Silly Season 2008

[Sulland]

Grønholms retirement announcement opens the 2008 silly season.

Who will drive where in 2008 ?

Will Petter drive for Ford ?
Will Latavala be promoted to the A Team ?
Will Hirvonen be number one ?
Will Henning S be promoted to the A Team

What happens in Subaru if Petter moves on ?

Will any other teams come in with top equipment ?

A lot of more open issues in addition to these !

What do you think will happen before MC 08 ?

[Corny]

I'd looove to see Petter come up for Ford's no1.. But I'm afraid it will not happen

[Josti]

Petter and Ford, I don't know. On one hand I would like to see him up front in Subaru, but on the other I don't want him to struggle another year.

With all do respect, I don't think Latvala is there to be an official (Ford) works driver yet. As suggested earlier, I wouldn't mind to see Duval back at Ford again. I think a Hirvonen-Duval combination is strong and an interesting force against Citroën, who are undoubtly the favorites for next year.

With the loss of Grönholm, I like to see McRae and Gardemeister filling up the Suzuki seats. I´m sure this will be a big attraction, and both can do the team some good I reckon. Can´t wait till the announcements!

[leno]

i hope subaru will be competitive. this would make season very interesting solberg and loeb will fight for victory and also hirvonen atkinson sordo are not far behind

[Fischer]

I just hope Gardemeister gets a good seat in 2008 and wins a rally, the man deserves it.

[Langdale Forest]

Gardemiester would be a good 2nd driver for Ford.
He was the 1st Ford driver in 2005.

[ste898]

I cant see Ford .with their multi million pound Abu Dabai sponsorship having Hirvonen and Latavla becuae they would'nt have a hope

Also what use would Duval be on the gravel?

Now then could Coiln Mcrae go to Ford?

[[WRCRR]]

Also what use would Duval be on the gravel?

Plenty of use. Much more so than Colin in his current form...

In my opinion, Hirvonen-Duval is the best way to go, with Latvala-Wilson-H Solberg-Al Qassimi in the B-teams. Duval is the only one who can challenge Loeb on tarmac and Hirvonen can challenge Loeb hopefully in most gravel rallies. Duval on gravel is also propably faster than Sordo if given a good car, like 07 Focus. So for manu title, this is the way to go. Drivers title...well...I don't see Hirvonen beating Loeb in 2008, not yet... ;)

[Finni]

Seriously Petter Solberg is the only driver who could challenge Seb - with the good car. Solberg has shown in past years that he surely has measure of Marcus and Seb. His current form don't tell his potential (too many problems with Subaru).

I find Gardemaister and Duval - not to mention H. Solberg - as quite absurd alternatives to fill Ford's first seat. Gardemaister is good 2nd but that's it. I would rather take Atkinson than Garde in my team. Garde has never impressed me in terms of raw speed (watch for instance Germany this year). Duval has ultimate pace only on tarmac. On gravel he would have hard time to match Latvala's current pace.

If Solberg is excluded I see that Latvala is the best option. To me it seems that he has some reserves and potential to find ultimate top-pace of wrc.

If Solberg remains to Subaru and Subaru remains as last few years it's a bit scary to think Loeb's domination. Altough I think that there is fairly good chance to see Subaru's comeback to good form. However, Ford would be most safe option to Petter.

[Priorat]

Latvala for second seat at Ford would be enough to take the manufacturers championship as he is faster than Sordo on gravel and, given he would test a lot, he could gain some consistency.

But if the Subaru becomes reliable next year, they can end wining the manufacturers ch as Petter and Chris will be the most experienced pairing.

[curry]

I definitely see Latvala as a champion of the future and I'm pretty sure Malcolm thinks that too. So based on that I don't think he would want to let him go to another team but on the other hand he is a year away from being a serious challenger. So what does Malcolm do? Not an easy decision for him - does he look short term or long term.

Ask yourself this question.

What does Malcolm do with Latvala in 2009 if he puts someone else in the team next year?

[Magnus]

I agree Finni, petter is a somewhat underrated driver for the moment. I really wish for him to have som proper wheels and his spirit back. It would be very nice if Ford could get hold of him, but I guess old quarrels between him and Ford might hinder that a bit...

[L5->R5/CR]

My history is spotty pre-2000 so I can't say for sure (please correct me if I am wrong, I'd rather be wrong and learn something than just be wrong).


BUT


Has a single driver ever gone through such a bad spell as Petter after winning a championship and won a championship again? I can't recall a driver doing so poorly and then winning a championship again (but my historical knowledge is only for the most current era).

I think Petter's career as a championship contender is over...

[koko0703]

I'll take Duval over Latvala at Ford. Looking at Duval's current form, he hasn't faded at all. With Hirvonen on gravel and Duval on tarmac, Ford will have a quite good line up. I'm not so sure that Petter will go to Ford.

And for Suzuki, I want to see Gardemeister and Aava.

[atchoum]

My history is spotty pre-2000 so I can't say for sure (please correct me if I am wrong, I'd rather be wrong and learn something than just be wrong).


BUT


Has a single driver ever gone through such a bad spell as Petter after winning a championship and won a championship again? I can't recall a driver doing so poorly and then winning a championship again (but my historical knowledge is only for the most current era).

I think Petter's career as a championship contender is over...

I'm affraid you're right...

[duff]

Seriously Petter Solberg is the only driver who could challenge Seb - with the good car. Solberg has shown in past years that he surely has measure of Marcus and Seb. His current form don't tell his potential (too many problems with Subaru).


I totally agree. For a competative championship I do hope Petter goes to Ford.
He's not my favorite driver, and I find it hard to buy all the excuses at the moment, but he is fast and can definitely be a championship contender in the right car. I'm sure he hasn't lost all his form.

[A.F.F.]

Ask yourself this question.

What does Malcolm do with Latvala in 2009 if he puts someone else in the team next year?


I think Malcom has more important questions in his mind than Latvala conserning the year 2009. Like how to convince Ford to continue rallying program.

[A.F.F.]

Seriously Petter Solberg is the only driver who could challenge Seb - with the good car. Solberg has shown in past years that he surely has measure of Marcus and Seb. His current form don't tell his potential (too many problems with Subaru).

I find Gardemaister and Duval - not to mention H. Solberg - as quite absurd alternatives to fill Ford's first seat. Gardemaister is good 2nd but that's it. I would rather take Atkinson than Garde in my team. Garde has never impressed me in terms of raw speed (watch for instance Germany this year). Duval has ultimate pace only on tarmac. On gravel he would have hard time to match Latvala's current pace.

If Solberg is excluded I see that Latvala is the best option. To me it seems that he has some reserves and potential to find ultimate top-pace of wrc.

If Solberg remains to Subaru and Subaru remains as last few years it's a bit scary to think Loeb's domination. Altough I think that there is fairly good chance to see Subaru's comeback to good form. However, Ford would be most safe option to Petter.

I agree 100% :up:

[A.F.F.]

However, the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti which is never wrong say that it's Latvala who replaces Marcus.

http://www.iltalehti.fi/urheilu/200709150002835_ur.shtml

[White Sauron]

However, the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti which is never wrong say that it's Latvala who replaces Marcus.

http://www.iltalehti.fi/urheilu/200709150002835_ur.shtml

I thought that this bible is Ilta-Sanomat...

[pino]

I would love to see Gigi in Marcus car in a few events : Montecarlo, Sweden, Sardinia, Finland :s mokin: :p :

[Helstar]

Nice .... dream. Actually Latvala is going to take it.
But as I said some days ago in another thread, Loeb is probably going to win almost all rallies next year(s).

[jonkka]

Stop kidding yourselves, Petter stays at Subaru as he signed three year extension last year.
http://www.swrt.com/news/viewarticle.html?id=994

[Simmi]

Sporting contracts mean nothing in this day and age. I'm sure there was a number of 'get-out' clauses in the deal if Petter wasn't happy.

[Langdale Forest]

2008 WRC

Citroen:

Loeb
Sordo

BP Ford

Hirvonen
2nd driver??????

Subaru

P Solberg
Atkinson
Pons

OMV Kronos, will they be going next year?

Stohl?
Duval?

Stobart Ford, ????????

Latvala?
H Solberg?
Wilson?

Munchi's ????????

Suzuki?

Gardemiester?
Duval?
Lindholm?

[alleskids]

Subaru A
Solberg
Atkinson

Subaru B
Pons
? a Norwegian youngster?

Munchi
Peres-Companc
?

OMV and Krnos will both go to IRC

[Langdale Forest]

Who will run the 2nd Subaru team?

[Priorat]

Could be like this:

BP Ford: Hirvonen, Latvala
Citroën: Loeb, Sordo
Subaru: Atkinson, P. Solberg, Pons, Ostberg
Suzuki: Duval, P.G. Andersson
Stobart: H. Solberg, Wilson
Astra Citroën: Gardemeister, Meeke
Ramsport: Mikkelsen (European rounds)

Kopecky may go to IRC but I would like to see him in the second Stobart

But, who knows...

