[WRC] WRC Rally Sweden 2018 - February 15-18:

[EstWRC]

Svullrya this morning https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/962975365772795905

[AnttiL]

Forecasts are again giving snowfall for Thursday afternoon/evening but not much for the rest of the weekend.

https://www.yr.no/place/Norway/Hedmark/Grue/Svullrya/long.html?spr=eng
https://www.accuweather.com/en/no/svullrya/253032/afternoon-weather-forecast/253032?day=4
https://www.accuweather.com/en/se/torsby/310692/daily-weather-forecast/310692?day=6
https://www.accuweather.com/en/se/hagfors/310695/daily-weather-forecast/310695?day=6
https://www.accuweather.com/en/se/likenas/310746/daily-weather-forecast/310746?day=7

Of course it's still subject to change

[Sulland]

It reminds me a bit of this Fiesta:
https://cdn-0.motorsport.com/static/img/mgl/1000000/1070000/1074000/1074100/1074100/s8/wrc-rally-sweden-2011-henning-solberg-and-ilka-minor-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc-m-sport-stobart-fo.jpg

Or even more the Expert Focus:
1523
Back in Orange! Like it!
It is Hennings signature color!

[Zeakiwi]

Bertelli not starting :(
https://twitter.com/fuckmatie37/status/962363980562993152

Did the M-Sport panel department high five each other when they heard the news?

[KiwiWRCfan]

Henning's 2013 Sweden livery was one of the most memorable http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Emil+Axelsson+FIA+World+Rally+Championship+7Ntw_tS t4VYl.jpg

[Eli]

Or even more the Expert Focus:
1523
Back in Orange! Like it!
It is Hennings signature color!

True, Loved that focus.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DV0CA37U8AAXAyz.jpg

Is that Østberg's 2017 Fiesta WRC ?

[AnttiL]

Is that Østberg's 2017 Fiesta WRC ?

yes

[Tarmop]

Looks like another old banger, maybe just picture quality and light though.

There was an article about Ostberg and his car. He didn`t want to sell it anymore (but with the correct price?) and keeps it as plan b, renting it out. There was also someone other than Solberg, who wanted it for Sweden, he himself commented it that "we wouldn`t believe who".

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Looks like another old banger, maybe just picture quality and light though.

There was an article about Ostberg and his car. He didn`t want to sell it anymore (but with the correct price?) and keeps it as plan b, renting it out. There was also someone other than Solberg, who wanted it for Sweden, he himself commented it that "we wouldn`t believe who".

Old banger... its probably done less rallies than other 2017 WRC's.

Its the colour and livery that looks dated.

[Tarmop]

What do you think i was implying? :D

[T16]

Old banger... its probably done less rallies than other 2017 WRC's.

Its the colour and livery that looks dated.

Was is bought as new by Ostberg. or was it an old test car?

[Andre Oliveira]

New. And now fitted with last specs.

[T16]

New. And now fitted with last specs.

hmm... still can't see him getting a result in it.

[kamei]

So no Ralfs Sirmacis or have I missed something?

Same question from me too.

Sirmacis is out for this event or in general for JWRC?

[Myrvold]

hmm... still can't see him getting a result in it.

Would be quite amazing if he did. Haven't seen any mention of him actually testing it, so it will be shakedown and testing all in one (as usual) for Henning. And first time in a WRC car since Poland 2016.

[kamei]

Henning has so much experience in rally Sweden but unfortunately the last few years doesn't have good results. I don't see him finishing the event in top 10.

[skarderud]

Quite important message from the rally sweden organizers, its forbidden to walk in the road 30 min before first car.
Use the snowmobile tracks om the sides of the road!

And people that stands in wrong places going to be removed, by police if necessary, even media!

Stages going to be cancelled if police is needed in to a stage.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

[SubaruNorway]

Henning tested the Fiesta together with Mads today. They are just driving for fun and enjoying it more now than before.

[kamei]

I see Mads as contender for top 5 result. Citroen wants podiums and he is their best chance in Sweden.

[dimviii]

Sordo will comment at Red Bull programm for rally Sweden

[Tarmop]

Are there any local TV stations that show Vargasen I on Saturday morning?

[BleAivano]

Are there any local TV stations that show Vargasen I on Saturday morning?

SVT will only show the second run of Vargåsen.
https://www.svtplay.se/video/16937274/motorsport-svenska-rallyt/motor-svenska-rallyt-vargasen
http://www.emotorsport.se/nyheter.php?in=2&nyhets_id=14867

[Tarmop]

Ok, i was afraid of that...last year they did two, was nice.

[satukata]

Ok, i was afraid of that...last year they did two, was nice.

Buy ALL live WRC.com and you can see all stages live!! It´s very cheap and good show from servicepark too

[tolx]

Same question from me too.

Sirmacis is out for this event or in general for JWRC?

Definetly from this event, but knowing him, I would say, out of JWRC and rally as such.
Too much fame.

[aowen31]

This year is my first time attending the Sweden rally and I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations as to which stages would be the best ones to attend?
Thanks!

[kamei]

Definetly from this event, but knowing him, I would say, out of JWRC and rally as such.
Too much fame.

Noo :(
That's a shame! He's got the speed. I will always remember his surprise win at Acropolis rally 2016!

[Lead]

Off to Sweden. Have a great rally all and see you at the stages!

