCC and announce that driving standards are going to be looked at closer.

Best thing about Loheac though was Solberg's charge in Q4(?) while doing 2 jokers, the way he went over the jump in the joker lap was pure style.

giu canbera

9th September 2016, 00:41

P.Solberg (2x WRX champ) and R.Larson (2014 EuroRX champ) together with support from Toyota would be a great team, eh?

giu canbera

9th September 2016, 05:46

welcome Jenson Button
http://www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a30719/jenson-button-2017-plans/

Alpha

9th September 2016, 05:57

Wow!

Fast Eddie WRC

9th September 2016, 09:34

welcome Jenson Button
http://www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a30719/jenson-button-2017-plans/

Bet its just the odd drive, maybe just GB.. I cant see Button in World RX permanently.

Fast Eddie WRC

9th September 2016, 09:43

Guy Wilks: 'Testing World RX Mini today.... Good day at the office. #progress' :)

MrJan

9th September 2016, 18:55

Button only alludes to doing some RX, doesn't mean it'll be in World RX. Even if it is then I'd be amazed if it's a full season, although I suspect IMG would drive a truck full of money to Monaco for him to secure the audience he'd bring.

Arnold Triyudho Wardono

9th September 2016, 19:33

welcome Jenson Button
http://www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a30719/jenson-button-2017-plans/
With Eklund's/Andretti's Beetle RX and his dad's livery please..?

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rallyfiend

9th September 2016, 19:34

Would he bring a big audience though? Or just the uk, maybe (they're on a pretty obscure channel)?

Has Loeb or Block brought a big audience?

Simmi

9th September 2016, 19:46

Would he bring a big audience though? Or just the uk, maybe (they're on a pretty obscure channel)?

Has Loeb or Block brought a big audience?

Certainly in the UK Button is more famous than the entire WRX field put together, multiplied by about 10. He's truly a household name so I think he'd be massive for the awareness of the sport. It doesn't just have to be TV views to be successful - but mainstream press coverage, new sponsors etc.

MrJan

9th September 2016, 20:56

Would he bring a big audience though? Or just the uk, maybe (they're on a pretty obscure channel)?

Has Loeb or Block brought a big audience?

Have Loeb or Block won the F1 World Championship? Both of those are well known, but rallying doesn't have anywhere near the audience of F1. While Loeb is known to motorsport fans and Block is known to petrolheads, Button is pretty much known by everyone (certainly in the UK). He'd be a huge boost to the series.

Fast Eddie WRC

9th September 2016, 23:10

Button really enjoyed RX when he tried it last year...

http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/article/8909/button-and-coulthard-sample-world

https://youtu.be/XSmTuV37Nvw

N.O.T

9th September 2016, 23:19

will he compete in the mens RX series ?

SubaruNorway

9th September 2016, 23:39

Have Loeb or Block won the F1 World Championship? Both of those are well known, but rallying doesn't have anywhere near the audience of F1. While Loeb is known to motorsport fans and Block is known to petrolheads, Button is pretty much known by everyone (certainly in the UK). He'd be a huge boost to the series.

Is that true anymore though? Loeb has got the same amount of followers on FB and Block 5 times more than Button.

Just a quick google search

F1 Tv views 2014 400 mill, WRC in 2015 750 mill
http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2016/01/17/how-do-you-explain-f1s-falling-popularity-since-2008/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-2934850/Formula-One-suffers-global-drop-TV-figures-five-cent-fans-turn-Britain-despite-Lewis-Hamilton-s-title-win.html

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/about-wrc/factbook/page/3638--3638--.html

Race weekend average spectator number seems to be about the same
http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2016/02/15/what-race-attendance-figures-tell-us-about-the-state-of-f1/

EightGear

10th September 2016, 01:35

Let's not kid ourselves here, Motorsport in the public eye is still made out of 95% F1. Facebook followers don't tell much, if anything at all.

Lousada

10th September 2016, 10:11

Let's not kid ourselves here, Motorsport in the public eye is still made out of 95% F1. Facebook followers don't tell much, if anything at all.

Well, your from The Netherlands where according to the media only two people have ever driven a car: Jos the Boss and his son ;) The rest of the world has a more balanced viewpoint of motorsports.

