Ireland 2009

[Finni]

how many rallies will ford keep missing Marcus Grönholm?


Malcolm is proud of his boys. Compared to his boys Marcus is useless hasbeen.

Also "P. Solberg is useless because I have my boys" :)

[Tom206wrc]

All Citroëns in point positions now after SS5 :cool:

[Halvis]

Aava wipes the road with "the very special deal solberg" big time.

Henning is lost on tarmac, I'm actually surprised he is not further behind. If he can stick to 5th, it will be way, way better than expected.

[Tomi]

Henning is lost on tarmac, I'm actually surprised he is not further behind. If he can stick to 5th, it will be way, way better than expected.

The same will continiue on what ever surface, norway maybe is an exception.

[J4MIE]

And the winner is ........... LOEB
If you see what´s going on with wrc now in Ireland, som teams, sponsors or orgenizers must think now........... :dozey:
WHAT THE F*** WE DOING HERE?
In Norway it will become not much better.

Don't forget how poor Seb has been on recent snow events though, there is always hope :)

[Halvis]

The same will continiue on what ever surface, norway maybe is an exception.

We'll see. If he can show the same speed that he has had on day2/3 on several rallies, he might surprise you with an occational podium. No wins, not even Norway - I agree on that.

Hopefully he can get over the problem he has with finding the correct pace from SS1 with some testing this year.

[mdesign]

Loeb might retire or puncture...

[Halvis]

SS6 on the way...

[Tom206wrc]

Hirvo lost 5 full seconds to Loeb on 2nd split SS6 :s :s

[darkstar]

Hirvo lost 5 full seconds to Loeb on 2nd split SS6 :s :s

now 8.9 on split 3...a shame!

[Brother John]

Don't forget how poor Seb has been on recent snow events though, there is always hope :)

I mean the investors in a M2 team such as Atkinson, Aava and others, what do they gets for their money?
For the Fans!!! the same, to see Loeb and a couple second hand cars!
Like Tomi says, "The same will continiue on what ever surface, norway maybe is an exception."
I don´t go to a rally and pay to see this sh!t. :confused:

[J4MIE]

Loeb might retire or puncture...

Are you feeling ok? Don't want to go and lie down for a while? :s

[Tom206wrc]

now 8.9 on split 3...a shame!



And +14s on 4th split :s

[RS]

Lol, it was all quite interesting after 3 stages. I went away, came back, and now it seems to have settled into nice comfortable normality :D

[J4MIE]

BJ don't worry all we need is the IRC to include the Arctic raly int he full calendar and then everything will be perfect :bounce:

[ProRally]

Did Niall start again ?
He is in results of stage SS4 ?

[Tom206wrc]

Lots of time lost for Atko again :mark:

[darkstar]

Lol, it was all quite interesting after 3 stages. I went away, came back, and now it seems to have settled into nice comfortable normality :D

defenetly true...atkinson had an off...

[AndyRAC]

It's nothing if not predictable.....

[jonkka]

Aava stopped?

[Tom206wrc]

Urmo Aava in SS6 :confused: :confused:

[quimrally]

Lots of time lost for Atko again :mark:


> Big impact on the co-drivers door. Rear left puncture.
"We had a spin because of aquaplaning and damaged the wheel, door and bumper on Stephane's side."

in ewrc

[MikeD]

Aava stuck in ditch.

[Brother John]

BJ don't worry all we need is the IRC to include the Arctic raly int he full calendar and then everything will be perfect :bounce:

OKAY we wait for real rally again. :up: I don´t want to stay at home to see this sh!t now on internet. :D

[tolis]

Oh, no Aava out....

[Kamikaze]

Hmmm it actually looks as if Wilslow is getting slower and slower for each year. Hard to think that's even possible.

Hey, in this Rally Slowgier is on his Side :D

[bluuford]

well, Latvala won the first stage, led rally for one stage and went off on second one..

Aava took over the lead for two stages and went of in sixt stage
Loeb Has been leader for three stages now...
:-P

[Tom206wrc]

Hey, in this Rally Slowgier is on his Side :D




Even Slowberg is in front of all of them, in 4th :eek: :eek:

[bluuford]

Aava is moving again.. interesting maybe he has to be behind latvala at the end of rally :-)

[SchUMine]

well, Latvala won the first stage, led rally for one stage and went off on second one..

Aava took over the lead for two stages and went of in sixt stage
Loeb Has been leader for three stages now...
:-P

I hope so but I don't think so :)

[darkstar]

Even Slowberg is in front of all of them, in 4th :eek: :eek:

hehe, slowberg :D

aava seems to be back on the road, 20 minutes back...

[Tom206wrc]

Wow !!!! Very good Prokop after SS6 only 30s late to Jwrc leader Burkart !!! :) :)


Edit: new Jwrc leader Hans Weijs... ;)

[J4MIE]

If Aava has lost 20 mins in SS6 then his co-driver should be telling him to just leave it in there and take a 15m penalty :s

[darkstar]

If Aava has lost 20 mins in SS6 then his co-driver should be telling him to just leave it in there and take a 15m penalty :s

he will, he´s going to take superallye and will start tomorrow again.

[J4MIE]

he will, he´s going to take superallye and will start tomorrow again.

Sensible chap. Still don't like the rule, but you have to use it to your advantage....

[John V]

If Aava has lost 20 mins in SS6 then his co-driver should be telling him to just leave it in there and take a 15m penalty :s

They can inform rally HQ they want to go SR and then finish the stage. I think they did it.

[Tom206wrc]

Where's Yoann Bonato in SS6 ???? :confused:

[miksu]

Yawn, i might go to sleep so the time to next IRC race would go faster :p

[wotaguy]

alan ring in mitsubishi, never heard of him, doing brilliant thou , oiger will move up, cant believe mcnulty is so far down

[tolis]

Bonato will use superrally for the rest of today's stages...

[pettersolberg29]

Any pics?

[playmo]

Hello everybody!
Such a nice rally!
Thrilling lead changes!
No, wait, damn! i'm watching recorded stuff from Monte! i totally forgot 'bout Ireland....
To hell with WRC, same sh!t as always, Latvala and he's mistakes, Loeb on front, Hirvonen tailing, and the most interesting fight is mostly 4th to 7th (go figure)....
See you around tough...

[darkstar]

the evening stages are cancelled.

[urabus-denoS2000]

pettersolberg:

www.rally-mania.cz (http://www.rally-mania.cz) for pics

[Buzz Lightyear]

flooded roads?!

it can be that deep? just put out warning triangles... what nonsense! this is pathetic

[Daniel]

Stages cancelled :mark: How bad is the flooding?!?!?!?!?! :mark:

[pettersolberg29]

Pathetic again. I was about to come on and stand up for the WRC as I think there has been a good deal of excitement so far - changing leads, retirements, Aava and McShea suprises. However if they keep cancelling the most challenging stages then that's poor. Flooding should be thought about before the route is finalised, or simply dealt with.

