[WRC] News & Rumours (part V) 2017

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-Mb6JTXkAAAuwt.jpg

[skarderud]

Funny thing is is that Michigan law does allow studs..Its the rule in the BOOK that says no studs..
What most people don't realsie in just how low the level of competition is.. Here for example is Michigan rally from this year, and this is typical
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RoiuUYfAEE8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoiuUYfAEE8


39 entries....17 Subarus..

That was a "Rally America" event, one of the 3 private corporations "sanctioning" events

This weekend 300km South was "Oregon Trails Rally" sanctioned by the new "American Rally Association", a new sanctioning body
49 cars and 28 Subarus

2 are driven with some vigor: Dave Higgins and Travis Pastrami-Sammich.
the rest could not win a B class in a Swedish Regional level event against clubbie spec 2wd cars..

Thisa is what passes for exciting driving in North America
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s4rzdpeMKRw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4rzdpeMKRw

How can anybody think there is any way to bring a WRC event here or Canada if this represents a Chamionship level event?
Sure this first footages isn't from the transport between stages?:)

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[Franky]

Sure this first footages isn't from the transport between stages?:)

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Even if it is, then it doesn't look far off from the stage speed for some.

https://youtu.be/qXkxAYvt5Ew?t=1m26s
Based on what the narrator said, they were in the midfield of the entire field.

Or another example from another crew from the same video - https://youtu.be/qXkxAYvt5Ew?t=4m24s

[COD]

Even if it is, then it doesn't look far off from the stage speed for some.

https://youtu.be/qXkxAYvt5Ew?t=1m26s
Based on what the narrator said, they were in the midfield of the entire field.

Or another example from another crew from the same video - https://youtu.be/qXkxAYvt5Ew?t=4m24s


Looks like recce with helmets on :laugh:

What tyres are they using?

[skarderud]

Looks like recce with helmets on :laugh:

What tyres are they using?
Scandinavian summertires?:)


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[Eli]

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/april-2017/croatia-visit/page/4474--12-12-.html apparently Croatia made a bid to come to the WRC fold next year...

[GigiGalliNo1]

Who wants to go?

[Franky]

Who wants to go?

To Crotia? Or you want to go and spectate the next SnoDrift amateur rally?

[Simmi]

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/april-2017/croatia-visit/page/4474--12-12-.html apparently Croatia made a bid to come to the WRC fold next year...

Next year? Doesn't give any timeframes in the article.

Interestingly Hayden said he was 90% sure we'd see NZ on the calendar next year on the Kitchen Table podcast. That's really very confident. Candidate rally is running the week after Rally Australia this season.

[Eli]

Next year? Doesn't give any timeframes in the article.

Interestingly Hayden said he was 90% sure we'd see NZ on the calendar next year on the Kitchen Table podcast. That's really very confident. Candidate rally is running the week after Rally Australia this season.
Yes you are right, my bad, however it does seem (imho) that the calendar will change & hopefully we'll get to see NZ after a long 6 year hiatus.

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[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/april-2017/croatia-visit/page/4474--12-12-.html apparently Croatia made a bid to come to the WRC fold next year...
This is not Dirt2.. :p

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[Eli]

This is not Dirt2.. :p

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I was thinking exactly the same thing lol

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[macebig]

People play hard there...So...

[Simmi]

Extremely impressive lineup for Rally Legend and a Colin McRae tribute.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-b-1X5W0AEjrcp.jpg

Might actually be the best group of drivers ever assembled for an event of this kind.

[dupanton]

In fact, all living world champions besides Sainz will be there. Waldegard, McRae and Burns obviously missing.

[macebig]

Weird for Carlos to not be there.He was Colin's team mate for half of his career..

[Simmi]

Tempted to head back this year now. Really enjoyed last year. Only living world champion autographs I am missing are Rohrl, Sainz and Auriol.

[janvanvurpa]

Looks like recce with helmets on :laugh:

What tyres are they using?

I honestly do not understand how they can go so slow. By any European standards our roads here are HUUUUGE. Wide and fast...Part comes from our trees are much much bigger so the trucks used to carry the tress out are BIG.
Here is typical truck where I live:
https://farm2.static.flickr.com/1106/1348927979_71f2dc181f_b.jpg

If you have a truck that big and especially that long, all the turns and curves and junctions must be gentle enough for that truck to go around... There have often been stages where 4-6 guys will have average speed over 130km/hr...these guys averaging that..
I remember on stage in Canada where we were absolute flat out in top gear for about 4 minutes and so flat and straight all I did was watch oil temp and prussure and swear non-stop (about 175 km/hr in my poor old V4 Saab)
Few understand where "we" (North American guys cuase Canada in included) stand..They bullsh!t themselves into thinking--and saying "we've made it , we're finally "up there' with the best Europeans".. OK Americans tend to be extremely ignorant about anything in the rest of the world including rally but this goes way past ignorance.

We don't have the discipline or desire to improve as long as we can brag without getting challenged and make You-tube videos. Numbers, which are real things, are dismissed as "that's just your opinion"..

You can see how we elected this Drumph-thing.

Mexico and Argentina somehow have the ability to organise and have WRC events but with 22-24 cars is that really worthy of calling those a "WORLD" Championship event---or a rally even?

We could gather maybe 2 homologated cars..

And the long term 20 year trend has been in the same wrong direction...More video "reality TV" direction. On a foundation of guys you see in these videos..unbelievably slow and amateurish..

The average quality of dring and even average speeds has not seriously changed since we had WRC in 1986 to 1988

ja ä storligen förvirra:arrows:

[rallyfiend]

Given the problems on Rally Argentina, it's interesting to see that the job for Timing and Tracking is back up for grabs...

http://www.fia.com/file/56055/download?token=Mis3z_1e

I'm not a technical person, but it seems quite complicated.....

[Sulland]

Given the problems on Rally Argentina, it's interesting to see that the job for Timing and Tracking is back up for grabs...

http://www.fia.com/file/56055/download?token=Mis3z_1e

I'm not a technical person, but it seems quite complicated.....

Who owns that contract now?

[mknight]

It's not that complicated. The boxes that use GPS and inertial sensors, log them and allow communication are now used in multiple national championships and are produced by multiple producers. It's mostly about putting together sub-components.

The only major difference for this is they have to work at all the WRC locations. So using only mobile networks for the uplink is not enough.
Either they can pick a hybrid system with satellite (Iridium) as a backup uplink or they could go more exotic and use an airborne relay. Inmarsat used a plane for that 15 year ago when they were the main sponsor. Apart from cost (which might drop if you use some medium-size drone or even airship), spectrum licensing in different countries could also be a problem.
Anyway even with just Iridium there off course are some integration issues.

[PLuto]

It's not that complicated. The boxes that use GPS and inertial sensors, log them and allow communication are now used in multiple national championships and are produced by multiple producers. It's mostly about putting together sub-components.

The only major difference for this is they have to work at all the WRC locations. So using only mobile networks for the uplink is not enough.
Either they can pick a hybrid system with satellite (Iridium) as a backup uplink or they could go more exotic and use an airborne relay. Inmarsat used a plane for that 15 year ago when they were the main sponsor. Apart from cost (which might drop if you use some medium-size drone or even airship), spectrum licensing in different countries could also be a problem.
Anyway even with just Iridium there off course are some integration issues.

It is not so easy like it looks like... Because each GPS Tracking system is not completely same. In reality, you can see really big differences...

[mknight]

Yes I hear that one used in CZ was crap and the one in germany is much better. But that's not the point. Point is that many companies do this also in different competitions . The one big difference for a WRC version is that it has to work all around the globe.

[sonnybobiche]

Who owns that contract now?

Some Spanish company http://sitsports.com/en

[Tarmop]

Has Prokop given up on Fiesta 2017 or is he still in the waitinglist?

[Gregor-y]

I honestly do not understand how they can go so slow.

Because they both had offs and were trying to get to the finish. Though to be fair that Yaris is usually one of the last three starters at the event's I've attended. You really need to go spectate some events in Oregon or something.

I wouldn't brag about American events being world class (and I don't even think what Canadian events I've seen come close, either) but it's still a good reason to get out of the city for a while and drink with old friends.

[Mirek]

Has Prokop given up on Fiesta 2017 or is he still in the waitinglist?

He's running the one of Ostberg. They don't have second one yet.

[rallyfiend]

He's running the one of Ostberg. They don't have second one yet.

No, he's running his own 2016 car, surely? Fiona?

[rallyfiend]

Seems Chile is on the horizon....

http://www.latercera.com/noticia/hombre-juzgara-concepcion/

http://www.cooperativa.cl/noticias/deportes/automovilismo/mundial-de-rally/concepcion-se-postula-como-sede-de-una-fecha-del-mundial-de-rally/2017-05-03/162917.html

[Mirek]

No, he's running his own 2016 car, surely? Fiona?

Maybe I was not clear enough with my English. I didn't mean he is driving the Ostberg's car in Portugal. I meant he was in charge of Ostberg's car in this season. By the way that one is called Fiona XXL ;)

[Andre Oliveira]

eXtreme Fiona

[Allez Andruet]

One of the greatest this sport has ever seen, the original Flying Finn, Timo Mäkinen, has sadly passed away at age 79. Rest in peace Maestro.

[Rally Power]

Rip

[bassist]

One of the greatest this sport has ever seen, the original Flying Finn, Timo Mäkinen, has sadly passed away at age 79. Rest in peace Maestro.

Very Sad news R.I.P. Timo.

