Rally Sweden 2015

[jbmarcus21]

Rally Sweden 2015 road program http://planetemarcus.com/saison-wrc/wrc-rallye-suede-2015/

[dodge33cymru]

Do we know which bit of Finnskogen has been cut? Was my favourite stage to be at last year.

Edit: Rally Guide 1 and appendices: http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlande/dokument/

[SubaruNorway]

Do we know which bit of Finnskogen has been cut? Was my favourite stage to be at last year.

Edit: Rally Guide 1 and appendices: http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlande/dokument/

A bit hard to tell exactly what roads they are using from that map, but it says it's in revers and some of that in the bottom i think is more tricky and narrow than last year, the straight piece going up to the last right junction could be the access road to the middle of the stage used last year going alongside the stage, if so that could be quite nice.

20 sec is from that middle section.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoKjLyWaRKg

[SubaruNorway]

Rally Sweden organizer having difficulties getting it all together since the rally has to be 2 1/2 days, they wanted to run 4 days.
Running on dispensations since the SS Km only is 21 % not the 25% as it should be.

So will all rallies be in this format next year then?
I big shame as it restricts the organizers too much, Finland this year was sooo good!

I think it's a waste of the spectators time, why not run a full sunday?

http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/sa-blir-svenska-rallyt-2015

[mArtini racing]

Hello, I think I am going to Rally Sweden this year for the first time.

There are some questions that I didn't found answer;

One is the aproximate cost (€ or SEK) for parking at the stages.
And then, is there so much queeing for parking and walk to the stage? How much far from the stage could I park my car?

Thanks in advance for your answers.

[sindroms]

Hello, I think I am going to Rally Sweden this year for the first time.

And then, is there so much queeing for parking and walk to the stage? How much far from the stage could I park my car?

Thanks in advance for your answers.

As from my 2008 experience it depends on is there field parking or just road side parking. I don't rember now was it shown in Rally Magazine or not (like it was in NORF) Another tip - forget about small access roads wich are not shown in "official map", they will not be cleaned.

[pantealex]

for my experience (5 times in WRC Sweden/Norway)

You must walk between 50m---1km
Parking is 50sek or 5€

[Franky]

for my experience (5 times in WRC Sweden/Norway)

You must walk between 50m---1km
Parking is 50sek or 5€

No offense to the Swedish and Finnish organizers, but that parking fee is nearly as good as robbery. Especially for road side parking.

[mArtini racing]

Thanks to everybody for the answers!!

[Roy]

Entry list is online, still entries comming in...

Brynildsen drives for Drive Dmack

http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

[Hartusvuori]

No offense to the Swedish and Finnish organizers, but that parking fee is nearly as good as robbery. Especially for road side parking.

I've explained this earlier too, but consider those parking fees more as road tolls than service fees. Those are in many cases for private roads, owned by a handful of people who pay for maintaining those roads. When all of a sudden in many cases dozens or even hundreds of cars storm in, they leave a mark and in my sense of justice, it should be payed by the spectators (or by the organizers and then eventually by the spectators). So if there wouldn't be a parking fee, it'd be a robbery in my opinion.

[Franky]

I've explained this earlier too, but consider those parking fees more as road tolls than service fees. Those are in many cases for private roads, owned by a handful of people who pay for maintaining those roads. When all of a sudden in many cases dozens or even hundreds of cars storm in, they leave a mark and in my sense of justice, it should be payed by the spectators (or by the organizers and then eventually by the spectators). So if there wouldn't be a parking fee, it'd be a robbery in my opinion.

I'm not against parking fee. I think the fee they ask for roadside parking is too high, where the damage to the road is minimal. With field parking I've got no problems.

Let's say an average road side parking area is 1500 m. Average car length 5m and extra 2m for manuevering, making it 7m per car. 214 cars fit onto a 1500m strip. Let's say the stage is run twice and 60% of the cars leave and equal amount replaces them. 342 cars would pay a fee of 5 Euros, generating revenue of 1710 Euros.

[Rallyper]

Many times the fees gets right into a local association of any kind, which gives them a well longed-for sum of money to spend on youth or equippment which they else never could afford. That happens in Finland on NORF and I know it is the way it happens in Sweden as well. So then what is 5 Euros even if have to park a few times...?

[OnlyRally]

5€ is nothing! Pay and be happy!

[N.O.T]

I find the lack of panic about the snow from the less gifted (mentally) forum members disturbing.... what happed a glacier moved to Sweden ?

[tommeke_B]

I find the lack of panic about the snow from the less gifted (mentally) forum members disturbing.... what happed a glacier moved to Sweden ?

Please don't wake them...

[stefanvv]

What? There is no snow in Sweden, OMG. No worries we just passed the end of the world in the end of 2012, and there is the global warming too, ai-ai-ai...

[Fly_Half]

We were a bit surprised at having to pay for parking last year, on top of the Rally Pass it does add up when paying at every car park when you're on a budget. Regardless of the 'damage' to the roads, which is probably minimal, it does amount to daylight robbery from a visitor's point of view.

[AndyRAC]

Rally Sweden organizer having difficulties getting it all together since the rally has to be 2 1/2 days, they wanted to run 4 days.
Running on dispensations since the SS Km only is 21 % not the 25% as it should be.

So will all rallies be in this format next year then?
I big shame as it restricts the organizers too much, Finland this year was sooo good!

I think it's a waste of the spectators time, why not run a full sunday?

http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/sa-blir-svenska-rallyt-2015

WRC events are far too restrictive. Let them run 4 days. What's the problem? Run 2 days, why not?

[bluuford]

5€ is nothing! Pay and be happy!
And you were wondering why rally is more popular in Estonia? Get real, roadside parking and asking 5 eur for it is clear robbery. Damage to the road, especially during the winter, is zero. Noone prohibits you to organize some catering or selling some nice products on your own land during the rally and collect some money for whatever organization. It is just lack of will. I really enjoyed non-official catering points in Rally Estonia:-) You just need to work more but people are happy to pay much more as well. It gives a special flavor to your day.

[Tom206wrc]

Will Karl Kruuda be in Sweden :confused:

[J.Lindstroem]

I find the lack of panic about the snow from the less gifted (mentally) forum members disturbing.... what happed a glacier moved to Sweden ?

There is no snow in sweden atm. Probably better just cancel the whole shit.

[skarderud]

Snow in hagfors tuesday, then +degrees some day and snow again around weekend.

[janvanvurpa]

There is no snow in sweden atm. Probably better just cancel the whole shit.


With all the taxes you pay you would think djävlarna i regeringen would do something about it!
Dävla Sossarna
Thanks Löfven! grrrrrr.

[EstWRC]

Will Karl Kruuda be in Sweden :confused:

Just a moment ago in Estonian sports news it was said that the DS R5 is ready from Printsport and they start with testing next week and Sweden will likely be the first rally.

[OldF]

Juho Hänninen with DS3 WRC in Sweden. :)

http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

[Sulland]

Snowmap for Sweden
http://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/snodjup#

[samWRC]

So only 49 entries on the list. Is that the final number or is there still some names missing?