Feel sorry for all the fans in Ireland who have to go home with no rallying...

[Tom206wrc]

Noooooo why SS7 and 8 cancelled ???? :mad: :mad:

[playmo]

2 inches deep, surely!
This is a .......
surely stupid Loeb is afraid of little water on "wrong" tires....

[HaCo]

LOL... this is so... WRC! :(

[urabus-denoS2000]

Bad news,the organizres should have thought of that before


playmo:I think Seb is the last one to be afraid....

[Mirek]

It seems to be pathetic to me. Is it still rally?

Well, maybe I'm wrong and there are real floods on the road, but I don't believe that very much...

[darkstar]

...surely stupid Loeb is afraid of little water on "wrong" tires....

hehehe :D :D :D

however, wrc is becoming more and more like f1-for crybabies. stages cancelled because of snow, water etc. i mean, thats rallye isnt it?

what´s next? stages cancelled because of dust and mud or what?

[RS]

It's incredible isn't it. One week ago we were just about to sit down and enjoy Turini in the dark with snow and ice. Today they cancel 2 stages because of a few puddles.

[JAM]

So, flood roads is reason to cancel stages?

This is so pathetic!

The next anedoct will be wet or dry rallies. If the raly is classified as "wet rally" and the stages are dry, they will cancel the event :D

I would like to know wich name they gave to portuguese stages in Rally of Portugal in 2001... and the rally was out of the WRC because of that. The stages were in gravel (mud in this case), not tarmac as in Ireland.

[playmo]

Urabus: who's the only one that lately is whining and crying about not cutting tires? (maybe the last 5 events he's done it at least 4 times?

Edit: and maybe citroen team has something to do with this (as they did on WRGB08)

[Daniel]

Well there is flooding warning out for the border area in Northern Ireland so I doubt it's simply a few puddles but more a proper flood. Anyone who knows rallying will remember Rally Australia 1996. That wasn't rallying..... that was rubbish.

[bluuford]

I was just checking the my topographic maps and weather details in last 24 hours. It can be very bad. Those last stages are basically in a quite narrow valley. The road is approximately 80 m above sea level and hills on the both sides are over 300m high. And there are numerous streams. With such amount of rain it can be over half meter water in some river crossings (bridges).

It is better to cancel those stages to see the results like we had in GB when numerous group N cars just got stuck on water and sucked in a lot of water.
Reasonable decision in my point of view.

[I am evil Homer]

Urabus: who's the only one that lately is whining and crying about not cutting tires? (maybe the last 5 events he's done it at least 4 times?

Edit: and maybe citroen team has something to do with this (as they did on WRGB08)

If you honesly think that you're a bigger fool than I imagined.

[Daniel]

It's incredible isn't it. One week ago we were just about to sit down and enjoy Turini in the dark with snow and ice. Today they cancel 2 stages because of a few puddles.

I'm sorry Ron I normally agree with you but not on this :)

Anyone remember this?
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/rally-australia-1996-bunnings/1795167838

There are heavy rain warnings in effect for the border area of Northern Ireland (where the rally is)
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/uk_forecast_warnings.html?day=1

I'm sorry but I'm of the opinion this is a very good and very reasonable decision.

[Daniel]

So, flood roads is reason to cancel stages?

This is so pathetic!

The next anedoct will be wet or dry rallies. If the raly is classified as "wet rally" and the stages are dry, they will cancel the event :D

I would like to know wich name they gave to portuguese stages in Rally of Portugal in 2001... and the rally was out of the WRC because of that. The stages were in gravel (mud in this case), not tarmac as in Ireland.

I agree it was dumb for Portugal to go out because of the weather. But you have to realise that here in the UK roads can flood quite easily and on tarmac the road doesn't soak up the water like it did in portugal.......

[playmo]

Maybe i jumped out off the ship a little too early on the flood thing, but that doesn't change my opinion on "the whinning about not being allowed to cut tires"....

[Daniel]

Maybe i jumped out off the ship a little too early on the flood thing, but that doesn't change my opinion on "the whinning about not being allowed to cut tires"....
Perhaps when you're old enough to drive a car you'll begin to understand how important those black rubber circles are you might understand why Loeb complained. Just remember that even though he complained he still won.....

[mdesign]

Canceling the stages is good for Aava i guess :) He's 1m40s from 5th place

[bluuford]

He gets another 5 mins I think. According to the rule.. i you retire on the last stage o the leg, then you gt 10 minutes penalty.

[mdesign]

He gets another 5 mins I think. According to the rule.. i you retire on the last stage o the leg, then you gt 10 minutes penalty.
oh, guess your right... pitty. He deserved a good result

[muscrae]

any pics?

[bluuford]

found some nice videos.. a lot of water on the road in the morning:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI7smsJBseU

hirvonen crazy jump:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ziK17FniKE

Ogiers moment:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuN7crzg_5Y

and some more water:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7w4N8XhlmsQ

[urabus-denoS2000]

once again ;)
http://www.rally-mania.cz/med.php?g=482&au=0

[muscrae]

once again ;)
http://www.rally-mania.cz/med.php?g=482&au=0

I mean apart from that :)

[urabus-denoS2000]

Obviously Daniel knows the weather in Ireland so I shall trust him ;)

[Simmi]

Mikko won both of these cancelled stages in 2007. Obviously circumstances were different with them being on the Sunday and Loeb cruising. This year I think we would only have seen Loeb extend his lead but who knows.

With a little bit less water it would have been a very testing evening. Its a shame but those narrow lanes make flooding very easy so I dont think we should be sticking the boot into the organisers just yet.

[pettersolberg29]

That water on the road looks ridiculous in the videos! How can there be so much standing water? Maybe he cancellations were justified if they were worse than that.

[AndyRAC]

I may be being harsh, but I would imagine this could be the last time Ireland has a round of the WRC, at least reading between the lines of articles in todays papers. Most of the Irish drivers haven't supported the event - 36 entries - which is a shame considering the hard work put in by the organisers. A few weeks ago Jerry Williams suggested Ireland would be better run in the spring/summer - not in winter. It seems he was right.

[playmo]

Perhaps when you're old enough to drive a car you'll begin to understand how important those black rubber circles are you might understand why Loeb complained. Just remember that even though he complained he still won.....

