Petter Solberg WRT

[Hartusvuori]

Really?
Is there someplace to compare "winner's average km/hr " in the last few years?

Something to put real numbers to the idea?

http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_average_speeds.html

Something like that, perhaps? Of course it'd be better to compare same rally on different years and also take in consideration what kind of changes were done route. For example, Hirvonen's NORF winning average speed this year was 121 km/h where as Loeb's from last year was 117 km/h. Last year it was much discussed how the route went to smaller roads which didn't suite Mikko as well as they did Seb.

On eWRC results (http://www.ewrc-results.com/news.php) you see average speeds from every stage.

[Priorat]

[quote="janvanvurpa"]Really?
Is there someplace to compare "winner's average km/hr " in the last few years?

Something to put real numbers to the idea?


This year's Rally Catalunya is exactly the same as last year.
So, if it is dry again, you can get some numbers.

[AndyRAC]

I remember you posted that idea. The counterarguments, well.... :rolleyes:

You'd think that the forum-ers were in Olivier's or Malcolm's wallet.

Excellent observation. :up:

Two teams just keep choking the competition.

Mmm, and the sooner this ends the better! It's supposed to be the WRC, not the Ford/Citroen Rally Championship.

[serial jeff]

It's nothing we haven't already heard elsewhere, but here's the news about Petter on wrc.com http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=5845&desc=Petter%20Solberg:%20No%20more%20Xsara%20outin gs%20this%20year

[MikeD]

Now that we know for sure that Petter Solberg isn't going to drive a car nominated for Manufacturer points, then it's a little more difficult to see the benefit for Ford and Citroën, apart from it being good commercially.

Even though that Hirvonen looks stronger than Loeb in GB and vice versa for Spain, then I don't see PS being able to beat anyone of them in those two rallies.

[jimakos]

Even though that Hirvonen looks stronger than Loeb in GB and vice versa for Spain, then I don't see PS being able to beat anyone of them in those two rallies.
Total agree!Hirvonen and Loeb are in great situation and won't let easy anyone get between them...

[alexlake]

I don't see PS being able to beat anyone of them in those two rallies.

Im not so sure. Solberg has a great record in Wales, he is known to love that rally, and I think he could possibly cause an upset in the right car.

[janvanvurpa]

http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_average_speeds.html

Something like that, perhaps? Of course it'd be better to compare same rally on different years and also take in consideration what kind of changes were done route. For example, Hirvonen's NORF winning average speed this year was 121 km/h where as Loeb's from last year was 117 km/h. Last year it was much discussed how the route went to smaller roads which didn't suite Mikko as well as they did Seb.

On eWRC results (http://www.ewrc-results.com/news.php) you see average speeds from every stage.

You got the idea.
Comparing stage by stage is too difficult if there are big differences but what I'm thinking is how waaaaaaaaaaaaay back when GpB was going full blast many of my friends here in the Rally Third World were astonsihed at how fast the cars were and EVERYBODY started saying "they're TOO FAST".

Later in the early 90s I have a Swedish magazine that had a 1000 Lakes preview and it had the winner and his average km/hr from 1980 thru 1992 and it was interesting to see that the GpB cars averaging only about a max of 5 km/hr faster compare to the nice old Gp4 cars.

I did some math for overall average in the late 90s/early 00ies and it seems once everybody had their syquential boxes working and got used to 34mm restrictor, average speeds came up another 3 to 5 km/hr compared to early 90s GpA 40 or 38mm restrictor cars.

Now people always say "It's SOOOOOOOOOO much faster!!!" and so I want to have an idea compared to what I know in the past.

Then we can try and find what they're doing

[grugsticles]

Im not so sure. Solberg has a great record in Wales, he is known to love that rally, and I think he could possibly cause an upset in the right car.

I agree. Solberg seems to try that little bit harder in Wales.
Maybe its because its typically the last round of the season, or there is large Subaru following in the area or maybe its because of his co-driver Phils home country, but he does seem to try harder.

If Petter gets an up to date car and assuming he has a clean run, Id tip him for a win.

[alleskids]

Hirvonen en Loeb have to take the points in mind, and drive a bit carefuller Solberg only wants the win and can drive 110 %. If he gets a decent (2008) car, he is my favortie to win.

[mdesign]

In a scenario were Loeb and Hirvonen would be figthing for the championship in GB, I don't belive Solberg would have a chance. If one of the guy retires, then the other would not attack, and Solberg would probably go for the win.

[jimakos]

In a scenario were Loeb and Hirvonen would be figthing for the championship in GB, I don't belive Solberg would have a chance. If one of the guy retires, then the other would not attack, and Solberg would probably go for the win.

Unfortunately,we have to wait as far as the GB rally to see what will happen!
Although,I don't think he is able this time to take a win in WRC :)

[Bazza2541]

Best he can hope for (barring retirements) is fifth.

[JFL]

fifth? Thats a bit optimistic is'nt it?

[MikeD]

Hirvonen en Loeb have to take the points in mind, and drive a bit carefuller

I disagree. Loeb must win in Australia otherwise it's almost "game over". Then he will have to rely on a 1-2 Citroën finish in Catalunya, and then he "only" needs second place in GB to take the title.

Likewise Hirvonen, has to win Australia to prevent Loeb from getting the possible scenario above.

Therefor there will be no "taking it carefully" IMHO. But with Loeb's mind now on circuit racing, I think he's most likely to make a mistake or to be beaten fair and square.

[MJW]

So will Petter hand on until after Australia to see who offers the most tempting deal before deciding?

[Barreis]

Better to keep driving Xsara for these two rallies than to pay big money for long weekend(s) (like Atkinson did)..

[jimakos]

Better to keep driving Xsara for these two rallies than to pay big money for long weekend(s) (like Atkinson did)..

Total agree!
There is no reason for PS to change car now!
He can't do something in this championship,so I think he has to just finish the year with the little damage for his profile...
Next year he can take every car he wants and needs for been competitive at last ;)

[Psycho!]

I have the impression that the new deal includes 2010,doesn't it??

[lcd]

...Total agree!

You shouldn't, at least If you belong to rally fans
who claim that Petter's bad luck Is a 'car matter'!

Using another car under real race conditions ( not testings )
will help Petter to understand what's the best for him
for the new season...before It starts!

[Barreis]

Better to give that money to hungry children in Africa.. :)

[jimakos]

You shouldn't, at least If you belong to rally fans
who claim that Petter's bad luck Is a 'car matter'!

Using another car under real race conditions ( not testings )
will help Petter to understand what's the best for him
for the new season...before It starts!

No LCD,I don't belong to these who say that Petter's bad luck is a car matter.
I think Peter first of all hasn't the psycology to make a very nice and competitive year!
If he spends a lot of money for a car in the last period of the year with no points interesting and fail what after?
The role of testings is exactly this,for checking cars.
Although,I understand what do you mean about real race conditions but don't agree a lot ;)

[Barreis]

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=5845&desc=Petter%20Solberg:%20No%20more%20Xsara%20outin gs%20this%20year

[Psycho!]

http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php?artid=566808

Can a Norwegian help with the translation??From what I read in the translator Petter will test the Focus,but I am not sure...