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/963376535574142982

Ogier wants the loose snow to be ploughed away. He also thinks it will be a bit slower with the snow banks but not a slow rally.

[rallyspectator]

Quite important message from the rally sweden organizers, its forbidden to walk in the road 30 min before first car.
Use the snowmobile tracks om the sides of the road!

And people that stands in wrong places going to be removed, by police if necessary, even media!

Stages going to be cancelled if police is needed in to a stage.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

30 minutes before 000 car, or 30 minutes before first WRC car?

[AnttiL]

I think it's 30 min before first car, because 000 car time is usually not announced and the 30 minutes is reserved for faster safety cars like 000.

[bigattack]

The various stages are mentioned on the website. Be sure to be there one hour upfront as you might be walking a bit sometimes to get to the actual stage or need time parking. Hagfors is a good one at the skislope to get soe of the action. Closeby and a jump but no high speed. Vargåsen, do Colins crest as it is a must have. Torsby as it offers the service park and a closeby stage. I am not the biggest fan of the SSS as its more a showthing and few things happen but thats a personal taste i would say. Further on, check the maps for some things and take your time. Most people do not drive around from stage to stage but tend to get to the stage early morning and stay over the historics till the second pass. But you can do a few different stages if you would want to every day. Distances can be significant so plan carefully. And bring a coat! ;-) Have fun!

[dimviii]

https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/27867624_1768249243197261_6621292826455111365_n.jp g?oh=947eb7de4087626f3039c9cd40851046&oe=5AD818E5

[rallyspectator]

Please see the yellow road I've highlighted on the attached map, which in theory gets you into spectator point 4 (if I am correct) on Svullrya.

Does anyone with local knowledge or experience of spectating on rally sweden think this area will be accessible in a front wheel drive car?


1526

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/27750029_2027404617288955_8612744391446813994_n.jp g?oh=e9a8c396e2fc66b7c0c7c62daf866ed3&oe=5B21B051
https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/27858411_2027404620622288_8607266715041303267_n.jp g?oh=196f3a041cf138426dcb66d8a06a8406&oe=5B1BB4CE

[STI69]

Please see the yellow road I've highlighted on the attached map, which in theory gets you into spectator point 4 (if I am correct) on Svullrya.

Does anyone with local knowledge or experience of spectating on rally sweden think this area will be accessible in a front wheel drive car?


1526

If I remember correctly form last years visit, there is a gate at the beginning of this road which was not locked but we got stuck with our VW Passat after some 500m. There is one steep hill you need to cross, no way with 2WD.

[dimviii]

@HaydenPaddon

Good day of Recce today. Stages are looking amazing and can’t wait to tackle them at speed! Some small pacenote changes needed to allow for the narrower parts (bigger snow banks) but everything going well. #paddonspack

[rallyspectator]

If I remember correctly form last years visit, there is a gate at the beginning of this road which was not locked but we got stuck with our VW Passat after some 500m. There is one steep hill you need to cross, no way with 2WD.

Thanks for info, very helpful.

Did you walk from there or go to the stage end and walk in?

[STI69]

Thanks for info, very helpful.

Did you walk from there or go to the stage end and walk in?

No walking, we were so late in to this stage so after we got stuck, we had to skip this stage completely.

[sindroms]

No walking, we were so late in to this stage so after we got stuck, we had to skip this stage completely.

As from my one time experience in Sweden WRC without previous recce you can rely on official access roads only.

[tommeke_B]

+1, especially with the amount of snow this year...

[AnttiL]

Weather forecasts are still giving snowfall for Thursday night, continuing until Friday morning.

https://www.yr.no/place/Norway/Hedmark/Grue/Svullrya/long.html?spr=eng
https://www.accuweather.com/en/no/svullrya/253032/hourly-weather-forecast/253032?hour=41

[er88]

Will the stages be ploughed?

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[tommeke_B]

Will the stages be ploughed?

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Yes, by Ogier.

[WRCstratos]

Video from SS 8/19 Torsby from today (driven around 11:50 on Wednesday): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh6RPR3ZaBU

The new section has a lot of corners in the first part before the hairpin right, after that it becomes really fast. They also put up a lot of "forbidden area" signs in that section.

[dimviii]

Jari Huttunen Racing
It´s a showtime in @RallySweden 2morrow! The tactic is familiar: win is our target and we will start the rally at our own pace and after a couple of special stages we´ll see whether the pace needs to be tightened. #WRC2 #RallySweden http://www.jarihuttunenracing.fi/?page_id=158

[Sulland]

We have 28 cars, where 27 are R5s, and 4 Mirages that are R5 (NonHom)

RC2: https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/42875-rally-sweden-2018/?cat=1018
NAT4: https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/42875-rally-sweden-2018/?cat=4742

Many top pairs are on the startline.
Tidemand, Veiby, Huttunen, Abbring and Åhlin are maybe those on paper that springs to mind.

But many interesting outsiders: Adielsson, very good R2 driver, maybe this will be 4wd breakthrough?
Johann Kristofferson, multitalented driver ala Ekstrøm.
Nikara, fast as a blitz, but some times too fast...
Scandola is fast, but on Asfalt. Not sure on the white stuff
Fellow italian Tamara Molinaro are there to learn.

Will the Mirages be able to match the other R5s, or way off?
Will some of the RC2 cars take overall points this time?