[EightGear]

Entries haven't closed yet, have they?

[tolis]

I think today they closed.

[rage82]

Yes the entries closed today so it must be the final list.

[skarderud]

I think wrc2 will be more exiting than wrc this time. But not too bad in wrc, just really good in wrc2!

[PLuto]

I think wrc2 will be more exiting than wrc this time. But not too bad in wrc, just really good in wrc2!

Nothing new, especially on events like Sweden or Finland...

[RICARDO75]

Juho Hänninen wih Citroën DS3 WRC

https://twitter.com/RallySweden/status/554717094928187392?s=03

[Simmi]

Given that I'm going I was hoping for more entries. But what the list lacks in numbers it makes up for in quality I think.

Coupled with the historic I'm happy enough with that. Hanninen is a nice surprise too.

[dodge33cymru]

Yeah, it's great news that the historic are running Friday this year too, was a bit of a gap last year on the Norwegian stages (although great opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery).

Slightly disappointed that the two Norwegian crews that ran Fiesta R5s in Wales last year aren't on the list, they seemed to be having a whale of a time and were the friendliest crews I ever met.

Quality over quantity seems to be the theme to the list, only a slight pity that the third works Citroen won't be in use (assuming Hanninen's isn't).

[skarderud]

Try and frustøl is to really nice guys with lots of humor. I think they dont rent those R5's anymore, they said so last year. I think they eighter shows up in a rwd in national rounds, or european RX this season.

[jbmarcus21]

Google Earth Map 2015 is online http://bit.ly/1D0TThn

[jbmarcus21]

Entrylist Rally Sweden is out http://bit.ly/1D0TThn

[PLuto]

Entrylist Rally Sweden is out http://bit.ly/1D0TThn

Wrong link.

[Aquagen]

Official Entry list:
http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

[PLuto]

Official Entry list:
http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

This is:

a) list of entries (only list of received entries, not seeded)
b) it is still not official (not confirmed by FIA)

[Aquagen]

OK, Pluto, sorry for my wrong formulation :)

[Tom206wrc]

Wasn't also Craig Breen expected in Sweden among the WRC2 :confused:

[[WRCRR]]

Wasn't also Craig Breen expected in Sweden among the WRC2 :confused:

No his program is MC, P, PL, FIN, F, E, GB.

[ELPE]

We will visit the Swedish Rally and SS Vargåsen. Instead of going straight ahead to Collins Crest we are thinking about going to the left when we arrive at the SS. Is there anyone who has been there, it looks to be about 1,5 km to the Dunderängen. Is it a good place to see the cars?

[Rallyper]

You could also go to the right about 1,5 K. Very good place with jump and bends right after.

[ELPE]

You could also go to the right about 1,5 K. Very good place with jump and bends right after.

Yes, we know about this place. We were standing there both 2013 and 2014. But its nice to se another place this year.

[Evian]

Last weekend a local rally called Finnskogsvalsen was driven with HQ in Torsby.
They used stages from previous years of Rally Sweden (Viggen, Bjälverud) and a few drivers took this rally as a test (Pontus Tidemand, Mattias Adielsson, Petter Solberg (with Oliver Solberg)).

Regarding the conditions it can always be more ice on the road, higher snowbanks etc etc but I think it looks very promising for Rally Sweden.

Check out our gallery - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.707319039365272.1073741865.498772900219888&type=1&l=5e7a6ebc3e

[A FONDO]

Would you share a clip or two, especially with the Volvos?

[hari]

Still no official entry list? Should have been published already last Friday.
Publication of entry list with allocated competition numbers (after FIA approval): Friday 16 January 2015

[shag1636]

How long are the stage roads closed after the last car is thru? Is it reasonable to expect to be able to view more than one stage in a day? For instance, I would like to see a stage and also watch the work in the service park. Is that possible?

[hari]

Finally the official entry list:
http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Official-Entry-List-2015.pdf

50 cars total: 17 x WRC, 15 x R5, 4 x S2000 1.6T, 2 x S2000,1 x S1600, 8 x Production, 2 x R2, 1 x R3

very nice

[tommeke_B]

How long are the stage roads closed after the last car is thru? Is it reasonable to expect to be able to view more than one stage in a day? For instance, I would like to see a stage and also watch the work in the service park. Is that possible?

You can see more than one stage a day for sure. I don't know how long the roads of stages remain closed, but it's not important. All stages have several acces-roads where you can park and go and watch the stage. It's possible to see more than one stage per day for sure. For example on friday you can go to the first stage, watch only WRC cars, go to the last stage of the loop (Kirkenaer), watch the whole field, watch the second pass of the stage (only WRC) and then go to Torsby 2 of the day for all cars. Since all drivers have to do the superstage in Karlstad, there is plenty of time to go to service when coming from SS Torsby 2. On saturday it's a bit more difficult to see 4 stages, but for sure not impossible. Traffic in Sweden isn't slow at all, thanks to proper winter tyres. ;)

[dodge33cymru]

Yeah, I'd never driven in winter in Sweden/Norway until last year and had no problem getting from Torsby to Finnskogen after the WRC cars passed, and then back the other way.

That said, it's worth sticking around for the historics; great fun to watch in those conditions.

Thoroughly recommend the area of Finnskogen they're running this year by the way, really nice atmosphere there last year.

Entries are seeded by the way, no last-minute surprises:

WRC:
http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

Historic:
http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda-till-rally-sweden-historic/

[Micke_VOC]

Last weekend a local rally called Finnskogsvalsen was driven with HQ in Torsby.
They used stages from previous years of Rally Sweden (Viggen, Bjälverud) and a few drivers took this rally as a test (Pontus Tidemand, Mattias Adielsson, Petter Solberg (with Oliver Solberg)).

Regarding the conditions it can always be more ice on the road, higher snowbanks etc etc but I think it looks very promising for Rally Sweden.

Check out our gallery - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.707319039365272.1073741865.498772900219888&type=1&l=5e7a6ebc3e

I was driving that rally, the roads was perfect !
Nice icy conditions, i think that i never have been rallying on a better surface.
90 % of the stages was only ice.

Snowing now and from last weekend we already got 15 cm more of snow.

Edit// This is me in the gallery from Evian =)
https://www.facebook.com/rallyfoto.se/photos/a.707319039365272.1073741865.498772900219888/707319722698537/?type=3&theater

[Simmi]

Slightly random question but can anyone recommend some good footwear for the rally?

[tommeke_B]

Slightly random question but can anyone recommend some good footwear for the rally?

Some good waterproof (gore-tex) walking/hiking-shoes will do it, I used mine (Lowa) in some snow-events (including Sweden 2 years ago) and didn't have problems. It's probably best to grease them with the stuff you can usually buy in the same store as your shoes. I also have some "toe-warmers" which help a bit, if I get cold feet the worst are my toes. :p Snowboots are fine too but you have little grip for walking imo. Most important is that they're warm and waterproof, you can't afford to get wet feet in those conditions.

[dodge33cymru]

Waterproof is more important than insulated, there are plenty of other ways to warm up but not if you get wet. If you have any troubles though, the locals with fires are very kind.