MrJan

10th September 2016, 12:22

Well, your from The Netherlands where according to the media only two people have ever driven a car: Jos the Boss and his son ;) The rest of the world has a more balanced viewpoint of motorsports.

No it doesn't, certainly not over here. Have a look at the BBC Sport website as a guide, the general 'motorsport' section is updated rarely and hardly ever includes any rallying unless Meeke has done well or something. However the F1 page usually has several stories a week, if not daily. If I talk to people at work who don't really like cars then they will still usually have an idea of the main protagonists and the teams, they wouldn't have a clue who Sebastian Ogier was and likely still think Subaru are in the championship.

In terms of viewing figures it's more even, but in terms of actual awareness of the sport F1 is miles ahead on a global scale compared to rallying or RX

Tofrallye29

10th September 2016, 18:06

You can find few photos from Lohéac on my flickr. Nice event great battles, drivers quite accessible but prices are increasing comparing last years and too many people, you can't move like on a rally. But i liked it
https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8281/29362095382_ddaba6da9a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LJCpZQ)
Rallycross de Lohéac 2016 - DS 3 - Solberg (https://flic.kr/p/LJCpZQ) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8322/29436298616_70d6876890_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LRbJ2W)
Side by side (https://flic.kr/p/LRbJ2W) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8422/29182144010_4e0ff4e3a3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LsJ7HY)
Rallycross de Lohéac 2016 - Daniel Elena (https://flic.kr/p/LsJ7HY) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8011/29470607345_dacfdc04bb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LUdyPK)
Rallycross de Lohéac 2016 - Jeanney (https://flic.kr/p/LUdyPK) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8897/28848743883_f60fc02f5e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KXgmtV)
I don't know him (https://flic.kr/p/KXgmtV) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8078/28848750543_e993ea30fb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KXgosK)
second corner (https://flic.kr/p/KXgosK) by Tof-H (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/), sur Flickr
https://www.flickr.com/photos/tofrallye29/albums/72157673348345176

BleAivano

10th September 2016, 20:14

Don't really know where to put this. Its folkrace (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folkrace)which is RX with cheaper cars.
live streamed folkrace here: http://www.dt.se/motor/folkrace-tv-har-ser-du-hela-finaldagen-pa-lagtavlingen-live
it starts at 10.00 Swedish time tomorrow, which is 09.00 UK time and 04.00 US east coast time.

N.O.T

10th September 2016, 20:22

Simmi

14th September 2016, 12:51

Gigi Galli and the Kia are entered for Latvia -

http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/article/9328/latvia-rx-entries-revealed
http://media.rallycrossrx.com/docs/Latvia%20RX_World%20RX%20Entry%20List.pdf

N.O.T

18th September 2016, 14:06

Ekstrom most likely will take the championship lead after barcelona, he managed to get into the final while Solberg did not, Loeb crashed.

Rallyper

18th September 2016, 17:49

Once again - Ekström Swedens best overall motorsport four wheel driver ever!

MrJan

19th September 2016, 09:29

Solberg seemed off the pace all weekend really.

It's far too early to call the championship though, I think that Latvia and Argentina will be happier hunting grounds for the DS3.

Alpha

19th September 2016, 10:33

MrJan

19th September 2016, 13:27

I don't think he does well when there are really tight corners, Hockenheim was the same for him in as much as he struggled to match his normal pace.

BleAivano

19th September 2016, 17:54

Kristofferson penalized for his overtake of Timur Timerzjanov in the final heat which was considered to rough by the stewards.
Kristoffersson had therefore been moved to last place in the final. http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/kristoffersson-diskad-efter-svartflagg

Sulland

19th September 2016, 19:18

Yeah, he seemed really off the pace. He didn't have any explanations for it either which is either troubling, or a sign that he has a plan he doesn't want t talk about in public.

Let's hope it's the latter.

On norwegian TV they said that Petter had new software, to get more grunt on lower revs, or the Barcelona track.
That might have worked, but it seemed he lost too much at top speed, and was overtaken several times on the "straight".

I guess he will change back.

Alpha

19th September 2016, 19:27

He didn't seem fast out of the hairpin either, quite the opposite actually so whatever that was didn't work..