I hope the RC2 cars for once get their deserved focus by wrc live, and other media!!

[EstWRC]

this thread needs more pictures

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWBWBqUXcAEzgIK.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWBSOMlW4AAzhXF.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWBSSBVX4AAJfP6.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWBSTuWXkAEYJfp.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DV--g7SWkAENmUl.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DV8LeO5UMAE99QW.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DV76s1ZWsAMatMG.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DV7tN_GX4AAf12b.jpg

[SubaruNorway]

I checked the road from the west close to the finish of Svullrua today, gate was not locked but there was 15cm of snow so i didn't bother driving more than 800m.

The stages have been made wider since 2 weeks ago and the top of the snowbanks have been pushed out a bit especially on Röjden so it's easier to get out of the road and you can see a bit more.

[KKS]

Car change for Breen :D
https://scontent.fiev9-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/27750902_907418996096111_2598313637975200563_n.jpg ?oh=49e1e94315e8a28b3cf35dbfd78a76df&oe=5B10BB8B

[rage82]

Facebook stream from the shakedown anyone?

[AnttiL]

Let's see if Ogier starts the shakedown first to test how snowplowing feels like

EDIT: apparently yes https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/964032980665667584

[EstWRC]

Still no times ?

It seems they will go by championship order

[EstWRC]

Shakedown has been delayed because of FIA instructions. The safety car is doing a second lap now.
#RallySweden

[AnttiL]

Still no times ?

It seems they will go by championship order

I don't think shakedown uses the championship order. Here's more video of the cars

https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/964035202283655168

[EstWRC]

I don't think shakedown uses the championship order. Here's more video of the cars

https://twitter.com/rallytravel/status/964035202283655168

Yes they don’t use but often they go by that, especially first pass. Anyway, We will see, i saw Ogier and Tänak as fist two on the line

[AnttiL]

Yes they don’t use but often they go by that, especially first pass. Anyway, We will see, i saw Ogier and Tänak as fist two on the line

And some Citroen third...well, it could be Meeke, but isn't Latvala still officially third in championship although they both have same amount of points?

[EstWRC]

Ogier started now

[PLuto]

First times of shakedown are online - https://rally-base.com/2018/rally-sweden-2018/?ssId=4506&ssGroupId=3

[EstWRC]

Road order on the first pass was:

Ogier
Tänak
Meeke
Neuville
Breen
Evans
Latvala
Lappi
Mikkelsen
Suninen
Ostberg
Paddon
Solberg

[AnttiL]

Times finally arriving. Evans in trouble?

[AnttiL]

Wow Mads was fast

[EstWRC]

im surprised that the back starters havent really been faster, only Ostberg

[Aquagen]

Official WRC Live from Shakedown. Thats great!
https://www.facebook.com/WorldRally/videos/10155383115390678/?notif_id=1518680739233282&notif_t=live_video&ref=notif

[kamei]

Ogier is looking good. Tanak is the leading Toyota - confirmed. Mads is extremely fast but I don't know how much he can keep that speed without making a mistake. Mikkelsen is pushing hard but the time is not really there.
Maybe JML and Lappi will have a waiting game.

Difficult start for Evans and Paddon (oh boy)

[EstWRC]

Road order on second pass

Tänak
Meeke
Neuville
Breen
Latvala
Ogier
Lappi
Suninen
Mikkelsen
Ostberg

[AnttiL]

Suninen already on the pace, same time as Meeke on 2nd pass and 0.1s from Ogier and Lappi. Great that it didn't take longer than that for him to settle in again in a WRC car.

[EstWRC]

well, ill repeat the old truth...its just a shakedown, although i have no doubts that Suninen will be fast

[Zeakiwi]

Paddon wrote in his pre-event news release that he will be running a rally set up for the shakedown rather than a shake-down set-up, so don't expect any good times.

[T16]

Paddon wrote in his pre-event news release that he will be running a rally set up for the shakedown rather than a shake-down set-up, so don't expect any good times.
Interesting... anyone know what the differences are and why they wouldn’t run and evaluate the set-up they’ll actually use during the rally itself?

[A FONDO]

Paddon wrote in his pre-event news release that he will be running a rally set up for the shakedown rather than a shake-down set-up, so don't expect any good times.

Didn't expect them anyway, but thanks for defending him.

[EstWRC]

why they have these covered?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWD6dLGX0AAJuk4.jpg

[AnttiL]

Interesting... anyone know what the differences are and why they wouldn’t run and evaluate the set-up they’ll actually use during the rally itself?

Yeah, sounds weird...unless the shakedown stage profile is different to the Friday stages and thus requires different setup? Or he's going with a full gas tank or something?

[Zeakiwi]

From Paddon's news release - "We did a 200km 1 day test for this event about 10 days ago and the car felt great. We found some good settings which we will commit to for the start of the rally. Last year we made the mistake during the pre-event shakedown (with similar start settings) to adapt the car to the shakedown stage. 12 months later we can see that was a mistake and puts us in a stronger position with that extra knowledge and experience to this year make the right decisions."

Paddon is probably running slow gear changes, brake balance and other settings that aim for tyre stud retention for the longer stages, I think for Sweden in such conditions - fewer studs at the end of a long stage usually results in a slower time for most drivers??? Aim for higher average speed over whole stage than just fast at start and slow at end.