That's my point! when you have the level (and he's got plenty), you have no reason for whining about things that you're above; he should let that to Ford boys that have to take every chance just to get close (not even pass) to him. He has nothing to complain about BUT to have NO REAL (or consistent) competiton, and that no one can control nor rule.
Besides, this is what you do, live with it! it's not like he's risking his life that much, is he? if you compare at the control he has over his car with the control others have (that crash much, namely Latvala), you'll see my point.
The risk is there but he seems far from it (remember Gigi or Duval?)

Don't misinterpret my words, please.

[Simmi]

The Irish representation is not good but there weren't even that many in Galway for the first round of the ITRC. It obviously comes down to keeping control of the purse strings. If this had been a year ago there would be a lot more entries so that wouldn't be an issue.

My point is I dont think a lack of entries is a problem confined just to Ireland and I think probably all rallies will suffer.

The Irish lanes are a unique challenge to drivers, but this is sort of masked by Loeb's brilliance and it ends up looking like a run of the mill tarmac event. Like AndyRAC I think this event will be one of the first casualties if they decide to trim the calendar and get rid of rotation (which the FIA needs to do).

[Simmi]

That's my point! when you have the level (and he's got plenty), you have no reason for whining about things that you're above; he should let that to Ford boys that have to take every chance just to get close (not even pass) to him. He has nothing to complain about BUT to have NO REAL (or consistent) competiton, and that no one can control nor rule.
Besides, this is what you do, live with it! it's not like he's risking his life that much, is he? if you compare at the control he has over his car with the control others have (that crash much, namely Latvala), you'll see my point.
The risk is there but he seems far from it (remember Gigi or Duval?)

Don't misinterpret my words, please.

The point you miss completely is that Loeb is not complaining purely for his own benefit. He is the best rally driver in the world and as the most experienced guy in the championship he is the best placed to air his views on the s**t tyre regs which he does on a regular basis.

[HaCo]

Don't if it has been posted here, but on pitstop.tv there is a post about Atkinson who might not start tomorrow. He hit a pilar and not only the Citroen but also Prevot was slightly hurt...
http://www.pitstoptv.info/pitstop/?p=6831
:(

[Simmi]

Don't if it has been posted here, but on pitstop.tv there is a post about Atkinson who might not start tomorrow. He hit a pilar and not only the Citroen but also Prevot was slightly hurt...
http://www.pitstoptv.info/pitstop/?p=6831
:(

Didn't Prevot take the hit in 2005 on the Monte into a hefty telegraph pole too!

[Corny]

That water on the road looks ridiculous in the videos! How can there be so much standing water? Maybe he cancellations were justified if they were worse than that.

Yes it is, but shouldn't this be a part of WRC? I like this conditions, and they are (or should be) the best drivers in the world so they should be able to handle with it ;)

[urabus-denoS2000]

The point you miss completely is that Loeb is not complaining purely for his own benefit. He is the best rally driver in the world and as the most experienced guy in the championship he is the best placed to air his views on the s**t tyre regs which he does on a regular basis.

:up:


Corny:I think that water conditions on SS7 and SS8 are a lot worse than on those videos ;)

[Corny]

well, then how about World Swimming Championship? :p

[playmo]

and on other subject: boxers fighting with helmets on, because it's too dangerous for them to be punched in the head/face without protection too often...

[xavier]

That's my point! when you have the level (and he's got plenty), you have no reason for whining about things that you're above; he should let that to Ford boys that have to take every chance just to get close (not even pass) to him. He has nothing to complain about BUT to have NO REAL (or consistent) competiton, and that no one can control nor rule.
Besides, this is what you do, live with it! it's not like he's risking his life that much, is he? if you compare at the control he has over his car with the control others have (that crash much, namely Latvala), you'll see my point.
The risk is there but he seems far from it (remember Gigi or Duval?)

Don't misinterpret my words, please.

Sorry, but you cannot gamble with security. And tires are on the forefront of that!
It will also add back the strategy part of choosing your tires. Even with a single cut for everyone, security would be greatly improved.

I cannot imagine it would increase the cost to allow cutting. So why is it a problem for Ford to allow them?

As for your comment about not risking his life: are you kidding?

[Daniel]

As for your comment about not risking his life: are you kidding?

The problems name starts with M and ends with m as well. Malcolm thinks that these difficult conditions will mean his drivers will pull a win out of the hat. All that happens is his youngest driver drives fast and then crashes or goes off the road and his other driver just gets outclasses by an even bigger margin.

[Psycho!]

The problems name starts with M and ends with m as well. Malcolm thinks that these difficult conditions will mean his drivers will pull a win out of the hat. All that happens is his youngest driver drives fast and then crashes or goes off the road and his other driver just gets outclasses by an even bigger margin.
:dozey: :dozey:

[pettersolberg29]

30 Jan 19.29 Dag 1 Rally Irland0 kommentarer
Rally Irland dag 1

Det har vært litt av en dag her borte i Irland. Det har regnet katter og spiker. Så veiene har vært ganske så vanskelige. Det har vært gjørme og stående vann stort sett gjennom hele løpet. Vi valgte snø-dekk i dag tidlig og det var et riktig valg. Snødekket drenerer vann mye bedre og gjørme også. Vi har slitt med gearkasse problemer fra SS 3. Det er ikke noe mekanisk men en sensor som gir feilsignaler. Det medfører at den er vond å få i gir, spes mellom 5/4. De byttet noe av sensorene på service etter SS 3 men det ble ikke noe bedre. Nå har gutta hatt langservice for kvelden, vi får håpe den riktige sensoren har blitt byttet nå. 4 plass etter dag 1 er kjempebra. Vi har kjørt med hodet og ikke latt oss rive med på alt som har skjedd rundt oss. Dette skal vi fortsette med i morgen også! Og da vet man ikke hvor dette ender på søndag. Vi får vente og se :-)

Anyone, preferably Norwegian, can tranlsate this? The google translation is awful!

[tmx]

I just woke up to read the stage times results. Am I still in 2008.
Back to sleep.

[Psycho!]