[jso1985]

Taking count P.Solberg is not an option, I think Ford would do better with Duval or Gardemeister, both can beat Sordo on gravel(and Duval can do it also in tarmac) so the manufacturets title would be possible

[alleskids]

Who will run the 2nd Subaru team?

Prodrive will run the B team, along side the A team, just like BP Ford and Stobard Ford ( and Munchi's Ford ?), all togehter in the parc ferme I guess .

[curry]

I think Malcom has more important questions in his mind than Latvala conserning the year 2009. Like how to convince Ford to continue rallying program.

Do you think he will have a problem doing this with Abu Dhabi throwing bucket loads of money into the team?

---

I standby my feelings that Latvala is too raw to put into the second seat next year; he only has 17 points thus far in the season, thats 11 points less than his team mate.

Do you think that Malcolm might split the seat next year? Maybe Latvala for gravel and Duval for tarmac - it's a option for him. Then Latvala takes the seat full time in 2009.

[atchoum]

However, the bible of motorsports, Iltalehti which is never wrong say that it's Latvala who replaces Marcus.

http://www.iltalehti.fi/urheilu/200709150002835_ur.shtml

Hum...a weird bible, then. They said Grönholm not to stop at the end of 2007 season. Remember?

[GigiGalliNo1]

There will be a big superize with Suzuki line up for next year! :D ;) :p

[White Sauron]

There will be a big superize with Suzuki line up for next year! :D ;) :p

Galli in Suzuki?? Yeah!!!! Great!!!

[pino]

Galli in Suzuki?? Yeah!!!! Great!!!

If true it would be great :D

[s12impreza]

Suzuki have signed
Nicolas Bernardi and Sebastian Lindholm
as it was announced a few days ago

Subaru
Have Petter Solberg , Atkinson , pons for definate as petter and atko said thy would be there till 09
Ford
Hiroven, ?????
citroen
Loeb and sordo
stobart
solberg and wilson
then you have munchis ,astra racing and kronos

[Brother John]

Suzuki have signed
Nicolas Bernardi and Sebastian Lindholm
as it was announced a few days ago

Wake up s12impreza ! ;) Nicolas Bernardi and Sebastian Lindholm are the drivers in 2 rallys 2007. In the next month´s Suzuki will announce ho will be the drivers for 2008. :s mokin:

[White Sauron]

Suzuki have signed
Nicolas Bernardi and Sebastian Lindholm
as it was announced a few days ago




we're talking about year 2008 if you didn't notice...

[Roy]

Subaru A
Solberg
Atkinson

Subaru B
Pons
? a Norwegian youngster?

Munchi
Peres-Companc
?

OMV and Krnos will both go to IRC

It is not sure Munchi's come back. About Kronos: maybe they do both Championships WRC and IRC.
Marc van Dalen: "But it is not a problem for Kronos to do the IRC and the WRC
together like we have done this year. This is what I want to do and if I am really sure I have a guarantee to enter the top level in the WRC I will carry on."

http://www.crash.net/news_view~cid~4~id~153377.htm

[Helstar]

There will be a big superize with Suzuki line up for next year! :D ;) :p
Uhm...... if it's not true I'll take an airplane from Italy to Australia soon :p

[jacko]

If Suzuki already signed a "big" name for next year it must be Duval, Galli or Gardemeister. If it's one of them indeed they must put him directly in the car for the UK round and not a waste of time one-off drive by Lindholm.

On topic:
FORD is to carry on with Hirvonen and hopefully with Duval or Galli
Latvala, H. Solberg in the second team (Stobart?)
Third team? > Ramsport ? Munchi's?
CITROËN for sure with Loeb & Sordo.
Maybe a second team with Kronos Citroën Xsara or C4?
Team Astra Citroën: still nothing is signed and don't think it will happen..
SUBARU: P. Solberg, Atkinson.
About rumours on a second team, well this was also saying last year same time but nothing happend..
Pons has a contract ?
SUZUKI: Gardemeister, Galli, Duval as the no.1 driver ?
Second driver could be more than one name.. Bernardi (on tarmac), Aava, PG Andersson, Wilks..?
Names with money but no comfirmed plans for 2008: Stohl, Aava, Pons

[koko0703]

Citroen: Loeb, Sordo
Ford: Hirvonen, Duval
Subaru: P.Solberg, Atkinson, Pons
Suzuki: Gardemeister, Aava
Kronos: Stohl
Stobart: Latvala, M.Wilson, H.Solberg

This is my guess... :D

[Camelopard]

My guess is:
Ford: Petter Solberg, Mikko Hirvonen.
Citroen: Loeb, Sordo.
Subaru: Atkinson, Pons.
Suzuki: Meekes, P.G.Andersson.

Ford #2 team Henning Solberg, J. M Latvala.

Will Stohl still have a drive?
How much money will Citroen throw at Kronos to try to make a competitive 'B' team.

[Roy]

Citroen Total WRT: Loeb, Sordo

BP-Ford Abu Dhabi WRT: Hirvonen , ?Duval/Gardemeister/Martin/H.Solberg?
3rd car Al Qasimi

? Stobart VK M-Sport RT: Latvala, Wilson, ?H.Solberg*, ?PerezCompanc

Subuaru: P.Solberg, C.Atkinson
?3rd car Pons

? Kronos: ?Stohl

?Munchi's WRT: Perez Companc, ?Villagra

Shell Suzuki WRT: ?Gardemeister/Duval/Galli


?B team Subaru: ?Pons ?Ostberg/Galli

Ramsport (Prive or MT?): Mikkelsen ?Wilks

----------
Some teams not confirmed. Drivers with contract in bold.
* Henning has contract not sure which Ford team he drive for.

[VFTS]

Henning Solberg has a two year contract with Ford(Stobart)(2007-2008). If Stobart leaves WRC he will have another Ford-team supporting him.

[Priorat]

Why Kopecky is not in any list?

[DonJippo]

Why Kopecky is not in any list?

Feel free to put him in a list :p :

[Jaanus]

I think Kopecky will drive the new Fabia s2000 in PWRC or IRC next year.

[Roy]

I've thinking and this my tip for Malcom (for what it worth is):

The second driver first option is Duval.
The best driver who is free know, fast on gravel en superb on tarmac.

The second option is Gardemeister.
An allround driver, allways good for points, not sure of podiums.

Third option is two second drivers.
Gravel specialist H. Solberg and tarmacdriver Kopecky.

Last option is rising star and crash test dummy Latvala.
Must be learn a lot, can better stay a year at Stobart.

[COD]

Janne Tuohino plans a comeback to WRC! Read more here:

http://www.jannetuohino.com/

[Karbonyl]

Anton Alen should run Abarth's Grande Punto S2000 in PC WRC!

[Tomi]

Anton Alen should run Abarth's Grande Punto S2000 in PC WRC!

Lets hope it's true, sofar PWRC looks to be quite lame next year.

[Zes]

Ramsport (Prive or MT?): Mikkelsen ?Wilks

Ramsport is selling their three Focus 05 on rallycarsforsale.com. Could they have some plans for using Focus 06 next year?

[Jaanus]

Yes. Mikkelsen and Ramsport will buy 3 2006 spec Focus WRC cars.

The latest rumor says that Suzuki will use 2 or 3 different drivers in the second SX4 WRC just like Mitsubishi did in 2004 and they all have to bring sponsor money.

[VFTS]

Mikkelsen have ordered 2007 Spec Focus WRC

[Corny]

BTW, Kronos will not start in WRC2008.. I've red that in an article on Pitstop ( I think it was ) a time ago

[MikeD]

Yes. Mikkelsen and Ramsport will buy 3 2006 spec Focus WRC cars.

Do you think they will continue in 2007 entering rallies here and there, or do you think they plan entering as a M2 team?

[jonkka]

BTW, Kronos will not start in WRC2008.. I've red that in an article on Pitstop ( I think it was ) a time ago

So you trust old news?

[SubaruNorway]

Do you think they will continue in 2007 entering rallies here and there, or do you think they plan entering as a M2 team?


I think they will concentrate on WRC and the norwegian championship and yes he has ordered 3 2007 spec focuses

[VFTS]

Mikkelsen will run all the european WRC-events next year in a Focus WRC07(Monte-Carlo with Focus WRC05). He will also probably compete in the norwegian championship with an Focus WRC07.

[Addicted]

Mikkelsen will run all the european WRC-events next year in a Focus WRC07(Monte-Carlo with Focus WRC05). He will also probably compete in the norwegian championship with an Focus WRC07.