[electroliquid]

Very sad...R.I.P.
Maybe we could have one thread in which we could getting know more about rally drivers from past, while they still alive? Here are rally fans from all over the World, and they could share knowledge about legends (like Timo), codrivers, local heroes, team bosses, engineers and all rally people. I pretty sure everybody on this forum know what Timo was, but there are many others. It's sad and bit a shame when we remember man, only when he died...

[bassist]

Very sad...R.I.P.
Maybe we could have one thread in which we could getting know more about rally drivers from past, while they still alive? Here are rally fans from all over the World, and they could share knowledge about legends (like Timo), codrivers, local heroes, team bosses, engineers and all rally people. I pretty sure everybody on this forum know what Timo was, but there are many others. It's sad and bit a shame when we remember man, only when he died...

There is a Thread now on WRC

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129337/new-zealand-vying-with-croatia-for-2018-slot and they want the calendar to have 16 events by the time we get to 2022, like it used to have back in 2004-2007.

[AnttiL]

"We could look at a mixed event with a day on gravel and two days on asphalt and we could even look at something new - some sort of a hillclimb event being included in the itinerary.
The Croatia rally sounds interesting! Although I'd love to have NZ as well.

[Franky]

I think 16 events is too many. With more events, the value of a single event decreases. Fans always say that they want more, but you always risk oversaturation. For analogy, you find a delicious dish and you want more. But if you'll have it too often, it becomes just a regular dish. Or having the legendary races like Le Mans 24h, Monaco GP or Indy 500 five times a year. They lose their special appeal and become just another round event.

From the perspective of a financial director it would be great. The more money coming in, the better. But look at F1, the master of money milking Bernie has created a situation where long time circuits are having big difficulties and the grand stands seem to be rather empty most of the time.

Instead of increasing their income by adding more rounds, I'd prefer if they'd develop and polish their product so well, that it would attract more fans without expanding the calendar.

[Watson]

The Croatia rally sounds interesting! Although I'd love to have NZ as well.

Very! If it is a mixed event are teams allowed to change tyres and suspensions?

[er88]

Get New Zealand back in the calender where it belongs. We don't need another European event

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[spiderem]

what about bringing back longer events? It seems that there are less and less competitive km... and the events are over before we get excited.

[er88]

what about bringing back longer events? It seems that there are less and less competitive km... and the events are over before we get excited.
Doubt it'll happen, but I hope we could at least go back to having a full days rallying on a sunday. 3 stages at most on a sunday morning is pathetic, considering they are usually shortish stages as well

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[Tarmop]

Yes, Watson. Spain is currently that kind of a rally, where cars go from gravel kit to asphalt after day 1.

[Watson]

Yes, Watson. Spain is currently that kind of a rally, where cars go from gravel kit to asphalt after day 1.
Interesting, cheers man.

[steve.mandzij]

I was browsing old itineraries and I stumbled upon the fact that early 2000's rallies had more unique stages rather than two identical loops of three each day. When did the stage variety decline?

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[janvanvurpa]

I was browsing old itineraries and I stumbled upon the fact that early 2000's rallies had more unique stages rather than two identical loops of three each day. When did the stage variety decline?

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When people believed the morons saying things need to be made comprehensible for the TV viewers...
When they forgot that media people are subordinated to almost any other living thing, except Greek Lab Rats in basements in England...

[AnttiL]

In the early 90's Rally Finland had no repeated stages. Probably because the roads would be in too bad condition after 200 cars to run again. In late 90's the competitor number came down and repeated stages came back. Also the service park rule tightened the route. And I would think it's cheaper and easier to run a stage twice than to run two individual stages.

[OldF]

I was browsing old itineraries and I stumbled upon the fact that early 2000's rallies had more unique stages rather than two identical loops of three each day. When did the stage variety decline?

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In the past repeated stages was more an exception than a rule. 1986 1000 lakes had a stage that was repeated even three times (Ehikki) http://juwra.com/finland_1986_itinerary.html . San Remo 1987 had also a lot of repeated stages http://juwra.com/sanremo_1987_itinerary.html . FIA wanted also to cut the days when rallies were run to 3 days.

From 1997 with the introduction of world rally cars rallies became more clover leaf format with few stages in the morning and return to the service. Then a lunch and a “take a dump” break and in the afternoon morning stages repeated. The service became also more centralized with no remote service. The total stage length has also decreased during the years. Nice statistics from juwra.com http://juwra.com/stats_event_stage_mileage.html . 1977 New Zeeland with 2157 km of stages.:)

[spiderem]

Maybe organizer could run the stage in 1 direction in the morning and the reverse direction in the afternoon? Theoretically 2 different stages, but only 1 road to secure and provide TV arrangement... Same for the spectator...

[AnttiL]

1986 1000 lakes had a stage that was repeated even three times (Ehikki) http://juwra.com/finland_1986_itinerary.html

Actually they were all a bit different versions using partially same road but having different sections and turning to different directions from some junctions

[AL14]

Maybe organizer could run the stage in 1 direction in the morning and the reverse direction in the afternoon? Theoretically 2 different stages, but only 1 road to secure and provide TV arrangement... Same for the spectator...

You will have 1 dead per rally if you do that. At least.

[Mirek]

No, You won't. Such arrangement while not ideal is used quite often in national events and even in some international ones. I'm pretty sure some IRC/ERC events had the same stages in different direction one day and another day. Here in CZ parts of some stages are used in different direction in Rally Hustopeče for example (again in different leg). Even Barum sometimes uses same road for shakedown and than in opposite direction as part of one stage (not in last two years but before it was sometimes like that).

On the other hand I agree that if such scenario is run in just couple of hours it would be pretty difficult to make new taping, move all spectators, beertents etc. to new safe areas (I don't think that You can create a universal setup for both directions) and to clean some dirt from cutting in opposite direction.

[OldF]

Actually they were all a bit different versions using partially same road but having different sections and turning to different directions from some junctions

You are right. Every run of Ehikki had a bit different length. Stage 3, 29 and 46.

http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii284/OkdF/Ehikki%201986_zpsit6heqgm.jpg

[Steve Boyd]

No, You won't. Such arrangement while not ideal is used quite often in national events and even in some international ones. I'm pretty sure some IRC/ERC events had the same stages in different direction one day and another day. Here in CZ parts of some stages are used in different direction in Rally Hustopeče for example (again in different leg). Even Barum sometimes uses same road for shakedown and than in opposite direction as part of one stage (not in last two years but before it was sometimes like that).

On the other hand I agree that if such scenario is run in just couple of hours it would be pretty difficult to make new taping, move all spectators, beertents etc. to new safe areas (I don't think that You can create a universal setup for both directions) and to clean some dirt from cutting in opposite direction.It will also double the time spent on the recce.

[pantealex]

It will also double the time spent on the recce.

No it won´t, they have to go back to SS anyway... ;)
and even if it does, it´s not a bad think. Rally should be more driving, less PR stuff.

[EstWRC]

1/3 BREAKING NEWS: @jkcodriver will miss @rallydeportugal on doctor’s orders after aggravating an existing hip condition in Argentina. #WRC

2/3 @sebmarshall will step in to replace @jkcodriver as @haydenpadon’s co-driver at #RallyPortugal. #WRC


3/3 We send our best wishes to @jkcodriver, who will still be in Portugal supporting the team! #WRC #HyundaiWRC


https://twitter.com/hmsgofficial/status/861506542339862528

[OldF]

Looks like WRC Poland and Finland is now confirmed for Teemu Suninen (no Sardinia). He says it’s going be difficult due to lack of test days.

Original
http://www.urheiluuutiset.com/sunisen-odotettu-wrc-urakka-alkaa-puolasta-testaaminen-hamaran-peitossa/

Google translated
https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=fi&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.urheiluuutiset.com%2Fsunisen-odotettu-wrc-urakka-alkaa-puolasta-testaaminen-hamaran-peitossa%2F&edit-text=

[AnttiL]

Looks like WRC Poland and Finland is now confirmed for Teemu Suninen (no Sardinia). He says it’s going be difficult due to lack of test days.

Original
http://www.urheiluuutiset.com/sunisen-odotettu-wrc-urakka-alkaa-puolasta-testaaminen-hamaran-peitossa/

Google translated
https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=fi&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.urheiluuutiset.com%2Fsunisen-odotettu-wrc-urakka-alkaa-puolasta-testaaminen-hamaran-peitossa%2F&edit-text=

Just adding that those two WRC starts were confirmed for him from the beginning of the season, it was just unsure whether he would drive also Sardinia or not, and now it turns out he's not.

[dimviii]

Nasser Al Attiyah made the competition debut of the Fiesta R5 Evo 2 and was fastest on every stage at the MERC Jordan Rally, winning by over 16 minutes, some four seconds a kilometre ahead of the Mitsubishi opposition.* *

“I tried to go flat out on one stage to see if I could beat the time I set in the stage last year in the Skoda, but I had the same time to the second,” he reported



http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/other-news/11405-weekend-rally-news-may-8

[EstWRC]

Paddon about his problems http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129330/paddon-says-he-at-a-career-low


Hayden Paddon says he reached a World Rally Championship career low in Argentina last weekend, 12 months on from his maiden win there.

The Kiwi's troubled start to the year continued in Argentina, when he rolled on the second stage and then suffered mechanical issues with his Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC for the next two days.

He ended the event a distant and despondent sixth.

"Winning in Argentina last year was definitely the high point of my career, but this event was the opposite," he said.

"It's a real low point. We have some work to do now."

Paddon will use a two-day test in Sardinia to start making wholesale changes to his i20 in an effort to bring the car set-up closer to what he wants.



His driving style differs to that of team-mates Thierry Neuville and Dani Sordo.