[AnttiL]

Mads fastest on second round again, although Tänak, Paddon and Breen times still missing. And Evans back to service.

[EstWRC]

i dont know why they dont have Tänaks second pass time..he was first to go on the second pass, saw it from wrc plus live tracker

Breen was slower than on the first pass

[EstWRC]

Neuville put the hammer down on third pass, 4.17.3

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWEFpyjW4AAbcww.jpg

[Allez Andruet]

What's wrong with Breen? :confused:

[er88]

Breen didn't sound too happy on the all live stream, saying 'F*cking hell' at one point on the exit of a corner. Maybe not happy with his driving.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

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

[AnttiL]

Breen didn't sound too happy on the all live stream, saying 'F*cking hell' at one point on the exit of a corner. Maybe not happy with his driving.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

It looks very nervous here https://twitter.com/F_Gustavsson/status/964040168624795650

[EstWRC]

why the hell are the times coming so slowly through? i have seen many guys on wrc plus making further passes including WRC2 guys but no times at all

[AnttiL]

why the hell are the times coming so slowly through? i have seen many guys on wrc plus making further passes including WRC2 guys but no times at all

Again problems with RallySafe integration?

[PLuto]

Again problems with RallySafe integration?

Maybe it is too cold for them?

[er88]

why the hell are the times coming so slowly through? i have seen many guys on wrc plus making further passes including WRC2 guys but no times at allIs there still a live stream ongoing?

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[AnttiL]

https://www.mtv.fi/sport/ralli/uutinen/artikkeli/suninen-uudessa-tilanteessa-helpompaa-se-olisi-vetaa-vain-kaasu-pohjassa/6770562#gs.0YYHvvU

Suninen thinks that the snowbanks may be leaned on so much that there's not much of them left when he's doing the stages. So this would mean an optimal starting position for guys like Neuville, with some road sweeping done but still enough of snowbanks left.

https://www.mtv.fi/sport/ralli/uutinen/artikkeli/lappi-hehkuttaa-tulevaa-ruotsin-mm-rallia-nyt-on-ainakin-kunnon-talviralli/6770564#gs.ja8vIjE

Also, Lappi saying that starting first on Friday could actually be the best position!

[AnttiL]

Janne Tuohino's fastest WRC2 time was quite a surprise.

[Allez Andruet]

Janne Tuohino's fastest WRC2 time was quite a surprise.

Good old Janne! Buy hey, he was really fast in Sweden in 2004 as well!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Would be funny if Mads comes in and is happy with the C3 ! ;)

[Allez Andruet]

So, Östberg wins in Sweden and Loeb in Mexico.

[EstWRC]

Besides Tänak it is nice to cheer for other two estonians this weekend, Ken Torn/Kuldar Sikk in JWRC and they are fastest so far!

[Rally Hokkaido]

Yeah, sounds weird...unless the shakedown stage profile is different to the Friday stages and thus requires different setup? Or he's going with a full gas tank or something?

Remember, he was talking about last year's shakedown & stages. Mikkelsen just said that this year's shakedown is the most representative of actual stages in the whole championship (due to amount of snow & snow banks, IMHO), which wasn't the case last year, I believe.

[AnttiL]

Remember, he was talking about last year's shakedown & stages. Mikkelsen just said that this year's shakedown is the most representative of actual stages in the whole championship (due to amount of snow & snow banks, IMHO), which wasn't the case last year, I believe.

This year's shakedown is the same as last year and 75% of the route is the same again. All of friday stages are the same.

[AMSS]

Remember, he was talking about last year's shakedown & stages. Mikkelsen just said that this year's shakedown is the most representative of actual stages in the whole championship (due to amount of snow & snow banks, IMHO), which wasn't the case last year, I believe.

It seems a bit slow to be comparable to the actual event, av.sp "only" ~96kph

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWET3z2WsAAp6Th.jpg

[AnttiL]

It seems a bit slow to be comparable to the actual event, av.sp "only" ~96kph

Last year it was actually a lot faster, 103 kph. And back then the drivers had to use the same tyres in the race so they were saving studs!

EDIT: 103 not 106

[er88]

What happened to Meeke and Tanak on 3rd Pass?

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

i suspect nothing, just cruising/testing

[Vincemon1285]

Last year it was actually a lot faster, 106 kph. And back then the drivers had to use the same tyres in the race so they were saving studs!

But this year the drivers need to go around snowbanks, last year they could drive thru them.

[AMSS]

Last year it was actually a lot faster, 106 kph. And back then the drivers had to use the same tyres in the race so they were saving studs!

Ok, so the snow has it`s effect

[T16]

Would be funny if Mads comes in and is happy with the C3 ! ;)
Ha ha... fair point, yeah, he’s an expert here, but it would certainly ask a few questions of Meeke and Breen...

[RS]

For those who have it, Karlstad SSS is on BT Sport tonight at 10pm (not live)

Also one SS live on Saturday afternoon plus the power stage.

[Watson]

Suninen's 4th pass took 7 minutes. Did he have an off?

[er88]

Is it a maximum 5 runs on shakedown?

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[garais22]

Suninen's 4th pass took 7 minutes. Did he have an off?