I just woke up to read the stage times results. Am I still in 2008.
Back to sleep.
When you wake up again,I wish that 2009 will have started.... ;)

[JFL]

30 Jan 19.29 Dag 1 Rally Irland0 kommentarer
Rally Irland dag 1

Det har vært litt av en dag her borte i Irland. Det har regnet katter og spiker. Så veiene har vært ganske så vanskelige. Det har vært gjørme og stående vann stort sett gjennom hele løpet. Vi valgte snø-dekk i dag tidlig og det var et riktig valg. Snødekket drenerer vann mye bedre og gjørme også. Vi har slitt med gearkasse problemer fra SS 3. Det er ikke noe mekanisk men en sensor som gir feilsignaler. Det medfører at den er vond å få i gir, spes mellom 5/4. De byttet noe av sensorene på service etter SS 3 men det ble ikke noe bedre. Nå har gutta hatt langservice for kvelden, vi får håpe den riktige sensoren har blitt byttet nå. 4 plass etter dag 1 er kjempebra. Vi har kjørt med hodet og ikke latt oss rive med på alt som har skjedd rundt oss. Dette skal vi fortsette med i morgen også! Og da vet man ikke hvor dette ender på søndag. Vi får vente og se :-)

Anyone, preferably Norwegian, can tranlsate this? The google translation is awful!
"It's been quite a day here in Ireland, it has been raining cats and nail(expression for much rain)The roads has been quite difficult! It has been mud and much water the whole day! We chose snowtires this morning, and that was the right choise. This tyre also drenates water and mud much better too. We also got some gearbox issues on ss3, wich makes it hard to get into gears, especially from 5th to 4th gear! They changed some sensor at the service, but that did'nt help! The mechanics are now finnished with the evening service, and I hope the right sensor has been replaced! 4th after day one is very good! I have been driving with my head, and not got carried away with all the stuff thats going on around us! This we will continue with tommorow also! We don't know where this will end... Lets wait and see! "

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks very much JFL. Let's hope Henning can get a podium place tomorrow - find it hard to imagine Sordo will last in conditions like this!

[Psycho!]

Thanks very much JFL. Let's hope Henning can get a podium place tomorrow - find it hard to imagine Sordo will last in conditions like this!
No...I think things will remain like this and possibly Mikko will be sandwitched from 4 C4s..... ;)

[cut the b.s.]

That's my point! when you have the level (and he's got plenty), you have no reason for whining about things that you're above; he should let that to Ford boys that have to take every chance just to get close (not even pass) to him. He has nothing to complain about BUT to have NO REAL (or consistent) competiton, and that no one can control nor rule.
Besides, this is what you do, live with it! it's not like he's risking his life that much, is he? if you compare at the control he has over his car with the control others have (that crash much, namely Latvala), you'll see my point.
The risk is there but he seems far from it (remember Gigi or Duval?)

Don't misinterpret my words, please.

To avoid any possible misunderstandings, is it ok if I dont read your words again? Please?

[RS]

I'm sorry Ron I normally agree with you but not on this :)

Anyone remember this?
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/rally-australia-1996-bunnings/1795167838

There are heavy rain warnings in effect for the border area of Northern Ireland (where the rally is)
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/uk_forecast_warnings.html?day=1

I'm sorry but I'm of the opinion this is a very good and very reasonable decision.

Ok, fair point if the roads are actually flooded or impassable. It just doesn't look good for WRC after day one of Rally GB last year too.

Proper tyre rules would help.

[Buzz Lightyear]

:up:


Corny:I think that water conditions on SS7 and SS8 are a lot worse than on those videos ;)
go slower.

[Psycho!]

http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/today.asp?zipcode=Fermanagh

More stages to be cancelled??? :(

[MJW]

My opinion is totally irrelelevent in the big scheme, but I have not bothered following day 1 of the first round of the WRC 2009. I am now going through the theards of the day. Normally I have splits running, comment on the forum and tonight I can sum up like this - Ireland (rain 12 months of the year) - people seem to be surprised, WRC - whats the point.......... Thanks for the memories, great years at the start, even to a few years ago, but now, I will do some decorating, mow the lawns, or even go shopping with my wife when wrc weekends are on.

[J4MIE]

it's not like he's risking his life that much, is he?

Well, you obviously have no clue about rallying and have never been on the scene at a serious accident. These guys risk their lives on every stage.

[bluuford]

My opinion is totally irrelelevent in the big scheme, but I have not bothered following day 1 of the first round of the WRC 2009. I am now going through the theards of the day. Normally I have splits running, comment on the forum and tonight I can sum up like this - Ireland (rain 12 months of the year) - people seem to be surprised, WRC - whats the point.......... Thanks for the memories, great years at the start, even to a few years ago, but now, I will do some decorating, mow the lawns, or even go shopping with my wife when wrc weekends are on.

Is there possibility that your wife is workin for FIA? :-P

[COD]

WRC is turning to F**king F1. Too much water. For f*cks sake this is rallying that involves changing conditions. I've just about had enough of this crap

[jens]

Shame about Aava. In such lack of competition consistent point finishes are more important than usual, so big risks are really not necessary - he should have tried to settle with P4. Hirvonen is an excellent proof of this theory - doesn't shine with raw pace, but thanks to finishing basically every rally he manages to collect a nice amount of points.

[ste898]

Its continuing the 2008 season with Ford rent a car and Loeb outclassing everyone.

I predict Loeb champion again and Citroen manufacturers champions again in 2009as to be honest there is no competition for them.

Should be a great season lolololololol!!!!!!!!!!

[bluuford]

Looking the current situation, it looks that points are still real possibility for Aava.

[urabus-denoS2000]

Should be a great season lolololololol!!!!!!!!!!

Yes,the comentator on yesterdays preview show on Eurosport said "it was going to be another THRILLING year in the WRC" :mad:

[AndyRAC]

Yes,the comentator on yesterdays preview show on Eurosport said "it was going to be another THRILLING year in the WRC" :mad:

Nooooooooooooooooo not Paul King again, commentating 'as Live'. It's not funny and it doesn't work.
Thrilling - behave, don't treat us like idiots - it was the same on the WRR Podcast. It's not going to be an exciting year - or I'll eat my hat!

[Honza H.]

Oh me oh my! Where is all the excitement? Something went terribly wrong with the WRC :( Let´s hope that this bottom rocking gives the WRC a proper kick for brighter years......

I´m sooo grateful for the IRC!

[ste898]

I´m sooo grateful for the IRC!


Yes the Monte Carlo was awesome last weekend and now back to this oh dear!!!

[urabus-denoS2000]

Not even WRC.com has up-to-date videos anymore :(

Plus I am mad right now,because of a 100 chanells only one currently isnt working and of course its Eurosport !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I really wanted to see Mcshea)

[alexlake]

Not even WRC.com has up-to-date videos anymore :(




yeah, whats that about?

[bluuford]

Just watched the coverage.. Urmo had really unlucky off. Car was just stuck.. there was almost no ditch.

But I think that Atkinson is the luckiest man to be on points. It was massive..massive.. massive off. He spun of the road on fifth gear and then cut down telephone pole with the right side of the car.. and landed back on the road.