"The team and the engineers are fully committed and focused on helping me get the car how I want it," said Paddon.

"I drive the car a lot from the rear and that's quite different to the other two guys.

"My style's not as smooth as Thierry's, but we've spent time trying to adjust my driving style to match his and it hasn't really worked.

"Now we're going to work more on the car. The team has got some good ideas that we can try at the test."

Team principal Michel Nandan is confident Paddon can return to form.

"I can understand how disappointed he is," said Nandan.

"But you have to consider that in every sport you have ups and downs.

"We will help him to recover and get back to success."

[Hartusvuori]

Kalle Rovanperä drives now under Red Bull brand: http://www.moottoriurheilu.tv/red-bull-kaappasi-kalle-rovanperan/

[Rallyper]

What will it mean in particular in the nearest future?

[Hartusvuori]

What will it mean in particular in the nearest future?

The nearest future I can think of is tomorrow and Kalle is supposed to drive under a Red Bull livery in his next Italian event.

[dimviii]

WRC champion Ogier to drive VW Polo again in Colin McRae tribute

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129447/ogier-to-drive-vw-again-in-mcrae-tribute

[Andre Oliveira]

I don't see any link VW and Mcrae. With so many Ford cars related to Colin, strange decision.

[AnttiL]

I don't see any link VW and Mcrae. With so many Ford cars related to Colin, strange decision.

The idea of the event is to pair the drivers with the cars they drove at the prime of their career. The Colin tribute part is just that all world champions (at least co-drivers) are present.

[macebig]

Article also has an explanation for Carlos' not appearing to the event.

[Simmi]

Was a bit strange to see MN put the RallyLegend news as their cover story, the best part of two weeks after it was announced.

Looks like there will be a lot more stars there in addition to the world champs - Meeke, Alister McRae etc.

I'd highly recommend the rally to anyone thinking of going - but it looks like the champions parade is just on one single stage. These guys aren't doing the entire rally. Although maybe a few will.

It's just a shame the 'Legend' stage is, let's be honest, a sh*thole around factory grounds. This kind of display is fitting of a bit better backdrop in my opinion. But kudos to the organisers and Moya for making it happen.

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

WRC champion Ogier to drive VW Polo again in Colin McRae tribute

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129447/ogier-to-drive-vw-again-in-mcrae-tribute
Why he driving the Polo if he could driving a Fiesta WRC17 with Martini's throwback livery..?

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[Watson]

Why he driving the Polo if he could driving a Fiesta WRC17 with Martini's throwback livery..?

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That would have been a nice idea but the point of the whole parade is that the champs drive the cars they won the championship in.

[BigWorm]

http://www.hegnar.no/Nyheter/Motor/2017/05/Andreas-Mikkelsen-klar-for-Porsche-mesterskap

Mikkelsen enters Porsche cup

[Eli]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUEaKSkhXAr/ does anyone know about this or which car manufacturer it concerns???

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[BigWorm]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUEaKSkhXAr/ does anyone know about this or which car manufacturer it concerns???

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Well you can't see a lot of it. The small view of the headlights looks like an Opel to me, you can also see the colours white, yellow and black so I would guess Opel.

[mmm]

Opel Corsa

[Eli]

Opel Corsa
R5 or WRC? Probably R5 as PSA owns the opel brand now... Shame

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[Simmi]

If it's a true manufacturer programme why are Rally-Magazin.de showing the video before anyone else?

[Eli]

If it's a true manufacturer programme why are Rally-Magazin.de showing the video before anyone else?
Yes I asked myself the same question, why doesn't it appear elsewhere...

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[mmm]

R5 or WRC? Probably R5 as PSA owns the opel brand now... Shame

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Hard to say, but I think the wing looks bigger than a R5 wing.

[Eli]

If the LED lights are anything to go by I would say it's an Opel

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Edit: & it says in the hash-tag:made in germany

[rp]

There is the original source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3W3b_Z8SI0&feature=youtu.be

Great if finally Opel Corsa R5 is coming!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUEaKSkhXAr/ does anyone know about this or which car manufacturer it concerns???

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'Liked' by ChrisIngramRally, the Opel R2 junior driver in ERC.

He's hoping Opel launch an R5 which he could drive next season...

[Andre Oliveira]

It is a R5, better discuss that here: http://www.motorsportforums.com/showthread.php?28327-R5-News/page452

[jonlint]

There is the original source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3W3b_Z8SI0&feature=youtu.be

Great if finally Opel Corsa R5 is coming!

Looks like an Opel Corsa R5 indeed...

[dimviii]

Colin Clark‏*@voiceofrally

This could effect the odds for Portugal. Hearing from a reliable source that @MadsOstberg will run on Dmacks this week. He's got a chance!

[mknight]

Well on the test vid:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSyrdelDwXI

Prokop has Dmack stickers. Østberg doesn't. Mix-up? Not enough stickers available?

[SubaruNorway]

Well on the test vid:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSyrdelDwXI

Prokop has Dmack stickers. Østberg doesn't. Mix-up? Not enough stickers available?

You can see the Dmack tyres on the ground behind Østbergs car at 24 sec

Same pattern as DMG+ and DMG+2
http://www.dmacktyres.com/gravel-tyres

[mknight]

yes, nice observation. Not enough stickers then.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@Dmacktyres
We are supplying FOUR WRC cars @rallydeportugal - that's the most we've ever had !

[Andre Oliveira]

Evans, Østberg, Prokop and Raoux

[EstWRC]

after Argentina Tänak was joking in estonian media that perhaps he did a too good job for them last year :)

[Simmi]

Pretty funny to read in Motorsport News this morning that, surprise surprise, the WRC teams are against extending the calendar out to 16 events - as WRC Promoter wants to do for 2022.

These changes require manufacturer agreement, so I've no idea how they expected this to get pushed through. The article says Toyota are apparently pushing for a reduction to as few as 10 rallies in coming years!!! That's fairly worrying.

Quotes from Alain Penasse absolutely slating the prospect of going to Croatia. "Then there's this idea about Croatia. I'm not sure where that dream came from. We were told the promoter wanted to go outside of Europe for the next round and this totally contradicts that."

He has a point. But he did support NZ on the calendar next year, despite the small market. I'm sure the story will be up on Autosport soon.

[AnttiL]

About 2018 seats, do any other guys have contracts beyond 2017 other than the Hyundai trio (until the end of 2018) and Kris Meeke (until the end of 2019)?

[Eli]

About 2018 seats, do any other guys have contracts beyond 2017 other than the Hyundai trio (until the end of 2018) and Kris Meeke (until the end of 2019)?

the trio of Citroen have until the end of 2018 (also Meeke, not '19), M-Sport is unknown besides Ogier who has this year only.

[Allez Andruet]

About 2018 seats, do any other guys have contracts beyond 2017 other than the Hyundai trio (until the end of 2018) and Kris Meeke (until the end of 2019)?

Meeke has a contract till end of 2018 I think (3-year deal - 2016, 2017, 2018)?

And I'd guess that atleast two of the Toyota guys also have a contract for 2018. TGR has only mentioned one-year contracts, but that could easily be due to "Japanese" way of communication which is so dominant in all of their external communication.

[Tarmop]

the trio of Citroen have until the end of 2018 (also Meeke, not '19), M-Sport is unknown besides Ogier who has this year only.

Tänak too only 2017. Almost certain that same with DMack/Evans but can`t confirm that.

[EstWRC]

Yes, Tänak is a free man after this year like he said in an Q&A session with fan questions a week ago. Wilson had the "first option" for him for this season and thats why he didnt go to elsewhere because Malcolm used it.

so potentially we have 5 drivers on the market for next season: Ogier, Tänak, Evans, Latvala and Mikkelsen.


how long is Lappi's contract?

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129574/proton-set-to-return-in-wrc2-with-new-iriz

So Proton back to WRC(2) next year.

[SubaruNorway]

"Evo X engine taken down to 1600cc - a process that will help make it even stronger than it is"

And heavier, didn't know you can use an engine from a different manufacturer. They already have a 1.6l from what i can see.

[liposh]

If I am not mistaken Fabia R5 has 1800cc engine reduced to 1600 cc from some VW car made only for chinese market. I think for Ford it was also some reduced engine. Only Peugeot used serial 1600 cc engine and because it has also serial cooling it was/is total crap.

[er88]

Is there any real chance that these Opel and Proton R5s are any better than half-decent at best?

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[Mirek]

Of course. Or do You think that Holzer/Opel built the best R2 car on the market by accident?

[Mirek]

"Evo X engine taken down to 1600cc - a process that will help make it even stronger than it is"

And heavier, didn't know you can use an engine from a different manufacturer. They already have a 1.6l from what i can see.

Proton has this engine in their stock portfolio (Proton Jebat is basically Lancer Evo X). IMHO Evo X engine is very good basis mainly because it's performance engine already in stock variant unlike most of others.

Actually it's better to use larger engine and shorten the stroke. Both M-Sport and Škoda did it (2.0 resp. 1.8 base engines). PSA used stock 1.6 engines and had gazillion problems with it. Prodrive did the same mistake with Mini WRC.

The issue with stock 1,6 litres are many. Just to name some which come to my mind...

1) non-ideal bore/stroke ratio for competitive engine because stock engines are built with different priorities (Fabia R5 engine which is 1,8 with shortened stroke has actually very same bore/stroke ratio as taylor-made engine of Polo WRC while PSA R5 engines have hugely long stroke)

2) engine block possibly not strong enough

3) possibly problematic cooling of the smaller block which isn't designed for racing use

[TheFlyingTuga]

Proton has this engine in their stock portfolio (Proton Jebat is basically Lancer Evo X). IMHO Evo X engine is very good basis mainly because it's performance engine already in stock variant unlike most of others.