Yes

Rally Sweden
‏ @RallySweden
35m35 minutes ago

Pontus Tidemand has been off but is on his way again.
#RallySweden


Rally Sweden
‏ @RallySweden
32m32 minutes ago

Suninen and Solberg have also been in trouble at the same place as Tidemand.
#RallySweden

11. #3 flag Suninen Teemu - Markkula M. icon Ford Fiesta WRC 4:33.4 4:22.7 4:23.2 7:03.2
18. #31 flag Tidemand P. - Andersson J. icon Škoda Fabia R5 4:37.9 10:18.1
21. #14 flag Solberg Henning - Menkerud C. icon Ford Fiesta WRC 4:39.8 22:23.0

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ha ha... fair point, yeah, he’s an expert here, but it would certainly ask a few questions of Meeke and Breen...

5 sec faster than Breen on 4th run...

[HaCo]

Abbring :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen: Following 4 timed runs over the Rally Sweden shakedown stage this morning we placed 9th in the standings, but we feel we have found a good setup and can't wait for the rally to get underway tonight in Karlstad! https://t.co/J5Yus1ukyw

[AnttiL]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWEioyqW4AARQUN.jpg:large

Some extra rounds on the shakedown. Lots of drivers made better times, probably because of the road becoming faster with snowbanks moving further.

EDIT: Now Latvala put himself back to 6th.

[Rallyper]

This year snowbanks will play a big role of the outcome. So nordic top three ahead. It takes a lifetime to learn handling this kind of stages.

Nordic to me includes Eesti. ;) ;)

[er88]

This year snowbanks will play a big role of the outcome. So nordic top three ahead. It takes a lifetime to learn handling this kind of stages.

Nordic to me includes Eesti. ;) ;)I'm guessing some of the other European drivers haven't driven on proper Sweden conditions before, with the big snow banks? I know Meeke says he hasn't had that pleasure yet, so I'm sure a few of the others are in the same position

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[skarderud]

It is really weird that citröen didn't take more knowledge from Mads Østberg in sweden, he has obvious understand something.
But maybe they still are to arrogant in the team?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[Adler]

Any Infos about Henning?

[Watson]

Any Infos about Henning?

Tidemand and Suninen each handed in normal times after, so they seem to be fine. Henning didn't. Not being a factory team, they might have a harder time fixing the time or they might not want to risk more parts on the shakedown.

[Mintexmemory]

This year snowbanks will play a big role of the outcome. So nordic top three ahead. It takes a lifetime to learn handling this kind of stages.

Nordic to me includes Eesti. ;) ;)

So Ogier (a past Sweden winner ) has no chance? The Nordics will cause each other to buckle under the weight of expectation. - just like happens in most WRC rounds!

[Watson]

It is really weird that citröen didn't take more knowledge from Mads Østberg in sweden, he has obvious understand something.
But maybe they still are to arrogant in the team?

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I know what you mean but the times might just be down to Mads testing the limits of the car more since he has limited experience with the C3 whereas Meeke and Breen might try different setups.

Shakedowns lie. A lot. Always.

[Rallyper]

So Ogier (a past Sweden winner ) has no chance? The Nordics will cause each other to buckle under the weight of expectation. - just like happens in most WRC rounds!

Oh, yes. He has big chance. Only that this year will be more demanding than in the past.

[AnttiL]

I know what you mean but the times might just be down to Mads testing the limits of the car more since he has limited experience with the C3 whereas Meeke and Breen might try different setups.

Shakedowns lie. A lot. Always.

Mads was also fastest on the shakedown last year, not so much in the race.

[Rallyper]

It is really weird that citröen didn't take more knowledge from Mads Østberg in sweden, he has obvious understand something.
But maybe they still are to arrogant in the team?

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If looking at testing schedule one might have the conclusion they actually did.
Rumours tells Mads changed settings after his first testrun on PET. After that the car worked better. Both Meeke and Breen then tested car the two remaining days.
So they have for sure emptied Mads on some secrets, I´d say. ;)

(Unless you were not on sight and knows more? (I´m not sure I can tell who´s my informer is, but he was on sight)

[Watson]

Oh, yes. He has big chance. Only that this year will be more demanding than in the past.

It will all be down to not losing too much time on the first three stages tomorrow morning. The afternoon loop tomorrow should be fine since all of the new snow will be gone on the repeat stages. If he has a decent road position on Saturday he should be in with a shout. However, your Neuvilles, Mikkelsens, Lappis and Suninens might already gain a big advantage in those three stages alone.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I dont think Ogier will mind if someone else takes the lead after Sweden and tries the road sweeping on the coming gravel events...

[Watson]

I dont think Ogier will mind if someone else takes the lead after Sweden and tries the road sweeping on the coming gravel events...
I'm not so sure. How the calender is set up, ideally you'd want to go to Corsica with a decent lead and then run away with it since early road positions are an advantage there. After that your rivals are all forced to push on gravel and will likely pay a price for it while you will get away simply aiming for the podium most of the time. Then, try and repeat in Germany.

[dimviii]

photos from tricky corner


https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/964126078003503106

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/P8v7ERXEV4Y

[dimviii]

Hyundai video
https://youtu.be/X5kRTmvtoaw




Hyundai Motorsport
Only one run for @HuttunenRacing at #RallySweden shakedown because of a water leak. No damage to the car, our #HMDP crew is now looking forward to the start!

[sonnybobiche]

why they have these covered?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWD6dLGX0AAJuk4.jpg

To retain heat in the rear brakes, I would imagine.