[MJW]

http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php?artid=566808

Can a Norwegian help with the translation??From what I read in the translator Petter will test the Focus,but I am not sure...
Petter speaks of his meeting with Malcolm and says he was not looking forward to it after they split in 2000. Also that he will test a 2008 spec Ford Focus soon to enable him to decide betwwen the car of offer from Citroen and Ford.

Petter already knows what specification, (parts, diffs and maps) each team is agreeing to supply, and for what price - probably not much to chose between each option
He tested the C4 and needs to test the Focus before making his decision. My own opinion is that the Focus is 99,9% the C4 is 101% the best rally car, (thats is of course listening and watching both cars Like most here I have newver driven one!- I feel the C4 is more pwerfull and has 6 speed box and responds more crisply whilst the Ford seems lazyer in response, and has a 5 speed box)but is devastatingly efficient and forgiving. Maybe Petter decides on where he feels more comfortable with (car wise) Honestly there is not much between either car and it must be what 'feels' to Petter as a driver.

[Psycho!]

Thanks mate!!

[JFL]

From what I can read between the lines, the focus is a 08(same as Henning), and the C4 is a 08+.. I dont know if ECU is a part of the "FIA spec rules", but if he gets control over the engine like he wants, I can't see a problem with eather of the cars.. If he can't get the latest ECU mapping, I would go for the C4...

[RS]

He tested the C4 and needs to test the Focus before making his decision. My own opinion is that the Focus is 99,9% the C4 is 101% the best rally car, (thats is of course listening and watching both cars Like most here I have newver driven one!- I feel the C4 is more pwerfull and has 6 speed box and responds more crisply whilst the Ford seems lazyer in response, and has a 5 speed box)but is devastatingly efficient and forgiving. Maybe Petter decides on where he feels more comfortable with (car wise) Honestly there is not much between either car and it must be what 'feels' to Petter as a driver.

The C4 is definitely the more aggressive car and much nicer to watch for it. Whether it's faster who can say, I guess it also depends what suits Petter's driving style more.

[SubaruNorway]

It also says in that article from vg.no that Petter will have full right to beat the factory drivers in both Ford and Citroën :)

[JFL]

It also says in that article from vg.no that Petter will have full right to beat the factory drivers in both Ford and Citroën :)
I think that was ment for next year..?

[SubaruNorway]

I think that was ment for next year..?
A bit hard to make out but next year he can be world champion so who cares about Catalunya and Wales ;)

[Psycho!]

So let's hope for a C4,providing that there are more tarmac rallies than this year...!

[Glee]

Petter speaks about the possibilities for a Solberg team next year:

http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php?artid=566896

Google translation:

Considering making Team Solberg
The brothers will need a "peace broker"

Petter (35) and Henning Solberg (36) are considering forming a team together for the 2010 season in the WRC

- Yes, we have opportunities to do so. It can be awesome, "said Petter Solberg told newspaper VG.

- If he comes with a good plan, so I want to. Is there someone who can do it so it is Peter. He has shown this season, "said Henning.

He has already a team that he built up in record time after the Subaru at Christmas time suddenly let down all the rally effort.

After the VG understand it will cost around 40-50 million NOK (5-6” &#8364 ;) to have a team with two cars in operation next season. Petter believes that if Henning is the team, comes a lot depends on how much money big brother is willing to go with and what he thinks.

Sponsor Meeting today

Henning notes that he does not have the opportunity to add 30 million on the table, but hope to bring a new contract with its main sponsor in the team. Petter will not talk about budgets and who eventually pays what, but there is no doubt that it is he who must contribute the most economical.

But it will give him the benefit of that, for example, Henning can be ordered to "drop Petter" in the past struggle for victories or title, denied the World Cup winner from 2003 strongly.

- No, no, no. I'm here to compete, but I get the gear so he could not hang on, "said Peter confidently.

Meetings potential major sponsor

That there may be two Solberg-cars in the same team, but with different sponsors, can not see Peter as a problem.

- He can go with them whom he will. We "runner" it together, "says Peter, who will meet with a potential major sponsor today.

Even a rock in the sea must be clarified. The brothers have a number of years fighter for better or worse, and it has at times been rocky between them.

- We need a mediator between us. We are two big "egos" both. It will NOK fix, but there will be challenges. But all the situations previously, we have managed to solve, and today we are best friends, "said Petter Solberg

[ste898]

Petter speaks about the possibilities for a Solberg team next year:

http://www.vg.no/sport/motor/artikkel.php?artid=566896

Google translation:

Considering making Team Solberg
The brothers will need a "peace broker"

Petter (35) and Henning Solberg (36) are considering forming a team together for the 2010 season in the WRC

- Yes, we have opportunities to do so. It can be awesome, "said Petter Solberg told newspaper VG.

- If he comes with a good plan, so I want to. Is there someone who can do it so it is Peter. He has shown this season, "said Henning.

He has already a team that he built up in record time after the Subaru at Christmas time suddenly let down all the rally effort.

After the VG understand it will cost around 40-50 million NOK (5-6” €) to have a team with two cars in operation next season. Petter believes that if Henning is the team, comes a lot depends on how much money big brother is willing to go with and what he thinks.

Sponsor Meeting today

Henning notes that he does not have the opportunity to add 30 million on the table, but hope to bring a new contract with its main sponsor in the team. Petter will not talk about budgets and who eventually pays what, but there is no doubt that it is he who must contribute the most economical.

But it will give him the benefit of that, for example, Henning can be ordered to "drop Petter" in the past struggle for victories or title, denied the World Cup winner from 2003 strongly.

- No, no, no. I'm here to compete, but I get the gear so he could not hang on, "said Peter confidently.

Meetings potential major sponsor

That there may be two Solberg-cars in the same team, but with different sponsors, can not see Peter as a problem.

- He can go with them whom he will. We "runner" it together, "says Peter, who will meet with a potential major sponsor today.

Even a rock in the sea must be clarified. The brothers have a number of years fighter for better or worse, and it has at times been rocky between them.

- We need a mediator between us. We are two big "egos" both. It will NOK fix, but there will be challenges. But all the situations previously, we have managed to solve, and today we are best friends, "said Petter Solberg

The Solberg Brothers are very slow getting going when its taken them this long to realise they could make a team!!!!!

[OldF]

By MTV3 rally news (http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/arkistot/ralli/2009/08/942018 / (http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/arkistot/ralli/2009/08/942018%20/) google translated: http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2Farkistot%2Fralli%2F2009%2F08%2F942018&sl=fi&tl=en&history_state0= ) one option for Petter is quitting????

[alleskids]

Petter and Henning would be perfect teammates in making each other going faster then the other, because neither of them wants to loose. Only disadvantage to that team tactic is both ending up crashing way too often.

[lcd]

...Only disadvantage to that team tactic is both ending up crashing way too often.

... :D

[Tomi]

By MTV3 rally news (http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/arkistot/ralli/2009/08/942018 / (http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/arkistot/ralli/2009/08/942018%20/) google translated: http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2Farkistot%2Fralli%2F2009%2F08%2F942018&sl=fi&tl=en&history_state0= ) one option for Petter is quitting????

Nice to see he is thinking about real options, anyway there is many oppurtunities for ex rally drivers to be present, even they are not that important events, ROC, Pikes peek, 0 cars in rallies.

[Psycho!]

I think that Petter's motos don't support this opinion....

[noel157]

I think that Petter's motos don't support this opinion....

"motos" ?????