Actually it's better to use larger engine and shorten the stroke. Both M-Sport and Škoda did it (2.0 resp. 1.8 base engines). PSA used stock 1.6 engines and had gazillion problems with it. Prodrive did the same mistake with Mini WRC.

The issue with stock 1,6 litres are many. Just to name some which come to my mind...

1) non-ideal bore/stroke ratio for competitive engine because stock engines are built with different priorities (Fabia R5 engine which is 1,8 with shortened stroke has actually very same bore/stroke ratio as taylor-made engine of Polo WRC while PSA R5 engines have hugely long stroke)

2) engine block possibly not strong enough

3) possibly problematic cooling of the smaller block which isn't designed for racing use

The un-official Mitsubishi Mirage R5 also uses the Evo X with shorten stroke and in the right hands can be quite competitive

[Mirek]

IMHO Mirage isn't on the level of WRC2 competitors. Proton needs to be a lot more competitive to have some success.

[Mk2 RS2000]

Proton could be a toe in the water for Mitsubishi and watch out for Nissan, they have a demon 1.6 litre engine available now.

[Duvel]

Proton has this engine in their stock portfolio (Proton Jebat is basically Lancer Evo X). IMHO Evo X engine is very good basis mainly because it's performance engine already in stock variant unlike most of others.

Actually it's better to use larger engine and shorten the stroke. Both M-Sport and Škoda did it (2.0 resp. 1.8 base engines). PSA used stock 1.6 engines and had gazillion problems with it. Prodrive did the same mistake with Mini WRC.

The issue with stock 1,6 litres are many. Just to name some which come to my mind...

1) non-ideal bore/stroke ratio for competitive engine because stock engines are built with different priorities (Fabia R5 engine which is 1,8 with shortened stroke has actually very same bore/stroke ratio as taylor-made engine of Polo WRC while PSA R5 engines have hugely long stroke)

2) engine block possibly not strong enough

3) possibly problematic cooling of the smaller block which isn't designed for racing use


I think the Psa 1.6 engine and the Mini 1.6 is the same base engine. It's the EP engine.

[TyPat107]

I think the Psa 1.6 engine and the Mini 1.6 is the same base engine. It's the EP engine.

Is this also referred to as the "prince engine?"

[Mirek]

I think the Psa 1.6 engine and the Mini 1.6 is the same base engine. It's the EP engine.

Yes, You are right.


Is this also referred to as the "prince engine?"

Yes.

[tomhlord]

Will be interesting to see where this programme lies once Proton has been sold. Current leader is PSA (Peugeot) to take control of the company. http://www.autoblog.com/2017/03/22/lotus-proton-geely-psa-deal-report/

[macebig]

Will be interesting to see where this programme lies once Proton has been sold. Current leader is PSA (Peugeot) to take control of the company. http://www.autoblog.com/2017/03/22/lotus-proton-geely-psa-deal-report/

If PSA somehow ends with 4 R5 cars in their hands, things will get interesting..

[tomhlord]

If PSA somehow ends with 4 R5 cars in their hands, things will get interesting..

Absolutely.

[janvanvurpa]

When you guys are making theories why this or that about engines maybe I'm wrong, but I think everything makes more sense if one states the dimensions of things...presuming you know them..
I build and have built road car and rally motors..Numbers are everything to me..When speaking of Evo X it might help to know it's bore and stroke (86x86) and what it changed from in the old 4G63 (85x 89) because then, when you read Misterbitchi info it makes sense when they say why the changed it (when obviously it had worked well for almost 15-17 years)..They said "now 86mm bore to allow 1mm larger valves"..

So talking about these WRC 1,6 motors its interesting seeing everybody using 84mm bore versus production 78mm or whatever..More room for bigger valves.

In a 3 way conversation a couple of weeks ago between me and a young clubbie guy in Michigan and a fast Golf guy in Sweden who has an old VW Motorsport kit car we were all reminded that those kit car engines VW used they went UP to 84mm (and destroked to not go over 2000cc) from VWs 82,5mm
Both guys were puzzled---neither being engine guys..

As soon as I said "more room in a 84mm circle for bigger valve" both boys said AHA!!!..

So please, numbers...

[Mirek]

With pleasure Jan. Take it easy, I am not sure that the sources I found were all right.

PSA R5 engine (based on 1.6 stock EP6CDT): stock 1598 ccm engine has 77x85,8 but since the cylinder spacing is 84 mm I think the bore can not be larger with competition 1620 ccm R5 engine
Škoda R5 engine (modified stock 1.8): 82,5x75,5
Ford R5 (engine 2016, modified stock 2.0): 85x71,3
Hyundai R5 engine: 83x73,8

[br21]

From Homologation papers:
PSA engine: 77,016 x 85,9
Fiesta: 85,0 x 71,3

[Mirek]

Thanks for confirmation. The PSA block is simply too small for wider pistons.

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129588/wrc-teams-oppose-calendar-expansion
Just what you guys told us a few days ago from MN Rally.

[itix]

If this info has been posted somewhere else, sorry for the double post. I read that Lukyanuk crashed heavily (into another rally car strangely) and was injured. He and two others are injured and the co-driver in one of the cars died.

Does anyone know details about it? How can two rally cars crash into each other during a test?

Edit, just found the other thread. Don't know how I missed it to he frank!

[RAS007]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129588/wrc-teams-oppose-calendar-expansion
Just what you guys told us a few days ago from MN Rally.

12-14 rallies, bring back NZ, San Remo and Safari, drop Mexico, Sardinia and Poland.

[Coach 2]

From Homologation papers:
PSA engine: 77,016 x 85,9 =1599,2 ccm
Fiesta: 85,0 x 71,3 =1617,5 ccm

[Coach 2]

Sorry

Like this

PSA 77,016 * 85,9 = 1599,2
Fiesta 85,0 * 71,3 =1617,5

[Mirek]

Yes, maximum allowed displacement is 1620 ccm but it wasn't like that at the beginning.

It may sound strange but the reason for such strange figure in the rules is in Renault Clio R3T. Their stock engine has 1618 ccm and they asked for exception before they launched R3T some years back. FIA instead changed general rules for all R3T and R5 cars. Sadly I don't remember in which year they changed it.

[jbmarcus21]

New Test for Loeb with 306Maxi + C4WRC in Alsace last week → http://bit.ly/2qbzMff

[René]

Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team has changed its line-up for Rally Italia Sardegna (8-11 June), with the arrival of Andreas Mikkelsen/Anders Jaeger in the no.9 Citroën C3 WRC.
http://bit.ly/2rL8i1E

[Eli]

Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team has changed its line-up for Rally Italia Sardegna (8-11 June), with the arrival of Andreas Mikkelsen/Anders Jaeger in the no.9 Citroën C3 WRC.
http://bit.ly/2rL8i1E
Well that was expected, really should have done it sooner, hopefully it won't be a one off as they are planning. Reminds me of when François Duval was replaced for 2 rallies by Carlos Sainz back in 2005.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

[EightGear]

Good!

[KKS]

Great news!
Leferbve tottaly out of rally, no change to R5? strange it's FFSA golden boy

[mknight]

With one day of testing I don't think he will be top 3 fast, don't think Citroen has very high hopes either.

Maybe it's more about getting feedback on how C3 compares with Polo and I20.

[Rallyper]

Want feedback on Crystal Ball 2017 WRC ...

[Eli]

With one day of testing I don't think he will be top 3 fast, don't think Citroen has very high hopes either.

Maybe it's more about getting feedback on how C3 compares with Polo and I20.
He'll still be better than their frenchman, and he has a really good starting position, & all of that is before you consider he has done the rally last year, & his teammates haven't. If things go his way, we might see him for a little longer in that Citroën.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

[KKS]

Maybe it's more about getting feedback on how C3 compares with Polo and I20.
And even for that need more test days.

Citroen didn't test anywhere before Sardegna? strange

[Eli]

And even for that need more test days.

Citroen didn't test anywhere before Sardegna? strange
Didn't they test in Sardegna before Portugal?

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[Simmi]

That's certainly put all the current Citroen drivers on notice. I'm sure we'll see more of him.

[AnttiL]

With one day of testing I don't think he will be top 3 fast, don't think Citroen has very high hopes either.

Maybe it's more about getting feedback on how C3 compares with Polo and I20.

Well yeah, Andreas is one of the few who has tried three different WRC2017 cars (Ogier has also tried Polo, Yaris and Fiesta).

I think they want to see where the car is at, is it not competitive or is the problem with the drivers, probably they want to secure at least one good position in Sardinia not to get too behind in the championship score table and get some more setup feedback for the permanent drivers. And it will be a good motivation for Meeke, to finish better than Mikkelsen.


I'm sure we'll see more of him.
I sure hope so.

[KKS]

Didn't they test in Sardegna before Portugal?
They are, but no test before Poland in few weeks? Just straight to Sardegna after Portugal?

[Red bull]

Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team has changed its line-up for Rally Italia Sardegna (8-11 June), with the arrival of Andreas Mikkelsen/Anders Jaeger in the no.9 Citroën C3 WRC.
http://bit.ly/2rL8i1E. It's long overdue he might even beat the factory boy's in that one off Rally Sardegna.

[TWRC]

Well yeah, Andreas is one of the few who has tried three different WRC2017 cars (Ogier has also tried Polo, Yaris and Fiesta).

I think they want to see where the car is at, is it not competitive or is the problem with the drivers, probably they want to secure at least one good position in Sardinia not to get too behind in the championship score table and get some more setup feedback for the permanent drivers. And it will be a good motivation for Meeke, to finish better than Mikkelsen.


