[WRC] News & Rumours 2020

[Fast Eddie WRC]

SVT1 can be watched elsewhere with a VPN like Hola.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

USA & China are key markets and Hybrid tech can bring new teams says Ciesla:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/149820/wrc-targets-return-to-united-states-and-china

"The hybrid is a sustainability component, but let's go further. A green aspect that should help us become more attractive in the future. Keep the manufacturers that we have and maybe add Subaru, Volkswagen, Citroen, or new partners like Nissan."

[doubled1978]

USA & China are key markets and Hybrid tech can bring new teams says Ciesla:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/149820/wrc-targets-return-to-united-states-and-china

"The hybrid is a sustainability component, but let's go further. A green aspect that should help us become more attractive in the future. Keep the manufacturers that we have and maybe add Subaru, Volkswagen, Citroen, or new partners like Nissan."

Interesting he mentioned those manufacturers by name.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rally Sweden Lockdown live here 15.45 CET:

https://www.svtplay.se/utmanarmotet

[dimviii]

Years of the Dragon

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/january-2005/61/years-of-the-dragon

[wyler]

Hyundai to contest 2 italian rally this summer + dirtfish estonian rally:

Rally Roma Capitale (ERC):
The Rome-based event will see two Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC cars in action with Dani Sordo and Customer Racing Junior Driver Pierre-Louis Loubet in the driving seat. In addition, there will be numerous customer entries with the Hyundai i20 R5, starting with Craig Breen and Customer Racing Junior Driver Callum Devine.

Rally Alba:
The Alba rally will see two factory-entered i20 Coupe WRC with Loubet in a customer WRC car. There will also be two i20 R5 cars in the event, one apiece for Breen and Jari Huttunen.

Rally Estonia:
Thierry Neuville will join local hero Tänak in Estonia, with Huttunen again taking to the wheel of the R5 test car.

(Source: Colin Clark on FB)

Also italian media rumors 2 possible C3+ in Rome by PH Sport with Ostberg and Formeaux

[AnttiL]

The source is the official Hyundai press release https://motorsport.hyundai.com/back-to-business/

Nice to see Loubet get some drives, he was supposed to have a quite extensive WRC program. Also nice for Huttunen to get some driving time.

The C3 rumor...WRC or R5?

[Tauri_J]

I'd put my money on R5

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So much hope now pinned on Rally di Roma going ahead. Fingers crossed everybody.

[wyler]

The source is the official Hyundai press release https://motorsport.hyundai.com/back-to-business/

Nice to see Loubet get some drives, he was supposed to have a quite extensive WRC program. Also nice for Huttunen to get some driving time.

The C3 rumor...WRC or R5?

WRC (i wrote c3+ meaning wrc, sorry)
prior to the hyundai news, they were saying rally roma was asking for special permission to run wrc+ referring to Citroen.

[MartijnS]

https://www.facebook.com/184390891596708/posts/2981291831906586/?d=n

Paddon would have done 4 WRC Rallies with Hyundai this year.

[the sniper]

https://www.facebook.com/184390891596708/posts/2981291831906586/?d=n

Paddon would have done 4 WRC Rallies with Hyundai this year.

Looked great... What a shame.

[pantealex]

https://www.facebook.com/184390891596708/posts/2981291831906586/?d=n

Paddon would have done 4 WRC Rallies with Hyundai this year.

Yep!
Portugal
Sardinia
Finland
and NZ.

[T16]

Something is brewing. Colin Clarke has tweeted that he was near the mark when he predicted a WRC round would use one of the European events (I think I’ve got the right end of the stick).
Any ideas?

[T16]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/updated-2020-wrc-calendar-set-to-include-new-rallies/

[EstWRC]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/updated-2020-wrc-calendar-set-to-include-new-rallies/

left out from this article but Ciesla said in that interview that Estonia is in the list too, and its totally possible if organizers meet their standards.

[mousti]

Estonia looks to me the top candidate for that..

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[Allez Andruet]

Estonia must be in, that's a no-brainer if there ever was one. Other than that, I honestly don't care as long as we have some rallies to look forward to. Let's just f-n go.

[bomber21]

Cyprus?? I am excited! I hope for WRC Cyprus rally 2020!

[tommeke_B]

How do you explain that Rally Finland can't be organized and a "new" rally in Estonia can take it's place at the same date?

Anyway for those organizers who see the opportunity to promote to WRC for once, it will be extremely difficult to organize the event. Rally fans all around Europe are waiting all year long see some action. Everyone had to cancel their previous plans and is waiting to plan some other events, crowds will be huge.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Greek Cyprus or Turkish Cyprus?

[JUF]

Ypres as a WRC round would be mega! I would love to see World Rally Cars cutting these roads.

[EstWRC]

Ciesla interview in video https://www.facebook.com/voiceofrally/videos/925266874584882/

[dimviii]

Ypres as a WRC round would be mega! I would love to see World Rally Cars cutting these roads.

i would like Barum also

[Tauri_J]

Barum would be crazy with WRC cars

[EstWRC]

i would like Barum also

Hell yea man! I’m with you

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I can see why they want to use the upcoming ERC events, but can they cope with being converted to WRC events at such short notice and with the much bigger crowds ?

Also, will the ERC and it's driver's accept their rallies and championship being totally overshadowed by the WRC big boys ?

[wyler]

italian media added barum and valais to the list

[dodge33cymru]

I can see why they want to use the upcoming ERC events, but can they cope with being converted to WRC events at such short notice and with the much bigger crowds ?

Also, will the ERC and it's driver's accept their rallies and championship being totally overshadowed by the WRC big boys ?

If they play it right, it's a good opportunity to get a free WRC2 or 3 entry.

That said, it's not like WRC do anything at all to actually give their privateers any publicity.

[[RMC]Pip]

"four or five" rallies have been identified as possible targets to be added to the 2020 schedule - Cyprus, Estonia, Ypres, ...
revised 2020 calendar is expected to be released on June 19
source: https://www.motorsport.com

[bomber21]

We are always finding problems.

OK, we all know the problems but organizations exist in order TO FIND SOLUTIONS.

It is still June and everyone says “cancel the whole championship”. We have 6 months left and we can do things. We must find workarounds.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ypres as a WRC round would be mega! I would love to see World Rally Cars cutting these roads.

Neuville was there last year in his i20 WRC & Bouffier in a Fiesta WRC:

https://youtu.be/itF1HFW1Bog

https://youtu.be/AWsoYQDGSro

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ff2mrLG2NVk

[Andre Oliveira]

Estonia, Canarias and Ypres

http://www.speed-magazine.be/scoop-calendrier-bouleverse-wrc-va-integrer-lestonie-canaries-ypres/

[katxal]

Canarias Rally organizers says NO contacts with WRC promoter

https://www.laregion.es/video/videos-ourense/coronavirus-condiciona-vacaciones-ourensanos/20200611204139952140.html

[EstWRC]

thats interesting, one of the estonian organizers (Janis Kaal) said they have been in contact and they should know the answers in a couple of days time

[Tarmop]

I think it is pretty obvious, why Rally Dirtfish is a very certain candidate:
1. The reigning champ., local hero, has already confirmed that he will take part...big promo
2. He will be driving with his team and teammate so already two Hyundai motorsport drivers and cars+ their junior program have been confirmed
3. Toyota is based in Tallinn, so no question for them to be there too in 3h time. (if they weren`t already planning to be there anyway)





One privateer in a `17 Fiesta is also 99% there. Still, it is something...