[Ondra WRC]

"motos" ?????

quickly and reliably? ;)

[Psycho!]

"motos" ?????
''This is my life'',''Never give up''... ;)

[N.O.T]

Peter finally understood that all that publicity tricks and the blah blah only appeal to his fans and not the the manufacturers who unfortunately for him have a brain.

he has many options if he retires as tomi said. Le mans, village events with 0 car, Rally cross, pikes peak, those nice flashy shows in the US and many other little things.

[JFL]

That's why both Malcolm and Oliver wants "Peter" to drive and promote one of they newest cars. Because they have a brain that finally got the right amount of ignition to realise what he's all about! Peter Sohlberg I mean..

[DonJippo]

That's why both Malcolm and Oliver wants "Peter" to drive and promote one of they newest cars.

Yes if Petter pays enough that is.

[Francis44]

To tell the truth this Petter Solberg novel is kinda getting boring, All this crap around him and his new car i mean just pick the car and shut the up, then when the starting list gets released give the fans a "wow" by surprise them with the car your using!!!!

It's months away and he's already spreding the crap all over!!!!

[tmx]

If you were an F1 fan, I bet you must hate everyone in the sport. As I have to come to this forum to get extra rumors in WRC.

[Francis44]

If you were an F1 fan, I bet you must hate everyone in the sport. As I have to come to this forum to get extra rumors in WRC.

Well im not an F1 fan!!!!

[Barreis]

I like Monaco GP.. :)

[WRCfan]

Well im not an F1 fan!!!!

Your b*tchy random rant in this thread suits that style of motorsport so you should look at making the switch...

[Francis44]

Your b*tchy random rant in this thread suits that style of motorsport so you should look at making the switch...

Why because i said me opinion?? Fanboys like you are childish!!!!

He's not a movie star, he's a rally driver, just like there are hundreds of others trying to suceed!!!!

[cali]

Why because i said me opinion?? Fanboys like you are childish!!!!

He's not a movie star, he's a rally driver, just like there are hundreds of others trying to suceed!!!!

There's a different ways of saying your opinion. Your way just says a lot about you and i can say that most of the rallyfans here are not like that at all. Your style suits more for the F1 glamour boys.


BTW! Your opinion is WRONG!! :D

[WRCfan]

Why because i said me opinion?? Fanboys like you are childish!!!!

He's not a movie star, he's a rally driver, just like there are hundreds of others trying to suceed!!!!


Your opinion sounds like a little whining girl who can't have her own way. Petter is the movie star of WRC whether you like it or not. Suck it up princess.

Fanboy? Nah 25 years of rallying in my blood counts for more then that twit.

[Xsara Fan]

Hmmm... Francis44 is not completely wrong. This year Petter Solberg is a 'PR-star' and not a 'rally star'. His last win was in 2005(!!!) but he and his fans always say that 'Petter is one of the best' or 'Petter is the best'. OMG! He can`t beat Chris Atkinson last year! Some years ago Solberg-jr said that he will not cut his hear until next win.....

[Francis44]

Hmmm... Francis44 is not completely wrong. This year Petter Solberg is a 'PR-star' and not a 'rally star'. His last win was in 2005(!!!) but he and his fans always say that 'Petter is one of the best' or 'Petter is the best'. OMG! He can`t beat Chris Atkinson last year! Some years ago Solberg-jr said that he will not cut his hear until next win.....


That is what i was trying to say, this Petter Solberg novel is getting ridiculous, in every rally site and in every forum he's praised, that's why was mad, im sure that are other overlooked drivers that can even be faster than him!!!!

[grugsticles]

To be perfectly honest, Petter can drive. Given the right equiptment when ion his prime he was deserving of his World title.
But, time has past since then as such has Petter's prime.

Just like Colin McRae was from ~98 onwards, hes competative but never really looked as though he had the edge on the rest of the competition. Petter is the same.

Regardless of what anyones personal opioion of Petters driving capabilities, he is a PR dream. He is obviously not willing to give up, has good photogenic qualities, and has good interpersonal skills with fans, media and sponsors.

While Petter maintains his competitive desire to compete, the fans will follow in their thousands.

[Bazza2541]

He couldn't win in the Subaru because it was crap, he was gonna clean up in the Xsara, but it was crap too. Now he is gonna wipe the floor with everybody in his customer spec Focus/C4, but that will be a crap car too. The Solbergobsessed fanatics will then point out that if he had a full works spec car and Hirvonen/Loeb had S1600 Suzukis with blind navigators then Petter would once agin win rallies.

[Halvis]

He couldn't win in the Subaru because it was crap, he was gonna clean up in the Xsara, but it was crap too. Now he is gonna wipe the floor with everybody in his customer spec Focus/C4, but that will be a crap car too. The Solbergobsessed fanatics will then point out that if he had a full works spec car and Hirvonen/Loeb had S1600 Suzukis with blind navigators then Petter would once agin win rallies.

Not getting anything for a while, are you?

[Bazza2541]

Not getting anything for a while, are you?

Bit like Petter then aren't I?

[Sulland]

A younger Petter becoming Norwegian Champion for the first time, in 1987 !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KLjasm9kK0

[noel157]

He couldn't win in the Subaru because it was crap, he was gonna clean up in the Xsara, but it was crap too. Now he is gonna wipe the floor with everybody in his customer spec Focus/C4, but that will be a crap car too. The Solbergobsessed fanatics will then point out that if he had a full works spec car and Hirvonen/Loeb had S1600 Suzukis with blind navigators then Petter would once agin win rallies.

I suppose some people can seem obsessive about Solberg and I suppose too that some people can become obsessive in their dislike or hatred of the guy too.

[Donney]

What I don't get is the fact that you don't really have to check this thread regularly if you don't like/care about Solberg....

[bluuford]

Well I check this thread regularly because many people in this forum have good sense of humor :-)

[Bazza2541]

I don't hate Solberg, I do hate the way some people have elevated him away above all other drivers, he really isn't that hot compared to the big four at the minute. I do think he is good for WRC, but then I think Galli and Kimi are good for WRC too.

[Barreis]

Galli is punchin' codrivers (also broke codrivers nose with bottle).. Not good for sport..

[Tomi]

What I don't get is the fact that you don't really have to check this thread regularly if you don't like/care about Solberg....

This tread is a good idea, better to collect all the crap in 1 tread, rather than to start many separate crap treads, like it was in the beginning of this year. :)

[Donney]

I agree.

[Helstar]

Galli is punchin' codrivers (also broke codrivers nose with bottle).. Not good for sport..
The bottle was a bad idea to refill the broken radiator of the 307 ^^

The idea was Gigi fills the bottle down in the river and throws it to Bernacchini who sends it back empty ... but the co-driver failed to grab it with his hands :p !

Then, if for a mere pat on the helmet we're must put Gigi outside of Rally world, then we can close the entire forum I guess. Unless you leave of course.

[kolvas]

Petter and PG in a team:

http://www.vf.se/Sport/Varmland/PG-och-Petter-bildar-nytt-superteam-090901.aspx

[Micke_VOC]

Petter and PG in a team:

http://www.vf.se/Sport/Varmland/PG-och-Petter-bildar-nytt-superteam-090901.aspx

That will be a great team.
PG in a S2000 year 2010 , i hope PG find the sponsor money.