I sure hope so.
Also, I think the objective for him and Breen will be to score points, and so Meeke will have less pressure to bring a good result, so hopefully he can get his act together this way as well and challenge for top places.

[macebig]

I believe Mikkelsen's target should be Breen.If Craig can continue his 5th place run, the Norwegian should be able to better him.

[amilk]

Good news, Mikkelsen deserve this place. In the same time Matton lost his face now reading back his communication before season start about Latvala and Mikkelsen.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So Citroen blinked first...

No surprise given they are last in the Manufacturers championship.

I still doubt Mikkelsen will be instantly fast with being out of 2017 cars and only really used to the Polo.

[Eli]

So Citroen blinked first...

No surprise given they are last in the Manufacturers championship.

I still doubt Mikkelsen will be instantly fast with being out of 2017 cars and only really used to the Polo.
It's good that they have or PSA would have (if they continue like this) imho pulled the plug.

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[EstWRC]

Finally Some justice in this world !!!

[EightGear]

Finally Some justice in this world !!!
Is that you, Seb? :D

[EstWRC]

Is that you, Seb? :D

Yes, I'm home with Andrea and Tim right now reading rally Portugal thread.

I'd like to also add that Tänak is the best and toughest teammate I have ever had.

[dimviii]

Teemu / Rallirinki‏*@HartusvuoriWRC

According to @GronholmM, Jari Huttunen got permission from Opel Motorsport to enter @RallyFinland in Fabia R5, but he must use Opel overalls

[pantealex]

Teemu / Rallirinki‏*@HartusvuoriWRC

According to @GronholmM, Jari Huttunen got permission from Opel Motorsport to enter @RallyFinland in Fabia R5, but he must use Opel overalls

GRX (Grönholms team) will have brand new Fabia R5 for him, serviced by Printsport (crew that is servicing O.C Veiby)

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

Matton: "Why I didn't hired him before Monte Carlo.
?"

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

[Watson]

Matton: "Why I didn't hired him before Monte Carlo.
?"

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

1) They took a chance with him because last year he was comparable to Breen.
2) He's French and Mikkelsen isn't.
3) Contracts were already set up.
4) They wanted to show loyalty to their drivers.
5) Hindsight is an unhelpful friend.

[AnttiL]

1) They took a chance with him because last year he was comparable to Breen.

Breen was more consistent and even got a podium finish.

[Watson]

1) They took a chance with him because last year he looked pretty promising and was almost comparable to Breen.

;)

[Simmi]

Wales GB route out. Probably no need to make a thread yet.

They continue the trend of small tweaks each year, with something vaguely headline-grabbing. This year it's a couple of night stages - albeit they had these just two years ago. Okay these are great stages, but for fans returning every year they are kind of done to death. Shakedown is also the same since 2014.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129717/night-stages-back-in-tough-new-rally-gb-route

[Archie Gillaine]

Nothing to make you go 'Wow'... just more of the same. Which is modern day WRC.

Far more excited by the Roger Albert event this year....300 stage miles.

[Eli]

Nothing to make you go 'Wow'... just more of the same. Which is modern day WRC.

Far more excited by the Roger Albert event this year....300 stage miles.
More excited about Rally Legend tbh.

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[N.O.T]

Nothing to make you go 'Wow'... just more of the same. Which is modern day WRC.

Far more excited by the Roger Albert event this year....300 stage miles.

so you are more excited by some worthless village event full of overweight old people who think they are rally drivers than the driving cream of the crop just because it has more miles...

its called autism... you should check it out.

[Archie Gillaine]

How about winding your neck in for a change.....

[Brynmor Pierce]

Apologies it's a copy of a press release but it gives an insight into what we're doing in Chester this year.

 DayInsure Wales Rally GB to be the climax of week long ‘Chester Rally Week’ once again. www.thecrw.co.uk – 22-27 October

 Crews will congregate once more on Upper Bridge street on Friday the 27th, before an autograph session along Eastgate, they will then proceed over the official podium time control and drive out under the Eastgate Clock.
 The City which has hosted the event eight times between 1979 and 1996 will welcome the event back after a bumper 2016 which saw 10,000 people witness it’s return after 20 years away.

Chester City Council & Chester Growth partnership are delighted to welcome back the World Rally Championship once again in 2017. In a deal brokered on their behalf by motorsport promotion company Lightning House Ltd, it will enable fans to see their heroes and soak up the atmosphere in an unrivalled free-to-attend event.

The 2016 visit saw the evening lauded by crews and visitors alike. 10,000 people witnessed reigning World Rally Champion Sebastian Ogier lead crews over the ramp for the first time since 1996 in the city. Over £200,000 was brought into the city during the week with a huge upturn in footfall with all restaurants booked out on the evening of the visit. The event aims to capture that wonderful atmosphere once more with the sights and sounds that the new breed of 2017 World Rally cars can bring.

As part of Chester Rally Week 22-27th October, which will see a free-to-air Art / Image exhibition from 23-27th October in the city, the running of the much lauded pre-rally Charity forum at the scene of Colin McRae’s 1995 WRC victory celebrations at Chester Racecourse (tickets on sale 1st September), a large corporate function in the city and much more besides…please visit www.thecrw.co.uk for details, it really will be an amazing chapter in a city steeped in motorsport history.


Guy Butler, Chairman Chester Growth Partnership: “The Chester Growth Partnership is thrilled to have worked with Lightning House to bring Rallyweek to Chester, with the star event being the WRC coming back to the city after last years roaring success. This is exactly what we hoped for in the rally becoming a regular event for the city, and thanks must go to the team who have delivered this.”
Bryn Pierce, MD Lightning House: ‘’ Delighted to have been able to put this deal together on behalf of Chester and we all look forward to seeing the rally back on the streets of Chester after last years amazing event and indeed as the culmination of a series of events designed to mark the city’s strong heritage with the WRC. It’s going to be a great spectacle once more!’


• Bryn Pierce, bryn@lightninghouse.co.uk 07952 592445
• --Ends—
• Issued by Lightning House Ltd on behalf of various bodies within Chester.
• www.lightninghouse.co.uk

[MrJan]

so you are more excited by some worthless village event full of overweight old people who think they are rally drivers than the driving cream of the crop just because it has more miles...

190 stage miles isn't far from being a village event ;) Saving grace is that you can actually do more than 2 stages on Saturday this year without too much effort.

Given the possibilities of using great stages within the UK it's a bit of a shame to see the same set used year on year. Also they've shoehorned the event around a crappy spectator stage. Not sure they want to be shouting about maintaining the ticket prices either, it's a f***ing rip off as it is.

[DonJippo]

so you are more excited by some worthless village event full of overweight old people who think they are rally drivers than the driving cream of the crop just because it has more miles...

Seriously Greg get a life, get a girlfriend or boyfriend...I'm not judging...just don't fckuing start a war on every post.

[EstWRC]

M-Sport: Ogier now "comfortable" enough to chase fifth title

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/wilson-portugal-win-start-of-ogier-title-defence-909413/


according to estonian newspaper in Portugal Ogier had parts that Tänak didnt. Tänak now confirming it in his blog just a moment ago saying that they had a higher tyre wear than Seb because they cant have the same differential than Ogier, they must now find a different solutions for it.

[Watson]

M-Sport: Ogier now "comfortable" enough to chase fifth title

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/wilson-portugal-win-start-of-ogier-title-defence-909413/


according to estonian newspaper in Portugal Ogier had parts that Tänak didnt. Tänak now confirming it in his blog just a moment ago saying that they had a higher tyre wear than Seb because they cant have the same differential than Ogier, they must now find a different solutions for it.

'Can't have the same diffs' as in they don't have enough, they can't give it to him because of regulations or they don't want to give it to him because they want to give Ogier an advantage?

Also, Ogier is better at saving tyres by default usually.

[RAS007]

190 stage miles isn't far from being a village event ;) Saving grace is that you can actually do more than 2 stages on Saturday this year without too much effort.

Given the possibilities of using great stages within the UK it's a bit of a shame to see the same set used year on year. Also they've shoehorned the event around a crappy spectator stage. Not sure they want to be shouting about maintaining the ticket prices either, it's a f***ing rip off as it is.

Agree on the 190 stage miles. That's an afternoon stroll, and pretty pathetic.

[er88]

190 stage miles isn't far from being a village event ;) Saving grace is that you can actually do more than 2 stages on Saturday this year without too much effort.

Given the possibilities of using great stages within the UK it's a bit of a shame to see the same set used year on year. Also they've shoehorned the event around a crappy spectator stage. Not sure they want to be shouting about maintaining the ticket prices either, it's a f***ing rip off as it is.
I really wish they'd move it from Wales now. Probably won't happen but I'd love to see the GB round rotated between Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Northern England etc. There's so many great stages in the UK and it would add some new excitement instead of the samey feeling of every year being down in Wales. 3 or 5 years in one location and then move to a different part of the UK.

[EstWRC]

'Can't have the same diffs' as in they don't have enough, they can't give it to him because of regulations or they don't want to give it to him because they want to give Ogier an advantage?

Also, Ogier is better at saving tyres by default usually.

Dont know the exact reasons...but it was expected that at some point Wilson puts all the cards on Ogier and others are left behind.

[Rallyper]

To me it look strange not having same material. Tanak has to come back to reason why, before we judge.

[bluuford]

Dont know the exact reasons...but it was expected that at some point Wilson puts all the cards on Ogier and others are left behind.