Isn`t there some rule that only manufacturer teams can use latest version of any model. Meaning that Mikkelsen must use `06 spec Focus until Ford makes new homologation?

[jonkka]

Isn`t there some rule that only manufacturer teams can use latest version of any model. Meaning that Mikkelsen must use `06 spec Focus until Ford makes new homologation?

Once M1 homologates a new version, they cannot go back to old one. M2 can only use version homologated before 2007 and parts homologated after 2nd Jan 2007. As these are current regulations, they are open to change next season but if the spirit stays the same, privateers can use the 2007 Focus which is in use now but not the new parts that they (Ford WRT) upgrade during next season.

[L5->R5/CR]

Once M1 homologates a new version, they cannot go back to old one. M2 can only use version homologated before 2007 and parts homologated after 2nd Jan 2007. As these are current regulations, they are open to change next season but if the spirit stays the same, privateers can use the 2007 Focus which is in use now but not the new parts that they (Ford WRT) upgrade during next season.




Doesn't this all become a mute point if they don't register for a M_ championship?

[DonJippo]

Doesn't this all become a mute point if they don't register for a M_ championship?

Yes.

[Langdale Forest]

How old can cars in an M2 team be?

[jonkka]

How old can cars in an M2 team be?

As far as they got valid homologation. Escort WRC or Impreza 555 anyone?

[alleskids]

From a year old homologated (everything before 1-1-2007) till the latest homologation back in .......? So you can use a Toyota Corolla if you want :) .

[jonkka]

Doesn't this all become a mute point if they don't register for a M_ championship?

Say what?

[Langdale Forest]

From a year old homologated (everything before 1-1-2007) till the latest homologation back in .......? So you can use a Toyota Corolla if you want :) .

So you can still use any WRC car and will the homoligation run out?

[alleskids]

Eric Wevers, who runs almost every CorollaWRCar spare part that's left here from Holland, develloped some new parts for the Toyotta Corolla WRC and got a new homologation license from the FIA, while the homologations from TTE were expiered. You can use (almost) every rallycar, as long it has a homologation from the FIA. Every homologation license is for a limited number of years.

[alleskids]

Doesn't this all become a mute point if they don't register for a M_ championship?

That is one of the reasons why Mitsubishi refused the Arab oil dollars from Khalid Al Qassimi, because they wanted to devellop the Lancer WRCar in 2007 for a ew start in 2008, so they could not become a MT team, or do not homologate the new devellopments during this year. But that was before the situation at Mitsubshi Motors became confused and they draw back completly al Lancer WRCars.

[A.F.F.]

Mitsu has done some weird decisions and avoided all the risks so completely it's ridicilous. Next step is to nullify all the results they alreasy have. Like they're never been to motorsport :rolleyes:

[alleskids]

It will be a hell of a job to annouce 23 winners that came second to Tommi Makinen, 4 World Championships trophies to be relocated and 11 other victories. So who won then the 1974 Safari Rally ? Juwra will be working overtime to vanish the three diamonds from the result pages. :) .

[jonkka]

Juwra will be working overtime to vanish the three diamonds from the result pages. :) .

Actually, that would be a simple SQL statement. :)

[Motorsportfun]

BP-Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team
HIRVONEN-TBA-AL QASSIMI

Citroen Total World Rally Team
LOEB-SORDO

Subaru World Rally Team
P.SOLBERG-ATKINSON-PONS

Suzuki World Rally Team
TBA-TBA
---
FORD M2 TEAM
H.SOLBERG-TBA (Wilson IF stobart will remain in 2008)

RAMSPORT FORD TEAM (?)
MIKKELSEN-WILKS-JONES (maybe as this year)

MUNCHIS?
Companc??-Villagra??

I'm honest: it's very difficult to know the entries, in this moment :confused:

[MikeD]

RAMSPORT FORD TEAM (?)
MIKKELSEN-WILKS-JONES (maybe as this year)


Gareth Jones's Ford is not prepared/run by Ramsport but by Dom Buckley.

[Priorat]

Gareth Jones's Ford is not prepared/run by Ramsport but by Dom Buckley.

This is Jones testing in Catalunya an hour before

He is wearing RAMSPORT stickers at least.

[MikeD]

This is Jones testing in Catalunya an hour before

He is wearing RAMSPORT stickers at least.

Ok, but his previous two entries this year was with Dom Buckley. It was also a different livery to what he is running in your picture.

PS: Are you sure that is Gareth Jones in that picture?

[Buzz Lightyear]

PS: Are you sure that is Gareth Jones in that picture?

yes.

[VFTS]

The FocusWRC05 Gareth Jones will use in Spain are from Ramsport. It is the second car from Andreas Mikkelsen. They hire it for Cataluna

[MikeD]

The FocusWRC05 Gareth Jones will use in Spain are from Ramsport. It is the second car from Andreas Mikkelsen. They hire it for Cataluna


Do you know the reason why he has switced from Dom Buckley to Ramsport?

[Simmi]

Do you know the reason why he has switced from Dom Buckley to Ramsport?

Because his car is wrecked and need repairing. In the meantime he will use the car Ramsport has. It's not a switch of teams as such. According to Autosport it also it appears Guy Wilks has run out of budget for the rest of the season with Ramsport. His long term co-driver Phil Pugh is also leaving at the end of the British Championship so not good news for Guy at the moment.

[MikeD]

Because his car is wrecked and need repairing. In the meantime he will use the car Ramsport has. It's not a switch of teams as such. According to Autosport it also it appears Guy Wilks has run out of budget for the rest of the season with Ramsport. His long term co-driver Phil Pugh is also leaving at the end of the British Championship so not good news for Guy at the moment.

Thanks for info :)

a.) Does that mean it's Dom Buckley who will prepare the Ramsport car in Spain?

...or

b.) Ramsport who will prepare the Ramsport car in Spain?

PS: The last news update on Ramsport's site is from March this year. Never really understood why you want a web-site if you don't use it actively.

[NOR]

I think Kopecky will drive the new Fabia s2000 in PWRC or IRC next year.
You are probably right. He is going to drive any S2000 and then Fabia S2000 during the season.

[6thgear]

According to Estonian media Jaan Mölder Jr. is going to run a Fiat Grande Punto S2000 in the local Rally of Saaremaa (12.-13. October) and planning to enter the Wales Rally GB with the same car.

http://auto.delfi.ee/autosport/eesti/article.php?id=17075893

(sorry, only in Estonian)

I find the news quite surprising (although it was in their plans probably already from the start of a season) and wonder about Jaan`s performance in it. Atleast we`ll get a chance to see the car for the first time in our (inter)national rally which itself is a bonus allready...go fiiu !

[emk]

Subaru
Solberg - Atkinson

Citroen
Loeb - Sordo

Ford
Hirvonen - Gardemeister

Suzuki
Duval - Promising young Finn Tero Wilén from Suzuki's junior team in Finland, HLWRT

It's no worth guessing anymore after this!

[Helstar]

Ford
Hirvonen - Gardemeister

Suzuki
Duval - Promising young Finn Tero Wilén from Suzuki's junior team in Finland, HLWRT

It's no worth guessing anymore after this!
Ah yes yes, Garde again with Ford ... and this young Tero Wilen (who ??) ... if Suzuki team needs a young gun then they'd choose Aava or PG Andersson don't you think ?!

[jonkka]

and this young Tero Wilen (who ??) ... if Suzuki team needs a young gun then they'd choose Aava or PG Andersson don't you think ?!

Absolutely, it'd be downright silly to take a complete rookie when there are tried and tested drivers available. Unless the rookie is what Loeb was in 2000.

[emk]

Hey don't take it too serious! :D If i'd have to put my money on a list, I'd take Toni from Ford to Suzuki and remove Duval from the list and so on :)

[Sulland]

If Latvala isnt picked up by Ford's A team, I would call him if I were Suzuki boss !!

[White Sauron]

If Latvala isnt picked up by Ford's A team, I would call him if I were Suzuki boss !!


To spoil young guy's career? never

[Roy]

If Latvala isnt picked up by Ford's A team, I would call him if I were Suzuki boss !!

Latvala has a contract with Ford to stay by them. Stobart or BP-Ford Abu Dhabi WRT.