[Jake Stephens]

I spent the day at the service park, met Loeb earlier which was fun :) He was the only driver to come over from park ferme and meet the fans. Looked a bit of a shambles having such a poor turn out of just Fords and Citroens but it was still exciting. People were only really interested in Loeb though. There were two mechanics up looking at Latvala's car after the crash, the msport guys thought it was pretty funny :) It never did stop raining all day but got worse just before final service. It was funny watchin Wilson stall coming out of service, he looked a bit angry :rolleyes:

[Shrike]

Sebastien Loeb/Daniel Elena: "I prefer to continue
to drive cautiously because I can't afford to make any mistakes. Cancelling the last two stages was
probably the right thing to do, but l wouldn't have minded contesting them. I think it's especially hard
on the spectators who turned out to watch us."

If Loeb saw the stages fit to drive then who wouldn't?

[gloomyDAY]

WRC is turning to F**king F1. Too much water. For f*cks sake this is rallying that involves changing conditions. I've just about had enough of this crapDitto.

I'm not even going to watch any of the redundant ISC programs.
Can someone please PM me when we're back to rallying? Thanks!

[Tom206wrc]

SS9 about to start :cool:

[jonkka]

G' morning folks...

[iJones]

SS9 about to start :cool:
Loeb Show continues... :dozey:

[Tom206wrc]

Hirvonen seems a bit faster than Sordo after two splits...fight isn't over for 2nd place ;)

[Finni]

Do anyone know about road condition?

[jonkka]

Sordo squeezed faster time in the end...

[Tom206wrc]

In the end Hirvo slower than Sordo on SS9 :mark:

[Tom206wrc]

Ogier should pass Rautenbach for the 5th place on this stage :confused:



Edit: puncture for Ogier ???? :s :s

[muscrae]

ogier problem???

[jonkka]

No, Ogier is in problems

[Finni]

Unbelievable that we don't know if it's dry rally or not..

[jonkka]

Also Rautenbach in problems...

[jonkka]

Atko up to 5th after this one

[Tom206wrc]

Everything happen to Citroën this morning ;(

[muscrae]

Also Rautenbach in problems...

??????????

[COD]

What crap series this turns out to be. 4th placed driver over 4 min behind leader after they have done 7 stages.

[jonkka]

Complain-o-meter is on the rise again...

[Wim_Impreza]

Everything happen to Citroën this morning ;(

It is their own fault! Atkinson crashed yesterday and Ogier and Rautenbach now.

Latvala almost a minute slower than Loeb on this SS.

[MikeD]

What crap series this turns out to be. 4th placed driver over 4 min behind leader after they have done 7 stages.

Just a friendly commnet. If it is such crap why do you even bother comming in here on the forum early Saturday morning. Some of you have nothing but complaints, and we have all heard you now.

[muscrae]

what happened to Rautenbach?

[Halvard]

What crap series this turns out to be. 4th placed driver over 4 min behind leader after they have done 7 stages.

Well Cod, you can`t blame Henning. He is not very good on tarmac and because of no testing he was gonna drive very safe and hopefully secure points.... Not his fault that everyone in front drives too fast...

[muscrae]

Mcshea got 1 minute penalty as he went early to TC 9 :

61
Niall MCSHEA (GB)
TC 9
1 M EARLY AT TC 9
1:00


And his time is 1.19m worse than Seb, which means he was actually second fastest in SS9 !!!!!!!!!

[Finni]

Atkinson is finding pace..

[iJones]

Hirvo lost power steering?

[John V]

Mcshea got 1 minute penalty as he went early to TC 9 :

61
Niall MCSHEA (GB)
TC 9
1 M EARLY AT TC 9
1:00


And his time is 1.19m worse than Seb, which means he was actually second fastest in SS9 !!!!!!!!!

If he got penalty, it counts separatelly, not into SS time, dude! :)

[jonkka]

Hirvo lost power steering?

He did? Aw...

[muscrae]

If he got penalty, it counts separatelly, not into SS time, dude! :)

didn't know that, thanks.

[Tom206wrc]

It is their own fault! Atkinson crashed yesterday and Ogier and Rautenbach now.

Latvala almost a minute slower than Loeb on this SS.



And it's FORD and its drivers fault, if the serie turns to be a Citroën's show that everybody says to be a boring championship :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Mirek]

McShea is doing about 2,5-3 s/km slower than Loeb today and he is also faster than all Irish WRC drivers. Good pace for new Proton.

[Gard]

Well Cod, you can`t blame Henning. He is not very good on tarmac and because of no testing he was gonna drive very safe and hopefully secure points.... Not his fault that everyone in front drives too fast...

And with gear box problems and a punchture. I think Henning is doing fine he's beating Aava and Ogier.

[Finni]

Henning has driven Ford enough.. with that amount of familiarity testing makes no difference.

[Gard]

Henning has driven Ford enough.. with that amount of familiarity testing makes no difference.

:eek: Edit: You have no clue do you!?

[Tom206wrc]

McShea disappeared again from classification in SS11 :s :s


Edit: no he's here...

[dumb]

Henning has driven Ford enough.. with that amount of familiarity testing makes no difference.

Nice man. Do you know what you are talking about?

[Mirek]

Tom: He only missed a junction and had stalled engine ;)

[GigiGalliNo1]

It's French sabotage.... everyone has a C4 but Loeb has the best C4.

:p

What?! Did I just watched the results from stage 1 and a Proton was 3rd?!

(Sorry just a wee behind :p )

[Jimmy Magnusson]

Just a friendly commnet. If it is such crap why do you even bother comming in here on the forum early Saturday morning. Some of you have nothing but complaints, and we have all heard you now.

It's like F1, you just keep following it. I had some hopes during the first day but that's gone away now. Will be nice to see Petter back, though.

[Fischer]

Atkinson crash was quite spectacular!

[Buzz Lightyear]

Atkinson crash was quite spectacular!

It is his specialist subject.

[GigiGalliNo1]

lol

[bassist]

Well I`ve read this forum and particulary the comments on Rally Ireland over that past 24 hours or so.I can ony think that the majority on here just want to get their names mentioned, for no real constructive reason! Grizzle . Grizzle Moan, Moan, thats all I`m reading!I thought this forum was dedicated to followers and therfore fans of Rallying? We all have our opinions of the way the sport is going at WRC level, and yes, things are not great, and neither is the Economic Climate that funds it,but to continuallty look on the Negative side is sureley tantamount to shooting everyone in the foot.I try and remember why I first started following the sport in my teens,and it was for the smell, the noise,and the adrenalin rush that you got when a car went past,as basic as that.Not how much cash/who is going to control what/all the other politics that gets played out in any sport.I did so for the joy of the experience.Rallying has had it`s "Quiet" moments in the past (Group B- Group A) and will so again,so lets bear with the situation, and see how it goes! Sebastian Loeb is a unique talent, and along with Michael Shumacher. will be remembered as the one that no one could beat! for all the wrong reasons! So lets get behind the Sport we all love, and praise the drivers at all levels, the Teams for their proffesionalism, the organisers for their dedication, the unsung marshalls/volunteers for coming back again,and again despite the political infighting. So, boys and girls, less of the doom, and more of the optimism. Bring on Super 2000 +++++ whatever its going to be called!!