[Rallyper]

Bring a 10 cm frigolite to stand on. (Swenglish way of saying...)

[Slipzen]

The Powerboot, I believe is very good (varm). http://www.polyver-boots.com/44-winter-winter-boot.html

[sindroms]

Best additional way to keep foots warm - to cut down some small spruce or pine tree brunches, make some kind carpet an stand on it :)

[sindroms]

Double post.

[vino_93]

Does anyone have informations about Hänninen's DS3 WRC, and his program ? Only Sweden ? SWE + FIN ? More european rounds ?

[shag1636]

You can see more than one stage a day for sure. I don't know how long the roads of stages remain closed, but it's not important. All stages have several acces-roads where you can park and go and watch the stage. It's possible to see more than one stage per day for sure. For example on friday you can go to the first stage, watch only WRC cars, go to the last stage of the loop (Kirkenaer), watch the whole field, watch the second pass of the stage (only WRC) and then go to Torsby 2 of the day for all cars. Since all drivers have to do the superstage in Karlstad, there is plenty of time to go to service when coming from SS Torsby 2. On saturday it's a bit more difficult to see 4 stages, but for sure not impossible. Traffic in Sweden isn't slow at all, thanks to proper winter tyres. ;)

Thanks. This will be our first forum, first rally, and first time in Sweden, so my head is spinning with questions about what to expect. I had hoped that there would be multiple accesses to the rally routes, and so I am happy to hear from you that this is the case. We decided to come a day early to Karlstad, so we will be renting a car at Arlanda and will have Tuesday free to reccy one or two of the stages and maybe see a part of the shakedown. Other than Vargasen, can you recommend the best stages for viewing, preferably those closest to Karlstad? It looks like there are several stages either side of the Saturday service (a high priority for us) which we might be able to see before or after (or both) taking in the service. Finally (whew!), are the locations of and access to the various parking areas on the stages shown anywhere? Maybe on line? Thanks for your help and your patience for a couple of complete newbies. Cheers.

[dimviii]

Seb Marshall ‏@sebmarshall 3 ώρεςΠριν από 3 ώρες Προβολή μετάφρασης
Pleased to say I’ll be reporting for #WRCLive at the stage ends on @OfficialWRC @RallySweden.

[makinen_fan]

He should be better in the job than Gabin Moreau who struggled with the language.
I personally miss George Donaldson, he added a lot of value to the radio reports, but it's unlikely they will have him back

[Francis44]

He should be better in the job than Gabin Moreau who struggled with the language.
I personally miss George Donaldson, he added a lot of value to the radio reports, but it's unlikely they will have him back

According to Colin Clark, George is working on the oil industry now.

[AL14]

He should be better in the job than Gabin Moreau who struggled with the language.
I personally miss George Donaldson, he added a lot of value to the radio reports, but it's unlikely they will have him back
Moreau is a nice person but yes, it has not been a good idea to give him that microphone

[makinen_fan]

According to Colin Clark, George is working on the oil industry now.

I know, that why I said it's unlikely to come back

[Luijbregts]

Thanks. This will be our first forum, first rally, and first time in Sweden, so my head is spinning with questions about what to expect. I had hoped that there would be multiple accesses to the rally routes, and so I am happy to hear from you that this is the case. We decided to come a day early to Karlstad, so we will be renting a car at Arlanda and will have Tuesday free to reccy one or two of the stages and maybe see a part of the shakedown. Other than Vargasen, can you recommend the best stages for viewing, preferably those closest to Karlstad? It looks like there are several stages either side of the Saturday service (a high priority for us) which we might be able to see before or after (or both) taking in the service. Finally (whew!), are the locations of and access to the various parking areas on the stages shown anywhere? Maybe on line? Thanks for your help and your patience for a couple of complete newbies. Cheers.

Saturday Fredriksberg big jump / Go right to parking place SEK 50 after finish / Walk about 1k / when you get to the stage turn right / about 5-600 meter you get to this jump / It is the 3rd jump from when you get on the stage / a lot of flags will be there hanging over the stage / Great atmosphere and fireworks :-) I have done this one every year and you will get goosebumps with this 180 km/ph jump: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39eTgprd0Nc

[EstWRC]

Tänak will also be doing behind the scenes videos in sweden, you can write him what you want to see

https://twitter.com/OttTanak/status/560152728065048576
https://www.facebook.com/otttanakfanpage

[Sulland]

PET for Sweden from Larsen/Eriksen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGliwQS7EiM

Nice filming, both outboard and inboard!

[AL14]

14 days to rally sweden. Tidemand nice actor :) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJyj1ygwSNI

[AL14]

It may be to early to say this but I think this rally will show us if Latvala could seriously challenge Ogier for the title. He will have to push and stay on the road, (not to choose between one of them as he did in Monte-Carlo). Lot of people are saying he will win on Twitter and other forum. As a Latvala fan I really hope he will succeed but Ogier showed a better pace than him on snow in 2013 and even in 2014 (until he went off the road).
Do you think JML could win this year after a straight fight without dramas?
Another one who I'm looking forward is Tanak, I think he will impress us if he stays on the road. Let's see.

[A FONDO]

Do you think JML could win this year after a straight fight without dramas?
Yes, he could. About the rest - isn't Sweden with its snowbanks the best place to push the limits? :)

[ruesluporp]

Yes, he could. About the rest - isn't Sweden with its snowbanks the best place to push the limits? :)

I hope there will be enough snowbanks for a big fight!

[Zeakiwi]

If Ogier and Latvala have trouble, Mikkelsen might be on the top of the podium this time.

[Rallyper]

Tanak could as well be the man, but in my opinion Mads Ostberg is the one who could win RS.

[micromoose]

Hi,
First time here.
Been to many wrc events over the years but this will be my first Sweden. The website isn't clear whether you NEED to buy tickets for the stages. I realise after reading this thread that parking is extra.
Can anyone clear this up and have I left it too late to order online?
Thanks,

[Rallyper]

Hi,
First time here.
Been to many wrc events over the years but this will be my first Sweden. The website isn't clear whether you NEED to buy tickets for the stages. I realise after reading this thread that parking is extra.
Can anyone clear this up and have I left it too late to order online?
Thanks,

It depends on where you live. I should absolutely buy the Magazine on the website. You might get some time at home reading and planning.
Rally-pass can be bought in the area or you´ll have to pay on every single stage, but that´s more expensive of course.

[micromoose]

Thanks Rallyper.

I'm coming from the UK so not sure if I've got time to order online. So if I understand correctly, I need tickets to access the SS, correct?

In the UK the wrc is a ticket event but I generally go to Monte, Portugal or Spain all of which are free to spectate.

[Rallyper]

Yes, tickets to access is needed. Can be bought on special servicestations (I guess OKQ8). Magazine i published tomorrow so I´ll be back with more information asap.

[micromoose]

Thanks again Rallyper. Tickets booked!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Plenty snow for the rally... :)

Colin's Crest...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B8mtxETCEAAMoC4.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B8mtx60CYAIJnGJ.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rally Sweden with RX on Ice & Marcus !