[BigWorm]

Japanese Grand Prix cancelled, is that saying something about Rally Japan?

[Tauri_J]

I think it is pretty obvious, why Rally Dirtfish is a very certain candidate:
1. The reigning champ., local hero, has already confirmed that he will take part...big promo
2. He will be driving with his team and teammate so already two Hyundai motorsport drivers and cars+ their junior program have been confirmed
3. Toyota is based in Tallinn, so no question for them to be there too in 3h time. (if they weren`t already planning to be there anyway)





One privateer in a `17 Fiesta is also 99% there. Still, it is something...

You forgot the most important aspect. Last year's RE left an excellent impression to the promoter.

Ok, organizers have changed but they know that we have a long history of hosting rallies.

[AnttiL]

The most important aspect is said in the title.

[PLuto]

You forgot the most important aspect. Last year's RE left an excellent impression to the promoter.

Ok, organizers have changed but they know that we have a long history of hosting rallies.

No, most important aspect is completely different. Money... And money talks :)

[Tarmop]

And that is Dirtfish...+ definitely many banners of Gross` business.

[tommeke_B]

https://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/le-mondial-des-rallyes-pret-a-passer-par-ypres-et-francorchamps-debut-octobre-5ee28231d8ad585d08fa1928?fbclid=IwAR1HtjWAeuqFzXCo vxvX1PbMIGWmx8jWEm3RaUMSRghzIQhmxkf3l6qWJtQ#.XuOY8 RFIIh1.facebook

It looks like we'll have a "Rally of Belgium" in stead of the normal Ypres. We're talking about 280km SS. On friday and saturday the WRC contenders will drive before those competing in the Belgian championship. The final leg on sunday will be driven in the region of Spa, with the powerstage around and in Francorchamps. The powerstage of the rally should be driven right before the finals of the WRX, which is at Spa at that time!

This is not confirmed yet by the FIA, but this is what's on the table at the moment and it can be done.

[cali]

If this all comes to reality then I'm starting to like this years championship

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[106 sport]

https://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/le-mondial-des-rallyes-pret-a-passer-par-ypres-et-francorchamps-debut-octobre-5ee28231d8ad585d08fa1928?fbclid=IwAR1HtjWAeuqFzXCo vxvX1PbMIGWmx8jWEm3RaUMSRghzIQhmxkf3l6qWJtQ#.XuOY8 RFIIh1.facebook

It looks like we'll have a "Rally of Belgium" in stead of the normal Ypres. We're talking about 280km SS. On friday and saturday the WRC contenders will drive before those competing in the Belgian championship. The final leg on sunday will be driven in the region of Spa, with the powerstage around and in Francorchamps. The powerstage of the rally should be driven right before the finals of the WRX, which is at Spa at that time!

This is not confirmed yet by the FIA, but this is what's on the table at the moment and it can be done.

This article also names Rally Islas Canarias (Gran Canaria),that belongs to ERC.

It would be fantastic to be in WRC ¡¡¡

[NoFear85]

Now I’m waiting confirmation from Barum, to take part of WRC ����

[AnttiL]

RIP Martin Holmes

[wwbroe]

RIP Martin Holmes

A real icon of rallying has passed away, rest in peace Martin.

[AndyRAC]

The doyen of English language journalists/ writers. Hugely knowledgeable, and what I'd call an 'old school' journalist; the modern PR type journalism wasn't really his style. And his Annual was a must buy - but sadly, like Rallycourse, no longed produced.

RIP

[PLuto]

Martin was true legend, he did a lot for popularity of rallysport and he always knows "everything" about what is happening in rally. And like me he was focused to young drivers and future stars, so we have spent plenty of time "virtually" discussing about them during last years... He will be really missed...

[Kaps]

A sad loss indeed.

Back in 2005, when I won the WRC Pick'ems Competition on this very site, I 'd received his Pirelli World Rallying book #28 as a prize.

Rest in Peace, Martin!

[dimviii]

Ogier and Toyota set to begin talks for 2021 contract extension

Six-time champion open to one more season after COVID-19 disrupted campaign

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ogier-and-toyota-set-to-begin-talks-for-2021-contract-extension/

[satnav]

There isn't much to say that hasn't already been said about a real icon of rallying.


Martin Holmes RIP

[GigiGalliNo1]

Rally Catalunya will be going ahead later this year as a National event as not included in the WRC this year... so if the infrastructure is there, the event IS being held... why not have the WRC involved?

[Maui J.]

Over a period of about 30+ years spectating at Rally NZ, I would see the cars change and drivers come and go, but there was one consistent face walking around the opening ceremony, parc ferme, out on the stages and at the service points. This tallish bloke with grey hair, always with a camera around his neck. Such an amazing knowledge of the sport.

RIP Martin

[sindroms]

Rally Liepāja organizers are in negotiation process with WRC promoter about possibility to host WRC round in 14-16.august. The first negotiations were held yesterday. It's all in very early stages and none of both sides are close to any decisions yet.
https://www.go4speed.lv/lv/news/erc/9970-rally-liepaja-varetu-ieklaut-wrc-kalendara/

[denkimi]

Rally Catalunya will be going ahead later this year as a National event as not included in the WRC this year... so if the infrastructure is there, the event IS being held... why not have the WRC involved?
I assume the problem is with foreigners coming to spain.

[tc10a]

I assume the problem is with foreigners coming to spain.

Spain opens borders to many countries on June 21st.

[AnttiL]

Rally Liepāja organizers are in negotiation process with WRC promoter about possibility to host WRC round in 14-16.august. The first negotiations were held yesterday. It's all in very early stages and none of both sides are close to any decisions yet.
https://www.go4speed.lv/lv/news/erc/9970-rally-liepaja-varetu-ieklaut-wrc-kalendara/

Last year the R5 stage wins in Liepaja were on the scale 120-132 km/h (and one slower stage). For comparison
Rovanperä's stage times in Rally Finland were 110-124 km/h, so the roads could be up to 10% faster in Liepaja.

[EstWRC]

Meeke could get a career lifeline in form of Pirelli role

https://t.co/F0pzzs4nTU

[106 sport]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/latvia-being-considered-for-2020-wrc-round/

Looks like that Estonia, Latvia, Belgium and Gran Canaria (Spain) has a chance to get WRC this year.

My prayers are with Gran Canaria jaja...

[GigiGalliNo1]

I assume the problem is with foreigners coming to spain.

By October borders between countries will be open.

[AnttiL]

Last year the R5 stage wins in Liepaja were on the scale 120-132 km/h (and one slower stage). For comparison
Rovanperä's stage times in Rally Finland were 110-124 km/h, so the roads could be up to 10% faster in Liepaja.