On English (Goggle Translate)
http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vf.se%2FSport%2FVarmland%2FPG-och-Petter-bildar-nytt-superteam-090901.aspx&sl=sv&tl=en&history_state0=

[DonJippo]

That will be a great team.
PG in a S2000 year 2010 , i hope PG find the sponsor money.

I understood he drives with S2000 only if the deal with Petter's team does not happen as that would be WRC.

[kolvas]

I understood he drives with S2000 only if the deal with Petter's team does not happen as that would be WRC.

The plan is that PG would drive a S2000 and Petter WRC.
Why could we only speculate in, my opinion is that Petter wants someone who could test and give input about S2000 so he is well prepared for 2011, and also, it would be a great team because PG is one of the fastest drivers right now, he proved that with the Suzuki

[Francis44]

The plan is that PG would drive a S2000 and Petter WRC.
Why could we only speculate in, my opinion is that Petter wants someone who could test and give input about S2000 so he is well prepared for 2011, and also, it would be a great team because PG is one of the fastest drivers right now, he proved that with the Suzuki

2011 wrc cars will be 1.6T!!!!

[farquar wrc]

Petter testing a WRC Focus with M-Sport down my way today,just found out,so no way i'll get for a look

[kolvas]

2011 wrc cars will be 1.6T!!!!
Is that a fact or is FIA going to change their mind again?

But eitherway, the S2000 are more equal to the 1,6T than a current WRC if i´ve got everything right.

[MJW]

I know its a British publication, and a little biased towards Ford rather than Citroen, but Motorsport News says that after meetings with Ford Europe and M-Sport Petter has been offered a car for 2010 that is complete parity with what Mikko and Jari-Matti cars are with 12 days testing for the season, and its is for him to have a crack at the drivers championship, drawback? Petter has to bring a seven figure sum to fund it. Petter has had meetings with sponsors in Oslo and Stockholm and "the ball is in his court" basically Petter needs to find sponsors. The article gives a big hint that Ford Europe and Malcolm want him in a Focus, it has to be a commercial deal, but unlike anyone of the other 'hire car' drivers Petter will get a proper Ford - somehow I cant see Citroen matching that specification car.

[I am evil Homer]

Not unless Citroen dump Conrad and offer something similar...I doubt he's bringing in more than 7 figures.

[Gard]

Not unless Citroen dump Conrad and offer something similar...I doubt he's bringing in more than 7 figures.

So what. Conrads car is junior spec and that has been available for a long time. But the price has been too high and the junior spec isn't good enough for a championship attack.

[JFL]

No sleep for Mr. Solberg tonight..
http://translate.google.com/translate?prev=hp&hl=no&js=y&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dagbladet.no%2F2009%2F09%2F02%2 Fsport%2Fpetter_solberg%2Frally%2Fmotorsport%2Fral ly-vm%2F7930080%2F&sl=no&tl=en&history_state0=

[WRCfan]

I have a feeling we will see him in a Ford. He mentioned the fact that the Citroen is older spec so provided he can make the cash he will run a Focus I have a feeling.

[J.Lindstroem]

If Petter drives a Ford Focus next season, will the livery be the one that is on his current Xsara? Also, what will happend with that old Citroen? Maybe the second driver of the team can drive it?

[AndyRAC]

I know its a British publication, and a little biased towards Ford rather than Citroen, but Motorsport News says that after meetings with Ford Europe and M-Sport Petter has been offered a car for 2010 that is complete parity with what Mikko and Jari-Matti cars are with 12 days testing for the season, and its is for him to have a crack at the drivers championship, drawback? Petter has to bring a seven figure sum to fund it. Petter has had meetings with sponsors in Oslo and Stockholm and "the ball is in his court" basically Petter needs to find sponsors. The article gives a big hint that Ford Europe and Malcolm want him in a Focus, it has to be a commercial deal, but unlike anyone of the other 'hire car' drivers Petter will get a proper Ford - somehow I cant see Citroen matching that specification car.

And there you have the problem with the WRC!! Solberg, a World Champion having to pay to get a 'proper' deal. Utter madness...

[Francis44]

Humm i dont know, I think he preferred the c4 wrc but Ford offers more conditions!!!!

[Psycho!]

The first photos are on Petter's website!!

[Rallyper]

And there you have the problem with the WRC!! Solberg, a World Champion having to pay to get a 'proper' deal. Utter madness...

Well, it matters though who will be the cashier. In Petter´s case it´s his sponsors. If he´d be a works driver at Ford the sponors would pay anyway. You don´t think MW takes his own money to pay his drivers? The sponsors do pay, always.

I think Petter will be at Ford, thats my feeling. And if PG gets enough money he will start developing the Fiesta S2000 for 2011. That will be a great help even for MW. In 2011 we´ll see both Petter and PG in PSWRT and competing in the WRC as a well competitive couple, even for the title.... :D

[Barreis]

And there you have the problem with the WRC!! Solberg, a World Champion having to pay to get a 'proper' deal. Utter madness...

Not good for sport.. Very bad..

[SubaruNorway]

Petter needs one more chat with the teambosses, so we might hear more tomorrow morning.
http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/?lang_pref=no

[MJW]

C4 - for Spain and GB, giving an opportunity to best decide on 2010
http://www.pettersolberg.com

[Halvis]

C4 - for Spain and GB, giving an opportunity to best decide on 2010
http://www.pettersolberg.com

You beat me to it, I must say this is great news! Congratulations to Petter, Phil and the whole team! It will be very interesting to see what he can do with a much better car..

[Francis44]

C4 - for Spain and GB, giving an opportunity to best decide on 2010
www.pettersolberg.com (http://www.pettersolberg.com)

I knew it :hmh: !!!!

[N.O.T]

lets see what he can do now....

[Audimadgeoff]

but is it a completely commercial deal or will he have to 'play' with the works Citroen team if the title goes to Rally GB?

[Gard]

I hoped for Ford. Best possibility to get a top spec car. With C4, you'll never know. Hopefully he gets the best they can offer and not the "tuned to last forever" C4

[Fide]

This is a terriffic good new for Petter, and you can bet it is also a really bad for Sordo who is a big step back of him and Sebastien.

[ste898]

I was hoping he would gofor the Ford but seems Citroen maybe wanted him in the car more than Ford

[koko0703]

Let's see what Petter can do in GB 'cuz I think top 5 finish is the best he can hope for in Cataluyna.

[Tom206wrc]

I hoped for Ford. Best possibility to get a top spec car. With C4, you'll never know. Hopefully he gets the best they can offer and not the "tuned to last forever" C4


I don't believe Malcolm Wilson would give him a more full spec. Focus :rolleyes:

[Wim_Impreza]

I don't believe Malcolm Wilson would give him a more full spec. Focus :rolleyes:

Quesnel said in the begin of the year that he wants to help Atkinson to drive more rallies in a C4 WRC. We have seen that... I am sure Ogier has a good C4 WRC and Petter will be in a quite bad C4 WRC.

[Francis44]

Well i wouldn't believe Macolm Wilson either. Remember that episode with Carloz Sainz and Colin Mcrae??!! Carloz Sainz wanted to push and take the lead of Colin Mcrae but Macolm Wilson said no. But Carloz Sainz didn't give a damn and was going faster, but then his Focus wrc mysteriously stopped and they never revealed the cause!!!!