My dream entrylist 2008:

BP-Ford Abu Dhabi WRT
- Mikko Hirvonen (all rallies)
- Francois Duval (all rallies, but not nominated: see Gronholm )
- Marcus Gronholm (Sweden and Finland)

Citroen Total WRT
- Sebastian Loeb (all rallies)
- Dani Sordo (all rallies, but not nominated for: see Gardemeister)
- Toni Gardemeister (Sweden, Finland, Acropolis)

Stobart VK M-sport RT
- Jari-Matti Latvala (all rallies)
- Henning Solberg (all rallies, but not nominated for tarmac rallies)
- Matthew Wilson (all rallies)
- Guy Wilks (European rallies, nominated for tarmac rallies)

Subaru WRT
- Petter Solberg (all rallies)
- Chris Atkinson (all rallies)
- Xavier Pons (all rallies, but not nominated)

Munchi's Ramsport WRT (at least 10 rallies)
- Luís Pérez Companc (all '10' rallies)
- Federico Villagra (nominated on -at least- non-European rallies)
- Andreas Mikkelsen (all European rallies, maybe nominated on tarmac and snow)

Suzuki WRT
- Per-Gunnar Anderson (all rallies)
- Urmo Aava (all rallies)

[Josti]

To spoil young guy's career? never

After just one rally, it seems a lot of people regard Suzuki a hopeless case. I don't get that.

Nonetheless, I wish Latvala to stay at Stobart Ford.

[spudrsca]

Why not Latvala and Duval with Hirvonen at Ford.
whe should ask Al Quassimi to pay and he will receive driving lessons by the drivers

[Langdale Forest]

I think Latvala might be the 2nd BP-Ford driver next year.

He has been fast in Sardinia and Finland and the on the last 4 rallys (3 tarmac and 1 gravel) he has finished in the points and he also finished 4th in Argentina.

He has really improved this year and if he is in the BP Ford team he might get a podium.

[Buzz Lightyear]

I think Latvala might be the 2nd BP-Ford driver next year.

He has been fast in Sardinia and Finland and the on the last 4 rallys (3 tarmac and 1 gravel) he has finished in the points and he also finished 4th in Argentina.

He has really improved this year and if he is in the BP Ford team he might get a podium.


If Ford choose Latvala next year, the will have zero championships. Hirvonen is not at a level where he can beat Loeb, and the manufacturers will never be a possibility with two such young driver.. for the next two year, as they will not ditch him in 2009. Duval on a one year contract would be better option.

FocusChampion... you mention nominting rounds. They cannot change their 2 nominated points scorers during the season? Only to take away driver points..?

[Tom206wrc]

Latvala has a contract with Ford to stay by them. Stobart or BP-Ford Abu Dhabi WRT.

My dream entrylist 2008:


...
Stobart VK M-sport RT
- Jari-Matti Latvala (all rallies)
- Henning Solberg (all rallies, but not nominated for tarmac rallies)
- Matthew Wilson (all rallies)
- Guy Wilks (European rallies, nominated for tarmac rallies)
..




In your dream you want Wilslow to continue ?? :crazy:

[DonJippo]

FocusChampion... you mention nominting rounds. They cannot change their 2 nominated points scorers during the season?

They can't change the #1 but #2 can be differrent in each event if they so want.

[L5->R5/CR]

In your dream you want Wilslow to continue ?? :crazy:



Wilson brings dollars and another car.

Who cares if he is there unless he is taking someone else's seat.

Ford doesn't seem to have any problems running whoever can write the necessary checks so its not like he has someone else's seat tied up...

[Josti]

If Latvala would make a move to BP Ford, I hope Alessandro takes his place at the Stobart outfit.

[Roy]

In your dream you want Wilslow to continue ?? :crazy:


Wilson brings dollars and another car.

Who cares if he is there unless he is taking someone else's seat.

Ford doesn't seem to have any problems running whoever can write the necessary checks so its not like he has someone else's seat tied up...

I give him this year a car. Like L5->R5/CR said: Stobart, VK and M-Sport Euro's (or dollars) are important.

In my dreams I see Loeb in a Ford ;) But that is not my point. What is possible this year an what I like.

[Buzz Lightyear]

They can't change the #1 but #2 can be differrent in each event if they so want.

i didnt know that. thanks donjippo

[koko0703]

If Ford choose Latvala next year, the will have zero championships. Hirvonen is not at a level where he can beat Loeb, and the manufacturers will never be a possibility with two such young driver.. for the next two year, as they will not ditch him in 2009. Duval on a one year contract would be better option.

I agree about the possibility of Ford winning either of the title with Mikko and Latvala although the manu title may turn out closer than expected depending on how Sordo does next year. But I don't see Duval as much better choice than Latvala. Yes, Duval will be able to challenge for win in some rounds but I don't think he's not consistent enough to challenge Loeb or help Ford for manu title. At the moment it is very difficult to drive as fast and realiable as Loeb but the manu title may be possible with good consistency. From that perspective, I would rather go with Gardemesiter.

[Tomi]

But I don't see Duval as much better choice than Latvala.

Agree, what Ford might win on tarmac, they would loose on snow and gravel, Gardemeister would be the best option, but even he cant drive 2 cars in same events. Of current drivers without contract I belive Latvala would be the best option for Ford.

[Roy]

Agree, what Ford might win on tarmac, they would loose on snow and gravel, Gardemeister would be the best option, but even he cant drive 2 cars in same events. Of current drivers without contract I belive Latvala would be the best option for Ford.

Ford need a tarmac ace. So Duval is a logic choose for that underground. For snow and fast gravel (Finland and New Zealand) Ford can switch their second car for Latvala, Gronholm or H.Solberg? On 'normal' gravel Duval can do it. He is faster then Gardemeister, but Garde is consistent. That is true, but I hope Foerd signed Duval at least for tarmac (and on some gravel events he can do better than Gardemeister).

[DonJippo]

For snow and fast gravel (Finland and New Zealand) Ford can switch their second car for Latvala, Gronholm or H.Solberg?

Marcus is retiring after this year, no point speculating about him driving next year in any event.

[Roy]

Marcus is retiring after this year, no point speculating about him driving next year in any event.

I think he said: "Never say never." But in that case the other two drivers are a good option.

[Tomi]

On 'normal' gravel Duval can do it. He is faster then Gardemeister

sure, maybe with toycar in a sandbox.

[jacko]

Ford need a tarmac ace. So Duval is a logic choose for that underground. For snow and fast gravel (Finland and New Zealand) Ford can switch their second car for Latvala, Gronholm or H.Solberg? On 'normal' gravel Duval can do it. He is faster then Gardemeister, but Garde is consistent. That is true, but I hope Foerd signed Duval at least for tarmac (and on some gravel events he can do better than Gardemeister).

Duval is faster in any event than Gardemeister. Toni is good, fast and consistent but never be THAT fast to compete with the best of the best. That feeling he will never feel because he just missing that last step to drive to the maximum, Duval has that something extra, already he has taken many stage wins on both tarmac and (hard-) gravel. Give Duval the second Ford car and after the first 3 rounds he will be quicker than Hirvonen on the gravel rounds yes, except maybe Finland and NZ.
It would be really stupid by Ford not to take him (already) for next year.
Latvala needs another year too improve himselfs and can be the dark horse on some rounds.

Ps; Finnish forum members only believe in their "own" drivers and never be that positive about other (european) drivers, bit boring...

[Tomi]

Ps; Finnish forum members only believe in their "own" drivers and never be that positive about other (european) drivers, bit boring...

Thats not really true, Loeb is a top guy on all surfaces, Petter the same, also Atkinson has much potential, what comes to the privateers who has been driving all surfaces this year it would be ridiculous to claim someone has done better result than Latvala, but im sure Wilson knows well both Duval and Latvala and will make the right desition.

[Daniel]

Why do people want Duval in? Do you want piles of wrecked Focus WRC'S? How people forget so quickly how Mr Champion in his own head drove when he drove full time for Citroen. Garde is a far better option!

[Josti]

Why do people want Duval in? Do you want piles of wrecked Focus WRC'S? How people forget so quickly how Mr Champion in his own head drove when he drove full time for Citroen. Garde is a far better option!

Shame people wright him off, only cause of his year with Citroën.

[Daniel]

Shame people wright him off, only cause of his year with Citroën.
It was a pretty bad year. Perhaps if he drives for Ford then at least we might see Marcus back just like Carlos :laugh:

[Corny]

Duval is faster in any event than Gardemeister. Toni is good, fast and consistent but never be THAT fast to compete with the best of the best. That feeling he will never feel because he just missing that last step to drive to the maximum, Duval has that something extra, already he has taken many stage wins on both tarmac and (hard-) gravel. Give Duval the second Ford car and after the first 3 rounds he will be quicker than Hirvonen on the gravel rounds yes, except maybe Finland and NZ.
It would be really stupid by Ford not to take him (already) for next year.
Latvala needs another year too improve himselfs and can be the dark horse on some rounds.

Ps; Finnish forum members only believe in their "own" drivers and never be that positive about other (european) drivers, bit boring...

Toni not that bit extra? When did he drive a car in what he could prove his real speed? Duval had 3 years of top manufactur cars..
But I agree with you that Duval is very, very fast ;)

[Tomi]

I find it a bit strange that if Duval is so good some people seems to think, how come has he not been able to convince neider Ford or Citroen about his skills, he has been working close with both teams in the past.