[dimviii]

video including Tanaks spin
https://youtu.be/FaXo0Cg2IU4

[dimviii]

michelin photos
https://www.flickr.com/photos/bestofrallylive/sets/72157692678997794

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm not so sure. How the calender is set up, ideally you'd want to go to Corsica with a decent lead and then run away with it since early road positions are an advantage there. After that your rivals are all forced to push on gravel and will likely pay a price for it while you will get away simply aiming for the podium most of the time. Then, try and repeat in Germany.

Last year Neuville caught up to Ogier with better gravel results on all but one rally up to Finland...

[EstWRC]

Michelin shakedown https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqgWrJUkIQw&feature=youtu.be&a=

[er88]

Shakedown was really close after all the runs then. Big time gaps on first run. Can't read anything into it at all. Can't wait for the first proper stages tomorrow

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[dimviii]

photos
https://www.ewrc-results.com/photo/42875-rally-sweden-2018/

[TWRC]

I know what you mean but the times might just be down to Mads testing the limits of the car more since he has limited experience with the C3 whereas Meeke and Breen might try different setups.

Shakedowns lie. A lot. Always.
Also, maybe the car being tail happy is more suited to Mads' driving style?

[ESTR]

Hyundai video
https://youtu.be/X5kRTmvtoaw




Hyundai Motorsport
Only one run for @HuttunenRacing at #RallySweden shakedown because of a water leak. No damage to the car, our #HMDP crew is now looking forward to the start!

How that works team had such issues with that car. Almost everytime. Poor Huttunen have no chance to shine. I have a feeling he will struggle all year.

[PLuto]

Starting order to the first superspecial stage - https://rally-base.com/2018/rally-sweden-2018/start-list/?startTimeTypeId=862

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWFqpXyXUAAGM8i.jpg

nice first duel between Kristoffersson and Tidemand

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Gary Boyd‏ @KiwiWRCfan

SS1 Karlstad 1 sees Two drivers head-to-head:

Solberg v Al Rajhi
Suninen v Breen
Paddon v Lappi
Evans v Meeke
Tanak v Neuville
Latvala v Ostberg
Ogier v Mikkelsen

[Myrvold]

On my way to Svullrya as I type. Got the same room there for the 3rd year in a row now. A bit frustrating that the stage-marshalls are very, very strict already, so hard to prepare a place to stay and watch for tomorrow :/

[Micke_VOC]

Startlist for tomorrow:
http://rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/start-list-for-section-2-tc1b-friday-16-february-2018.pdf

[wrc2017]

alot of snow forecast overnight. ostberg could actually build a gap tomorrow that he cant be caught.

[pantealex]

why they have these covered?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWD6dLGX0AAJuk4.jpg

Well, last year they collected way more than 25kg weight on those and probably no need for cooling, if heat goes up drivers can rip those off.
Simple: They don´t want to collect any extra weight to cars back because that makes front lighter...

[spiderem]

Well, last year they collected way more than 25kg weight on those and probably no need for cooling, if heat goes up drivers can rip those off.
Simple: They don´t want to collect any extra weight to cars back because that makes front lighter...

Ahaha months of development and a lot of money i suppose, all sorted at the end with duck tape :)

[EstWRC]

well i only saw those on Latvalas and Lappis car, Tänak was without those covers

didnt they have this collecting problem in wales? i dont remember that they had it in sweden last year

[er88]

well i only saw those on Latvalas and Lappis car, Tänak was without those covers

didnt they have this collecting problem in wales? i dont remember that they had it in sweden last yearThink in Wales that was pr bullshit for their lack of pace.

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[Fast Eddie WRC]

Press conf now on Rally Radio...

[HaCo]

Took WRC+ All Live for the weekend :D

[itix]

Bring it on :)
Shame I couldn't go this year. Way too busy moving to a new home! Have fun all you forumers out there on the stages!!

[HaCo]

Quite silent here :)

[steve.mandzij]

Just a SSS, but it's good to see Kristofferson proving his rally speed so far.

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[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC LIVE struggling with giving us the times as they finish...

[KKS]

Skoda WRC2 Rally championship so far :D

[Allez Andruet]

WRC LIVE struggling with giving us the times as they finish...

That's just great... I'm sure the service level will once again be wonderful when the real stages start tomorrow :mad:

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice to see the Live Maps now has the name of the driver and flag as well as their number.

[KKS]

Some brake pads troubles for Radstorm?

[HaCo]

Abbring :-D

[wrc2017]

WRC LIVE struggling with giving us the times as they finish...
working for me. go to live maps, and tab at bottom

[Duvel]

Nice to see henning back!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

working for me. go to live maps, and tab at bottom

I meant their TV coverage.

[Duvel]

Hope neuville doesnt hit the concrete in first corner...

[er88]

Damn, Craig not happy :(. "Few surprises in the rear again"

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[dimviii]

https://scontent.fbru3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/27993728_1714480648609357_8666012253569821679_o.jp g?oh=6ebf2107e7ec8cf062bca787ee9356f1&oe=5B140161

[AL14]

No timing in the live coverage... jeez

[er88]

Damn, Craig not happy :(. "Few surprises in the rear again"


Meeke "Car felt surprisingly good". Lol

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[er88]

Tanak fastest so far.

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[dimviii]

nice video but ruined from the fast playing
https://youtu.be/7F_5CZc_37g

[HaCo]

Ogier wiiiiide :-)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier nearly spun... so wide.