[Barreis]

What rally?

[Francis44]

What rally?

To be honest i dont really remember, but i know it happened and im sure some of you know too. I saw it again on TV a couple a years ago!!!!

[Psycho!]

Quesnel said in the begin of the year that he wants to help Atkinson to drive more rallies in a C4 WRC. We have seen that... I am sure Ogier has a good C4 WRC and Petter will be in a quite bad C4 WRC.
Maybe that's the reason why Solberg does an experiment in the last two rounds in order to choose the best possible equipment for 2010...However don't forget that Citroen is fighting for both champs and Petter is the man to help them.So,they are obligated to give him some good staff...

[Barreis]

It seems that nobody knows what is this S2000 cup when Citroen and Ford will keep WRC machinery.. FIA or whatever (Mr Chandler) again doesn't know which way to go except to leave this two brands to do whatever they want to do.. So why's this S2000 cup for when leadin' drivers are in WRC cars?!

[AndyRAC]

What rally?

Acropolis 2000

[ARF]

At least now it's 200% sure, that he will never drive a Ford. Or even have a chance to drive one.

[jimakos]

At least now it's 200% sure, that he will never drive a Ford. Or even have a chance to drive one.

We must never say never in life!
Don't surprise if next year see Petter in ford...

[Donney]

Maybe this Citroen deal will help Wilson finding the motivation to have Solberg driving a Focus next year, you never know...

[ste898]

Maybe this Citroen deal will help Wilson finding the motivation to have Solberg driving a Focus next year, you never know...

I doubt that very much, Ford have never had the total commiment in rallying like other teams.....

[Barreis]

Maybe he didn't want to change brand at the end of season (directly to the car).. I think he did good in promotion of Citroen anyway.. He's not anymore Mr Holywood (no wins) so he wanted something better..

[grugsticles]

So, is there confirmation of the spec of the C4 that Petter will drive in this years last 2 events?
Is it a junior team reject car (Rauten-) or full spec 09?

[MJW]

So, is there confirmation of the spec of the C4 that Petter will drive in this years last 2 events?
Is it a junior team reject car (Rauten-) or full spec 09?
Its a 2008+ specification car, more than Junior Team specification, but just short of the full 09Loeb / Sordo car. somewher between 2008 plus and 2009 minus if you know what I mean.

[noel157]

So, is there confirmation of the spec of the C4 that Petter will drive in this years last 2 events?
Is it a junior team reject car (Rauten-) or full spec 09?

2008.5 spec.

[Halvis]

So, is there confirmation of the spec of the C4 that Petter will drive in this years last 2 events?
Is it a junior team reject car (Rauten-) or full spec 09?

He says that it is a 08 spec, but updated with certain 09 stuff, making it nearly the same as Loebs current C4. Guess it's the engine mappings that really is the key to how competetive it will be then.

[SubaruNorway]

Its a 2008+ specification car, more than Junior Team specification, but just short of the full 09Loeb / Sordo car. somewher between 2008 plus and 2009 minus if you know what I mean.

Does the hightech cupholder come with that? ;)

[MJW]

Does the hightech cupholder come with that? ;)
Yes - but only if you use sportsdrinks!!

[A.F.F.]

I didn't know there is 2008+ and 2009- models. :eek:

[grugsticles]

So we can assume that he will be on the pace, but just wont have that little extra when required?

[JFL]

we will see.. Let's hope Citroen keeps their promise of a good car.. And I guess it takes a little time to get comfy in a new car? Or maybe not.. Time will show.. It will be fun to see more then the usual guys fighting for stagewins and podiums.

[jonkka]

So we can assume that he will be on the pace, but just wont have that little extra when required?

Aye

[N.O.T]

Its the moment of truth for Mr Solberg....

[Ucci]

I'm happy for Peter get rid of the Xsara (which is still a car not to be thrown away...), but let's be realistic: on the Spanish tarmac Peter will not come close to the times made by Loeb, Sordo, Ogier and Mikko (even I would wish him to be faster than Mikko as I'm Loeb fan). Peter never realy shine on tarmac, the gaps behind Loeb were always in minutes and this also a miracle named C4 will not change.
Do not attack me that Peter drove until now on a tarmac yust Subaru, which was worse than C4/Focus-we all know that...
Still this will be his first race in C4 and especally on tarmac Loeb and Sordo are a planet for themselves.
In Walles I'm expecting different story !!

[Tomi]

i have a feeling it will be 1 more chapter in the amusing fariy tail, the car was not good enough.

[N.O.T]

well ogiers performance and Novikovs in the private cars showed that the car lacks very little compared to the works cars....and Solberg superior driving skills will sure make up for that small gap. I think a mediocre performance in GB should put an end to this soap opera.

[JFL]

Nice to see you in here N.O.T .. :)

[Cloverleaf]

I think the cars performance will vary according to the situation.

[Helstar]

We all agree that on tarmac Petter has never shone. But on GB I'm pretty sure he'll be there up in the standing.

[JFL]

Up in the standings? What is that? No.15? No.10? 8? 5? 3? My bet is top4 in Spain, and top3 in GB..(Top3 could be 1,2,3 :) )

[A.F.F.]

We all agree that on tarmac Petter has never shone. But on GB I'm pretty sure he'll be there up in the standing.

How can anyone forget when Petter jumped on the bonnet of Subaru yelling " It's just incredible, my first tarmac win!!! "

However, it was in rainy conditions when his Pirellis worked way better than Michelins.

[cali]

How can anyone forget when Petter jumped on the bonnet of Subaru yelling " It's just incredible, my first tarmac win!!! "

However, it was in rainy conditions when his Pirellis worked way better than Michelins.

Correct me if i'm wrong but i seem to remember that he even gambled with the tyre choice and others were on slicks for 2 stages driving in heavy rain. Plus the fact that Pirelli's were superior on wet anyway.

[JFL]

I think he will struggle a lot on tarmac.. He just does'nt know how to handle that..top 10 is maybe the best.. I hope he is getting some help from somebody to learn how to handle it..

[Helstar]

Up in the standings? What is that? No.15? No.10? 8? 5? 3? My bet is top4 in Spain, and top3 in GB..(Top3 could be 1,2,3 :) )
Yes, I didn't say it clearly (too many Petter-bashers here ^^ very annoying people) but I meant fight for podium in GB ... of course !

[urabus-denoS2000]

I think he will struggle a lot on tarmac.. He just does'nt know how to handle that..top 10 is maybe the best.. I hope he is getting some help from somebody to learn how to handle it..

He isn't fast on tarmac but come on,he will surely beat everyone except the works drivers

Top 5 ;)

[Finni]

I don't believe that Petter can beat Citroen works drivers but he should have have shot on Jari-Matti at least.

[pettersolberg29]

I think he will struggle a lot on tarmac.. He just does'nt know how to handle that..top 10 is maybe the best.. I hope he is getting some help from somebody to learn how to handle it..

Who could beat Petter though in Spain, assuming there are no retirements?
Loeb - obviously
Sordo - obviously
Mikko - obviously
JML - close
Ogier - close
Henning - no way
Novikov - no way
Wilson - no way

So assuming there are no retirements, he'll come about 5th surely. And it would be very odd for there to be no retirements in the top 5...

[RS]

So assuming there are no retirements, he'll come about 5th surely. And it would be very odd for there to be no retirements in the top 5...