[Daniel]

Toni not that bit extra? When did he drive a car in what he could prove his real speed? Duval had 3 years of top manufactur cars..
But I agree with you that Duval is very, very fast ;)
Yes Duval is quick. Quick to go off the road, into a tree, into a rock or just onto his roof :rotflmao:

[[WRCRR]]

I find it a bit strange that if Duval is so good some people seems to think, how come has he not been able to convince neider Ford or Citroen about his skills, he has been working close with both teams in the past.

But you have to remember that Ford did offer him contract, a long one in fact, before he himself decided to go to Citroen. So I cannot see why this couldnt happen again...

[Tomi]

]But you have to remember that Ford did offer him contract, a long one in fact, before he himself decided to go to Citroen. So I cannot see why this couldnt happen again...

I remember there was some rumours about a contract, i also remember him after signing with Citroen commenting Ford in not so nice way.

[torsten]

http://www.juwra.com/duval_francois.html
http://www.juwra.com/gardemeister_toni.html

More risks, more points :look:

[DonJippo]

Latest rumours about Suzuki 2008...

Toni G., all rallies
Mirco Baldacci, P-G. Andersson & G. Wilks to drive selected events with #2 car.

[Josti]

Latest rumours about Suzuki 2008...

Toni G., all rallies
Mirco Baldacci, P-G. Andersson & G. Wilks to drive selected events with #2 car.

We have to wait for confirmation from Suzuki, but I think it's quite clear that Toni will drive for Suzuki in 2008. Giving the chance to several drivers as a nr. 2 is good :up:

[Tomi]

i was thinking duval might get the second seat but this actually would be a better solution.

[Daniel]

Toni's like the village bike. Everyone's had a bit of him :p

[AndyRAC]

Toni's like the village bike. Everyone's had a bit of him :p

Harsh, but very funny... :p :

[Tomi]

Toni's like the village bike. Everyone's had a bit of him :p
lol, very true :)

[koko0703]

Latest rumours about Suzuki 2008...

Toni G., all rallies
Mirco Baldacci, P-G. Andersson & G. Wilks to drive selected events with #2 car.

I think that's pretty good line up. Only one surprize for me is that Aava is not in the list for the 2nd seat. Anyways I hope Garde will get the seat.

[Jaanus]

Well Suzuki is sending Urmo to Japan this weekend and this is an official drive funded by Suzuki and covered in their website.

http://www.suzuki-motorsport.com/jwrc/e/index.html

[A.F.F.]

Hmmmm.... Skoda already tried that strategy, sharing the second seat with many drivers. Hopefully Suzuki succeeds better.

[Tomi]

Hmmmm.... Skoda already tried that strategy, sharing the second seat with many drivers. Hopefully Suzuki succeeds better.

I belive this shared car will be only for next season, it's a car developing year so it does really not matter much.

[Addicted]

Latest rumours about Suzuki 2008...

Toni G., all rallies
Mirco Baldacci, P-G. Andersson & G. Wilks to drive selected events with #2 car.

If those are their drivers, they won`t be scoring points too often. Unfortunately

[N]

Come on, Gardemeister is capable of scoring points on all events if the car has enough speed and is reliable.

[DonJippo]

Hmmmm.... Skoda already tried that strategy, sharing the second seat with many drivers. Hopefully Suzuki succeeds better.

Maybe Skoda tried with wrong drivers...

[Koppomsbo]

Still no times from SD?

According to Patrik Flodins homepage top three of PWRC is

1. Nutahara
2. Flodin
3. Hanninen

[Koppomsbo]

Still no times from SD?

According to Patrik Flodins homepage top three of PWRC is

1. Nutahara
2. Flodin
3. Hanninen

hahaha how tired am i.. wrong tread :crazy:

[A.F.F.]

Maybe Skoda tried with wrong drivers...


Maybe. Or maybe they just didn't listen their drivers.

[Tom206wrc]

Maybe Skoda tried with wrong drivers...



Wrong cars also perhaps :p :

[Brother John]

two fixed drivers and Hirvonen become no. 1 !
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/r/wm/d/n/d/2007/10/25/moechte-gerne-zwei-feste-piloten/index.html

[Jaanus]

Suzuki has made an offer to Urmo Aava to drive the second WRC car for 10 rallys next year. Urmo must bring sponsor money around 1.3 - 1.9 million euros.
Urmo is also in talks with all the other teams. It might be possible to do all 15 rallys for 2 million euros.

http://etvsport.ee/index.php?0562032

[Roy]

Suzuki has made an offer to Urmo Aava to drive the second WRC car for 10 rallys next year. Urmo must bring sponsor money around 1.3 - 1.9 million euros.
Urmo is also in talks with all the other teams. It might be possible to do all 15 rallys for 2 million euros.

http://etvsport.ee/index.php?0562032

Aava isn't Quoted in that story... What is the truthfactor of this site?


About Ford drivers in the future:

"The first thing, sadly, is there's no Marcus or Sebastien in the sweet shop that you can pick off the shelf. We haven't made a decision yet though [on who will replace Marcus]," Malcolm Wilson noted.
"It's been successful, for the past few years, having two fixed drivers and that's what I'd like to do. We might opt for two rotational drivers, but at the moment we are trying to tie up the Championship.
"In late November or December time we will, hopefully, be in a position to announce what we're going to do."

http://www.crash.net/motorsport/wrc/news/156412-0/ford_marcus_replacement_will_be_announced_in.html

[Jaanus]

Aava isn't Quoted in that story... What is the truthfactor of this site?


This is the website of our national television station. I would say you can trust their story.

[Roy]

This is the website of our national television station. I would say you can trust their story.

Estonian is no Holland, but simmulair true. National TV channel in Estonian is no Russia... eh... ;) :up:

[Tomi]

I belive Aava has a good chance for the second suzuki seat, all depends who can show the budget needed.

[jens]

Aava isn't Quoted in that story... What is the truthfactor of this site?


But his manager talked in the TV news. :)

[jonkka]

Aava and Suzuki go long way back and Aava is a decent driver as far as he's been able to demonstrate his skills (JWRC isn't exactly the right place for that IMHO). So, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in SX4WRC.

What surprises me a bit though is Suzuki's line of requesting payment for the drive? I can understand that for second line teams á la Stobart & OMV which are commercial affairs to begin with but how would a paying driver help Suzuki forward with their WRC programme and car development? Except by providing funds but that's rather beside the point, they'd have to spend those extra funds on the test driver.

What comes to reliability factor of the mentioned site, I do not doubt them but did they get the real info? Having been blatantly lied to by Gronholm in person I don't trust anything that hasn't been officially confirmed.

[COD]

But if you need to pay same money to get a drive in Suzuki compared to say a Stobart Ford or similar, why would you put the money on unproven Suzuki rather than try to make results in car 100% capable of it?

[Buzz Lightyear]

Having been blatantly lied to by Gronholm in person I don't trust anything that hasn't been officially confirmed.


what do you mean by this?

[Jaanus]

But if you need to pay same money to get a drive in Suzuki compared to say a Stobart Ford or similar, why would you put the money on unproven Suzuki rather than try to make results in car 100% capable of it?

It is just an offer from them. Urmo is not going to accept it if Ford, Subaru or Citroen can make a better offer.

[Tom206wrc]

I saw that PG Andersson is running this week-end a swedish rally in a Ford Focus WRC...


Would Suzuki let him drive another car than theirs if he 'd be part of the team next year(instead of developping the SX4 I mean) ??? :confused:

[Brother John]

It is just an offer from them. Urmo is not going to accept it if Ford, Subaru or Citroen can make a better offer.

2008 is still a test year for Suzuki! Ho will pay for being a test driver? :confused:

[VFTS]

PG are doing Bjerkesprinten on saturday in Norway!. Its a sprint on a horsetrack in Oslo. He will drive a Ford Focus WRC02

[Tomi]

2008 is still a test year for Suzuki! Ho will pay for being a test driver? :confused:

If a driver belive in his own skills why not? If you look at Ford, Subaru, Citroen, all teams has relatively young drivers and it will take time to get a permanent seat from any of those but driving Suzuki even if you would have to pay, you would have 1 foot already inside the team, it only would be up to you self to convince the team of your skills.

[Brother John]

If a driver belive in his own skills why not? If you look at Ford, Subaru, Citroen, all teams has relatively young drivers and it will take time to get a permanent seat from any of those but driving Suzuki even if you would have to pay, you would have 1 foot already inside the team, it only would be up to you self to convince the team of your skills.

Let´s talk in Sweden about that Tomi. ;)

[Tomi]

Let´s talk in Sweden about that Tomi. ;)

O.k. :)

[L5->R5/CR]

If a driver belive in his own skills why not? If you look at Ford, Subaru, Citroen, all teams has relatively young drivers and it will take time to get a permanent seat from any of those but driving Suzuki even if you would have to pay, you would have 1 foot already inside the team, it only would be up to you self to convince the team of your skills.