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=792821157477446

http://www.rallysweden.com/2015/01/marcus-gronholm-to-rally-sweden/

[ruesluporp]

If you plan to go to Sweden, take a look at that: https://app.box.com/s/zfy8lb3mzwl3tcuz2hayndduj5i0qnkf

[Rallyper]

A very smart thing appeared to me when I looked in the RS Magzine today.

VW have placed fan zones on certain stages where you can join by showing your VW car-key. Free soup bread, cofee and parking (for first 50 arriving). Very good initiative!

[danon]

http://s28.postimg.org/jzhblpml9/sw15.jpg

[satnav]

A very smart thing appeared to me when I looked in the RS Magzine today.

VW have placed fan zones on certain stages where you can join by showing your VW car-key. Free soup bread, cofee and parking (for first 50 arriving). Very good initiative!

Good idea , just need to make sure your hire car is a VW then.....

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Conditions at SS Röjden today... Snow banks up to 1 meter high :)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B8w-vFdIEAEeXhn.jpg

[tommeke_B]

Great! Really looking forward to going to Sweden for the 2nd time. Arriving on thursday so no shakedown for me. Anyone who has tips for some nice places on the stages? They are always welcome.. ;) For Torsby I heard the last section before the finish is nice. For Vargasen I'll try to find some spots on the part before Colin's Crest. Anyone who knows if the lake will be open for cars again, like a few years ago?

[micromoose]

If you plan to go to Sweden, take a look at that: https://app.box.com/s/zfy8lb3mzwl3tcuz2hayndduj5i0qnkf

What a star, thanks for the link ruesluporp.

[EstWRC]

Tänak's car ready somewhere in sweden

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B82y1r1CAAMEqOh.jpg

[Criterium]

Start your recce on RallyVista:
http://i38.servimg.com/u/f38/15/38/23/21/pressw10.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/view/15382321/1137)

http://www.interactiveinfluence.com/techali/rallyvista/

[danon]

http://s2.postimg.org/8lcvgtlll/ET_f.jpg

[KKS]

Tomi Tuominen ‏@T_Tuominen (https://twitter.com/T_Tuominen) 24m24 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/T_Tuominen/status/562551948067753984) No woman, no cry - no money, no car. No Rally Sweden for us. But at least my father just won historic class last weekend in Finland. #rally (https://twitter.com/hashtag/rally?src=hash)

sad :(

[KKS]

And don't listen fake twitter account of Protasov. They change a car and team for Rally Sweden, Fiesta WRC by M-Sport. FIA approved car and team change yesterday

[RICARDO75]

Juho Hänninen wont start :( in Sweden. Financial problems

[Rallyper]

Juho Hänninen wont start :( in Sweden. Financial problems

Here we are again... Money rules.

[focus206]

Such a shame for Juho :(


And don't listen fake twitter account of Protasov. They change a car and team for Rally Sweden, Fiesta WRC by M-Sport. FIA approved car and team change yesterday

Fiesta WRC just for Sweden or for whole season?

[N.O.T]

Juha has not proved anything and he had his chances to do so.... so no big loss...

[Rallyper]

So what drivers are we having in todays WRC which didn´t make failures at the start of their careers? (And I mean in this case their careers in WRC cars). JH has proven a lot to me in the past, but his tests in WRC car isn´t that many, are they?

[N.O.T]

Juho is waaaaay past the start of his career... by the looks of things he is very near the end.

[nafpaktos]

he had his chances to do so.... so no big loss...
meeke had two chances (finland and australia )he scewed both of them and the next year was official driver.ostberg became official driver without having shown something spesial.i want to say that juho could also take a seat for a full year.of course i admit that kris despite his accidents was bloody fast.also the no one sordo took a seat in citroen and they were consisting on him without a reason.

[stefanvv]

Ostberg has WRC victory on his belt, this is kind of special, though gifted from citroen.

[N.O.T]

meeke had two chances (finland and australia )he scewed both of them and the next year was official driver.ostberg became official driver without having shown something spesial.i want to say that juho could also take a seat for a full year.of course i admit that kris despite his accidents was bloody fast.also the no one sordo took a seat in citroen and they were consisting on him without a reason.

Ostberg bought his chances... none gave him anything... he probably pays to drive a citroen as well.

Meeke had proven himself far more than Juho did, plus he is from a country with huge cars sales, same goes for Sordo.

Juho is nothing... time to go to his home by the fireplace and read stories about wasted years to his grandchildren.

[Rallyper]

Juha has not proved anything and he had his chances to do so.... so no big loss...

I said money rules. Not anything about quality of driver. So read more closely next time, baby.

[N.O.T]

I said money rules. Not anything about quality of driver. So read more closely next time, baby.

if you are going to be that sweet to me all the time i will read more carefuly next time... LOL

[Rallyper]

if you are going to be that sweet to me all the time i will read more carefuly next time... LOL

Sure. Now back to topic.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@F_Gustavsson : We have the best conditions I've seen for many years, it's amazing!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B88piCpIAAATSUc.jpg:large

[stefanvv]

Plenty of snow.... and snow banks:crazy:

[N.O.T]

Plenty of snow.... and snow banks:crazy:

indeed... some one could confuse this place with a nothern country... go figure.

[WUff1]

Hänninen is rather old already. His fault was to leave Skoda at the end of 2012.

[Franky]

Hänninen is rather old already. His fault was to leave Skoda at the end of 2012.

As we've seen, age isn't really a factor in rallying. Considering that Meeke is two years older

[AL14]

Hänninen is rather old already. His fault was to leave Skoda at the end of 2012.

He had the chance to drive in WRC, it's something a rally driver should not refuse if he has ambition. His fault was to crash with Hyundai and to not show pace or speed last year and in 2013.

[rp]

Hänninen is rather old already. His fault was to leave Skoda at the end of 2012.

Why on earth? He had nothing left with the Skoda. Winning SWRC and ERC was enough and it was time to try the new things.

Hänninen is without the doubt on the same level than Meeke & Mikkelsen (remember the IRC seasons), but it´s true that his time with Hyundai was not so good...

[A FONDO]

His fault was to crash with Hyundai and to not show pace or speed last year and in 2013.

Exactly. He should have showed he is at least a little better than Sordo. But his performance was a total tragedy. WRC is not like IRC with Loix and Kopecky.

[mousti]

Maybe the missing of Markkula got a negative effect.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[pantealex]

Juho is way faster than over 50% of current WRC drivers.
but if you don´t pay, you don´t drive!

[WUff1]

He had the chance to drive in WRC, it's something a rally driver should not refuse if he has ambition. His fault was to crash with Hyundai and to not show pace or speed last year and in 2013.

He also didn´t impress too much with Fiesta in 2013.

[N.O.T]

Juho is way faster than over 50% of current WRC drivers.
but if you don´t pay, you don´t drive!

that does not mean much given the current level of WRC drivers.

[COD]

As much as I would like to see Juho in the WRC, I have to agree with many here that his results in the Fiesta and Hyundai were not very impressive.