[Simmi]

Well I`ve read this forum and particulary the comments on Rally Ireland over that past 24 hours or so.I can ony think that the majority on here just want to get their names mentioned, for no real constructive reason! Grizzle . Grizzle Moan, Moan, thats all I`m reading!I thought this forum was dedicated to followers and therfore fans of Rallying? We all have our opinions of the way the sport is going at WRC level, and yes, things are not great, and neither is the Economic Climate that funds it,but to continuallty look on the Negative side is sureley tantamount to shooting everyone in the foot.I try and remember why I first started following the sport in my teens,and it was for the smell, the noise,and the adrenalin rush that you got when a car went past,as basic as that.Not how much cash/who is going to control what/all the other politics that gets played out in any sport.I did so for the joy of the experience.Rallying has had it`s "Quiet" moments in the past (Group B- Group A) and will so again,so lets bear with the situation, and see how it goes! Sebastian Loeb is a unique talent, and along with Michael Shumacher. will be remembered as the one that no one could beat! for all the wrong reasons! So lets get behind the Sport we all love, and praise the drivers at all levels, the Teams for their proffesionalism, the organisers for their dedication, the unsung marshalls/volunteers for coming back again,and again despite the political infighting. So, boys and girls, less of the doom, and more of the optimism. Bring on Super 2000 +++++ whatever its going to be called!!

If you want to see the optimism on the forum all you need to do is look at the Monte Carlo thread in the IRC section. Everyone on here are fans of rallying but we aren't sticking our heads in the sand and pretending its fine when it is clearly not. There aren't even enough manufacturers for this to actually qualify as a legitimate championship. The credit crunch is an awful situation but it cannot be the single blame for the state of the WRC 2009.

[bassist]

Simmi, I think you have taken what I have said out of context! No one is burying heads in sand.We do have a major problem at WRC level, but to continue to `Snipe`is not healthy, and at the end is in my opinion counter productive.At the moment we have what we have, and it`s certainly not ideal, but to constantly `barrack` those who are are working with what we have got is unfair.Yes Monte, was fantastic, and I think I gave thanks in my contribution in the thread.I`m not using the financial climate as the soul reason for any excuses , but the more negative we approach this subject then the more apathetic the discussion will get.I also stated to bring on S2000+, as I recognise it`s importance in acheiving a solution to the situation.

[MikeD]

Simmi, I think you have taken what I have said out of context! No one is burying heads in sand.We do have a major problem at WRC level, but to continue to `Snipe`is not healthy, and at the end is in my opinion counter productive.At the moment we have what we have, and it`s certainly not ideal, but to constantly `barrack` those who are are working with what we have got is unfair.Yes Monte, was fantastic, and I think I gave thanks in my contribution in the thread.I`m not using the financial climate as the soul reason for any excuses , but the more negative we approach this subject then the more apathetic the discussion will get.I also stated to bring on S2000+, as I recognise it`s importance in acheiving a solution to the situation.

+1

[wrc_flipper]

Well I`ve read this forum and particulary the comments on Rally Ireland over that past 24 hours or so.I can ony think that the majority on here just want to get their names mentioned, for no real constructive reason! Grizzle . Grizzle Moan, Moan, thats all I`m reading!I thought this forum was dedicated to followers and therfore fans of Rallying? We all have our opinions of the way the sport is going at WRC level, and yes, things are not great, and neither is the Economic Climate that funds it,but to continuallty look on the Negative side is sureley tantamount to shooting everyone in the foot.I try and remember why I first started following the sport in my teens,and it was for the smell, the noise,and the adrenalin rush that you got when a car went past,as basic as that.Not how much cash/who is going to control what/all the other politics that gets played out in any sport.I did so for the joy of the experience.Rallying has had it`s "Quiet" moments in the past (Group B- Group A) and will so again,so lets bear with the situation, and see how it goes! Sebastian Loeb is a unique talent, and along with Michael Shumacher. will be remembered as the one that no one could beat! for all the wrong reasons! So lets get behind the Sport we all love, and praise the drivers at all levels, the Teams for their proffesionalism, the organisers for their dedication, the unsung marshalls/volunteers for coming back again,and again despite the political infighting. So, boys and girls, less of the doom, and more of the optimism. Bring on Super 2000 +++++ whatever its going to be called!!

Well said that man! Unfortunately lots of people moan and whinge on the forum - think someone once moaned about the colour of the grass on the stages. I guess it human nature to moan, sat infront of my MAC in a nice aircon'ed office is worlds away from getting very wet in Wales. You must rember that a large amount of the people on this forum's experance of rallying of opening the door for Lobe while he signs a photo (inculding me :)

[GigiGalliNo1]

I guess it human nature to moan, sat infront of my MAC in a nice aircon'ed office is worlds away from getting very wet in Wales.

It's 'Mac' :p

I'm not here to complain, i'm here to discuss Rally! And wanting to find out...


hrmmmmm are there any photos (websites) from Rally Ireland?! :)

[MikeD]

Is it me, or isn't Loeb a lot more popular in Ireland than in GB? Quite a lot of Citroën flags and you can hear people cher when he arrives at the stages.

[TMorel]

You must rember that a large amount of the people on this forum's experance of rallying of opening the door for Lobe while he signs a photo (inculding me :)

There's also a large amount of people here who have followed the sport from the good old days, many have even competed at the highest level, so their frustration is equally valid.

The reason the good old days are called that is because they were good, and those of us that remember them are old. The only thing constantly complaining does is raise our blood pressure, there comes a point where we have to let it go as unfortunately the organisers/sponsors quite clearly don't care, it's all about getting the best return on their investment which quite clearly goes against what "we" want.

Even though the current state of the WRC is heartbreaking, I'll still be here for each event and them in charge know that.


Quite a lot of Citroën flags

Well, it's not as if there's a lot of choice when it comes to picking a manufacturer to support *g*

[jonkka]

Loeb lost some time there... mmm...

[pucky54]

jepp, he was off the road

[paddocknews]

LOEB S. / ELENA D. / "Very tricky again, lot of water. I had good informations from gravel crew. I went into the gras and then had vibrations in wheel."

[wrc_flipper]

It's 'Mac' :p

Sorry finger got stuck on the ANY key :)



hrmmmmm are there any photos (websites) from Rally Ireland?! :)

I know of one but others are available ;)

[Simmi]

LOEB S. / ELENA D. / "Very tricky again, lot of water. I had good informations from gravel crew. I went into the gras and then had vibrations in wheel."