This looks super boring https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsryF8ltlpg

[m-ast]

Rally Catalunya will be going ahead later this year as a National event as not included in the WRC this year... so if the infrastructure is there, the event IS being held... why not have the WRC involved?


I assume the problem is with foreigners coming to spain.

Borders will be open with the UE on Monday, I think main problem will be economic in this case, Also event is just one week after Germany, and I don’t think a change of date is posible now with the national calendar so full

[Fast Eddie WRC]

ERC Promoter Eurosport are in favour of WRC Latvia:

https://www.fiaerc.com/statement-from-eurosport-events-regarding-erc-rally-liepaja/

[mousti]

Ypres Rally organisers confirm the rumours..

https://mailchi.mp/ypresrally/renties-ypres-rally-2020-okt-5058533

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[AnttiL]

Mikkelsen to drive some testing on the 2021 Pirelli tyres with a C3 WRC

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/mikkelsen-set-for-citroen-based-pirelli-wrc-test-role/

[sindroms]

This looks super boring https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsryF8ltlpg


Not a best example to form opinions on Rally Liepaja. This stage has been in route only once and I think it will never happen again.

However this stage will stay forever - https://youtu.be/sK2Ip3yaUCM

[AnttiL]

Not a best example to form opinions on Rally Liepaja. This stage has been in route only once and I think it will never happen again.

However this stage will stay forever - https://youtu.be/sK2Ip3yaUCM

It has more tight corners and crests, but still a lot of long straights and haybale chicanes. Also remember that the new WRC cars could take flat out some corners with the help of aero, where some smaller cars would have to brake.

Curiously the roads seem to be very wide and firm-surfaced, as opposed to the softer roads of Poland and Estonia, but the common thing for these countries is a more flat topography, compared to Finland.

[tc10a]

Not a best example to form opinions on Rally Liepaja. This stage has been in route only once and I think it will never happen again.

However this stage will stay forever - https://youtu.be/sK2Ip3yaUCM

Great stage! ERC Liepaja was always a good show in the last years and WRC would definitely be a even bigger one.

The R5 battle between WRC2 / WRC3 and ERC crews would be also epic.

Hats off to the organisers if they are able to make it happen, especially if others like Finland failed. Fingers crossed that we are rallying again in WRC in about 2 months time.

[masa90]

Personally I just hope to see some rallying on good level. More wrc rallies the better. Even better would be having the possibility to go see some wrc event in person this year.

[AnttiL]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ypres-closing-on-wrc-date/

The Sunday of WRC Ypres would be driven at Spa-Francorchamps, with a ~270 km liaison across Belgium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'll be amazed if Ypres can plan this and pull it off safely (both re Covid-19 & in fans spectating in the right places).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/wrc-promoter-trying-to-bring-new-events-in-to-fill-schedule/

[MartijnS]

Germany will announce a ban on big events today untill the end of October.

[br21]

Same weekend like planned Ypres there will be WRX round in Spa also. Bit hard to imagine two so big events same time, even on Spa. From publicity point of view maybe perfect, but from organisational not that easy and nice, as I believe due to RX many service roads on Spa will be not available and they were heavily used during Spa rally in the past and they were really spectacular and nice to drive.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Germany will announce a ban on big events today untill the end of October.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/fresh-rally-germany-threat-with-event-ban-extension

[the sniper]

I've got to be honest, I'm not going to get my hopes up for any WRC rally supposedly happening this year until the eve of any event, maybe not even until the first cars leave the service park for the first stage! The situation is just too fluid, I can see people being too keen to move on, but Covid 19 isn't done with us.

If anything, I'm bizarrely most optimistic about Rally Estonia happening, as the rally organising story there has been so crazy, anything seems to be possible! :D

[EstWRC]

But it has confirmed nine rallies that will definitely be on the 2021 schedule – Monte Carlo, Finland, Portugal, Sweden, the Safari, Spain, Italy, Japan and Australia – albeit without dates yet

The big unanswered question – not that we really expected it to be answered – is the one about the size of that 2021 calendar. The manufacturers are pushing for 10 rounds, the WRC Promoter wants 12. There’s a sensible compromise which would dictate 11 rallies next year.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/what-fias-2021-wrc-calendar-announcement-means/?fbclid=IwAR0FSPcc5ltsC3jZDOcRYt1wVKlDEhk8RN3HZQpH ony8TFbdsFQlg_5sF78

so many good events left out if its true, Australia instead of New Zealand :rolleyes:

[the sniper]

Hopefully WRC Promoter gets its way with 12 rounds, then you can add New Zealand, Argentina and GB to those. That'd be a very reasonable calendar, if it's deliverable. I'd drop Mexico because the limited number of unique stage miles have been done to death now. And the Monte is a French rally in all but name and ceremonial terms... If slots are limited, and Citroen have gone, why does mainland France need two rounds?

With only 10 rounds, you're not going to be delivering a lot of content for the manufacturers investment. I wouldn't even bank on WRC promoter reducing the price of All Live... Do we know yet if we're getting any kind of recompense on this year's subscription yet?

[dimviii]

Asked by DirtFish about the chances of seeing Ypres ink its deal for a WRC slot, Penasse said: “We have to wait to see if it’s possible for Turkey to move, everything depends on that. If Turkey cannot move then it’s simply not possible for us to run. Everything hinges on that date. Without that, it’s not possible for the teams to get from there to Ypres.”

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-turkey-holds-the-key-to-ypres-wrc-slot/

[wyler]

Both Neuville and Tanak to contest Rally Alba in Italy with wrc+. Sordo stepping down to r5 for that event.

[AnttiL]

Both Neuville and Tanak to contest Rally Alba in Italy with wrc+. Sordo stepping down to r5 for that event.

Originally they were supposed to have Loubet in WRC and Breen on the R5

[wyler]

Originally they were supposed to have Loubet in WRC and Breen on the R5

i think this is Rally Roma line up (plus Sordo on the wrc and devine on r5)

[AnttiL]

i think this is Rally Roma line up (plus Sordo on the wrc and devine on r5)

Nope, the factory drivers just weren't announced before, I got this one wrong and thought they replaced Loubet.

https://motorsport.hyundai.com/back-to-business/

[wyler]

Nope, the factory drivers just weren't announced before, I got this one wrong and thought they replaced Loubet.

https://motorsport.hyundai.com/back-to-business/

loubet confirmed as 3rd wrc, rumors about a 4th for an ita gentlemen driver. rumors also about another wrc team (m-sport?)

[AnttiL]

Ypres is planning a 48 hour WRC event where the recce is from Wednesday to Thursday and the shakedown is Friday morning

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-turkey-holds-the-key-to-ypres-wrc-slot/

[denkimi]

Ypres is planning a 48 hour WRC event where the recce is from Wednesday to Thursday and the shakedown is Friday morning

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-turkey-holds-the-key-to-ypres-wrc-slot/
I would prefer 2 long days instead of the current formula of 4 or 5 parts of a day.

Something like driving from 08h to 24h or even later. And the next day again from 08 till late in the afternoon.