Having said that, it is not easy to do just selected events and perform well. One full season without extra pressure has done many drivers loads of good, like Meeke

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Mads Østberg: Test today! So much push in the new engine ! Sun, -13 and 1 meter snowbanks ! :)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9Ak1REIAAA2LMY.jpg

[AL14]

Having said that, it is not easy to do just selected events and perform well. One full season without extra pressure has done many drivers loads of good, like Meeke

That's true. We can't say he has been unfortunate but for sure he has not been lucky.

[Rallyper]

Selected events for promising drivers is just a mess for themselves. Not many has succeded. Only driving whole series will get speed enough. As a swede I could for sure mention PG and Patrik Sandell. Two very fast drivers which only came out in one rally or two and got nothing out of it. I really hope PT getting in the same trap...

[peter_85]

Juho is way faster than over 50% of current WRC drivers.
but if you don´t pay, you don´t drive!
It's also promotor's fault, that many good drivers like Juho, can't find sponsorship to make the full season in private WRC team. It makes current WRC quite boring.

[danon]

http://s2.postimg.org/81nuga5ah/sw3b.jpg

[PLuto]

It's also promotor's fault, that many good drivers like Juho, can't find sponsorship to make the full season in private WRC team. It makes current WRC quite boring.

As you can see, they are not able to find money for at least one start...

[Lundefaret]

Selected events for promising drivers is just a mess for themselves. Not many has succeded. Only driving whole series will get speed enough. As a swede I could for sure mention PG and Patrik Sandell. Two very fast drivers which only came out in one rally or two and got nothing out of it. I really hope PT getting in the same trap...

PG is undoubtably a WRC-worthy talent. He have had the chance, but there seems to be a reason for him not being in the WRC at the moment.
I have not detailed info about this, but the people I ask says that the reason is that he was not serious enough, and also that he was not humble enough.

Regarding Patrik Sandell, in my mind he is not at PGs level - tough clearly very fast.

Regarding fast Swedes Emil Bergquist is on his way, and will drive the Swedish Rally. Pelle Wilén is also an interesting driver, but drifts his own VW Golf in "trimmad 2WD" in the typical "out-of-the-back-of-the-garage-matter". The car is practically a Kit Car, and is high maintanence, and he struggles with technical gremlins.
There are some good Swedish talent, but the most impressive thing about Swedish rally sport is the big number of local drivers in local events. In Sweden rallying is a peoples sport in a totally different matter than in Norway.

The Swedish Rally this year should be very exciting. The conditions - if they keep up - should give some very good TV-images of drivers using the snow banks on corner exits.
Ogier will be hard to beat, but the Swedish is a "simpler" event than MC, so a number of drivers should be able to make Ogiers life a little harder than usual.

[shag1636]

Saturday Fredriksberg big jump / Go right to parking place SEK 50 after finish / Walk about 1k / when you get to the stage turn right / about 5-600 meter you get to this jump / It is the 3rd jump from when you get on the stage / a lot of flags will be there hanging over the stage / Great atmosphere and fireworks :-) I have done this one every year and you will get goosebumps with this 180 km/ph jump: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39eTgprd0Nc
Thanks for the tip. I had intended to watch from a place not too far from the finish, on the other side of the lake, where there is a sharp corner. The jump shouldn't be too far from there.

[AL14]

Do you think this could be Mikkelsen turn to win his first rally?
He has a strong pace in the snow, and can be helped by starting after his teammates on friday and saturday.
Last year he had the same pace as JML until he decided to slow down in order to keep the second place and take his first podium.
Maybe using the 2014 car could be an issue for him in a battle against Ogier and JML...or not?

[N.O.T]

Mikkelsen will be a contender for sure... but in order to win the team must agree also.

[AL14]

Mikkelsen will be a contender for sure... but in order to win the team must agree also.
True but last year they let him fight with latvala (and Ogier was out). Or at least it's what they said...

[ruesluporp]

Do not forget Østberg, he was 2nd in 2011, 3rd in 2012-2013 and 2014...

[stefanvv]

True but last year they let him fight with latvala (and Ogier was out). Or at least it's what they said...

Unless his small mistakes, costing him some time was part of the team tactics, it looked like great fight for the win back then.

For sure he is favourite for a podium at least.

[N.O.T]

Do not forget Østberg, he was 2nd in 2011, 3rd in 2012-2013 and 2014...

Ostberg has a chance only if conditions on day 1 allow him a huge lead... but i doubt he can do it.

[EightGear]

Sordo has fallen from his mountainbike and broke 2 ribs. He will not compete, Paddon to take his place in 2nd car. Abbring in the 3rd!

[EstWRC]

April fools joke?

[EightGear]

April fools joke?

No. https://twitter.com/HyundaiWRC

[Rallyper]

Exciting to see what Paddon and Abbring can do. Nice chance for them to show pace.

[EstWRC]

Now things get exciting, really excited about Abbring.

[EightGear]

Don't think you can expect much from him though, first time in a WRC car and first time on snow. But it will be interesting indeed.

I guess this is the best event for Sordo to miss, so in a way he 'timed' it quite well. It's still unfortunate though. Hope he recovers quickly.

[N.O.T]

Very interesting development...

[MartijnS]

Looking forward to see what Abbring can do! :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans done testing...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9Fx7qmIgAEMFP5.jpg

Over to Tanak now...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9FyMsQCYAEc9kt.png

[mousti]

Interesting indeed and let's hope Abbring can show his great adaptability with being quite fast after some stages with the i20.

[EstWRC]

Your dream heat when Rally Sweden opens? You now have the chance to see your dream heat when #RallySweden opens with the Super Special Stage in Karlstad on February 12.

Post your suggestion on which drivers you would like to see go head to head at the stage, here on our FB page! #WRC

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRallySweden/photos/a.362506487175584.86032.150622788363956/796117320481163/?type=1&theater

[AL14]

That's the worst thing could happen to Abbring right now IMO. First time in a WRC car after very few time he drive it, plus first time in snow means his times will be way worst than in a proper debut with proper preparation and in a surface he is used to... It could not be that good for the mental side

[dodge33cymru]

Ha, was excited to find out that Abbring will be driving, but hadn't realised that it was at Sordo's expense. Probably better long-term investment for Hyundai though, give the youngster a chance to learn on a surface that Sordo is never going to excel on.

Clearly not going for the result or they would have called Hanninen, I'm sure.

[Mariusz]

"What doesn't kill you makes you stronger" should be the motto of Abbring's Sweden 2015 drive. I think he'll be cautious and slow, but I don't care since this is his chance to gain a lot of experience on snow.

[Rallyper]

I hope he´ll do good, but having in mind all critical guys on this forum, there´s no room for being slow or going off...

[Rallyper]

Any Pickems for Rally Sweden? Time´s running...

[dimviii]

Hyundai Motorsport announces Dani Sordo will miss Rally Sweden through injury: Hyundai Motorsport driver Dani ... http://bit.ly/1Kjpdvt

The Spaniard, who expanded his role with the team to compete in at least 10 rallies this year, sustained injuries when he fell off his mountain bike during training in Spain.

Sordo was diagnosed with two broken ribs and will therefore miss the next round of the WRC in Sweden.