Would it? Only if JML throws it off the road again.

[pettersolberg29]

Seems likely to me!

What I mean is, like today, one way or another people in the top 5 will lose time, be it a puncture or techincal stuff, or crash or tactics (unlikely on tarmac!).

[Finni]

Would it? Only if JML throws it off the road again.

You are clearly not rating Petter as asphalt driver. I am dissappointed if Petter can't match Latvala straightaway.
---------

There is much expectations for Ogier but judging by the rally ireland he is not 'shiner' on asphalt- despite being french driver.

[Sulland]

It will also very much depend on how Petter finds his new dancepartner ! He liked to dance with her called Xsara, the new C4 is like most ladies, it could take a while to get her warm, and to do what you want !! ;)

[RS]

You are clearly not rating Petter as asphalt driver. I am dissappointed if Petter can't match Latvala straightaway.
---------

There is much expectations for Ogier but judging by the rally ireland he is not 'shiner' on asphalt- despite being french driver.

I don't mean that. The poster said that it would be strange if one of the top 4 did not retire, but what I was trying to say is that it does not seem that common that one of the top 4 retire (apart from accidents)

I don't know how Petter will do, but good luck to him. It's nice to see a driver putting in a real effort to compete in the sport he loves instead of sitting at home whinging.

[noel157]

I think Petter will surprise a few people in Spain and finish well, maybe very well.

[JFL]

I think Petter will surprise a few people in Spain and finish well, maybe very well.
No chance.. :s mokin:

[alexlake]

Im hoping for the rally to come down to wales, as Ill be there, and I have always loved petter, he took over as my fav when richard burns passed on. So im hoping for petter on the podium in GB!.

Will he have the same livery on his car as the xsara does?

[bluuford]

I think Petter will surprise a few people in Spain and finish well, maybe very well.

Well about Spain. When was the last time Solberg drove on tarmac with tarmac tires? It was one year ago in Corsica. I have followed all drivers driving C4 in recent years. Sordo, Aava, Novikov all they have told that it takes a lot of time to get the last out from C4. So, I would not expect too much from Solberg in Spain.

[Sladden]

I dont understand some claims that Petter is a bad tarmac driver. The Pirellis was never competetive in dry tarmac conditions after 2002. The other top drivers always had better tyre/car packade for tarmac. I belive that is the reason Petter never got a chance to give us a proper assessment of his skills.

Aside from his win in Corsica 2003...Remember back in San Remo 2002? Beat Burns in Peugeot 206 for 3rd place.

I agree that old merits dont nessecery mean much today. But blaming Petter for bad performances on tarmac 2004-2008 is not fair I think.

I remember a video "Touge attack" with Petter Solberg 2003. He said that he thinks he is a better tarmac driver than gravel driver...

Given his past tarmac pace in a competetive package... Could be right up there with the best if the C4 is good.

[Brother John]

I think Petter will surprise a few people in Spain and finish well, maybe very well.

Do not finish is no surprise! :rolleyes:

[noel157]

Do not finish is no surprise! :rolleyes:

We shall see.

[HSG]

I think he will struggle a lot on tarmac.. He just does'nt know how to handle that..top 10 is maybe the best.. I hope he is getting some help from somebody to learn how to handle it..

I Totally agree with you JFL.. the man don`t stand a chance!! all those years in Subaru, with just one good (lucky) result. And now he is also going to compete in a car he never befor has driven :mad: No.. tarmac does not suite him at all. If I was him.. I would have waited until GB before I made my debut!! :vader:

[Glee]

Petters new C4 livery:
http://www.aftenposten.no/nyheter/sport/article3258382.ece

[Halvis]

I Totally agree with you JFL.. the man don`t stand a chance!! all those years in Subaru, with just one good (lucky) result. And now he is also going to compete in a car he never befor has driven :mad: No.. tarmac does not suite him at all. If I was him.. I would have waited until GB before I made my debut!! :vader:

You're joking, right? I agree that he has no chance of winning on tarmac, but top 10 best?

And going to GB without driving in Spain, getting all the experience with the car that is possible?

You must be kidding...

[Fide]

At this time, and with these current competitors, cars, and with little (or nothing).... Mr. Solberg is the one WHO most people in WRC environment are referring to.

So, I think it is very valuable because even he still doesn't have a factory car for 2010; he maintained the interest of factory popes and is smart enough to appear in any specialized media.

This situation also states, and everybody recons he is not a rookie nor just someone that won 2 or 3 rallies.

I think his magic is still there and this year he also demonstrated his ability driving his opportunities and doing some interesting things with an ancient car.

Just take a look to this forum ... we wrote more opinions, news etc. etc about him than any other driver.......................

[pettersolberg29]

Looks like it's going to be a lovely looking car. I hope it goes as well as it looks.

My predictions: 4th in Spain, 2nd in GB. Anyone else?

[JFL]

Maybe in the points in Spain and top 4/5 in GB.. Remember that he is getting older.. Not the same reflexes any more, and running his own team takes a lot of his attension... Can't wait to see him in C4. :)

[Psycho!]

5 in Spain and podium for GB!!And champion in 2010(if he has the same car)!!

[pettersolberg29]

Maybe in the points in Spain and top 4/5 in GB.. Remember that he is getting older.. Not the same reflexes any more, and running his own team takes a lot of his attension... Can't wait to see him in C4. :)

You are just here to wind us up aren't you? Or are you under 12? ;)

Seriously you think his reflexes are going due to his age. Obviously Makinen and Loeb did nothing after reaching 33 eh?! And he got podiums in a Xsara running his own team, so surely in a C4 he will improve his performances. He'd get top 4/5 at GB in a Reliant Robin let alone a C4!

[N.O.T]

the only thing i would like is the C4 in silver i think it would be a very good looking car.

[Fide]

5 in Spain and podium for GB!!And champion in 2010(if he has the same car)!!

Did you drink ? What time is in Greece ?

[pettersolberg29]

Champion in 2010 is possible if Loeb goes off to Le Mans or F1 in my opinion. Not likely, but possible.

[JFL]

I think he first of all have to worry about the finns..

[Fide]

Champion in 2010 is possible if Loeb goes off to Le Mans or F1 in my opinion. Not likely, but possible.

Dear forum colleague, I really admire Petter being a fan from him since his early days. I regret to see him loosing time during 05 till 08. Even I consider he is in the correct path, I don't think 2010 is a possibility........

[J.Lindstroem]

Dear forum colleague, I really admire Petter being a fan from him since his early days. I regret to see him loosing time during 05 till 08. Even I consider he is in the correct path, I don't think 2010 is a possibility........

Forum colleague. That's a great way of seeing it! Serioslly!

sorry to interupt!

[noel157]

I Totally agree with you JFL.. the man don`t stand a chance!! all those years in Subaru, with just one good (lucky) result. And now he is also going to compete in a car he never befor has driven :mad: No.. tarmac does not suite him at all. If I was him.. I would have waited until GB before I made my debut!! :vader:

First post? What planet are you from? ):

[tmx]

Darth Vader is from the planet Tatooine, whatever the heck that means.

[pettersolberg29]

Forum Colleague Fide - I see what you mean but you never say never. I'd say Petter could be as good as Mikko if he has a C4 at every event next year. But like I said, it's not probable or likely - just possible.