A bit of a moment will probably see Loeb go into cruise control. There's only 6 proper stages left and its his to lose at this stage.

[MikeD]

Atkinson is really eating time in on H.Solberg. I guess 4th place would be quite a good result for his first run in a Citroën.

PS: According to WRR, Urmo Aava only has a budget for two rallies. I actually thought he was on for 8 events with Stobart. Any of the Estonians that can confirm what the status is?

[Jaanus]

Atkinson is really eating time in on H.Solberg. I guess 4th place would be quite a good result for his first run in a Citroën.

PS: According to WRR, Urmo Aava only has a budget for two rallies. I actually thought he was on for 8 events with Stobart. Any of the Estonians that can confirm what the status is?

At the moment Aava has budget for only Ireland and Norway. There is a possibility he will do some more rallys later.

[Simmi]

At the moment Aava has budget for only Ireland and Norway. There is a possibility he will do some more rallys later.

I hope he can find a bit more funding I am a big fan of Urmo. It is great to see someone with a bit of raw pace. If he can't get himself anymore WRC seat time then I would hope he tries for something in the IRC. I think he could be in line for a win if he picks events to suit his style.

[Tom206wrc]

Hirvonen really doesn't try to push more it seems...just cruise :mark:

[Mirek]

Hans Weijs jr. drives much better than I expected. I'm impressed :)

[jonkka]

Hirvonen really doesn't try to push more it seems...just cruise :mark:

Very little to fight for and a lot to lose. Malcolm wouldn't be impressed if he'd try and went off...

[Finni]

Hirvonen really doesn't try to push more it seems...just cruise :mark:

How do you see it from the times? Maybe he has backed off little bit but it's not visible in any way.

[J.Lindstroem]

Atkinson will have a good time on stage 13!

[muscrae]

Atko is flying, ı think he's gonna make it...

[jonkka]

Yes, he will

Edit: meaning he will have a good time, not that he'd pass Henning (yet)

[Gard]

Atko is on the run. He'll take Henning today. Unless he overcookes it again

[muscrae]

Yes, he will

Edit: meaning he will have a good time, not that he'd pass Henning (yet)

yeah, 12.7s behind now..

[jonkka]

Atko is on the run. He'll take Henning today. Unless he overcookes it again

Doesn't look likely because he halved the difference to 13 seconds over 25 kilometers and there is only 13 kms to go today.

[muscrae]

Wilson so slow??

[MikeD]

Wilson so slow??

Isn't he always?

[ZequeArgentina]

I am surprised that citroen did not nominate Ogier in stead of Rautenbach for the citroen jr team.
They aregiving better chances to ford teams (Ford or stobart) to get more points compared to their teams

[muscrae]

Isn't he always?

yes but, now much more slower... ı mean...

[Simmi]

yes but, now much more slower... ı mean...

Yeah Wilson is losing around a minute to Loeb on both both stages so far this afternoon.

[jonkka]

I am surprised that citroen did not nominate Ogier in stead of Rautenbach for the citroen jr team.

I was a bit surprised of that as well but I thought that maybe Conrad's deal includes points nomination clause or maybe they thought that with so much more experience Conrad might be better or maybe they wanted to give Ogier pressure free run.

[pucky54]

I was a bit surprised of that as well but I thought that maybe Conrad's deal includes points nomination clause or maybe they thought that with so much more experience Conrad might be better or maybe they wanted to give Ogier pressure free run.

Same for Norway. Novikov and Rautenbach nominated, Ogier not

[Finni]

Wilson gets slower and slower by years. It seems Qassimi is as fast nowadays.

[Simmi]

Wilson gets slower and slower by years. It seems Qassimi is as fast nowadays.

He is fighting with the S2000 on stage times this rally!

[Mirek]

But he's doing better than locals like MacHales or Boland...

[Halvis]

Aava wipes the road with "the very special deal solberg" big time.

Not anymore ;) . Henning is actually doing OK, will loose his 4th to Atko, as expected, but compared to most of the guys he's doing good for a tarmac rally.

[ZequeArgentina]

I do not see the point of Rautenbach including a clause in his deal where he must be nominated, what would he get by that??

[muscrae]

Not anymore ;) . Henning is actually doing OK, will loose his 4th to Atko, as expected, but compared to most of the guys he's doing good for a tarmac rally.

absolutely yes.

[Jaanus]

]But he's doing better than locals like MacHales or Boland...

Yes but Gareth is in the very old 04 spec Focus for this event and Boland has never done well in WRC events. Wilson is in a top car and he is doing Rally Ireland for the third time allready!

[Mirek]

I meant Al Quassimi ;)

[muscrae]

Wilson is in a top car and he is doing Rally Ireland for the third time allready!

And for the honor of his father, as a gift to him as he said before the event; for Matthew's birthday remember...

[WRC1]

He is fighting with the S2000 on stage times this rally!

i am really looking forward to norway, when mcshea is already fighting with the million dollar boys at the end of the wrc field, what will sandell in the fabia do with them???

[muscrae]

Atko is 4.7s behind Henning at the end of day two.. perfect job...

[Simmi]

i am really looking forward to norway, when mcshea is already fighting with the million dollar boys at the end of the wrc field, what will sandell in the fabia do with them???

Yep it definately validates S2000 as a formula if in the right hands they can keep up with the slower WRC's (which makes up a lot of the field). If you see these cars being driven hard they will look a lot better on the stages too - not to mention sound better.

[Simmi]

Atko is 4.7s behind Henning at the end of day two.. perfect job...

But I think if you offered 5th to Henning before the event he would rip your hand off to take it. It is still a good result for him when he cant have been looking forward to this rally.

I remember in 2007 he was the most spectacular on the stages from what I saw, but obviously on a tarmac rally this was for all the wrong reasons.

[muscrae]

Gareth stopped.. turbo problems...

[VFTS]

Yes but Gareth is in the very old 04 spec Focus for this event and Boland has never done well in WRC events. Wilson is in a top car and he is doing Rally Ireland for the third time allready!


Isnt Gareth driving an 06Focus??

[Jaanus]

Isnt Gareth driving an 06Focus??

No. Gareth is in 04 car ET53 UNY and Aaron is in the 06 car EU55 BMV

[Simmi]

Gareth stopped.. turbo problems...

We might see Al Qassimi get his first championship point now unless Boland can step up his pace or Aava goes on a big charge tomorrow.

[tolis]

Mc Shea stopped in the stage...

[Mirek]

They are said to crash out, crew ok.

[tolis]

Hans Weijs jr stopped in the stage...

[Corny]

F*CK, he was driving so well

[Mirek]

Prokop was also stopped. Reported to drive again...

[Tom206wrc]

Niall McShea in SS14 :confused: :confused:

[Tom206wrc]

Hans Weijs jr stopped in the stage...