Hayden Paddon will replace him in the event and Sordo is expected to return to action in Rally Mexico.

"First of all we would like to send our best wishes to Dani for a quick recovery and we look forward to seeing him back in the car," said team boss Michel Nandan.

"We have decided that it's best for Dani to miss Sweden in order for him to recover and to be 100% fit for Rally Mexico next month."

[dimviii]

Hyundai Motorsport ‏@HyundaiWRC 4 ώρεςΠριν από 4 ώρες Προβολή μετάφρασης
.@HaydenPaddon @JKCoDriver will now drive #8 car with @KevinAbbring @sebmarshall in #20 #WRC @RallySweden


Sordos accident was while training with mountain bike

[AL14]

I hope he´ll do good, but having in mind all critical guys on this forum, there´s no room for being slow or going off...
I hope he will be good as well, and if he will be slow I won't say he is shit. I just wanted to say that it is not the best FOR HIM to make his debut in a surface he doesnt know with a car he doesnt know. Dont know where is the problem..

[rp]

Too big shoes for Paddon to drive Manufacturer Championship car #8 and the most difficult rally for Abbring to start his WRC works driver career.

It was originally a very weird decision by Hyundai to give Sordo a car #8 for Rally Sweden, so now their line up is not so much different, but they are thinking in the long run and know that there is no chance to get good results in Sweden.

Abbring has at least talents and not so easy situation for Paddon, because probably Kevin will be faster already in Sweden...

[A FONDO]

I say, the best for him is to debut on snow. Because nobody expects anything from him. No pressure, no disappointment. He can only win from this. If he has the talent of quick learner, he can show "something" later in the rally.

[Ounin]

For me this means even more rally live addiction than usual for me and two weekends in a row Lukyanuk this weekend Abbring the next ... W:pW

[danon]

What a spaniard coincidence.
Carlos Sainz had a mountain bike accident too in which he injured his right shoulder.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No problem for Abbring... just drive around, take no risks, wait for others to have problems, pick up a good result. Worked for the Hyundai drivers in Monte...

[kirungi okwogera]

What a spaniard coincidence.
Carlos Sainz had a mountain bike accident too in which he injured his right shoulder.

Didn't Loeb injure himself in the same way too when he won the championship from his bed in 2006 or so? Maybe WRC teams should advise their drivers' trainers to stick to stationary bikes...

[N.O.T]

No problem for Abbring... just drive around, take no risks, wait for others to have problems, pick up a good result. Worked for the Hyundai drivers in Monte...

so simple...

[danon]

Didn't Loeb injure himself in the same way too when he won the championship from his bed in 2006 or so? Maybe WRC teams should advise their drivers' trainers to stick to stationary bikes...

That's a good one - you did win a key for the VW fan zones
where you can join by showing your VW car-key getting free
soup, bread, cofee and parking (the lucky 50!!!).

You can pick it up by downloading the image below... ;)

http://s14.postimg.org/ky0uxludt/huf3.jpg

[dimviii]

Rally Sweden
‏@RallySweden
Take a look at @HSolberg73's new livery for Rally Sweden with his main sponsor Skruvat.no #RallySweden #WRC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9KKCtlCUAE4XkW.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Historic Rally Sweden will be broadcast on www.expressen.se on two occasions, one hour on Friday and two hours on Saturday. :)

"This is a very nice service for our readers and viewers and a great way for everyone to follow what happens in the Swedish Rally also for those who can not be there , says Jan- Erik Berggren

Televising is open to all and completely free.

Broadcasting :
Friday, February 13 at 15.25
Saturday, February 14 at 11:55 "

http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/RallySwedenHistoricLive.jpg

[samWRC]

Rally Sweden
‏@RallySweden
Take a look at @HSolberg73's new livery for Rally Sweden with his main sponsor Skruvat.no #RallySweden #WRC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9KKCtlCUAE4XkW.jpg

Livery looks little bit like the livery on Protasov's car but whit different colours. Way better livery than the Henning's usual white one.

[Toyoda]

Would think Abring has more experience than Paddon, being the test driver and Paddon has never driven WRC car in Sweden I think?

[kirungi okwogera]

Would think Abring has more experience than Paddon, being the test driver and Paddon has never driven WRC car in Sweden I think?

No. I don't know where you got that idea. For one thing, neither of them have driven a WRC car in Sweden - in fact Paddon has driven Sweden once in S2000 and Abbring has never competed there in any car. I like Abbring and am glad to see him get a chance with a factory team, but in WRC his experience is much less:

PWRC/R3: 18 wrc events; S2000: 5 wrc events

And Paddon with
PWRC: 16 wrc events; S2000: 10 wrc events, WRC: 7 wrc events

And frankly having 7 ERC events last year with so many retirements doesn't exactly make up the difference. Of course until they are on multiple rallies head to head comparisons don't mean much in terms of performance, but in experience there's no question...

[EstWRC]

weather doesnt look good according to accuweather and weather.com, 5 degrees warm http://www.accuweather.com/en/se/hagfors/310695/february-weather/310695?monyr=2/1/2015
http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/SWXX0096:1:SW

but looks better on this local site http://www.smhi.se/vadret/ortsprognoser#ort=2667876,Torsby,Torsby,Sverige,60 .133335/13.0;flik=0

any local guys here or bluuford know better?

[Toyoda]

No. I don't know where you got that idea. For one thing, neither of them have driven a WRC car in Sweden - in fact Paddon has driven Sweden once in S2000 and Abbring has never competed there in any car. I like Abbring and am glad to see him get a chance with a factory team, but in WRC his experience is much less:

PWRC/R3: 18 wrc events; S2000: 5 wrc events

And Paddon with
PWRC: 16 wrc events; S2000: 10 wrc events, WRC: 7 wrc events

And frankly having 7 ERC events last year with so many retirements doesn't exactly make up the difference. Of course until they are on multiple rallies head to head comparisons don't mean much in terms of performance, but in experience there's no question...

Yes but Abbring is the test driver so he is driving a WRC a fair amount at the moment

[EightGear]

First test of the new i20 is scheduled for March I believe.

[COD]

I don't understand Hyundai. Why didn't they take Hänninen to replace Sordo in Sweden? He has experience on the event and the car and snowy conditions in general. Don't they want to succeed? They are curntly second in manu championship, so Hänninen could have allowed them to stay in that position. Well politics is politics

[kirungi okwogera]

Yes but Abbring is the test driver so he is driving a WRC a fair amount at the moment

That makes no sense to me, he was announced as a test driver three weeks ago. Paddon has been signed with Hyundai for nearly a year, done 7 full rallies in a Hyundai complete with testing.

Again, it's good to see Abbring get a chance but that is a very weird thing to try to claim.

[MartijnS]

Abbring testing today I think :)

Kevin Abbring ‏@KevinAbbring
WHAT a feeling!! #Hyundaii20WRC #properstage #whitestuff #snowbanks #6thgear @HyundaiWRC @sebmarshall

[tommeke_B]

Hyundai is looking at the future, and apparently they don't see any future for Hänninen in their team... ;) Abbring is a driver with potential to become one of the very best on every surface. I think they are doing a great move with giving the chance to Paddon and Abbring.