[Xsara Fan]

http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/C4_front.jpg
http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/C4_Side.jpg

[Tom206wrc]

Petters new C4 livery:
http://www.aftenposten.no/nyheter/sport/article3258382.ece



Me likes it :)

[serial jeff]

Petter Solberg Q&A http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=6017&desc=EXCLUSIVE+Petter+Solberg+Q%26A

The part about only two days of testing before each rally is a bit concerning. Can he really get used to the car and find a good setup in just two days?

[Mirek]

Ask Henning if two days of testing for each rally are too little ;)

[Sulland]

]Ask Henning if two days of testing for each rally are too little ;)

Also ask Henning if the startsetting for those tests are as he requesting them beforehand ? He is waisting a lot of time on many rallies because the Focus is set to a standard setting like the two M-Sport drivers uses, and that does not suite Henning at all.

This should be easier for Petter that has his own team that does what he tells them to !

[ARF]

Also ask Henning if the startsetting for those tests are as he requesting them beforehand ? He is waisting a lot of time on many rallies because the Focus is set to a standard setting like the two M-Sport drivers uses, and that does not suite Henning at all.

This should be easier for Petter that has his own team that does what he tells them to !

It's because it is not possible to raise the rideheight in back of the Focus by 50cm...

[Tomi]

]Ask Henning if two days of testing for each rally are too little ;)

Same as the works guys gets usually.

[Tomi]

Also ask Henning if the startsetting for those tests are as he requesting them beforehand ? He is waisting a lot of time on many rallies because the Focus is set to a standard setting like the two M-Sport drivers uses, and that does not suite Henning at all.

This should be easier for Petter that has his own team that does what he tells them to !

Lol, sure yes, the citroen guys better remove everything in touching distance from the driver, it takes him about 1/2 stage to screw it up.

[JFL]

Lol, sure yes, the citroen guys better remove everything in touching distance from the driver, it takes him about 1/2 stage to screw it up.
Yes.. Hope they really do.. He usually screws it up before 1/2 the stage.. And only two days of testing is not enough for him.. he needs at least 1 week..

[Brother John]

The 2 rallies which are planted with C4 are possible, however, the largest disappointment for Petter. If he wants further to go on with rally he better will improve a rally team to start with a new mark as a team LEADER and make money with some paying drivers!!
The next years will change much in WRC and Petter can become a important person for the sport. Of course he can still drive if he wants but I consider no more future for him as a top driver.
I predict a burst out in Spain or Wales for him! :dozey:

[Barreis]

Do You maybe predict also weather? xd

[Wim_Impreza]

Do You maybe predict also weather? xd

Yes, he can predict that the weather in Rally Catalunya will be very hot and in Wales a few weeks later much colder with some rain and mud. ;)

[muscrae]

Petter Solberg will drive for the Citroen Junior Team on the final round of this year's World Rally Championship in GB, according to the list of manufacturer entries published by the FIA.

http://www.rallybuzz.com/solberg-citroen-junior-team-gb/

[curry]

Petter Solberg will drive for the Citroen Junior Team on the final round of this year's World Rally Championship in GB, according to the list of manufacturer entries published by the FIA.

http://www.rallybuzz.com/solberg-citroen-junior-team-gb/

So just when he gets a winning car, he won't be allowed to win. How ironic!

[Barreis]

Only if Hirvonen retires..

[pettersolberg29]

Surely Petter wouldn't accept that? If he's first and Loeb is second, but needs to win to be WDC, he'll now have to let Loeb past surely?

Doesn't sound like a Petter thing to do.

[alleskids]

That is why I asked if the car is run by PSWRT or by Citroen? Petter will not give a winning position to Sebastien Loeb, unless the car is controled by Citroen and the mecaniscs can make "a little mistake" so he loses time.
Is the car run by himself or by Citroen?????

[pettersolberg29]

It may be like a Rautenbach situation at the Junior Team i.e. car is run by the team, but he is a 'free' driver.

BUT if he's nominated for points then there must be another explanation.

[Barreis]

To run better car with his own team must be focus or back to xsara again 'cos citroen doesn't sell c4 WRC..

[Saabaru]

Citroen isn't going to give hem a car that will beat Loeb, he would be better off in a Skoda...

[Psycho!]

It may be like a Rautenbach situation at the Junior Team i.e. car is run by the team, but he is a 'free' driver.

BUT if he's nominated for points then there must be another explanation.
Conrad is not totally free!!!Remember in Poland that he stopped in a stage for some minutes to hand Loeb one more point for the championship....As for Petter his move is a waste of money in the Junior team...

[bluuford]

Conrad is not totally free!!!Remember in Poland that he stopped in a stage for some minutes to hand Loeb one more point for the championship....As for Petter his move is a waste of money in the Junior team...

it was nearly half hour :-)

[N.O.T]

Citroen isn't going to give hem a car that will beat Loeb, he would be better off in a Skoda...

yes but solberg with his magical powers behind the wheel doesn;t need a better car to beat Loeb so its ok...and thats the reason that Citroen don;t allow Solberg to move to a team other than citroen. in order to give him downgraded cars and keep him under control in order not to expose that fake champ they have all these years...

[JFL]

Drunk again?

[curry]

Lets not kid ourselves, Petter would not be brought into the junior team if he wasn't under orders. Can you really imagine Citroen putting themselves in a position where they could cost the team the drivers championship (actually they did that in Australia; let me rephrase, they wouldn't knowingly put themselves in that position).

[Juha_Koo]

This whole Solberg-Citroen deal is going to be very interesting to follow. I'm guessing Petter will totally lose it and change to Ford for next season. :s mokin:

[Halvis]

Lets not kid ourselves, Petter would not be brought into the junior team if he wasn't under orders. Can you really imagine Citroen putting themselves in a position where they could cost the team the drivers championship (actually they did that in Australia; let me rephrase, they wouldn't knowingly put themselves in that position).

Absolutely right, he will not be allowed to win if Seb is still in the rally and fighting for a win. The Citroen team want of course Petter to be in front of Hirvonen, behind Seb.

My guess is that he will have an almost identical car as Seb, within the rules for the junior teams, it MUST be that if he shall challenge the Ford boys. If you try to be objective, Petter should have no chance of beating Seb (if none of them runs into mech probs), who has tons of experience with the C4. If that very unlikely should happen, I will be very, very surprised and even more disgusted by the fact that Petter have wasted his best (?) years in the Subaru.

Petter will of course drive flat out, trying to show his true pace in a competetive car - I think he knows that he won't be allowed to win in the end if Seb needs the 10 points. Petters bonus is, as I said, that he will be able to show what he can do - hence, be in a better position to get sponsors for 2010 and beyond. It will also maybe help him choose what car to try to get in 2010.

[Psycho!]

If I was Petter I would win in Wales no matter Citroen's strategies and next year I would go to Ford with equal chances with the top two drivers to chase the championship...

[Barreis]

Maybe new contract will follow if he'll be "good"..

[MJW]

Well Sordo isnt 100% confirmed for 2010 according to reports in the British paper Motorsport News. Loeb and Petter for 1st team, Sordo and Ogier for Juniors in 2010? Petter deciding on a Peugoet Rallycross car (hobby car) seems he is edging towards the French, as he could have had a Fiesta RX car like Henning.