It worked for Atko....

[c4]

Hirvonen Latvala Al Qassimi BP Ford
Loeb Sordo Citroen
Solberg Atko Subaru
Garde Aava Baldacci? PG? Wilks? Suzuki
Pons Meeke? Subaru MT
Solberg Bettega? Wilson Kopecky? Stobart MT
Villagra Companc Clark? Munchis MT
Duval? Galli? Prokop? Astra MT
Hanninen Wilks? Aava? Kuistla? MMSP MT?
Mikklesen Jones Ramsport
Galli? Meeke? Higgins? Pirelli Team???

[jonkka]

what do you mean by this?

In Rally Finland 2000 shakedown I spoke with Marcus and asked about his future contract situation (at the time he had firm contract for 2000 only) and he said that there wasn't nothing. Right after the rally, which he won, Peugeot announced that they had reached a extension deal for 2001+2002 which had been signed before the rally.

That taught me that teams (bosses and drivers) tell you the truth only when it suits to them and when they are permitted to do so. Always be suspicious.

[jonkka]

I saw that PG Andersson is running this week-end a swedish rally in a Ford Focus WRC...


Would Suzuki let him drive another car than theirs if he 'd be part of the team next year(instead of developping the SX4 I mean) ??? :confused:

Of course! It's valuable experience for comparison purposes, that's for example what Peugeot encouraged Marcus to do. He raced for Seat and Mitsubishi in 1999 before 206WRC made it's debut later in the year.

[Halvard]

A bit of topic.... but if Gronholm hadn`t been driving the 07 season, then after Japan Hrivonen would have 99 points and Loeb 108. Thats not a big difference. And I belive Hirvonen, in a few races, has been driving for securing the manu-title.

So in my opinion, I`m not sure that the 08 title will be a walk in the park for Mr. Loeb.

[cut the b.s.]

A bit of topic.... but if Gronholm hadn`t been driving the 07 season, then after Japan Hrivonen would have 99 points and Loeb 108. Thats not a big difference. And I belive Hirvonen, in a few races, has been driving for securing the manu-title.

So in my opinion, I`m not sure that the 08 title will be a walk in the park for Mr. Loeb.

This ignores the fact that Loeb has made errors as Marcus and he are both pushing each other very hard this season, but for sure next year Loeb can win and if Mikko keeps enough 2nds the current point system rewards finishing above speed so he will not be that far away

[Koppomsbo]

I saw that PG Andersson is running this week-end a swedish rally in a Ford Focus WRC...


Would Suzuki let him drive another car than theirs if he 'd be part of the team next year(instead of developping the SX4 I mean) ??? :confused:


PG has had in his contract he can drive other cars the last two years.

[Finni]

Suzuki apparently thinking financially in their driver decision. If they would take young driver based on skills then it would be Kris Meeke or Juho Hänninen.

[pino]

If I were Suzuki I would sign Gigi for Sweden...ups have I posted that already ? :p :

[Daniel]

If I were Suzuki I would sign Gigi for Sweden...ups have I posted that already ? :p :
If Suzuki do that I'll run a circuit of Himos in my underpants :p

[GigiGalliNo1]

if what who? gigi and suzi?

[Daniel]

if what who? gigi and suzi?
Did you not read Pino's post? :confused:

[GigiGalliNo1]

I just landed a few hours ago! (from japan)

[ZequeArgentina]

News on Munchis,

Perez Companc will probably not do 10 rallies next season, he consider that doing 10 rallies is not compatible with his bussiness, and family (5 children).

He is thinking of 3 or 4 rallies (I guess Sweden, Argentina, Finland, and probably New Zealand, or Mexico or Japan).

Villagra is 90% possible o do 10 rallies (with the other Perez Companc as co-driver), so the question is: Will Munchis keep on as a M2 team with 2 cars in at least 10 rallies?

Here my guess:
Why not Matthey Wilson in the team ??, and 3 cars in those rallies where Perez companc take part

[c4]

Here my guess:
Why not Matthey Wilson in the team ??, and 3 cars in those rallies where Perez companc take part[/quote]

The British press have said that Barry Clark is being considered.

[Koppomsbo]

Suzuki apparently thinking financially in their driver decision. If they would take young driver based on skills then it would be Kris Meeke or Juho Hänninen.

Or maybe PG or Aava who already are in the team

[Finni]

Or maybe PG or Aava who already are in the team

They are gonna be faster because they are already in the team???

[Magnus]

They are gonna be faster because they are already in the team???

Nah, but maybe they are plain faster...

[jso1985]

News on Munchis,

Perez Companc will probably not do 10 rallies next season, he consider that doing 10 rallies is not compatible with his bussiness, and family (5 children).

He is thinking of 3 or 4 rallies (I guess Sweden, Argentina, Finland, and probably New Zealand, or Mexico or Japan).

Villagra is 90% possible o do 10 rallies (with the other Perez Companc as co-driver), so the question is: Will Munchis keep on as a M2 team with 2 cars in at least 10 rallies?

Here my guess:
Why not Matthey Wilson in the team ??, and 3 cars in those rallies where Perez companc take part


one can always hope they can give the car to an Argentine driver that actually has more talent than money

[A.F.F.]

Nah, but maybe they are plain faster...


That's actually very interesting. Kris Meeke, Juho Hänninen, Urmo Aava and PG, who is the fastest ??

I'd say Kris Meeke but that's only a longshot.

[ZequeArgentina]

one can always hope they can give the car to an Argentine driver that actually has more talent than money

I wish the same.
Pozzo would be the perfect one for the moment, or help develop a youngdriver like Cancio, Bernardi, or Yoma.

[rwssport]

Here my guess:
Why not Matthey Wilson in the team ??, and 3 cars in those rallies where Perez companc take part

The British press have said that Barry Clark is being considered.[/quote]

Think I saw this in MSN - Malcolm Wilson said that yes he was being considered but it would be a "commercial deal" - I assumed that meant he'd need to bring the budget for whatever events if any he did.

[Roy]

Best option is a full English team backed by Stobart with Wilson and Clark. Both allready backed by Stobart. This fits in Stobart philosophy.

Henning can drive for Munchi's, maybe with a different name.

[Tomi]

Henning can drive for Munchi's, maybe with a different name.

Agree, he has lost his credibility this year, better to change name and start a new carreer.

[Roy]

Agree, he has lost his credibility this year, better to change name and start a new carreer.

:rolleyes: Other name for Munchi's....

[DonJippo]

Agree, he has lost his credibility this year, better to change name and start a new carreer.

:rotflmao: Good one :bandit:

[Tomi]

:rolleyes: Other name for Munchi's....

Nothing wrong with the name, but what they could do is to add somekind of soundsystem that plays the ice cream car sound in all corners.

[Roy]

Here my guess:
The British press have said that Barry Clark is being considered.

Do you have a link, or can a forummember from Czech translate this?
http://www.rally-mania.cz/index.php?vypisVse=detail&id=3947

[NOR]

Do you have a link, or can a forummember from Czech translate this?
http://www.rally-mania.cz/index.php?vypisVse=detail&id=3947

There is the same info, mentioned on the previous page. Malcolm Wilson said - Barry has a big chance to drive a Munchis car (instead of Perez Companc) as commercial deal.

[White Sauron]

Frekelin retires... Can Citroen follow the steps of fellow Peugeot who went wane after Provera had left them?..

[Josti]

Frekelin retires... Can Citroen follow the steps of fellow Peugeot who went wane after Provera had left them?..

Not unexpected this time. Frequelin announced this already last year.

BTW, Provera's replacement JP Nicolas (who's got Peugeot written all over him) didn't had any wrong effect on Peugeot's performance at their last season. The car was just not good enough.

[Tomi]

Thats sad he retires, even he made a crap driver choise for the second car this year, I have to say that it's nice to see a teamboss who is so entusiastic about rally, that he bothers to go to watch on the banks.

[GigiGalliNo1]

how was his choice for 2nd car crap?

[Tomi]

how was his choice for 2nd car crap?

because he is not capable to collect enough points so they could fight for the manu title.

[Josti]

From another Forum:

"Urmo Aava's sponsors are trying to do something that is audacious, to form a Estonian rally team consisting of at least 2 cars and take part in the WRC with a blue-black-white coloured car (Estonian flag colours) for 2008"

Think of it as a national team. In this case, it need's official support. Nothing is certain yet though. Aava would be the proposed 1st driver and he want's an experienced WRC driver for the 2nd seat, which almost concludes to Markko Märtin I think.

Great initiative, but far from happening at the moment of course.