[kirungi okwogera]

I don't understand Hyundai. Why didn't they take Hänninen to replace Sordo in Sweden? He has experience on the event and the car and snowy conditions in general. Don't they want to succeed? They are curntly second in manu championship, so Hänninen could have allowed them to stay in that position. Well politics is politics

They seem to be looking for long term development of drivers. I agree Hanninen would be the conservative choice but he's less likely to have an ongoing career they can take advantage of. And actually while Hanninen knows Sweden better, his best WRC result is sixth, as is Paddon's, so it's not like there's a huge obvious benefit. If they had access to, say, Loeb and were moving a junior driver up instead, I'd agree with you and say "politics is politics". But it's not like Hanninen will definitely guarantee more points than Paddon.

[dimviii]

That makes no sense to me, he was announced as a test driver three weeks ago. Paddon has been signed with Hyundai for nearly a year, done 7 full rallies in a Hyundai complete with testing.

Again, it's good to see Abbring get a chance but that is a very weird thing to try to claim.

Αbbring is entered at Sweden because Sordo had an accident and couldn t participate.
Paddon took Sordos place,and Abbring took Paddons place
Except that Hyundai had announced that Abbring will start at 4 rallies this year.

[Atob WRC]

Here our video from last edition.

Any doubt, don´t hesitate to ask us!

Best regards, and enjoy next week!

AMT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8SvkHAoGps

[dodge33cymru]

Does anyone know if the standard rally pass gives access to the SSS in Karlstad too? Also, foes it ever get full in the arena? Skipped it last year but I have time to kill on the Friday night this time, so might as well.

[tommeke_B]

Does anyone know if the standard rally pass gives access to the SSS in Karlstad too? Also, foes it ever get full in the arena? Skipped it last year but I have time to kill on the Friday night this time, so might as well.

You can go to all stages with the rallypass, so to Karlstad as well ;)

[kirungi okwogera]

Αbbring is entered at Sweden because Sordo had an accident and couldn t participate.
Paddon took Sordos place,and Abbring took Paddons place
Except that Hyundai had announced that Abbring will start at 4 rallies this year.

I know all that, I was responding to Toyoda saying "Would think Abring has more experience than Paddon, being the test driver and Paddon has never driven WRC car in Sweden I think?".

I am saying that Paddon is more experienced than Abbring so it makes more sense to put him in Sordo's place than to put Abbring.

[AL14]

Some update about road conditions? How are they going to be during the weekend?

[skarderud]

It is really good conditions on the norwegian stages, so should be good on the sweden part too.
A little hot temperature the next days thought.

[SubaruNorway]

Does anyone know of a inboard of Fredriksberg the correct direction in a WRC?
Only WRC i know of is Galli from 2006 in the other direction.

[Micke_VOC]

Some update about road conditions? How are they going to be during the weekend?

The roads are perfect now.. Maybe the best coditions i have seen for decades.
(Has been visiting Rally Sweden every year since 1988)

[Simmi]

I hope the rise in temperature doesn't mess things up too much. The testing videos look incredible right now.

I fly out on Wednesday I can't wait!

[danon]

Here our video from last edition.

Any doubt, don´t hesitate to ask us!

Best regards, and enjoy next week!

AMT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8SvkHAoGps

From 8:14 to 9:00 the vid shows why Ogier is a class above the rest -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8SvkHAoGps#t=494

Skiing makes champions, bikes - injuries!

Ogier, le rallye, le ski... et les boules lyonnaises - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E24nxQacXQE

http://www.youcanski.com/images/gs_turns/1.jpg

[AL14]

I hope the rise in temperature doesn't mess things up too much. The testing videos look incredible right now.

I fly out on Wednesday I can't wait!

Temperature will raise up till 6-7 degrees in wednesday according to weather forecasts, hope roads will resist preserving ice and snow the more possible :)

[bluuford]

This forecast is not fully correct. Temperature rises only for very short period due to the sun. Nights are still cold. Ground is cold and uper layer is melting (due to the sun). That is the way for very solid and thick ice to form.

[bluuford]

Kruuda will not start in Sweden.

[dodge33cymru]

That's a real shame, was very much looking forward to seeing him. Not going to be many Citroen's left at this rate, they're falling fast. Hopefully no more withdrawals, that must be at least 5 already.

[irish_tiger]

Kruuda will not start in Sweden.


That's a real shame, was very much looking forward to seeing him. Not going to be many Citroen's left at this rate, they're falling fast. Hopefully no more withdrawals, that must be at least 5 already.
Why so ? what happened ???? ... and what other cars are withdrawn ?

[dodge33cymru]

Hanninen, Bresolin (R5), Cook (R2) and I think there's another. Maybe not great loss at the front, but the Citroen's are much better sounding than the Fords so any of them dropping out is a loss stage side, especially when one is Kruuda's.

Not sure why, presumably money.

[focus206]

Also Protasov switching from DS3 to Fiesta... don't know if just for Sweden or whole season

[bluuford]

Hanninen, Bresolin (R5), Cook (R2) and I think there's another. Maybe not great loss at the front, but the Citroen's are much better sounding than the Fords so any of them dropping out is a loss stage side, especially when one is Kruuda's.

Not sure why, presumably money.

Kruuda will be there for recce. I am not sure the probelm is money. DS3 engine let him down before the final stage in Artic rally... while he was leading. I guess it is car-related problem, probably it is not fit for whole WRC rally yet.

[EstWRC]

Kruuda said to estonian press that there's still a lot of work to do with the car and he needs more time to practice and get used with it. And it is budget related too.

[pantealex]

... and what other cars are withdrawn ?

http://www.rallysweden.com/tavlingen/anmalda/

updated list.

[dimviii]

Kevin Abbring ‏@KevinAbbring 5 λεπτάΠριν από 5 λεπτά Προβολή μετάφρασης
Back after an amazing recce :-) Not easy to make the right pacenotes without the WRC speed and potential in mind yet!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9frRPkIMAAe8G6.jpg

sunset at Uddeholm from Kris Meeke twitter
http://instagram.com/p/y7T6IBrN5E/

[nafpaktos]

Nice recce cars!

[SubaruNorway]

Kruuda will be there for recce. I am not sure the probelm is money. DS3 engine let him down before the final stage in Artic rally... while he was leading. I guess it is car-related problem, probably it is not fit for whole WRC rally yet.

Drove without enough blanking in the front so the engine ran too cold i heard.

[Jeppe]

Drove without enough blanking in the front so the engine ran too cold i heard.

In the official Printsport press release they said that one of the fuel injectors broke down. Nothing about too cold weather.
Actually it was much colder in the saturday morning stages than in the afternoon stages when he was forced to retire due to technical problems...

[AdvEvo]

BMW recce cars nice!

[Toyoda]

That makes no sense to me, he was announced as a test driver three weeks ago. Paddon has been signed with Hyundai for nearly a year, done 7 full rallies in a Hyundai complete with testing.

Again, it's good to see Abbring get a chance but that is a very weird thing to try to claim.