[dimviii]

WRC teams closing on group test on Acropolis stages

Group test proposal first discussed last year beginning to take shape ahead of anticipated 2020 season restart

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/wrc-teams-closing-on-group-test-on-acropolis-stages/

[pantealex]

For LIVE spectator like me 4-5 days rallies suits much better, 2-days trip to foreign WRC/ERC rally just isn´t great value.

[Franky]

For LIVE spectator like me 4-5 days rallies suits much better, 2-days trip to foreign WRC/ERC rally just isn´t great value.

Agree but also there's no real clarity to what a two day event means. If it's late evening Friday start and Sunday noon finish, then quite low value for a trip abroad. Unless you include other cultural activities.

I think that a shorter rally is fine, if it's part of the whole variety. Like Monte being spread over more days than others and some being more condensed. But I'm opposed to consensing every event to 48 hour time frame.

[mousti]

No Liepaja in WRC https://www.fiaerc.com/wrc-promoter-and-erc-rally-liepaja-organiser-conclude-combined-erc-wrc-event-discussions/

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[AnttiL]

For LIVE spectator like me 4-5 days rallies suits much better, 2-days trip to foreign WRC/ERC rally just isn´t great value.


Agree but also there's no real clarity to what a two day event means. If it's late evening Friday start and Sunday noon finish, then quite low value for a trip abroad. Unless you include other cultural activities.

I think that a shorter rally is fine, if it's part of the whole variety. Like Monte being spread over more days than others and some being more condensed. But I'm opposed to consensing every event to 48 hour time frame.

Please do check out my latest blog post on the subject. I interviewed the chiefs of Rally Finland and Wales Rally GB and collected comments from WRC drivers from other medias.

https://itgetsfasternow.com/2020/06/15/wrc-event-in-three-days/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No Liepaja in WRC https://www.fiaerc.com/wrc-promoter-and-erc-rally-liepaja-organiser-conclude-combined-erc-wrc-event-discussions/



First one bites the dust... :(

[PLuto]

Please do check out my latest blog post on the subject. I interviewed the chiefs of Rally Finland and Wales Rally GB and collected comments from WRC drivers from other medias.

https://itgetsfasternow.com/2020/06/15/wrc-event-in-three-days/

We were forcing similar issue in ERC, where FIA is pushing for shortening the events for one day. Promoter, all organisers and most of the competitors are against it, but FIA is still pushing...

[ArviPommer]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-to-make-competitive-return-on-viru-rally/?fbclid=IwAR3dWcDRjDWd4qP-jP7ZL51fWNKBzMHiKLRaEeFVM-weZzRY5gRLtE7OJ7w Ott Tänak start of Estonia Viru Ralli WRC HYUNDAI I20 WORLD RALLY CAR ON ONE-DAY EVENT

[AnttiL]

Rally Finland could lose Neste as its title sponsor

http://urheiluuutiset.com/suomen-mm-rallilla-edessaan-nimen-vaihto-pitka-yhteistyo-nesteen-kanssa-paattyy/ (in Finnish only)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Lorenzo Bertelli

Behind the wheel of my @MSportLtd #FiestaWRC again for some gravel testing !

@pirellisport @ompracing @RallyValtiberin

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EbgwjUYWAAURM4a?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EbgwjUcWoAElvZE?format=jpg&name=large

[pantealex]

with PIRELLI tyres

but what kind of Black Round ???

Could produce useful data from "telemetria", But to who ?
Msport engineers must be present, any benefits to them ?

I know Bertelli is slow but computers can still give some information (grip levels, temperatures etc)

[dimviii]

are you sure that the new tyres for 2021 are already produced?

[wyler]

From Germany:
Italy to loose rally Sardegna in favor of a re-run of Roma in autumn and a wrc grand-finale at monza racetrack backed by pirelli in december.
seems most improbable for me, but...

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/rallye-wm-lettland-raus-finale-in-monza-44521/

[wyler]

with PIRELLI tyres

but what kind of Black Round ???

Could produce useful data from "telemetria", But to who ?
Msport engineers must be present, any benefits to them ?

I know Bertelli is slow but computers can still give some information (grip levels, temperatures etc)

not using new tires for sure.

[pantealex]

are you sure that the new tyres for 2021 are already produced?

NO.

but Pirelli hasn´t had any tyres for WRC17 before...
They only have WRC2/3/Rally2 tyres available

[pantealex]

not using new tires for sure.

Maybe.

but which was he using ?

Rally2/R5 tyres ?

[wyler]

Maybe.

but which was he using ?

Rally2/R5 tyres ?

can't be sure, but i guess so. Kajetanowicz used a fiesta '17 spec with pirelli tires in poland couple of years ago...

[Tauri_J]

Could we hear any news about the calendar today?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Re Bertelli test...

"M-Sport has not stopped. In fact, the preparer did have a test, although not directly dedicated to its official structure. In fact, some member of the team has supervised the Lorenzo Bertelli test in the Tuscany region of Italy. The Italian driver has placed himself at the controls of his Ford Fiesta WRC in a two-day test to prepare for his return to competition."

[Fast Eddie WRC]

FIA update on a safe rally return:

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/co-drivers-back-in-fias-updated-rally-return-guidelines/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC Rally Estonia decided this week:

https://news.err.ee/1107118/rally-estonia-organizer-estonian-wrc-round-will-be-decided-this-week

[wyler]

M-Sport at Rally Roma with Fourmaux in r5 and Pedro in wrc+('17)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

More: https://dirtfish.com/rally/erc/m-sport-joins-julys-rome-rally-with-two-cars/

[EstWRC]

WRC SETS RETURN DATE
https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/newcomer-estonia-hosts-2020-wrc-restart-in-september/

Estonia 4 - 6 September
Turkey 24 - 27 September
Germany 15 - 18 October
Italy 29 October - 1 November
Japan 19 - 22 November

Belgium’s Ypres Rally (2 - 4 October) and Croatia (date TBC) remain as further calendar options."

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Thierry Neuville currently at RallyXNordic:

“I’m very pleased to be able to compete at this very famous rallycross track and race weekend. I followed RallyX Nordic last year, which was really interesting, so I’m very much looking forward to now taking part myself.

“It also offers us a great opportunity to get our TN5 into Nordic competition. This CrossCar has never been driven in Sweden before, so it’s a new chapter for LifeLive Nordic and the ongoing development of our car – the ‘All-Star’ Magic Weekend will be a big premiere for us.

“We are very aware that it’s going to be a huge challenge for our team; we have a lot of work to do, since it’s a very particular market in Scandinavia and most drivers run with the same brand of car. We would like to change that in the future, which is why we are coming over to get some mileage on these special tracks, which are probably the best rallycross tracks in the world.

“All the other competitors have a lot of experience, so we are coming to get a first impression about the speed and the improvements that will need to be made. I want to be there to show that we have already made progress, and on a personal level, I’m really looking forward to the event and to getting behind the wheel. It’ll be good to be back in competition again!”