[Roy]

From another Forum:

"Urmo Aava's sponsors are trying to do something that is audacious, to form a Estonian rally team consisting of at least 2 cars and take part in the WRC with a blue-black-white coloured car (Estonian flag colours) for 2008"

Think of it as a national team. In this case, it need's official support. Nothing is certain yet though. Aava would be the proposed 1st driver and he want's an experienced WRC driver for the 2nd seat, which almost concludes to Markko Märtin I think.

Great initiative, but far from happening at the moment of course.

It's the end of the year. Silly season is open, some idea's, rumour, lies or what else is now truth, until the start of the first rally.

[xavier]

because he is not capable to collect enough points so they could fight for the manu title.

I dont see many avaliable drivers that would have score more than Sordo. Maybe Garde....

[Josti]

It's the end of the year. Silly season is open, some idea's, rumour, lies or what else is now truth, until the start of the first rally.

True, maybe some Estonian members to back this story up? It isn't unrealistic though, I only doubt w'll see Märtin back.

[Tomi]

I dont see many avaliable drivers that would have score more than Sordo. Maybe Garde....

Not maybe, he would have easily.

[Jaanus]

The rumour about Rally Team Estonia is true, but at the moment this is just an idea. They don't have the money yet to run a 2 car team next year and most likely will just support Urmo Aava. But the idea would be to ask extra money from the govenment to run the cars in Estonian flag colours and advertise our country like Abu Dhabi is doing it right now. Most of the funding would still come from private sponsors and yes the second driver would be Markko Märtin.

http://sport.postimees.ee/foto/2/6/1265624732250d09725_3.jpg

[GigiGalliNo1]

because he is not capable to collect enough points so they could fight for the manu title.

So its his fault for choosing Dani Sordo as a 2nd driver in the CRT? hrm....... don't think its his fault Tomi..

[Tomi]

So its his fault for choosing Dani Sordo as a 2nd driver in the CRT? hrm....... don't think its his fault Tomi..

offcourse he has much to say about who is driving.

[GigiGalliNo1]

but how has dani done so poorly?

explain.

who do you think he should have gotten?

so the SWRT boss should have left years ago because Solberg was underperforming? or the car was $h!T?

[Tomi]

but how has dani done so poorly?

explain.

who do you think he should have gotten?

so the SWRT boss should have left years ago because Solberg was underperforming? or the car was $h!T?

Compaired to main rival ford second driver he has done bad, they should have choose Gardemeister. I belive the subaru is not a good car.

[GigiGalliNo1]

ahhh tru! garde would have been an excellent choice! :p

(good thinking!)

[WRCfan]

Damn straight Gardemeister would have been a good choice!!! Right on doggy!!!!

[GigiGalliNo1]

???? :S ????

lol

[Motorsportfun]

But, according the latest rumors, Gardemeister's near to sign a two-years contract with Suzuki

[Corny]

Please Malcolm sign Duval for the tarmac events, he's the only one that can match Seb..

[Roy]

Please Malcolm sign Duval for the tarmac events, he's the only one that can match Seb..

I hope so! BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team for Campion 2008! (They need a tarmac driver if they want win the title again, I think.)

[Tomi]

next weekend it should be clear who drives, keep on dreaming guys.

[Finni]

I want to see Hänninen in Stobart. He would make tremendous job.

[Finni]

I want to see Hänninen in Stobart. I am sure he would make tremendous job.

[Finni]

But, according the latest rumors, Gardemeister's near to sign a two-years contract with Suzuki

I am not quite sure if it's good thing. Of course he may get some money for living but in terms of rallying, nah.

[Josti]

I want to see Hänninen in Stobart. He would make tremendous job.

I sincerely hope Alessandro Bettega to take a seat in the Stobart team. Could help for the variety.

[COD]

I am not quite sure if it's good thing. Of course he may get some money for living but in terms of rallying, nah.

Not many other possibilities, if he want's to be a professional rally driver 2008

[Finni]

I sincerely hope Alessandro Bettega to take a seat in the Stobart team. Could help for the variety.

If you want see Stobart driver drving races 6-8 min from the top then Bettega. If you want to see Stobart drover equalling Latvala's this year performance then Hänninen.

[pino]

If you want see Stobart driver drving races 6-8 min from the top then Bettega. If you want to see Stobart drover equalling Latvala's this year performance then Hänninen.

This time You are wrong dear friend ;)

[Josti]

If you want see Stobart driver drving races 6-8 min from the top then Bettega. If you want to see Stobart drover equalling Latvala's this year performance then Hänninen.

He did some impressive times in Corsica in his first WRC outing on a WRC event. He would have finished top 10 if he didn't had an off on the first day.

Great performance again in Wales, finishing 17th overall in a relative unknown car for him in rough conditions. Plus he totally dominated the Fiesta ST championship in 2006.

I´d say give him a chance.

[Tomi]

I´d say give him a chance.

If he can drive he will get the chance, sofar everyone who can have got.

[Finni]

He did some impressive times in Corsica in his first WRC outing on a WRC event. He would have finished top 10 if he didn't had an off on the first day.

Great performance again in Wales, finishing 17th overall in a relative unknown car for him in rough conditions. Plus he totally dominated the Fiesta ST championship in 2006.


You can notice that in last day he was 1-2 sec per/km slower than Hänninen (altough so were almost all group N drivers). It's better to see complite driver in the top-car who is ready to step up to top level. Bettega is not yet at that point. He could do one year in pwrc.

[Josti]

You can notice that in last day he was 1-2 sec per/km slower than Hänninen (altough so were almost all group N drivers). It's better to see complite driver in the top-car who is ready to step up to top level. Bettega is not yet at that point. He could do one year in pwrc.

Well, I wasn't comparing him with Hänninen. I would like to see Juho in a good WRC car too just as much as Bettega. Though I would like to see some more variety in the drivers line up and to me Bettega wouldn't be a bad choise for the Stobart outfit.

Then again, one year in PWRC (with maybe 1 or 2 outings in a WRCar) wouldn't mind me either for the Italian.

[Tomi]

I would like to see Juho in a good WRC car too just as much as Bettega.

I belive you will see Juho driving a few WRC events next season in a WRC car.

[N.O.T]

The ideal situation would be Wilks Meeke and Hanninen in good WRC cars like the stobart and the Munchis team.....i cannot see it happening though.. Bettega is good at keeping the shows of real rally drivers clean, so he can go everywhere he wants.....

Latvala and Duval sharing the second car at Ford would be also nice....Also i would like to see a good gravle driver replacing Sordo at the C4 and him driving gravle rounds in the xsara if he continues to struggle on the first gravle rounds..

Buts thats just what i want....

Probably the one who pay will get the drives....

[Roy]

From Stobart pressrelease:

Stobart Group CEO Andrew Tinkler said:
“The season has been fantastic and I don’t think anyone would have expected us to challenge Subaru at the start of the year. It’s great to see the young drivers developing during the year and especially Jari-Matti, who has improved a lot on both tarmac and gravel. This result is very encouraging as we head into next year; our pace is up there now and we just need to continue to push hard.”

For some one who think they leave the WR They do not! :bounce:

[Halvis]

I just want the news that Petter leaves Subaru for a Norwegian Ford Expert Team! That would be a great news for me - and for the WRC I think, then it could have been more drivers that could challenge Seb next year.

Impossible dream, I'm afraid.

[Brother John]

I just want the news that Petter leaves Subaru for a Norwegian Ford Expert Team! That would be a great news for me - and for the WRC I think, then it could have been more drivers that could challenge Seb next year.

Impossible dream, I'm afraid.

It is his own fault, he would have not signed the contract with Subaru last summer. It seems that money was more important! :(

[Tom206wrc]

Any news if Harri Rovanperä has plans of return in 2008 ??? :confused:

[Tomi]

Any news if Harri Rovanperä has plans of return in 2008 ??? :confused:

Lol, is he not retired from the sport already?

[Tomi]

Is anyone of the Swedes going to watch Fords test for rally Sweden?

[Tom206wrc]

Lol, is he not retired from the sport already?



I think he said he would return to WRC if he had opportunity to run in a factory team :confused:

[Tomi]

I think he said he would return to WRC if he had opportunity to run in a factory team :confused:

i dont think there is free factory seats left, also he was talking about testwork.

[Halvis]

It is his own fault, he would have not signed the contract with Subaru last summer. It seems that money was more important! :(

I think he actually didn't have a choice if he were to drive for a factory team. No room in Citroen, and at that point, noone knew is Marcus were going to quit or not. But I somewhat agree, he could have waited maybe?

[Glee]

It is his own fault, he would have not signed the contract with Subaru last summer. It seems that money was more important! :(

Or loyalty to the team…

[miksu]

Gardemeister has concluded his talks for next year, and his plans will be revealed during this month. nothing new about that. But wouldnt it be exciting to see him at Ford? I wonder if it's totally impossible scenario or not...