Bad result for Citroën in 2wd class... ;(

[Mirek]

Prokop was standing at Weijs's crash. It should be huge crash on the same spot as Prokop was off in the first run...

[alleskids]

A wheel was thorned off and lying in the middle of the road. The others juniors stopped to investigate the situation and offer help to the Dutch crew. Weijs and his navigator are reporting to be OK.
D*mn, he was looking for making Dutch rally history.

[jonkka]

I do not see the point of Rautenbach including a clause in his deal where he must be nominated, what would he get by that??

Ego sometimes gets into way of fame... Such clause would guarantee best possible treatment from the team.

[ste898]

A bit of a moment will probably see Loeb go into cruise control. There's only 6 proper stages left and its his to lose at this stage.

Doubt Loeb will have drove at full speed at anytime....prob about 90% to see off the Ford on Friday!!!

[morganmilan]

Sorry for Prokop and Weijs... :( , but, come on Burkhart!! :)

[Mirek]

morganmilan: Why for Prokop? He was standing at Weijs and he will get time from marschals. I only hope Aaron stood there as well at least to find that the crew is ok and not only drove around...

[morganmilan]

]morganmilan: Why for Prokop? He was standing at Weijs and he will get time from marschals. I only hope Aaron stood there as well at least to find that the crew is ok and not only drove around...
Of course, Mirek, sorry...I´ve understood Prokop was out of the rally ;)

[Blitzerflitzer]

:(

"An incident has occurred on stage 14 involving car 36. The driver is being taken to hospital.

http://www.rallyireland.org/

[Mirek]

So, all juniors are given time from first run because all of them stood at Weijs.

[Mirek]

According to wrc.com Weijs is in hospital for precautionary check-up, nothing serious fortunately.

[r199]

thay had contact whit ireland

the car of hans is realy badly damaged and hans whas ko for a while
his co driver is ok

[Daniel]

Well I see Atkinson has shut a few traps today :) Keep it up Chris :up:

[AndyRAC]

Well I see Atkinson has shut a few traps today :) Keep it up Chris :up:

He's driven well today, still learning the car. Unfortunately, that might be it for the time being - no money left. While others have more money than talent.... :mad:

[Wim_Impreza]

Atkinson's codriver Stéphane Prévot said in Belgian Rally magazine 'Autonews' in an interview that there is a possibility they could run more WRC rallies this year.

[alleskids]

He also mentioned in an other Belgium magazine that after Ireland the money flood wil be dried up and there is no more drive this year.

[Mirek]

Weijs has left hospital after a check-up.

[jparker]

I also stated to bring on S2000+, as I recognise it`s importance in acheiving a solution to the situation.
S2000+ is DOA, there are 11 more month before 2010 and no official specs yet, so I don't see any solution in it.

[DonJippo]

S2000+ is DOA, there are 11 more month before 2010 and no official specs yet, so I don't see any solution in it.

In 2010 you can still use current cars, 2011 is the first year with S2000+ only.

[N.O.T]

After not watching a single stage live of the first rally of the year since results were available online you can declare that the WRC is officially under crisis....i don't have the mood to make any sick dog comments.....

i hope this attidute will change when we hit the gravel stuff...

[MJW]

[quote="N.O.T"]After not watching a single stage live of the first rally of the year since results were available online you can declare that the WRC is officially under crisis....i don't have the mood to make any sick dog comments.....

i hope this attidute will change when we hit the gravel stuff...[/QUOTE
Sme here, didnt follow online yesterday or today, watched Eurosport last night, couldnt be bothered with tonights coverage.

[jonas_mcrae]

pics anyone? wrc is starting to be more underground than ever...

[Finni]

In 2010 you can still use current cars, 2011 is the first year with S2000+ only.

Could S2000+ challenge current world rally cars straight away? If not, these conditions basicly means that wrc will continue one more year like this.

[Jimmy Magnusson]

After not watching a single stage live of the first rally of the year since results were available online you can declare that the WRC is officially under crisis....i don't have the mood to make any sick dog comments.....

i hope this attidute will change when we hit the gravel stuff...[/QUOTE
Sme here, didnt follow online yesterday or today, watched Eurosport last night, couldnt be bothered with tonights coverage.

The two-minute clips on wrc.com sums up the legs quite nicely I think.

[GigiGalliNo1]

pics anyone? wrc is starting to be more underground than ever...

That was my question yesterday!

[Almeidafoto]

Why use chronometers up to 1/10th second? The way Citroëns are going, they'd better use a calendar...
This is not how Rallies should be, because one minute difference now is not as it was twenty, or thirty years ago, when true rallying existed...

[cosmicpanda]

Why use chronometers up to 1/10th second? The way Citroëns are going, they'd better use a calendar...
This is not how Rallies should be, because one minute difference now is not as it was twenty, or thirty years ago, when true rallying existed...

You mean like Monte Carlo 1988, with a 10 minute gap from first to second?

http://juwra.com/monte_carlo_1988_results.html

Or Monte 1978, with a two minute difference between first and second by the end of the rally?

http://juwra.com/monte_carlo_1978_results.html

Or Finland 1988? Three minute gap between 1st and 2nd.

http://juwra.com/finland_1988_results.html

I didn't try to pick results to prove my point, but I'd doubt there'd be any much different.

[jonkka]

Easier if you let the time-series to do the work for you:
http://www.juwra.com/average_win_margin.html

[cosmicpanda]

Oh, now that is interesting! Thanks :)

[jonkka]

My pleasure

[jonkka]

Henning is outpacing Atko, no change of position just yet then...

[darkstar]

hirvonen fastest :)

[jonkka]

My bad, Atko did it in the end!

[jonkka]

But Wilson is faster than Ogier? whaaaat...

[J.Lindstroem]

The Citroen teamboss must be happy with this. 4th is not bad, off course it had been better without that misstake but anyway..

[Finni]

The Citroen teamboss must be happy with this. 4th is not bad, off course it had been better without that misstake but anyway..

I think the end position is secondary. Main thing is that Chris was able to deliver good times yesterday. Now it seems that he is just ordered to finnish safely.

[jonkka]

Where is Sordo on SS16?

[darkstar]

Where is Sordo on SS16?

good question :eek:

[FabiaFan]

You mean like Monte Carlo 1988, with a 10 minute gap from first to second?

http://juwra.com/monte_carlo_1988_results.html

Or Finland 1988? Three minute gap between 1st and 2nd.

http://juwra.com/finland_1988_results.html

Yeah, 1988, not a good year... not to be compared even to 2009...

[jonkka]

There he is - was running "dark" with no GPS

[darkstar]

There he is - was running "dark" with no GPS

yep...