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Eb7C3aWWoAcNgAb?format=jpg&name=medium

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Eb3H9oOWoAEox87?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Eb3H9oLWkAI_V_n?format=jpg&name=medium



https://www.rallit.fi/thierry-neuville-aloitti-kisaurakkansa-varamoottorilla-ruotsissa-uskomaton-ja-vaikea-rata/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Strange article this...

Is 2020 the time for @Citroen to shine in the WRC?
With Andreas Mikkelsen at the wheel of private team @SaintelocRacing's C3 WRC racer, it could be...

https://www.autocar.co.uk/opinion/motorsport/opinion-2020-time-citroen-shine-wrc

[Franky]

Strange article this...

Is 2020 the time for @Citroen to shine in the WRC?
With Andreas Mikkelsen at the wheel of private team @SaintelocRacing's C3 WRC racer, it could be...

https://www.autocar.co.uk/opinion/motorsport/opinion-2020-time-citroen-shine-wrc

It's a quality article. I found out that the next World Rally Championship round is in Italy this month. Someone should learn that the ERC and WRC are different things.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I wondered if they were suggesting Mikkelsen could be at Rally di Roma in the C3 WRC as a parr of the Rally Stars entry (with Pedro, Sordo & Loubet etc) ?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loeb to announce his plans (or those Hyundai give him) next week.

[skarderud]

Loeb to announce his plans (or those Hyundai give him) next week.Toyota?:)

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

Ott sounding optimistic about the development of the car so far

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-reckons-hyundai-could-trouble-toyota-on-fast-rallies/

[AnttiL]

Ott sounding optimistic about the development of the car so far

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-reckons-hyundai-could-trouble-toyota-on-fast-rallies/

Weird that they bring up Alister McRae's 1999 F2 result as the last time Hyundai has been on podium in Finland, when Huttunen has been second in WRC2 the two last years.

[steve.mandzij]

Is Latvala expected to run in Italy in October? He had been promised Sardegna as far as I remember and that was off the books when it was postponed, but does anyone know if that still stands?

[EstWRC]

I think he said he scraped 2020 and concentrates on 2021?

[masa90]

Yep he is aiming for 2022 season now. And next year he tries to convince Toyota to hire him for a full season. Personally I think he is done and will not drive for a wrc win or a factory team ever again.

[pantealex]

Yep he is aiming for 2022 season now. And next year he tries to convince Toyota to hire him for a full season. Personally I think he is done and will not drive for a wrc win or a factory team ever again.

+1

I just don´t see JML as top candidate for Toyota 2022

But who is going there after Ogier ends his career ?
-some young from WRC2/3 ?
-Suninen (he is Jouhki´s boy) ?
-one of "Hyundai" drivers ?
Time will tell

[masa90]

Lappi could be good bet speedwise but are the bridges burned? From others it is hard to see Mikkelsen or Padding there for example either. So possibly some new rising star.

[wyler]

Lappi could be good bet speedwise but are the bridges burned? From others it is hard to see Mikkelsen or Padding there for example either. So possibly some new rising star.

with Evans and Rovampera they don't need to look at the old guard. they can focus on youngsters!

[AnttiL]

Remember Katsuta...

[cali]

Rovampera, Padding??? Seriously? I dunno if to laugh or cry....

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

A lot can change in the next year or two with budgets getting smaller and no new Manu's on the horizon. The number of WRC seats could be even less than now...

[EstWRC]

Rovampera, Padding??? Seriously? I dunno if to laugh or cry....

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

maybe these are some new drivers we dont know about?

[cali]

maybe these are some new drivers we dont know about?This Pudding guy looks promising

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[MartijnS]

Rumours about Germany only being driven on the Panzerplatte without spectators.

[masa90]

How much rallyworthy roads are there?

[Fiesta]

You can actually make quite a lot of different variations from the roads there in the military area. Is it WRC rallying, that is another question.

[Tauri_J]

Why wouldn't it be worthy of WRC rallying? Those roads are epic.

[tommeke_B]

Why wouldn't it be worthy of WRC rallying? Those roads are epic.

Honestly I think they're quite boring, with a lot of straights and junctions. There are only a few interesting parts there. The vineyard stages are much more interesting imo, but there you cannot keep the spectators away.

If this is happening, the promotor better makes sure WRC+ is properly working, unlike every Monte Carlo Rally...

[Tauri_J]

Honestly I think they're quite boring, with a lot of straights and junctions. There are only a few interesting parts there. The vineyard stages are much more interesting imo, but there you cannot keep the spectators away.

If this is happening, the promotor better makes sure WRC+ is properly working, unlike every Monte Carlo Rally...

I was there last year. Loved panzerplatte, of course I was in a very high speed section. Junctions are inevitable there, because there is a massive road network.

[Grey hair]

I have been racing in Rally Deutschland six times... Panzerplatte is enough to do it under these circumstances... great challenge.

[AnttiL]

I haven't been to Rally Deutschland let alone raced there but I've analyzed the onboards closely for my blog and I would say Baumholder has the most of fast-flowing, drivable corners of the whole rally. In some of these corners you even go sideways because the rugged surface has low grip. Meanwhile, the vineyard and countryside stages consist mostly of just straights, flat corners, 90° turns, hairpins and chicanes - all of which feature on Baumholder of course as well.

I wouldn't mind having Rally Deutschland solely in Baumholder, although it would surely change its character.

[Whinlatter]

I've been thinking for a while that their best hope of running the rally and avoiding issues with crowds would be to run it at Baumholder with all access closed off, but I thought I read somewhere that the organisers needed the money from ticket sales to make it financially viable? So if this does happen, they must need more sponsors money or maybe cut a deal with WRC promoter to reduce the fee they have to pay?

[GigiGalliNo1]

Imagine... three days of the same Camera angles from the one location of stages... wonder if RBMH/Promoter will move the camera's around each day...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Imagine... three days of the same Camera angles from the one location of stages... wonder if RBMH/Promoter will move the camera's around each day...

Just be happy if the rally happens at all.

[Berke]

Ogier stays for another year as he already suggested due to pandemic situation.

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/150603/ogier-set-to-stay-in-wrc-with-toyota

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Luca Pedersoli's cool-looking i20WRC for Rally di Alba :cool:


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EdNFXCHWoAEbU3z?format=jpg&name=large

[AnttiL]

Loubet announced his program on a WRC car will consist of Estonia, Turkey, Deutschland and Sardegna.

https://twitter.com/PL_Loubet/status/1284550612588396544

[Safak]

Rally Turkey is likely to be organized a week earlier.

[Tauri_J]

Latest I've heard it could not take place at all.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Better pic of Pedersoli i20 WRC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Eddtr4oWkAEsyAy?format=jpg&name=medium

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Pirelli happy after 1st test:
https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/pirelli-happy-after-first-2021-tyre-test/

[wyler]

1962
Hyunday Kona render.

Don't even bother to comment how bad does this suv look. :D

[skarderud]

Quite interesting that the names is Tänak/jarveoja and not Neuville/gilsol?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[the sniper]

Quite interesting that the names is Tänak/jarveoja and not Neuville/gilsol?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

Estonian fans are better with Photoshop than Belgians...? :D

[pantealex]

Quite interesting that the names is Tänak/jarveoja and not Neuville/gilsol?