Reason is simple. They were not able to manufacture enough new parts. As this is sealed component and you can replace this after Sardegna, he has to manage with oldone for Sardegna as well.

[Watson]

Reason is simple. They were not able to manufacture enough new parts. As this is sealed component and you can replace this after Sardegna, he has to manage with oldone for Sardegna as well.
I suspected that. Team orders are one thing but giving your works drivers lower spec cars is a bit crazy. You want them to collect points and stop others from doing so after all.

[Simmi]

Not sure they want to be shouting about maintaining the ticket prices either, it's a f***ing rip off as it is.

I was thinking the same thing. They are only freezing the prices because they don't want to go over that £100 Rally Pass threshold. Bad PR for sure.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Dont know the exact reasons...but it was expected that at some point Wilson puts all the cards on Ogier and others are left behind.

This constant excuse-making for Tanak is getting boring now. He has had the same equipment this year until Portugal and only finished ahead of (road-opener) Ogier once.

And you cant blame M-Sport for getting behind a 4x world champion that they are paying a fortune in any case.

[EstWRC]

im not making any excuses, i just wrote what newspaper and Tänak himself wrote

[EstWRC]

According to the French of AUTOhebdo, Toyota has spent its first joker in the Yaris #WRC to change the transmission by a chronic flaw.


Citroen insists Kris Meeke's World Rally Championship seat is safe

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129746/citroen-insists-meeke-drive-is-safe

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Citroen insists Kris Meeke's World Rally Championship seat is safe

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129746/citroen-insists-meeke-drive-is-safe

The dreaded 'vote of confidence'...

[Watson]

According to the French of AUTOhebdo, Toyota has spent its first joker in the Yaris #WRC to change the transmission by a chronic flaw.


Citroen insists Kris Meeke's World Rally Championship seat is safe

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129746/citroen-insists-meeke-drive-is-safe

How many jokers does a team get per season?

On Citroen: Well, they already got Mikkelsen, who would they replace Meeke with? Ostberg? Prokop? Bertelli?

[Simmi]

On Citroen: Well, they already got Mikkelsen, who would they replace Meeke with? Ostberg? Prokop? Bertelli?

Running Mikkelsen for a one-off or limited programme is not the same thing as a permanent deal. They don't have him yet.

[er88]

The dreaded 'vote of confidence'...
If you genuinely believe Meeke's seat is in danger you're wrong.

[Watson]

Running Mikkelsen for a one-off or limited programme is not the same thing as a permanent deal. They don't have him yet.

Yes, but the article was about Meeke's seat being safe. So eventhough Mikkelsen is only booked for Italy as of now, they would hardly put Lefebvre back and then replace Meeke with Mikkelsen. I'm saying they can't replace Meeke for any rally to give him a break because there are no drivers left to replace him with. You know what I mean?

[AnttiL]

Yes, but the article was about Meeke's seat being safe. So eventhough Mikkelsen is only booked for Italy as of now, they would hardly put Lefebvre back and then replace Meeke with Mikkelsen. I'm saying they can't replace Meeke for any rally to give him a break because there are no drivers left to replace him with. You know what I mean?

Maybe they mean next season? It's all different, Ogier could be looking for a new drive by then and everything could change.

[Tarmop]

This constant excuse-making for Tanak is getting boring now. He has had the same equipment this year until Portugal and only finished ahead of (road-opener) Ogier once.

And you cant blame M-Sport for getting behind a 4x world champion that they are paying a fortune in any case.

TBF, twice...once in Sweden and second time in Argentina.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If you genuinely believe Meeke's seat is in danger you're wrong.

No but only because they need to replace Lefebvre first...

[Barreis]

Meeke can be only 2nd driver in the team. Under pressure he breaks.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Re Ogier having a new car for Portugal...

I learned that Neuville also had a brand new car there too. So no 'advantage' for Seb in that respect.

[BigWorm]

Re Ogier having a new car for Portugal...

I learned that Neuville also had a brand new car there too. So no 'advantage' for Seb in that respect.

People consider Ogier won the rally because of the new car? Nah, his driving won the rally.

[seb_sh]

People consider Ogier won the rally because of the new car? Nah, his driving won the rally.

Sure, his driving won the rally but a car without problems also helped make it possible, not to mention the improved diff that suited him more and reduced tyre wear.

[smsgrafica]

He had the same diff in Argentina, too. And we know how well that went...

[SubaruNorway]

He had the same diff in Argentina, too. And we know how well that went...

A loose diff probably but better grip in Portugal so it worked better there maybe

[AnttiL]

https://www.facebook.com/haydenpaddonwrc/photos/a.186311901404607.35647.184390891596708/1315195055182947/?type=3&theater

John Kennard's medical issues continued and he doesn't return to Paddon's co-driver seat anymore.

[Watson]

https://www.facebook.com/haydenpaddonwrc/photos/a.186311901404607.35647.184390891596708/1315195055182947/?type=3&theater

John Kennard's medical issues continued and he doesn't return anymore to Paddon's co-driver seat anymore.

That's sad. Good thing they had already started the transition-period with Seb Marshall though.

[jbmarcus21]

Marcus Grönholm will drive Rally Finland with Toyota Yaris Wrc 2017 for special operation → http://bit.ly/2rxV6Az

[macebig]

We may see a decommissioned Yaris in WRX next year for Nicklas?

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129846/wrc-privateer-testing-loophole-closed

[Rallyper]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129846/wrc-privateer-testing-loophole-closed

Complaining factory teams just make fools of themselves. "What if we hire a local driver?" YES!! Why don´t you.

[Watson]

Complaining factory teams just make fools of themselves. "What if we hire a local driver?" YES!! Why don´t you.

I'm torn on this.

On the one hand, employing local drivers to share test data would cost a lot of money and everyone is crying out to lower the expenses.

On the other hand, guys like Østberg have a severe disadvantage because the factory is not sharing data with him. I suppose being able to test outside of Europe still leaves him less prepared compared to the factory teams.

[sollitt]

If he wants to play in the same competition as the 'factory' teams he needs to comply with the same rules.
Whether or not the factory is sharing data with him to enable a competitive performance is a commercial matter between himself and the factory, not a concern of the rule makers.

[Lundefaret]

If he wants to play in the same competition as the 'factory' teams he needs to comply with the same rules.
Whether or not the factory is sharing data with him to enable a competitive performance is a commercial matter between himself and the factory, not a concern of the rule makers.

The question is if we want competitive privateers in the WRC.
If we do, then they need to be given a fighting chance.
While the factory teams have three drivers all doing testing duties, and test drivers, test cars , and can develop and test new parts etc etc, a team like JipoCar has one WRC17 car which they run in both tests and rallies, and really no possibilities to develop own parts, etc. So the factory teams has all the advantages, which of course the factory teams want. So the question is again, do we want competitive privateers in the WRC?
Right now we have four strong manufacturers, and the "crisis" years of two manufacturers and one dominating driver seem long but forgotten, but this is the scenario I think we need to keep in mind when we argue for or against these things.

[Watson]

Very well put Lundefaret.

[Rallyper]

The question is if we want competitive privateers in the WRC.
If we do, then they need to be given a fighting chance.
While the factory teams have three drivers all doing testing duties, and test drivers, test cars , and can develop and test new parts etc etc, a team like JipoCar has one WRC17 car which they run in both tests and rallies, and really no possibilities to develop own parts, etc. So the factory teams has all the advantages, which of course the factory teams want. So the question is again, do we want competitive privateers in the WRC?
Right now we have four strong manufacturers, and the "crisis" years of two manufacturers and one dominating driver seem long but forgotten, but this is the scenario I think we need to keep in mind when we argue for or against these things.

+10

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Spot on. Facory teams are pathetic with such complaints.

[electroliquid]

I think factory teams have too much rights - they basically owning championship - they don't want VW as private team, they don't want 16 rounds in championship, now they don't want extra strong (semi strong) competitors. It looks like nobody want to improve, but to stay in same level with few rivals. FIA should dictate rules to teams, not vice versa.

[AnttiL]

I think it's a stupid limit, but then again FIA basically decided against privateers when they started allowing WRC entries by factory teams only. If it wasn't for M-Sport, Østberg couldn't compete on his WRC17 car.

[electroliquid]

For M-Sport it's the only way to survive - be flexible. If they had strong Ford backing it could be different story..

[er88]

Of course. Or do You think that Holzer/Opel built the best R2 car on the market by accident?
Nope I didn't think it was by accident. However I just had my doubts that these two projects would make any sort of dent in the R5 market, and considering what a clusterfuck this Holzer project appears to be, I could be right. Unless you expect MEM to make the Proton a Ford/ Skoda/ C3, I20 beater?

[dodge33cymru]

I think factory teams have too much rights - they basically owning championship.

Well yeah, they basically do - they're the ones paying for it anyway. Not exclusively, but they put more in than they get back.

[Rally Power]

For sure WRC needs privateer's but let’s be clear: ’17 cars aren’t made for them.

The Privateer’s Cup for ’16 WRC cars seemed to be the best solution for private drivers wanting to use WRC cars, but sadly FIA managed to instantly spoil it by allowing privateer's to drive ’17 cars. Honestly I still believe that for safety reasons (and also for the Privateer’s Cup sake), ’17 WRC cars should only be used by top drivers with a Super License.

The new cars are also too expensive and technically too demanding to be run by private teams and the rational option for the wealthy privateer’s able to use them is to become a paying driver in a manu team, like Bertelli or Al Qassimi have been doing in different forms.