MrJan

19th September 2016, 20:29

He didn't seem fast out of the hairpin either, quite the opposite actually so whatever that was didn't work..

I thought that, looked to me that he was struggling for traction...but then most people seemed be be slow there.

On another note Andrea Dovizioso has been testing with EKS today, looked reasonably rapid

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKisslwAfo_/

BleAivano

21st September 2016, 19:51

Alpha

21st September 2016, 20:32

Damn that sucks. In many ways. If Petter narrowly wins and its down to this, that will piss him off. Hollow victory.

AndyRAC

21st September 2016, 21:09

Just shows how important a 'Domestic' series is to the big bosses in Audi.....

Fast Eddie WRC

21st September 2016, 21:24

Just shows how important a 'Domestic' series is to the big bosses in Audi.....

Or how insignificant WorldRX really is ... :(

giu canbera

22nd September 2016, 03:00

Back in LyddenHill, Ekstrom and Petter were joking about this situation. (About Ekstrom having DTM and RX on the same day)... around 4:30
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Axo6btC-g8
Its about that right? The accents are just.. SCANDINAVIANS haha

Simmi

22nd September 2016, 08:14

No Mattias Ekström at Estering RX then. If he would be there surely they wouldn't need to do a Facebook presentation. https://www.instagram.com/p/BKn8ZAEgkSk/
I assume this means that the Audi bosses likely have decided that Ekström is needed in the DTM race that weekend. They have the chance of getting double champions.
Both the DTM driver title and the World RallyX title but seems to have decided to cede the latter to Petter Solberg.

I don't know. If you know everyone (fans and fellow competitors) are hanging on the decision then why not make a big thing of it? Engineer a bit of drama. I'm expecting Eki to race at Estering. He's been a great servant to Audi over the years.

Either way, there's no point crying about it yet until we know the decision.

macebig

22nd September 2016, 15:23

http://www.crash.net/dtm/news/233811/1/audi-gives-ekstrom-green-light-for-world-rx-rast-in.html
Ekstrom to skip DTM finale,will compete in World RX at Estering.

Fast Eddie WRC

22nd September 2016, 16:00

http://www.crash.net/dtm/news/233811/1/audi-gives-ekstrom-green-light-for-world-rx-rast-in.html
Ekstrom to skip DTM finale,will compete in World RX at Estering.

I should think so too.. there's an FIA World Championship to be won ! :)

MrJan

22nd September 2016, 17:51

I don't know. If you know everyone (fans and fellow competitors) are hanging on the decision then why not make a big thing of it? Engineer a bit of drama. I'm expecting Eki to race at Estering. He's been a great servant to Audi over the years.

Called it! Well done.

Must say that I thought the same thing, seemed to me that they wouldn't make such a song and dance about announcing the drivers, unless it was either Ekstrom or a really, really big name. Also they clearly are spending a lot of money on World RX, why put that effort in to throw it away when you have a sniff of the championship?

giu canbera

22nd September 2016, 23:25

Toshi Arai will race for Subaru at the RedBull Global RallyCross Los Angeles doubleheader.
Subaru replaced Sverre Isachsen and Bucky Lasek for the 2 last rounds of the championship (Seattle and L.A.) for Multi Rally America champ David Higgins and Rally driver Chris Atko, hoping to have more information about the car, that is on development for 2017. Atko and Higgins, on their first race, already scored the best finish positions for SUbaru in this year's championship.
The japanese team will run a 3rd car in LA for Toshi Arai.

pantealex

23rd September 2016, 08:31

Simmi

23rd September 2016, 09:02

I heard exactly opposite, NO DTM for Ekström, YES to RX Estering.

BleAivano's post was the equivalent of a Rallycross false start ;)

BleAivano

23rd September 2016, 09:31

I heard exactly opposite, NO DTM for Ekström, YES to RX Estering.

Well sure that is confirmed now. But my post was written before the announcement. However I still "stick to my guns" though.
Why have a FB "presentation" when there is nothing new to present? They build it up and then it just turns out to be a bug "meh". ;)
Audi bosses have also previously said that DTM is the top priority so I decided to prepare for the worst.