Tänak is WRC Champ, Neuville isn´t ;)

[itix]

http://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/makinen-not-100-fair-if-estonia-and-ypres-both-join-wrc-calendar/amp/

This is slightly silly from Mäkkinen. He's usually a clever guy but his team has rally Finland and Estonia with very similar roads to the test roads from the test road for their factory.

If anyone has home advantage already, it's should be his team.

[tommeke_B]

Honestly I do understand his way of thinking. For other team's home events, everyone has been there and knows it. For Estonia all teams have been there too. But with Ypres, it hasn't been a candidate event in the last 20 years. Hyundai was there with their WRC last year, and Breen won the event... ;) They already have some experience making a set-up there, and they have two drivers with A LOT of experience there.

Besides that I'd like to see a WRC event in Belgium, IF it's possible. Now the government has banned spectators from all sports events, both indoor and outdoor. It's only a question how long this will last. I don't see any rally happening under this rule, they need the money from entry tickets paid by spectators.

[wyler]

Honestly I do understand his way of thinking. For other team's home events, everyone has been there and knows it. For Estonia all teams have been there too. But with Ypres, it hasn't been a candidate event in the last 20 years. Hyundai was there with their WRC last year, and Breen won the event... ;) They already have some experience making a set-up there, and they have two drivers with A LOT of experience there.


Katsuta used a yaris wrc in 2019 rally in japan. probably i miss something and that's different from others.

Hyundai is making a lot of real rally test, as sport and marketing strategy. Nobody stops makinen to do the same. if rally roma (not so impossible) or rally alba will become wrc round, makinen will complain 'cause is adamo's ground?

btw, running a "not-really-legal" aero for 3 years was fair, right?

[pantealex]

Jämsän-Äijät Ralli August 8th (Jämsä, Finland)

Esapekka Lappi entered by JanPro with Fiesta WRC (Tuohino car)

[atsiotras79]

How many competitive kms is this Finnish Rally?

[pantealex]

How many competitive kms is this Finnish Rally?

25km totally
3 diffrent stages

but there is seperate "Test SS" day before where they can drive as much they want.

[masa90]

How many competitive kms is this Finnish Rally?


Not sure yet, but is a "mini rally" with just few stages. 3 if I remember correctly.

[MartijnS]

This October's ADAC Rallye Deutschland will be two days of dodging the hinkelsteins in Panzerplatte as it is to be held entirely with the Baumholder military area due to COVID precautions: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-germany-to-be-held-entirely-within-panzerplatte/

[atsiotras79]

Thanks for the answers. 🙏

[EstWRC]

South-Estonia rally as warm up for Hyundai and maybe also Toyota

https://dirtfish.com/rally/hyundai-toyota-to-contest-estonia-event-as-wrc-warm-up/

[Tauri_J]

Will be a great rally, at least 5 new generation WRC cars.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Manuel Villa's M-Sport Ford Fiesta WRC for this weekend's Rally di Alba. :cool:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EeLM224XsAAx5d0?format=jpg&name=900x900

[Tempestas]

So strange to see estonian real-estate logo on the bonnet.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Potentially huge news.. WRC Ypres can happen !

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ypres-set-for-wrc-green-light-as-turkey-agrees-date-change

[EstWRC]

Yessss. Amazing news!

[Tauri_J]

Tommi must be pissed.

[Lancia Stratos]

Potentially huge news.. WRC Ypres can happen !

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ypres-set-for-wrc-green-light-as-turkey-agrees-date-change

Ha! Quite a few inaccuracies in that story...…..

[cali]

South-Estonia rally as warm up for Hyundai and maybe also Toyota

https://dirtfish.com/rally/hyundai-toyota-to-contest-estonia-event-as-wrc-warm-up/Arguably this rally has better roads than WRC Rally Estonia

Sent from my GM1913 using Tapatalk

[pantealex]

https://www.fia.com/news/f1-statement-covid-19-test-result-sergio-perez

This is not rally related but F1 driver is tested Covid-19 positive and he is out of this weeks race at Silverstone UK.
This same can happen in rallying so teams may have to think who are their reserve drivers.

[mousti]

Ciesla said goodbye to FIA WRC

Verstuurd vanaf mijn ONEPLUS A6013 met Tapatalk

[the sniper]

https://www.fia.com/news/f1-statement-covid-19-test-result-sergio-perez

This is not rally related but F1 driver is tested Covid-19 positive and he is out of this weeks race at Silverstone UK.
This same can happen in rallying so teams may have to think who are their reserve drivers.

Arise Lukyanuk!!!

We're ready, are they...? ;)

[AnttiL]

This same can happen in rallying so teams may have to think who are their reserve drivers.

Toyota has Hänninen and Katsuta
Hyundai has Loeb, Sordo and Breen on the third car
M-Sport has Greensmith...and Matthew Wilson

[AnttiL]

Ciesla said goodbye to FIA WRC

Verstuurd vanaf mijn ONEPLUS A6013 met Tapatalk

Ciesla was not working for FIA. He was the chief of the WRC Promoter company.

[T16]

Toyota has Hänninen and Katsuta
Hyundai has Loeb, Sordo and Breen on the third car
M-Sport has Greensmith...and Matthew Wilson

I think there will be a few who get the job before Wilson.

[AnttiL]

I think there will be a few who get the job before Wilson.

With money, yes. But Wilson is their official test driver.

Not sure about Eric Camilli’s situation though.

Toyota could probably call Latvala as well

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Citroen rally money goes to cycling...

The Ag2r La Mondiale Team will become Ag2r-Citroën Team in 2021. According to L'Equipe sources, Citroën brings around €6 million which will make for a total team budget of 22,5 million €/per year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loubet is quicker on shakedown at Rally di Alba than Tanak and Neuville !

https://www.ewrc-results.com/shake/66710-rally-di-alba-raplus-2020/

[Tauri_J]

Amazing!!!!










Yeah its shakedown, calm down.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

And Breen faster than Sordo in R5:

https://www.ewrc-results.com/shake/62487-rally-di-alba-2020/

Should be a fun event tomorrow.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/five-things-we-learned-from-rally-di-alba-shakedown/

SD vid https://youtu.be/vALWzMt2c_Y

[logic]

Loubet is quicker on shakedown at Rally di Alba than Tanak and Neuville !

https://www.ewrc-results.com/shake/66710-rally-di-alba-raplus-2020/

what about now?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

5/6 stage wins for Neuville over Tanak.

Loubet says he's struggling with the mixed conditions today.

[the sniper]

what about now?

Still, not too far off them. Impressive given his lack of experience in the car, even if Tanak and Neuville aren't going flat out.

[itix]

He's less than a minute off after 100 competitive KMs. That's impressive to me.

OK, front runners may not be running flat out etc but he didn't make any big mistakes, kept it on the road and was not a lot slower in top machinery.