Ostberg choose to use Jipocar private structure and he’s having a hard time, but should the rules be more flexible for him because of that? Can the manus that sell ’17 cars to privateer's get access to extra data by having their costumers testing freely outside Europe? At least in theory, there’s no doubt that MSport could take advantage from that loophole; it makes perfect sense to fix it.

[AndyRAC]

It was expected to happen - and I can understand why. However, they're missing the point, and not seeing the bigger picture. Sadly, the days of a privateer, or a local entrant turning up and challenging the top guys has long since past. Some people thought they had no business being in an event; but I thought it added an extra dimension to an event, and the series.

[AnttiL]

. Sadly, the days of a privateer, or a local entrant turning up and challenging the top guys has long since past. Some people thought they had no business being in an event; but I thought it added an extra dimension to an event, and the series.

You're supposed to do that within WRC2, with R5 cars, WRC is only for professionals. When is the last time a privateer got to podium anyway? EDIT: Daniel Carlsson, 3rd in Sweden 2006?

[sollitt]

The question is if we want competitive privateers in the WRC.
If we do, then they need to be given a fighting chance.
While the factory teams have three drivers all doing testing duties, and test drivers, test cars , and can develop and test new parts etc etc, a team like JipoCar has one WRC17 car which they run in both tests and rallies, and really no possibilities to develop own parts, etc. So the factory teams has all the advantages, which of course the factory teams want. So the question is again, do we want competitive privateers in the WRC?
Right now we have four strong manufacturers, and the "crisis" years of two manufacturers and one dominating driver seem long but forgotten, but this is the scenario I think we need to keep in mind when we argue for or against these things.

Good post. And I agree ... yes we want competitive privateers. But having separate regulations for privateer vs factory would open more of a can of worms than the imbalance you're trying to correct. And it wouldn't achieve any result anyway.
You'd have to go back to Group 4 days to find an era when privateers could truly be competitive with factory drivers and even then it was difficult.
There are a good many reasons for that.

Rally Power suggests that the privateers cup is the answer. I don't agree. We want as many privateers in the main game as possible. But they must play by the same rules or it become farcical.

[Sulland]

A sad day for Rally.
Rally is the maverick of motorsport, and has always been.

It was the motorsport where you could buy a car from a tuner, or make it yourself. Then you could drive a world championship round or two if you wanted. The best could measure up to the "factory" cars. Fight with the best, have the fun of walking in the same depot, driving a MK2 Escort or later a Gr A car.

Then the money and factorys came in, and FIA now in the end took the possibility and a possible dream away from almost all rallydrivers.

The teams have also lost a free testpool.
Østberg have tested and probably found things, going his own way, that the factory team have not even thought of.
If a team can get sponsors to fund a car, have a driver that qualifies for a super licence, why not let them?

Is there something wrong with following their dream, fighting with the best in the maverick sport in the FIA family?
Or has that now become Rallycross?

[Luijbregts]

You're supposed to do that within WRC2, with R5 cars, WRC is only for professionals. When is the last time a privateer got to podium anyway? EDIT: Daniel Carlsson, 3rd in Sweden 2006?

I think Henning Solberg WRC Norway 2007 - 3rd but I could be mistaken... Anyway, yes looooong time ago!

[SubaruNorway]

I think Henning Solberg WRC Norway 2007 - 3rd but I could be mistaken... Anyway, yes looooong time ago!

Have you forgoten that Østberg did the whole 2012 private with 3 podiums and started with a 2nd in Sweden. Bouffier 2nd in MC 2014. Not to mention several by Solberg from 2009-2011

[mousti]

Have you forgoten that Østberg did the whole 2012 private with 3 podiums and started with a 2nd in Sweden. Bouffier 2nd in MC 2014. Not to mention several by Solberg from 2009-2011
And won Portugal! After a fuckup from Citroën.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G935F met Tapatalk

[Rally Power]

Rally Power suggests that the privateers cup is the answer. I don't agree. We want as many privateers in the main game as possible. But they must play by the same rules or it become farcical.

It’s not a question of what we want, it’s a question of what we have and currently we have a fantastic new range of WRC cars that are faster, more spectacular and safer than the previous ones. They’re what the sport needed to attract more fans and get more media coverage. There’s only one catch: these new cars are unaffordable for most privateers.

Is that enougth to fell sorry about the choice FIA and the manufacturers made on these exciting but exclusive new cars and continue to sadly regret that we are far away from the good old Gr.4 or Gr.A privateer friendly days? Come on, why can we just take the most of present WRC fantastic days, praising the manus that were brave enough to enter the sport and gave to the fans twelve fabulous cars, driven by the best drivers on the planet?!?

Ok, in the current context there’s little room for privateers using top cars; that’s why a Private Cup using ’16 less exclusive cars seems much more interesting than having only a couple of ultra rich and less talented private drivers (Ostberg is the exception) that can afford to run ’17 cars alongside works drivers.

[sollitt]

I'll let you into a wee secret RP. Any WRC rally car is unaffordable for most privateers.

There's nothing wrong with a 2nd tier competition, if that's where you want to play. But that's quite a different thing to compelling anyone not on a factory payroll to play there or stay home.

Limiting the championship to factory drivers only? That's not rallying.

[Lundefaret]

The factory teams are the backbone, and we now have a fantastic season.
But the number of factory teams go up and down, so the sport should have a "dialogue" with private teams.

Testing is one thing, but two other factors make the sport unnecessarily expensive for both factory teams and privateers.

1) Carbon parts:
On a rally car parts like front spoiler, side sills, rear spoiler and diffuser are something that are often replaced several times during a rally. These should by regulations be made cheaper, like having them in fibre glass in stead of carbon.

2) Engine:
Though we have seen an increase in HP, the WRC cars still don't have extreme power figures by any means. But still one engine costs a huge sum.
The same HP an nm could be made much, much cheaper, if regulated in another way.

I really like the 17 cars, and have also been lucky enough to have ridden in one, but think FIA should be more cost focussed also to attract more factory teams.

[BleAivano]

Is there something wrong with following their dream, fighting with the best in the maverick sport in the FIA family?
Or has that now become Rallycross?

IMO WRX used to be like that but is now quickly heading towards WRC type of championship with factory teams dominating.

[AnttiL]

A sad day for Rally.
Rally is the maverick of motorsport, and has always been.

It was the motorsport where you could buy a car from a tuner, or make it yourself. Then you could drive a world championship round or two if you wanted. The best could measure up to the "factory" cars. Fight with the best, have the fun of walking in the same depot, driving a MK2 Escort or later a Gr A car.

Then the money and factorys came in, and FIA now in the end took the possibility and a possible dream away from almost all rallydrivers.

You're forgetting that there has been factory teams since the 60's. At first the world title was only for manufacturers.

And I'm pretty sure already the group A cars of the 90's weren't something you just bought, drove and competed with the factory boys. Instead you had buy an old factory car and have your own professional team.

[AnttiL]

Have you forgoten that Østberg did the whole 2012 private with 3 podiums and started with a 2nd in Sweden. Bouffier 2nd in MC 2014. Not to mention several by Solberg from 2009-2011

Østberg and Solberg were old factory drivers who could easily buy a factory car and get sponsors by that point for their own professional rally team and Bouffier drove for M-Sport. But we're talking about someone new coming and making a result with a private car to impress the teams, something like Jarmo Kytölehto did in Finland 1996 and 1997 by being third on a private Escort, hasn't happened in a long time. Now, you'd drive an R5 car and make a good result in WRC2 to get noticed. Kind of what Suninen's doing.

[Franky]

Now, you'd drive an R5 car and make a good result in WRC2 to get noticed. Kind of what Suninen's doing.

And there's the problem. WRC2 doesn't get enough press from anyone.

[AnttiL]

And there's the problem. WRC2 doesn't get enough press from anyone.

But R5 cars are still somewhat affordable for privateers. WRC17 are certainly not. If FIA would now open the competition for private entries in WRC class, we'd get just more Bertellis and Al-Qassimis cruising.

And the team bosses do notice what's going on in WRC2. Jost Capito said he'd pick Suninen as his third driver if he would start a team now and could pick any three drivers (with the third being a new promising star), and Lappi got a seat for Toyota.

And if you look at the current works drivers, only Latvala and Østberg started their careers in private WRC cars , everybody else got a factory deal by driving well in S1600/S2000. And even Latvala drove mostly a group N Impreza in his starting years.

[Franky]

Sponsors don't care if something is affordable or not. They want the attention. WRC vs R5 in that terms is a hopeless fight. Unless someone manages to get an R5 close to the podium.

I don't understand why some people don't like slower privateers (except N.O.T, who has declared multiple times what he thinks of them). As some of the previous posts here have hinted, rallying isn't only about creme de la creme.

[AnttiL]

I don't understand why some people don't like slower privateers (except N.O.T, who has declared multiple times what he thinks of them). As some of the previous posts here have hinted, rallying isn't only about creme de la creme.

You mean Bertelli, Prokop et al. ? why couldn't they just drive WRC Trophy or WRC2 since they're not fighting for the win anyway? What bothers me with them is that they usually drive their own race, with no one to compete with. They're seconds a kilometre slower than the works guys. And if there's two of them, they're worlds away from each other in terms of skills or resources. One tries their best, one just cruises.

EDIT: It's interesting that in Portugal, Prokop seemed to be on pace with the 4th-5th place guys in WRC2. Maybe next year private WRC2016 cars could contest for WRC2 points?

[Franky]

You mean Bertelli, Prokop et al. ? why couldn't they just drive WRC Trophy or WRC2 since they're not fighting for the win anyway? What bothers me with them is that they usually drive their own race, with no one to compete with. They're seconds a kilometre slower than the works guys. And if there's two of them, they're worlds away from each other in terms of skills or resources. One tries their best, one just cruises.