[HaCo]

Neuville only 6th in SSS... that is big news, normally he is faster, so he is getting smarter, let's hope so, fingers crossed!!!!

[steve.mandzij]

I hope Ostberg has a problem free run this time around :D he's always so close but so far

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[EstWRC]

Tänak leading a rally first time with Toyota, i hope it will be the case on Sunday afternoon too :)

[HaCo]

Toyota 1-2-3 no way!

[T16]

Tänak leading a rally first time with Toyota

Got a feeling we will get used to this a lot this year. Fair play to him too, he's close to, if not right now, peaking... and the car is obviously up to the job.

[itix]

Some brake pads troubles for Radstorm?

Nope, completely normal with cold brakes with the brake pad material they run on wrc2.

[KKS]

Damn, Craig not happy :(. "Few surprises in the rear again"

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk
And it's more call for Meeke. For his fast pace and a car making strange surprises from rear... again.

[PLuto]

After superspecial stage they are going 102 kms from Karsltad to Torsby...

[KKS]

Nope, completely normal with cold brakes with the brake pad material they run on wrc2.
No one other has same sparks from brakes, so only he had cold brakes?

[dimviii]

sparks its not about cold/hot brakes,its about pad compound.

[EstWRC]

so whats the weather forecast overnight? will it snow or not?

[Luijbregts]

Yes. 10 cm expected and it will snow throughout the day

[Zeakiwi]

Look on the rain radar composite. Light precipitation moving across the rally area. 9pm
https://www.smhi.se/en/weather/2.732/rainfall-radar

[AnttiL]

so whats the weather forecast overnight? will it snow or not?

Yr.no saying snowing a lot until Friday noon, Accuweather saying snowing until 3 AM, meaning the roads could get plowed before the rally starts. But there could still be some flurries just before the stages. This for Sullrya area. Also snowing in Flisa near the first stage. There could also be some fresh snow in Torsby in the evening.

[SubaruNorway]

Did anyone try walking across the lake at the start of Röjden? When i checked the place 1km after the start there was some overwater under the snow close to land at least so it wasn't very nice walking in your own tracks on the way back...

[KKS]

Latvala have solid plastic cover of that "CD rack"
https://www.facebook.com/TOYOTAGAZOORacingWRC/videos/474805252921665/

[satukata]

its snowing pretty much.. so bad news for ogier tanak and latvala... big change for mikkelsen and östberg and black horse suninen! https://en.sat24.com/en/eu/snow

[dbrito26]

Latvala have solid plastic cover of that "CD rack"
https://www.facebook.com/TOYOTAGAZOORacingWRC/videos/474805252921665/I think it is not to accumulate snow/weight.

Enviado do meu Moto E (4) através do Tapatalk

[dimviii]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecm0-Nmnfg8

[hari]

Some images from Thursday: http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_wrc_rallye_schweden_2018.html

http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2018/schweden/bestof/1.jpg
http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2018/schweden/bestof/4.jpg

http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2018/schweden/bestof/9.jpghttp://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2018/schweden/bestof/2.jpg
http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos/2018/schweden/bestof/3.jpg

[EstWRC]

oh boy, the first starters wont have a chance then

[Sulland]

Could Henning have used Pirellis, or does all WRCars have to use Michelins?
He normally likes Pirelli better, and are used to them.

[AMSS]

Could Henning have used Pirellis, or does all WRCars have to use Michelins?
He normally likes Pirelli better, and are used to them.

Only Dmack and Michelin are registered to provide tires for WRC1 cars, and Henning likes whatever he gets the cheapest ,if they are at least a little competitive, best.. :)

[AnttiL]

Apparently there is fresh snow indeed on the stages

[EstWRC]

Yes but only 2-3 cm they say

[er88]

Mikkelsen, Paddon, Ostberg, Breen; let's see what you guys can do

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[Rallyper]

Good morning friends! Finally we are here!

What a day to come! Sitting at home today. Leaving for Hagfors stage tomorrow morning.

[Rallyper]

First split on Ogier, but WRC+ has no pictures...

[AnttiL]

Good morning friends! Finally we are here!

What a day to come! Sitting at home today. Leaving for Hagfors stage tomorrow morning.

Today all my co-workers sharing the room are out of office, so I don't even have to use headphones :D

[mufcAleksi]

Stage has been live for 5 minutes and they're still showing yesterday pictures for the millionth time...

[AnttiL]

First split also completed for Tänak, 3.7 faster than Ogier. That's a massive amount for such a short bit.

[er88]

Where are the live pictures?? Wtf!!

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[mknight]

Pretty sure helicopter can't fly due to the low cloud and snow. If they also use it to relay onboards there won't be any. But on monte they used airplane for that.

[EstWRC]

Tänak 204km/h on the straight

[Rallyper]

Why just tell the audience what´s going on. Like: "chopper can´t lift" or something. Much snowing going on btw.

[er88]

Pretty sure helicopter can't fly due to the low cloud and snow. If they also use it to relay onboards there won't be any. But on monte they used airplane for that.They always use a plane to relay on-boards for live coverage. They should at least tell us what's going on

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[HarriK]

Splits died in WRC live centre... only on live maps those are working.

[EstWRC]

splits are coming nicely in wrc plus

[Rallyper]

Ogier lost loads of time?