It's promising. Not world changing, but neither was Ogiers first events or even first year in top machinery. We'll see.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

In the R5 battle, Sordo finishes 3rd behind Breen & Huttunen !

https://www.ewrc-results.com/entryinfo/62487-rally-di-alba-2020/2751411/

[wyler]

Neuville and Tanak switching parts to test as reported by DirtFish. Neuville spoke about front diff testing to italian media.

[T16]

He's less than a minute off after 100 competitive KMs. That's impressive to me.

OK, front runners may not be running flat out etc but he didn't make any big mistakes, kept it on the road and was not a lot slower in top machinery.

It's promising. Not world changing, but neither was Ogiers first events or even first year in top machinery. We'll see.

I’m not trying to argue against your point, but it did remind me of when Ogier got fastest stage time in, I think, his first event in a WRC car in Wales.
The conditions were horrific, with ice and mud inconsistently throughly the stage and it was just one of those little moments when you sit up and think ‘this guy could be the real deal’.

[rallyfiend]

I’m not trying to argue against your point, but it did remind me of when Ogier got fastest stage time in, I think, his first event in a WRC car in Wales.
The conditions were horrific, with ice and mud inconsistently throughly the stage and it was just one of those little moments when you sit up and think ‘this guy could be the real deal’.

Ogier well and truly proved with worth when he was absolutely hosing everyone (including far more powerful cars) in the little JWRC 2wD...

That's what got him that drive in the WRC car in GB...

[T16]

Ogier well and truly proved with worth when he was absolutely hosing everyone (including far more powerful cars) in the little JWRC 2wD...

That's what got him that drive in the WRC car in GB...

But in Wales he beat the best in the world for one stage, in a proper car.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Citroen return is possible says Østberg:

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ostberg-has-gut-feeling-citroen-will-make-wrc-return/

[wyler]

In the meanwhile, he will race rallycross with electric car:

Citroen Racing Works Driver Mads Østberg debuts in Projekt E at Höljes RX Sweden with our STARD Citroën Racing C3 ERX

http://stard.at/2020/08/06/citroen-world-rally-star-mads-ostberg-to-debut-stard-built-citroen-c3-erx-at-holjes/?fbclid=IwAR1Qy9FV1He9nRa7qpzmkwws0OmCHSTaR3TvE1t2 RmM1GF3uaC_D3D9ijA8

[pantealex]

In the meanwhile, he will race rallycross with electric car:

Citroen Racing Works Driver Mads Østberg debuts in Projekt E at Höljes RX Sweden with our STARD Citroën Racing C3 ERX

http://stard.at/2020/08/06/citroen-world-rally-star-mads-ostberg-to-debut-stard-built-citroen-c3-erx-at-holjes/?fbclid=IwAR1Qy9FV1He9nRa7qpzmkwws0OmCHSTaR3TvE1t2 RmM1GF3uaC_D3D9ijA8

and that C3 ERX is official Citroen Racing operation, I think every Projekt E car is using STARD technic

[AnttiL]

Lappi was testing the JanPro Fiesta today. Turbo broke after one run and they cannot get a replacement for tomorrow so no Jämsän Äijät ralli tomorrow nor more testing kilometres for Lappi. what a bummer...

https://www.rallit.fi/esapekka-lapille-raju-takaisku/

[Tauri_J]

Wow thats a shame. Suninen and Lappi must have a proper test before Estonia or they would not stand a chance.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wow thats a shame. Suninen and Lappi must have a proper test before Estonia or they would not stand a chance.

They should both be at the M-Sport event this weekend in Greystoke Forest.

[Lancia Stratos]

They should both be at the M-Sport event this weekend in Greystoke Forest.

It isn't this weekend. It is August 22.

[AnttiL]

In another interview Lappi mentions testing a new engine/turbo. My guess is they had only one of those new parts in the JanPro car, and it's not reasonable to go testing with an old turbo.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It isn't this weekend. It is August 22.

Damn Steve Petch saying the other day he's ready to rally... ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Pirelli's future cool conditions testing could be in Wales...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/next-phase-of-pirelli-wrc-tire-testing-revealed/

[AnttiL]

Lappi drive Louna-Eesti Ralli with the JanPro Fiesta, Suninen with a Fiesta R5.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Lappi drive Louna-Eesti Ralli with the JanPro Fiesta, Suninen with a Fiesta R5.

Let's hope the turbo is ok for Lappi this time.

[Tauri_J]

7 WRC cars will be competing in Southern - Estonian Rally.

[Tarmop]

http://autosport.ee/rallyreg/?page=27&race_id=479&

And some regular fast WRC2 contenders. Shame, that those stages arent in the "real" thing.

[Simmi]

As a rally-starved UK fan I'm looking at these stacked entry lists so enviously.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Matthew Wilson headlines the entry for next weekend’s M-Sport Return to Rally Stages, driving the latest spec Ford Fiesta WRC at the Greystoke event.

M-Sport’s WRC2 pairing Adrien Fourmaux and Rhys Yates headline ‘Class 2’ for R5 machines.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/matthew-wilson-in-2020-wrc-car-for-m-sports-rally/

[pantealex]

Matthew Wilson headlines the entry for next weekend’s M-Sport Return to Rally Stages, driving the latest spec Ford Fiesta WRC at the Greystoke event.

M-Sport’s WRC2 pairing Adrien Fourmaux and Rhys Yates headline ‘Class 2’ for R5 machines.

https://dirtfish.com/rally/matthew-wilson-in-2020-wrc-car-for-m-sports-rally/

https://www.rallies.info/webentry/2020/msport/entries.php?type=s&fbclid=IwAR21A4BQZ8qhHpH-Rny4pF1TSNF5Sw8r563af5dQFWqHiU-SH8qPw5lHI00
Quite funny that no-one is using new Fiesta Rally2 ;)

[drive]

Strange that spectators will have to go to spectator areas - to spread people along the stage should be better re covid than put in few limited areas...
https://lounaeestirally.ee/redgrey-team-louna-eesti-ralli-2020-toimub-uhepaevasena/

[Tauri_J]

Yeah thats heavily discussed in Estonian forums and social media. Long story short, rally fans are seriously pissed because rallies now have heavy restrictions while most concerts and other public events are still happening with not so much limitations.

This picture was taken yesterday at a concert.

https://i.imgur.com/UAL1jzH.png

[tommeke_B]

At least there are some rallies... In Belgium it's becoming more likely we're not going to see any rally this year..

[the sniper]

It's kind of ridiculous. There a few sport more naturally suited to being Covid friendly for spectators, yet it's being undermined by the desire to 'safely contain' spectators in pig pens, which seems to primarily aid the monetisation of them...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://www.rallies.info/webentry/2020/msport/entries.php?type=s&fbclid=IwAR21A4BQZ8qhHpH-Rny4pF1TSNF5Sw8r563af5dQFWqHiU-SH8qPw5lHI00
Quite funny that no-one is using new Fiesta Rally2 ;)

Old habits die hard ! ;)

[Simmi]

At least there are some rallies... In Belgium it's becoming more likely we're not going to see any rally this year..

Crazy how we've got to this situation. Belgium was my big hope for attending an event or two this year. So happy I managed to get to the Monte this year. You've got to think that event could be in doubt for January...