[MikeD]

Gardemeister has concluded his talks for next year, and his plans will be revealed during this month. nothing new about that. But wouldnt it be exciting to see him at Ford? I wonder if it's totally impossible scenario or not...

It's very unlikely to see Gardemeister at Ford, simply because he doesn't have the sponsors or the money for a full season at either Stobart or Munchi's. And since it's 99% sure that Hirvonen and Latvala will take the two paying seats at BP Abu Dhabi Ford A-Team, then Gardemeister has no chance except a seat at Suzuki if he wants to do a whole season.

[MikeD]

1.) Am I the only one who's is interested in Red Bull's plans for next year? I still hope they will decide to have their own M2 team with either two Focus's or two C4's.

2.) Does anyone have any news regarding Duval's WRC plans for 2008?

[I am evil Homer]

If - and I think it is a very big "if" considering the F1 investment - Red Bull were to do something wouldn't they put Aigner in one car only leaving 1 seat free? I'd like to see some M2 Citroen C4's but I fear they will be too expensive for nearly everyone.

I fear Garde's time has been and gone because the Suzuki doesn't even look a Top 10 car right now :(

[Tomi]

Gardemeister has concluded his talks for next year, and his plans will be revealed during this month. nothing new about that. But wouldnt it be exciting to see him at Ford? I wonder if it's totally impossible scenario or not...

quite impossible, because he will drive the suzuki.

[DonJippo]

Any news about Ramsport team for 2008 having Mikkelsen as #1 and Gareth Jones, Manfred Stohl or Janne Tuohono as #2? Marcus Grönholm is also said to work with this team on 2008 as an advisor for Mikkelsen.

[AndyRAC]

If - and I think it is a very big "if" considering the F1 investment - Red Bull were to do something wouldn't they put Aigner in one car only leaving 1 seat free? I'd like to see some M2 Citroen C4's but I fear they will be too expensive for nearly everyone.

I fear Garde's time has been and gone because the Suzuki doesn't even look a Top 10 car right now :(

That's what's wrong with the WRC - only 2 C4's in action. Look at the Focus, there were about 8 on Rally GB, don't Citroen build that many or have a customer program?

[Le NaRcX]

From Gardemeister's website

Gardemeister will be seen in WRC-series in season 2008

Only few days ago WRC season 2007 was still in progress and after next six weeks a brand new season is going to start with traditional Monte Carlo rally. For whole autumn Gardemeister and his background team has made job so that Toni and his co-driver Tomi Tuominen can be seen in WRC-series in season 2008. Pieces of the puzzle has been locking down and therefore international rally program for Toni Gardemeister in season 2008 is going to be published in the middle of December.

[N.O.T]

Hmmmmm I don't like Gardemeister in Suzuki..... :( :( i think he could be a great companion to Hirvonen...

[A.F.F.]

Hmmmmm I don't like Gardemeister in Suzuki..... :( :( i think he could be a great companion to Hirvonen...

Why don't you like Garde in Suzuki. Surely a great driver like Garde can do miracles with Suzuki, unlike hasbeens and neverbeens and tomatocan openers.

Oh, unless Garde is all that, hasbeen, neverbeen and a canopener ???

[DonJippo]

Hmmmmm I don't like Gardemeister in Suzuki.....

Don't think anyone likes in Suzuki really, team seems to be lost in big way and most importantly they seriously lack money for development...I'm afraid we really are going to see another "Nissan-type" of entry from Suzuki 2008...

[miksu]

Hmmmmm I don't like Gardemeister in Suzuki..... :( :( i think he could be a great companion to Hirvonen...

me too! im still hanging on that 1% possibility for that to come true :P

[Tomi]

me too! im still hanging on that 1% possibility for that to come true :P

The problem is i belive that Toni is quite old as rallydriver, not anymore an investment, i dont belive Jouhki is putting money out on him anymore, it time to collect what there is to collect, therefore Toni to Suzuki and JM to Ford.

[I am evil Homer]

That's what's wrong with the WRC - only 2 C4's in action. Look at the Focus, there were about 8 on Rally GB, don't Citroen build that many or have a customer program?

No idea...it took a while for Xsara's to get to Kronos but you'd think selling older chassis C4's, esp as they'll develop the C4 over the winter, would be snapped up by people and help pay back some of the investment.

I'd truly love a Red Bull C4 team with Aigner and Wilks at the wheel! But I can't see anyone getting them. Even Kronos aren't...so really that leaves PH (no idea on plans) with strong Citroen connections.

[miksu]

The problem is i belive that Toni is quite old as rallydriver, not anymore an investment, i dont belive Jouhki is putting money out on him anymore, it time to collect what there is to collect, therefore Toni to Suzuki and JM to Ford.


true, but he's also at his peak at the moment, i think. So if he doesnt get a seat from a top team now, then probably not ever. But i know, its not very likely at the moment.
JM in a other hand wouldnt suffer so much from a another year in second team. He is still learning and taking huge steps when looking at performance, in every rally and has time to score a top seat in a future too.

[Tomi]

true, but he's also at his peak at the moment, i think. So if he doesnt get a seat from a top team now, then probably not ever. But i know, its not very likely at the moment.
JM in a other hand wouldnt suffer so much from a another year in second team. He is still learning and taking huge steps when looking at performance, in every rally and has time to score a top seat in a future too.

Yes but i belive the second seat at Ford atleast for the first year is not free either, JM will do the same job Garde would do, finnish before the other second drivers on gravel and desant result on tarmac.

[rus]

Mikko, Jari-Matti, Garde, (Marcus,...); firstly it's nice to see these Finnish or Scandinavian (Petter, Henning,...) drivers doing so well and have the opportunity to drive in the WRC but is it really healthy for the top level of rallying? Can it keep intrest for the rest of the world? I think we need Galli, Duval, Kopecky, Wilks, Atko, etc to keep it alive and exciting for the diversity of the drivers but unfortunately, in my opinion, 2008 announces a big disappointment on the intrest-level.
Again, i'm not against Scandinavia, on the contrary, I'm just wondering...

[Tomi]

Mikko, Jari-Matti, Garde, (Marcus,...); firstly it's nice to see these Finnish or Scandinavian (Petter, Henning,...) drivers doing so well and have the opportunity to drive in the WRC but is it really healthy for the top level of rallying? Can it keep intrest for the rest of the world? I think we need Galli, Duval, Kopecky, Wilks, Atko, etc to keep it alive and exciting for the diversity of the drivers but unfortunately, in my opinion, 2008 announces a big disappointment on the intrest-level.
Again, i'm not against Scandinavia, on the contrary, I'm just wondering...

yes true it would be better, wilks and kopecky is trying to build a carreer atko is in wrc, galli has had many chances and duval too, for some reason the teams dont seem to want their services, maybe they dont understand what working in a team means or maybe it's the results or something else, but the fact is that the teams does the final desition about who drives, and thats good.

[MikeD]

Mikko, Jari-Matti, Garde, (Marcus,...); firstly it's nice to see these Finnish or Scandinavian (Petter, Henning,...) drivers doing so well and have the opportunity to drive in the WRC but is it really healthy for the top level of rallying? Can it keep intrest for the rest of the world? I think we need Galli, Duval, Kopecky, Wilks, Atko, etc to keep it alive and exciting for the diversity of the drivers but unfortunately, in my opinion, 2008 announces a big disappointment on the intrest-level.
Again, i'm not against Scandinavia, on the contrary, I'm just wondering...

I think you are right. One of the reasons that Rally will never be as big as F1, is clearly down to a few nations dominating the sport. But what can you do?

The same goes for MotoGP. It's a World Championship on paper, but people call it the Italian and Spanish national championship.

For some reason F1 has managed to be more global.

[Tom206wrc]

Any idea of program for Daniel Carlsson next year ?? :confused:

[Koppomsbo]

Any idea of program for Daniel Carlsson next year ?? :confused:

He has been talking in newspapers here in sweden about some S2000 teams but nothing serious

[A.F.F.]

Mikko, Jari-Matti, Garde, (Marcus,...); firstly it's nice to see these Finnish or Scandinavian (Petter, Henning,...) drivers doing so well and have the opportunity to drive in the WRC but is it really healthy for the top level of rallying? Can it keep intrest for the rest of the world? I think we need Galli, Duval, Kopecky, Wilks, Atko, etc to keep it alive and exciting for the diversity of the drivers but unfortunately, in my opinion, 2008 announces a big disappointment on the intrest-level.
Again, i'm not against Scandinavia, on the contrary, I'm just wondering...

Spot on. One (unrealistic) way to fix that would be more manufacturers, hence more seats for drivers.

[jonkka]

international rally program for Toni Gardemeister in season 2008 is going to be published in the middle of December.

Which happens to co-incide with the time table Wilson gave for Ford's announcements... then again, it'd be interesting if Ford would take him back after dropping him after 2005...