Ahh good point, he probably has done little or no testing for them yet, Will good to see him though, he seemed fast in that season with VW in the s2000 when he got a chance.

[Micke_VOC]

Jirvelius (Fiesta S2000) will not start, due to engine-failure last weekend in Swedish Championship.

[MartijnS]

Nice story from the Netherlands.

These 2 guys went to Rally Sweden last year as a spectator for the first time and decided than that they would drive there this year, even though they never did any rally before. Driver did some circuit racing before. So last year they drove a number of rallies in a Nissan Micra and now they entered the Historic rally this weekend in this Golf 1 :)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/s851x315/10968374_693729714073360_2692061460513365954_n.jpg ?oh=65c386ad82dded8b31a147e5199019aa&oe=5564852B&__gda__=1431403981_8dfaa070b4a63dcfb48b118090dfac3 c

[Micke_VOC]

In about 14 hours first car start shakedown. I am waiting so much !
If that are any forumers there so come and say hello. (i will wear a turquoise Pontus Tidemand cap =)

Last weather forecast show around zero and cloudy the whole weekend.

[dimviii]

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[EstWRC]

Colin Clark swden rally preview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtkPaodmj_Y&feature=youtu.be

[Rallyper]

Colin Clark swden rally preview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtkPaodmj_Y&feature=youtu.be

@Colin - Maybe we should have one more winterrally in WRC then? Why not Arctic Rally in Rovaniemi, Finland?

[tommeke_B]

I liked the Norway-Sweden combination... :)

[Ounin]

Kruuda said to estonian press that there's still a lot of work to do with the car and he needs more time to practice and get used with it. And it is budget related too.

Just released : Kruuda's programm 8 WRC2 rallies year : Portugal, Sardaigne, Pologne, Finlande, Allemagne, France, Espagne, GB

[EstWRC]

Fully agree, push Monte for spring or summer time, start with two snow rallies.

[Franky]

Fully agree, push Monte for spring or summer time, start with two snow rallies.

Push Monte to spring and lose the most iconic rally of them all? Nearly as good idea as to switch from cars to tandem bikes

[stefanvv]

I like also the idea of 2 snow events after Monte, but that would be only possible with bigger calendar.

[EstWRC]

It will never happen thats why i offered it, the second solution would be to start the season earlier. But this is another topic.

[Rallyper]

Push Monte to spring and lose the most iconic rally of them all? Nearly as good idea as to switch from cars to tandem bikes

Well RMC was out from the WRC some years ago, don´t you remember? Could happen again if we want two proper winter rallies.

[Franky]

Well RMC was out from the WRC some years ago, don´t you remember? Could happen again if we want two proper winter rallies.

Winter is long enough and you can have two events in February, considering they would most likely take place in the Nordic countries. First February weekend round 2, third weekend round 3. Even Hyundai can move their monster construction in that time. Round 4 would be sometime in the second half of March

Per, we didn't talk about not having Monte at all. But as EstWRC ironically suggested to move it to spring/summer.

[EstWRC]

wrc.com talking about stages and conditions http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/february-2015/recce-notes/page/2172--12-12-.html

[Fly_Half]

Since it's supposedly the 'World' Rally Championship, how about a winter event in North America?

[stefanvv]

Yeah, "Tall Pines" is very nice

[cali]

Are spikes even allowed in US?

[janvanvurpa]

Are spikes even allowed in US?

No in US. A few normal road car studs per tire are allowed in 2wd classes in some Canadian events..
It is ridiculous. Like everything else rally related in USA.

[janvanvurpa]

Since it's supposedly the 'World' Rally Championship, how about a winter event in North America?
When "the best" is no faster than 2wd club competitors in Sweden, driving 20 year old Golves and 25 year old Volvos?
Where will the entries materialized from?

[jonkka]

Where will the entries materialized from?

Won't manufacturer entries suffice?

[Sso]

Will SD-times be published "live" somewhere?

[rage82]

That's for the moment:https://twitter.com/F_Gustavsson/status/565773944771608576/photo/1

[MartijnS]

Nice progress of Abbring:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9oNpsLIAAA9WCf.jpg:large

Solowow

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9oOUUDIcAAB8lm.jpg:large

[Slipzen]

Shakedown is stopped (paused). Acc to Swedish Radio a photographer is injured and transported to hospital.

[MartijnS]

Solowow hit the photographer.

[Slipzen]

First reports says the photographer seemed pretty OK and Shakedown will be restarted soon.

[dodge33cymru]

Cheers, any updates appreciated, medical guys were there quickly.

Stage has been stopped quite a while now though.

[Lundefaret]

If Kubicas time on the first pass is correct, its Worth a notice to say the least.

[noel157]

Seems to have re-started, Tanak on the stage.

[Quad]

If Kubicas time on the first pass is correct, its Worth a notice to say the least.

His viking beard is giving him additional speed, cheating ! :o


Seriously, great time, will be interesting to see in the rally

[noel157]

Meeke in SD:

http://instagram.com/p/y_g5N8lVVX/

[Bartek]

Crazy Robert ! :) Also Protasov looks very fast on shakedown

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9oed1bIcAAYLXb.jpg:large

[noel157]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9okJIeCYAAlKJs.jpg

[latek]

Pirelli with clear advantage here? Kubica is no surprise, but Protasov kind of proves that.

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9omnjHIQAAtMJz.jpg

[jd_89]

Pirelli with clear advantage here? Kubica is no surprise, but Protasov kind of proves that.

Isn't he on Michelins this time? Protasov, I mean.

[Lundefaret]

Kubica could be on a mission here. Swedish rally, depending on how warm it will be, is one of the event he really could succeed in. Pirelli seems to have done their homework. Henning should make a Quick change if he is on Michelins.

[Mirek]

First reports says the photographer seemed pretty OK and Shakedown will be restarted soon.

According to ewrc.cz the photographer is Honza Froněk from rally-mania.cz. Fortunately he shall be quite OK.

[MTA]

anyone know where you can see times of all WRC 2 cars on shakedown?

[MTA]

Found it:
#‎WRC*#‎RallySweden*Shakedown*#‎WRC2*results:
1. Anders Grøndal,*#‎Citroen*#‎DS3R5, 2:04.6
2. Pontus Tidemand,*#‎Ford*#‎FiestaRRC, 2:06.3
3. Jari Ketomaa, Ford*#‎FiestaR5, 2:06.4
4. Yazeed Al Rajhi, Ford Fiesta RRC, 2:07.4
5. Valeriy Gorban, MINI John Cooper Works S2000 1.6T, 2:08.0
6. Eyvind Brynildsen, Ford Fiesta RRC, 2:10.6
7. Fredrik Åhlin, Ford Fiesta R5, 2:12.0

[dimviii]

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07EHOODhUtk

[pantealex]

Isn't he on Michelins this time? Protasov, I mean.

His Fiesta has Pirelli stickers.

Pics at Post #248

[dimviii]

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more
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.638501459609085.1073741862.440027316123168&type=1

[dimviii]

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVkiN8m3NfY

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9pMoiWIQAE2bup.jpg
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