[AnttiL]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rally-japan-in-doubt-ypres-could-take-wrc-date/

Japan and Germany may not be run at all because of Covid-19. Instead Ypres could take Japan's slot in November.

[RS]

'This is not the right time to return to WRC says Hrabanek: https://www.idnes.cz/auto/zpravodajstvi/michal-hrabanek-skoda-motorsport.A200717_142546_automoto_rik

Perhaps someone can tell us more of what he said? (it's premium content in Czech)

[EstWRC]

This is awesome https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/belgium-added-to-2020-fia-world-rally-championship/

Ypres in the calendar

[AnttiL]

This is awesome https://www.wrc.com/en/news/season-2020/wrc/belgium-added-to-2020-fia-world-rally-championship/

Ypres in the calendar

But Japan cancelled :(

[EstWRC]

Nice chance for Neuville to take the title in front of the home crowd

And poor Tommi...

[MartijnS]

Good news! Hotel dates changed again, now hope for the best regarding spectators.

[pantealex]

Nice chance for Neuville to take the title in front of the home crowd

And poor Tommi...

Too much pressure for Neuville

My money is on for SebO :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Looong way to go before Ypres is confirmed to be actually happening. I wouldn't place any money on it but it's certainly something to hope for.

[T16]

So what happens if they only end up with 7 rounds as, let’s say, number 8 is cancelled? Still able to declare a champion?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I heard Matton say a while back that 7 Rounds will be a good number for deciding a champion.

[PLuto]

And what if it will be 6 rounds? Will they try to bring Croatia? :D

[pantealex]

Every remaining 2020 WRC Rally could still be cancelled...

[CWJ]

Every remaining 2020 WRC Rally could still be cancelled...

So Germany next

[AnttiL]

So Germany next

That's what I heard as well...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Italy & Germany just reported their highest daily Covid cases since May and April respectively.

[CWJ]

But "if" Germany weekend is becoming free, Sardegna would have an alternative time range

[Jarek Z]

Maybe a round in China seeing as they are happy to hold pool parties in Wuhan now!

Wow! They don't seem worried indeed:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtKe7CXauKg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Craig Breen said today he always intended to do Ypres this year so he will definitely be there.

(And with his win in 2019.he should be guaranteed the Hyundai Rally1 car.)

[mknight]

Craig Breen said today he always intended to do Ypres this year so he will definitely be there.

(And with his win in 2019.he should be guaranteed the Hyundai Rally1 car.)

Surely you don't mean he should replace Sordo on tarmac in the main team? Sordo is proven fast and stable on tarmac in it and they also have Loeb, who is not comfortable in the car on tarmac, but still safer choice than Breen.
Breen has not done a single rally on tarmac with it yet, not even a testing one (unless you count the Monza SSS show). Hasn't scored a single manu point in 3 starts either. Sure for Estonia he is a better choice than Sordo or Loeb, but not for Ypres or basically any other of the remaining rallies.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Breen sounded very confident and happy with the way Hyundai and Adamo are treating him.

His history on Ypres also makes him a good option for this special rally which other WRC guys havent done recently, or ever.

The likely weather in November could make conditions very like many Irish tarmac events he's done.

[Hartusvuori]

Surely you don't mean he should replace Sordo on tarmac in the main team? Sordo is proven fast and stable on tarmac in it and they also have Loeb, who is not comfortable in the car on tarmac, but still safer choice than Breen.
Breen has not done a single rally on tarmac with it yet, not even a testing one (unless you count the Monza SSS show). Hasn't scored a single manu point in 3 starts either. Sure for Estonia he is a better choice than Sordo or Loeb, but not for Ypres or basically any other of the remaining rallies.

I'd pick Breen over Sordo or Loeb for Ypres. Breen's experience in Ypres is more important than his lack of experience of i20 WRC on tarmac. Breen has four starts in Ypres, all in the main class and he is the previous winner. Breen also won Condroz in 2016, an event held in early November. Ypres is not normal tarmac event and Ypres in late November even less so.

[AnttiL]

It sure is a tough choice. You surely wouldn't pick anyone over Loeb for a tarmac rally, but even he has struggled with the car on tarmac. Would Breen do any better? Would Sordo be the safe bet, since he's had some good pace with the car on tarmac?

[pantealex]

It sure is a tough choice. You surely wouldn't pick anyone over Loeb for a tarmac rally, but even he has struggled with the car on tarmac. Would Breen do any better? Would Sordo be the safe bet, since he's had some good pace with the car on tarmac?

Ypres is also held in different time of year than before.

Shame that they can´t drop Tänak ;)
all 3 candidates maid be faster than Ott.

[EstWRC]

based on what? rally di alba?

[pantealex]

based on what? rally di alba?

Based on nothing, notice Smiley face.

Just joking because everyone is talking about experience with i20 WRC

[EstWRC]

well the decision is tough indeed, but i think i would chose Breen

i think the experience on those roads counts more

[pantealex]

well the decision is tough indeed, but i think i would chose Breen

i think the experience on those roads counts more

Right now I would go with Loeb because of his weather experience.

[AnttiL]

Right now I would go with Loeb because of his weather experience.

which has served him well in Monte the two last times...not

[Fast Eddie WRC]

AR podcast - Craig Breen on life at Hyundai, R5 and Ypes coming into WRC:

https://totalrallystudio.podbean.com/e/episode-2-season-21-200820/

[mknight]

I think some of you are nuts.

The only two guys that have so far been able to drive i20 WRC reliably fast on tarmac are Neuville and Sordo (even in rainy/muddy conditions).
Loeb has done ok when the conditions were actually mixed, less so in full dry.

Breen has 0 experience with tarmac in it and basically zero good results on tarmac in WRC (definitely with 2017+ car). His 3 spins for a 9th place in Catalunya 2018 in the C3 while Loeb won in it are his last performance.

[Simmi]

Breen will likely be sharper and as it's been said - he has more experience on the Ypres stages.

[AnttiL]

It was also pointed out on twitter that whoever is the third Hyundai driver, he will be low on points (because of partial season) and start at the back, where it's very difficult to go fast, no matter who you are.

[CWJ]

And what if it will be 6 rounds? Will they try to bring Croatia? :D

What about Monza Show ;)

[Duvel]

Also the option is there to move Sardinia to the date of the Deutchland?

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/absage-der-rallye-deutschland-naht-44853/

That can give a other rally like say Croatia some more time to prepare..

[mousti]

ADAC has confirmed the cancellation of their WRC event due to Covid-19.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn ONEPLUS A6013 met Tapatalk

[Rally Power]

Also the option is there to move Sardinia to the date of the Deutchland?

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/absage-der-rallye-deutschland-naht-44853/

That can give a other rally like say Croatia some more time to prepare..

The problem is that time is running out to end the WRC season properly…we’re at the start of covid’s second wave and the flu season can make it worse than the first one; that’s probably why Italy is trying to get Germany date, while Ypres postponement to late November seems a very risky move.

Even affecting manus logistics, rushing the remaining events, like initially planned for the restart, is probably the most (sole?) viable option to get seven events done.