Answer this question. Would you buy a super/hyper car or a Dacia?

[AnttiL]

Answer this question. Would you buy a super/hyper car or a Dacia?

The question is more like, would you buy a Ferrari or a BMW M3, the top of the line sports car or a more affordable sports car that's still not cheap. Yeah, if I had endless amount of money, of course I'd go for a Ferrari, but if that meant I'd spend the weekends driving it alone versus driving it with all my friends having BMW M3's as well, I'd go for the BMW.

[Tarmop]

I don`t think that the previous generation WRC €/SS (in a WRC event) is much cheaper than the current spec`s and those who have that kind of money want the best equipment. They are just enjoying themselves and don`t care about some "meaningless" trophy (they were cruising also before, just for fun). Citroen and Ford both need the money and if it means Bertelli`s and Sheikh`s cruising then let them cruise. Ostberg is good enough to add competition, though i wouldn`t see him taking a place from some fast drivers with no money so the current situation is the best.

[Gregor-y]

You're supposed to do that within WRC2, with R5 cars, WRC is only for professionals. When is the last time a privateer got to podium anyway? EDIT: Daniel Carlsson, 3rd in Sweden 2006?
Manfred Stohl made the podium on the three final events of 2006. Third in Australia and New Zealand and second in the UK. In a 307, no less.

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129872/citroen-doesnt-want-mikkelsen-for-one-shot

Well that was kind of obvious, Citroen are thinking of Mikkelsen doing more, not just this one off.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129872/citroen-doesnt-want-mikkelsen-for-one-shot



Cant read the above but its also here: https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-keen-to-extend-mikkelsen-deal-beyond-italy-912885/

[AnttiL]

Manfred Stohl made the podium on the three final events of 2006. Third in Australia and New Zealand and second in the UK. In a 307, no less.

But it was the OMV team, at least semi-professional, they contested the whole season with two cars, different than some local trying out in a private car. Same as M-Sport and Stobart. Not factory teams, but not privateers by any means.

[AnttiL]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129872/citroen-doesnt-want-mikkelsen-for-one-shot

Well that was kind of obvious, Citroen are thinking of Mikkelsen doing more, not just this one off.

But their problem is that they've already agreed to give Lefevbre a full season of drives and Al-Qassimi fourth car drives as much as they have capacity...

[Lundefaret]

I don`t think that the previous generation WRC €/SS (in a WRC event) is much cheaper than the current spec`s and those who have that kind of money want the best equipment. They are just enjoying themselves and don`t care about some "meaningless" trophy (they were cruising also before, just for fun). Citroen and Ford both need the money and if it means Bertelli`s and Sheikh`s cruising then let them cruise. Ostberg is good enough to add competition, though i wouldn`t see him taking a place from some fast drivers with no money so the current situation is the best.

Then you "think" wrong.

The 17 cars are much more labour intensive to run.

[mknight]

How does "full season" for Lefevbre agree with the fact that he is not driving on Sardinia?

[Lundefaret]

But it was the OMV team, at least semi-professional, they contested the whole season with two cars, different than some local trying out in a private car. Same as M-Sport and Stobart. Not factory teams, but not privateers by any means.

The OMV team is a very good example of a private team, making up for the lack of factory entries. The rules should be made so that the privateers stand a fair chance.
How and what is up to the FIA, but privateer teams have been an important part of the WRC, all the way from David Sutton winning the championship, through the Jolly Clubs, the Bozians, the OMVs, the Mads Østbergs and Petter Solbergs, etc etc.

So it needs to be a good balance. What this balance is exactly needs to be discussed. :)

[AnttiL]

The OMV team is a very good example of a private team, making up for the lack of factory entries. The rules should be made so that the privateers stand a fair chance.
How and what is up to the FIA, but privateer teams have been an important part of the WRC, all the way from David Sutton winning the championship, through the Jolly Clubs, the Bozians, the OMVs, the Mads Østbergs and Petter Solbergs, etc etc.

But OMV Peugeot was an official team in the sense that they ran for manufacturer points (I'm not sure how the rules were different back then). In the same way as M-Sport is not Ford's manufacturer team. Jipocar could also run for manufacturer points if they entered as an official manufacturer team, right?

[AnttiL]

How does "full season" for Lefevbre agree with the fact that he is not driving on Sardinia?

I was just referencing the article, which says


Citroen is already committed to running a maximum of four cars for Kris Meeke, Craig Breen, Khalid Al-Qassimi and Lefebvre on selected rounds.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

A contract for the season (2017) is not the same as a full season of guaranteed drives.

If Mikkelsen wasnt available then Lefebvre would've driven in Sardinia. He has been dropped here and can be dropped again. He may in effect share the 4th C3 with Al-Qassimi.

[AnttiL]

A contract for the season (2017) is not the same as a full season of guaranteed drives.

If Mikkelsen wasnt available then Lefebvre would've driven in Sardinia. He has been dropped here and can be dropped again. He may in effect share the 4th C3 with Al-Qassimi.

True indeed. But I assume Al-Qassimi's drives have something to do with a certain sponsor?

[er88]

I'd be surprised to see Lefebvre in the C3 again for more than a couple of rounds at most

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

True indeed. But I assume Al-Qassimi's drives have something to do with a certain sponsor?

When I say 'share the 4th C3', I mean he'll probably only drive when Al-Qassimi doesn't..

[denkimi]

But it was the OMV team, at least semi-professional, they contested the whole season with two cars, different than some local trying out in a private car. Same as M-Sport and Stobart. Not factory teams, but not privateers by any means.
it stupid to ask for privateer entries, and then when people show them, say that they do not count because they don't match your self-made criteria.

anyone who isn't payed to drive a manufacturers car is a privateer. if i where to win euromillions and rent a car from m-sport for the whole season, that wouldn't suddenly make me a factory driver.

so ostberg, solberg, stohl, bouffier where all privateers.

[Myrvold]

Kind of what Suninen's doing.

But then again, Suninen was a Toyota Jr (which is why Oreca ran his car) and then he signed for M-Sport. Not even he had a 100% privateer effort.

[AnttiL]

it stupid to ask for privateer entries, and then when people show them, say that they do not count because they don't match your self-made criteria.

anyone who isn't payed to drive a manufacturers car is a privateer. if i where to win euromillions and rent a car from m-sport for the whole season, that wouldn't suddenly make me a factory driver.

so ostberg, solberg, stohl, bouffier where all privateers.

I'm just trying to think it's not that black and white, there's factory teams, non-factory professional teams (M-Sport, Stobart, OMV etc) who run for manufacturer points and then there's privateers. And this season we don't have any non-factory professional teams contesting for manufacturer points, probably because there weren't yet any WRC17 cars available. Possibly we'll have some of those teams in the future?

And let's say OMV ran this year with Citroen C3 WRC's and ran for manufacturer points like they did in 2006. Would they be allowed to test in Argentina?

[Franky]

And this season we don't have any non-factory professional teams contesting for manufacturer points, probably because there weren't yet any WRC17 cars available. Possibly we'll have some of those teams in the future?

If they change the rules, then yes, it will most likely happen. Currently 2017 WRCars are restricted to manufacturer entries

[AnttiL]

If they change the rules, then yes, it will most likely happen. Currently 2017 WRCars are restricted to manufacturer entries

But if a team like Stobart/OMV - or Onebet Jipocar - would register as a manufacturer team (paid the entry fee)?

Will the 2017 Polos be available for rallying next year or have all the cars already been converted to rallycross?

[pantealex]

But if a team like Stobart/OMV - or Onebet Jipocar - would register as a manufacturer team (paid the entry fee)?

Will the 2017 Polos be available for rallying next year or have all the cars already been converted to rallycross?

RX car is based on old PoloWRC, WRC17 chassis is too wide for RX regulations.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Capito: VW domination would have continued...

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129881/vw-domination-would-have-continued-EUR-capito

[dodge33cymru]

But if a team like Stobart/OMV - or Onebet Jipocar - would register as a manufacturer team (paid the entry fee)?

Will the 2017 Polos be available for rallying next year or have all the cars already been converted to rallycross?
The car would still need homologation, same issue it has this year.

[macebig]

Good riddance.We didn't need another year of VW dominance.Fun fact is they are now dominating RX, the same sport that rose to prominence thanks to their WRC domination....

[electroliquid]

The car would still need homologation, same issue it has this year.

Is it still need other teams approval to get homologation for VW?

[mknight]

Capito: VW domination would have continued...

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129881/vw-domination-would-have-continued-EUR-capito

He confirms that they stopped developing the old Polo in 2015 and that in 2016 they did no testing with it.

Imo this was rather visible during the second half of 2016 where Hyundai started catching up. (Comparing Latvala/Mikkelsen with Neuville/Paddon speed)

[rallyfiend]

Is it still need other teams approval to get homologation for VW?

Not for homologation for next year if they stick to the usual deadlines, and VW (the company) agree to the usual commitments.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sounds like it still hurts Mikkelesen. He was sooo desperate to get a '17 Polo running somehow, maybe that's why he didnt push hard for a different factory-seat.

"The '17 Polo was a very, very impressive car," Mikkelsen said.

"And look at the world championship standings at the moment: Ogier is leading and Latvala is there and I think we would have been as well.

"So, yeah, I can see what Jost is saying - it's just a shame the dream didn't become the reality."

[jparker]

Capito: VW domination would have continued...

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/129881/vw-domination-would-have-continued-EUR-capito

Can we translate this as hint that VW are actually returning next year?
If what Capito is saying is true (and I think it is), they should be competitive next year as well.