Obviously I am pleased that Matthias are allowed to fight for the title in WRX.

jbmarcus21

24th September 2016, 13:36

South of Africa enters to WorldRX 2017 => http://bit.ly/2cZdubR

JUF

24th September 2016, 14:50

I´m not sure what to think about that. On the one hand South Africa is a nice country and the track seems to be nice as well. On the other hand there is no "rallycross culture" in Africa. So there will be just the World RX regulars and no one else. And I fear that the new round could replace a traditional one....:( Montalegre, Buxtehude...??? Does anybody knows which events have no contract for next year yet? I wouldn´t miss Canada and Argentina to be honest...;)

MrJan

25th September 2016, 14:48

And I fear that the new round could replace a traditional one....:( Montalegre, Buxtehude...??? Does anybody knows which events have no contract for next year yet? I wouldn´t miss Canada and Argentina to be honest...;)

That's my worry too. Canada and Argentina will most likely stay as add to the 'world' status by being different continents. I'd like to see one of the part-time courses being given the boot, like Hockenheim or Barcelona. Hockenheim makes most sense as there is already another round in Germany. However my worry is that they'll want to continue riding on the coat tails of the DTM and will drop Estering instead :(

AndyRAC

25th September 2016, 15:40

I think the problem is its not really a 'World' sport - yet they've been given a World Championship. In all honesty its basically a North European/ Scandinavian sport. Maybe they should accept that, and just run as either a European series, or as a World Cup series. Go to countries were the sport is based. But what promoter would do that?

Moriarty

26th September 2016, 14:15

LatviaRX timetable

Saturday, October 1
08:00 Doors open to public
09:00 Open practice All classes
12:00 RX Qualifying 1
14:00 Monster Energy Rig Riot
14:30 RX Qualifying 2
16:00 RX Qualifying 3 TouringCar and RX Lites
17:30 Autograph session in Fanzone
18:00 World RX Press Conference

Sunday, October 2
08:00 Doors open to public
08:30 WRX Warm Up
09:30 WRX Qualifying 3
RX Lites & TouringCar Qualifying 4
11:45 WRX Qualifying 4
12:45 RX Lites Semi Finals
13:00 Monster Energy Rig Riot
14:00 TouringCar Semi Finals
EuroRX Supercar Semi Final
TouringCar Final
14:45 RX Lites Final
15:00 WRX Supercar Semi Finals
EuroRX Supercar Final
WRX Supercar Final
15:50 WRX Podium Presentation
16:00 Track closed

Saturday 12:00 & 14:30 is mixed qualifying for all classes, isn't it?

Fast Eddie WRC

1st October 2016, 15:03

‏@JRM_WorldRX
Ladies and gentlemen, your Q2 race winner @GuyWilks! Great result @LatviaRX :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ctrw_W-WEAAQxPa.jpg

BleAivano

1st October 2016, 15:46

Apparently Petter have been black flagged (DSQ) in Q2 for hitting Mattias Ekström and Ekström received a warning.
http://media.imgukaa3.dyndns.info/results/SC_H2_results_LVA_2016.pdf

Current results: http://www.fiaworldrallycross.com/result/lva/2016 ME is 8th on 70 points, Solberg is second to last with 39 points.

KKSF

1st October 2016, 19:04

Cause of P.Solberg Q2 disqualification:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bnehAlAzbQ

Alpha

1st October 2016, 19:21

That's bullshit.

Simmi

1st October 2016, 19:22

Cause of P.Solberg Q2 disqualification:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bnehAlAzbQ

Pretty sad when a move that would be praised in BTCC gets you DQ'd in RallyCross.

BleAivano

1st October 2016, 21:30

That's bullshit.

I am very biased of course but it is not a clean pass. If you pause it at 11 seconds you can see that Petter just drives straight into the side of Ekström's car.
Ekström have already closed to the door when Petter attempts to pass. The result is that Petter slams into the side of Ekström. Petter was too late and too desperate.
Sure a little contact should be ok but when a driver is coming from behind he/she should not be allowed to drive straight into the car(s) in front.

This is RX, not the demolition derby.

Alpha

1st October 2016, 21:46

Eriksson wasn't able to hold his line and ran wide on the exit. Petter could have waited another 0,5 second and passed more cleanly but at 100kph that's hard to do. I've seen a LOT worse in RX without penalties. Like just about every time Timur is near Petter.