[EstWRC]

Tänak 12.5 quicker than ogier, lets wait for others now

[HarriK]

Ogier lost loads of time?
only timing error.. couple of seconds lost

[AnttiL]

WRC Radio has the stage end interviews..

[Rallyper]

WRC LIVE maps says +1:54 on last split. However only +15 secs on EWRC-results

[EstWRC]

finally, a picture!

[Sulland]

Splits died in WRC live centre... only on live maps those are working.

I wonder if this is on purpose?

[EstWRC]

Mikkelsen +0.6 in spl1

[AnttiL]

WRC LIVE maps says +1:54 on last split. However only +15 secs on EWRC-results

Those splits are very unreliable...

[EstWRC]

Breen +0.8 spl1, finally the back starters showing similar pace

[Rallyper]

Those splits are very unreliable...

Actually there are three (!) different stagetimes on Latvala. Comparing All Live, WRC+ Maps and EWRC-results. :(

[Rallyper]

EWRC now has corrected their times. Now syncro to WRC ALl Live. Puuuhhhhh.

[EstWRC]

(8 - Tänak Ott / Järveoja Martin): The car feels good but there is a lot of loose snow on the top near the start. On the ice the car feels good. Ogier's lines are everywhere - he's pushing harder than I am.

[PLuto]

Actually there are three (!) different stagetimes on Latvala. Comparing All Live, WRC+ Maps and EWRC-results. :(

Correct ones are here - https://rally-base.com/2018/rally-sweden-2018/

[er88]

Tanak brilliant. Surprised Andreas isn't faster than the time he's set given how clean the road is getting. Let's what Breen, Paddon, Ostberg and Suninen can do though

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[mknight]

I totally don't get the over-blown expectations about Suninen. Sure he could get 4-6 but that's about it.

[Rallyper]

Ostberg 3 rd on split 3

[Rallyper]

Road is more cleaned up now.

[EstWRC]

not much snowbanks on this stage

[Rallyper]

Stunning incar from Ostberg!!

[Indreq]

not much snowbanks on this stage

Based on Tänaks comments, it might be that importance of snowbanks is bit overhyped - he hinted in interview that leaning too much on snowbanks slows car down. Could be that he has less experience with real snowbanks, so that when we see them on next stages, maybe finns and norwegians can show us how to properly use them.

[EstWRC]

Mads really showing for citroen regulars that you can drive with this car

[AnttiL]

I totally don't get the over-blown expectations about Suninen. Sure he could get 4-6 but that's about it.

Who's having them? I mean, it's been 6 months since he had a WRC start and it's only his third. We could give all of 2018 for him to learn and any good results will be a bonus.

[AnttiL]

Mads really showing for citroen regulars that you can drive with this car

Breen was going fast but made a small mistake, still had a pretty good time.

[AnttiL]

Katsuta flying on the splits. First split faster than Ogier!

[satukata]

What are conditions for next stage? In recce there was more loose snow...

[satukata]

Japan WRC2 drivers showing talent!! Wow Katsuta!!

[EstWRC]

Mikkelsen Andreas - Jæger Anders

missing its rear bumper "A little bit here and there, the grip is tricky - up and down. Not an easy stage." / chybí mu zadní nárazník "Čas od času jsem používal sněhové bariéry, nebylo to lehké."

[steve.mandzij]

Katsuta flying on the splits. First split faster than Ogier!I can't believe it! I've suddenly become super excited for him! Arai and Aidelsson very surprising too.

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[er88]

Good time from Arai as well considering he was in a snow bank!!

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[Indreq]

Tough start for M-Sport - 9-10-11, and without major incidents, just slow - doesnt look like current champs :D

[satukata]

Suninen fastest Ford as Expected ;)

[Rallyper]

I can't believe it! I've suddenly become super excited for him! Arai and Aidelsson very surprising too.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

Happy for them too. But things will change during rally, I believe.

(WRC car for Katsuta this year, Paavo?)

[Myrvold]

http://i.imgur.com/gxSgN0h.jpg

19km SS3

[er88]

Happy for them too. But things will change during rally, I believe.

(WRC car for Katsuta this year, Paavo?)Too early

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[PLuto]

Japanese drivers can be fast (especially on some types of roads), but consistency is missing...

[AnttiL]

Japanese drivers can be fast (especially on some types of roads), but consistency is missing...

Being also members of Tommi Mäkinen Racing, they must have a bunch of practicing on good snowy roads.

Arai already was in the snowbank on SS2, let's see if they can keep this pace up and not have a bigger off. Same goes for Veiby.

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DWJBtfyU8AADbnB.jpg:large

[Mintexmemory]

Mads really showing for citroen regulars that you can drive with this car

Meeke has already shown that - the car works where it works for certain driving style / condition combinations

[AnttiL]

Jarkko Nikara going fast on the splits of SS2. Not going for WRC2 points though, but could be a top 3 RC2 time.

EDIT: lost time at the end...

[er88]

Becs and Jon on comms now, between them they'll never shut up

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[COD]

Surprised how fast Tuohino is after so long brake. They have a battle of old men with Henning, despite the fact that Henning is on WRC ��

[EstWRC]

Neuville 3 secs faster than Tänak in spl1..

[KKS]

edit: ooops that Nueville

[AnttiL]

Neuville attacks now. Last year he was here 11.6 seconds faster than anyone else on the second run.