Fast Eddie WRC

1st October 2016, 21:51

Cause of P.Solberg Q2 disqualification:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bnehAlAzbQ

Totally ridiculous.

JUF

2nd October 2016, 05:21

Good morning from Riga! I can't add anything to the Solberg/Ekström incident, but I want to say that yesterday was pretty enjoyable as a spectator. The organisers did a good job as far as I can junge that. Now it's raining, but it should stop during the day. Finals will be dry :).

tolx

2nd October 2016, 07:16

We need wet finals, to make it more interesting.
But still, glad you like the track.

skarderud

2nd October 2016, 07:26

Fast Eddie WRC

2nd October 2016, 10:13

Small off for Petter, screen steamed up badly, lost a lot of time, could be critical. (L3 joker & off) https://t.co/XBkuoJBwKS

Fast Eddie WRC

2nd October 2016, 10:16

Wilks:
Really solid run in Q3- a race win and 6th o/a .
We had a BIG slide and lost time so just need a solid clean run now in Q4!
#ItsWet https://t.co/lHKTS2GYg9

tolx

2nd October 2016, 11:15

Those wet runs were quite thrilling, especially team hansen antics in q3. Now waiting for touring car finals.

mohit

2nd October 2016, 13:33

wrong decision by Stewart's.

Gutted

Fast Eddie WRC

2nd October 2016, 14:03

Win at last for the legend Mon. Loeb ! :)

BleAivano

2nd October 2016, 14:11

To add something to the ekström/solberg battle. They fighted all heat, ekström passed Solberg the same way also. Maybe little harder hit the last one,
but its RX, not pussyracing. DQ is to hard judgement. I can be in the jury at this, i would give a warning to Solberg. DQ if it happened again.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

It's RX not demolition derby. I often feel that drivers can drive/crash into other without any consequences. RX would do itself a big favour if
the rules for contact became a little stricter. More tight racing but less demolition derby and less carnage in the first corner.

A little side to side contact during the straight, fine, but not driving into the side or rear of another car.

Anyway, we knew this day would come eventually and today it did. Sebastien Loeb took his first WRX victory.

N.O.T

2nd October 2016, 14:17

How many different forms of motorsport has Loeb won ? The greatest motorsport personality ever existed !!!!

Crazy...

BleAivano

2nd October 2016, 14:30

How many different forms of motorsport has Loeb won ? The greatest motorsport personality ever existed !!!!

Crazy...

4 different. Rally (WRC), touring car(WTCC), FIA GT, RX and Race of champions

Ekström have won Toring car (STCC +DTM), RX + ROC.

Also Leob just won his first WRX final but the official WRX website still doesn't even mention it in the news section.

macebig

2nd October 2016, 15:00

Ekstrom has also won the Group N of the Swedish Rally in 2004.

N.O.T

2nd October 2016, 15:02

Ekstrom has also won the Group N of the Swedish Rally in 2004.

yes but nobody cares about dog competitions.

Only the top categories matter.

EightGear

2nd October 2016, 15:03

4 different. Rally (WRC), touring car(WTCC), FIA GT, RX and Race of champions

Ekström have won Toring car (STCC +DTM), RX + ROC.

Also Leob just won his first WRX final but the official WRX website still doesn't even mention it in the news section.
+ Pikes Peak and Porsche Cup races

N.O.T

2nd October 2016, 15:04

Is he even human ? next stop Dakar i guess, only needs to find an experienced co-driver for that.

BigWorm

2nd October 2016, 17:27

Is he even human ? next stop Dakar i guess, only needs to find an experienced co-driver for that.

Didn't Elena co-drive for him in recent endurance rallies?

N.O.T

2nd October 2016, 17:29

Didn't Elena co-drive for him in recent endurance rallies?

yes

BleAivano

2nd October 2016, 20:16

Didn't Elena co-drive for him in recent endurance rallies?

Daniel is excelelnt when it comes to conventional rallies but he does lack experience from off road rallies like Dakar.

In Dakar it is more about strategy and choice of directions rather then super accurate timing and reading of pace notes.