[Juha_Koo]

Well Sordo isnt 100% confirmed for 2010 according to reports in the British paper Motorsport News. Loeb and Petter for 1st team, Sordo and Ogier for Juniors in 2010?

I really can't see Sordo leaving the factory team. He has done a great job for the team for many years and has been developing all the time. What has Petter done since 2006?

[serial jeff]

Agreed, I seriously doubt they'd demote Sordo, especially now that he's showing great improvement on gravel. If he isn't confirmed, I think it's more likely that he's considering looking for a new team since he'll never be a no1 driver with Citroen as long as Loeb is still around.

Of course, given the lack of other teams, he'll probably end up with citroen for 2010.

[Barreis]

Sordo never won..

[Juha_Koo]

Sordo never won..

Because his contract clearly dictates that he is in a supportive role.

[Brother John]

This whole Solberg-Citroen deal is going to be very interesting to follow. I'm guessing Petter will totally lose it and change to Ford for next season. :s mokin:

Yes the new junior Petter will totally lose this joke and go to IRC! :D

[TMorel]

Now considering what's been happening with those roundy-roundy boys, I wonder how tempted Malcolm was to ask Petter to take the C4 and accidently reverse it into Sebs during final service in exchange for a full spec Focus next year.

[Juha_Koo]

Yes the new junior Petter will totally lose this joke and go to IRC! :D

Hasn't Petter told that he is not interested in IRC because of the (very) poor media exposure? Eurosport only.


Now considering what's been happening with those roundy-roundy boys, I wonder how tempted Malcolm was to ask Petter to take the C4 and accidently reverse it into Sebs during final service in exchange for a full spec Focus next year.

What a very intriguing theory... :D

[JFL]

Petter has explained numerous times that what he chooses to do the rest of this season, has a lot to do with his future... he has nothing to gain by winning this year, but if he helps Citröen this year, maybe he can get a good deal next year.. Time will show..

[Camelopard]

Because his contract clearly dictates that he is in a supportive role.

But he has never looked like winning even after Loeb has dropped back or retired.

[N.O.T]

If I was Petter I would win in Wales no matter Citroen's strategies and next year I would go to Ford with equal chances with the top two drivers to chase the championship...

that would be a very professional behaviour....

[tmx]

Hasn't Petter told that he is not interested in IRC because of the (very) poor media exposure? Eurosport only.
What a very intriguing theory... :D
Guess who is broadasting IRC.

[Gard]

Guess who is broadasting IRC.

Still Eurosport only I guess

[serial jeff]

Petter's getting his colours on his C4: http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/postie-media.jpeg

[noel157]

Petter's getting his colours on his C4: http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/postie-media.jpeg

Changed the French reg plate to Norwegian?

[noel157]

Petter's getting his colours on his C4: http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/postie-media.jpeg

Norwegian style French number plates.

[Daniel]

that would be a very professional behaviour....

Would be funny though :) Did anyone here see Rickard Rydell overtake his team mates in his one off drive for Chevrolet a few years ago in the WTCC?

http://www.crash.net/WTCC/race+report/129754/1/anderstorp_2007_rydell_leads_chevy_1-2-3.html

It doesn't say it in the story but Larini and Menu were PISSED off :rotflmao:

[N.O.T]

kankkunen in argentina 99 did the same thing...

[AGA]

According to number plate it's ex-Novikov car

[noel157]

According to number plate it's ex-Novikov car

So it's been to the paint shop more than once?

Looking forward to Petter's debut in it.

[JFL]

Sébasien Loeb: “Even by winning the two next rallys, it will be insufficient on the assumption that Mikko is classified second each time. It will be necessary to count on the assistance of Dani to intercalate itself, or on a against-performance of Hirvonen. In other words, I am now in the obligation to impose to me in Catalonia and on Wales by hoping that my adversary does not finish behind me each time. I am not any more the Master of the situation. ”

Even Loeb does'nt expect any help from Petter.. Why would Citröen bother to help him?

[I am evil Homer]

I think it's more he cannot assume or rely on any help from Petter rather than he not expecting him to be comeptitive. In Spain really Dani will be his only help.

[JFL]

time will show...

[grugsticles]

Sébasien Loeb: “Even by winning the two next rallys, it will be insufficient on the assumption that Mikko is classified second each time. It will be necessary to count on the assistance of Dani to intercalate itself, or on a against-performance of Hirvonen. In other words, I am now in the obligation to impose to me in Catalonia and on Wales by hoping that my adversary does not finish behind me each time. I am not any more the Master of the situation. ”

Even Loeb does'nt expect any help from Petter.. Why would Citröen bother to help him?

That may or may not be true, but my question is 'is it good marketing if a head driver of a team openly admits that driver in another team, regardless of the marque/team boss, is planning on assisting them directly and not drive their own rally?

I would think not.

[Sulland]

Petter having fun in the C4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQQqWR2uUvs

His plan is to take it easy in Spain, not having driven a top asphalt car in many years. Easy to say, but let's see when it all starts !

[RS]

I think Petter did very well in Spain under the circumstances. Should shut up a few of his anti-fans for a while :D

[N.O.T]

the end result was not much different at the end of the day...he would probably lose to Ogier in a xsara.

GB is the true bet for peter, its a rally he was always a winner or a contender so we will see

[Bazza2541]

He is still an 'also ran', can't get a result unless some of the big four have a problem. 4th is just the best of the rest.

[Helstar]

You seem to forget that work drivers gets better material and LOTS of specific tests which improve your pace and confidence with the car.

For his debut with a C4 I would say he was impressive.

[macksrallye]

I think it's interesting that Petter (not at all considered a Tarmac gun) managed to win a couple of stages. My question is, just how good is the C4 on Tarmac, for Petter to put in times as good as he did it must be an extremely good & easy to drive car on the Tar (as Petter had very limited time in the car before the event). If we stuck Loeb in the Focus how far off his own pace would he be? Just how big is the performance difference between the Focus & the C4?

[Langdale Forest]

A good rally from Solberg in spain, shame that he is in a Citroen, not a Ford.

[Donney]

First rally in a C4, good stage times, a couple of stage wins, solid drive and a 4th result after the drivers who have developed, tested and driven their cars for a couple of years. I'd say it is more than a good rally.

[tmx]

I think it's interesting that Petter (not at all considered a Tarmac gun) managed to win a couple of stages. My question is, just how good is the C4 on Tarmac, for Petter to put in times as good as he did it must be an extremely good & easy to drive car on the Tar (as Petter had very limited time in the car before the event). If we stuck Loeb in the Focus how far off his own pace would he be? Just how big is the performance difference between the Focus & the C4?

I don't know why people are surprised about it. Petter has smooth driving style on tarmac (if you watched his onbards) so with a good car he can go strong there. He just happens to be better on gravel, doesn't mean he doesn't know how to drive on tarmac at all and suddenly in a good car he won stages. Stop getting excuses and give the man some credit.

[WRCfan]

"To all those who have doubted me I have one thing to say, up yours!"

[bluuford]

It was nice to see that we have now 6 fast cars in each rally:-) But I would be more cautious with GB bets. He just had major tests on tarmac and car that is The Benchmark on tarmac. Now he is back on gravel, where he has just a very fast car. I was just imaging the situation when Loeb retires, Hirvonen retires, Loeb comes back in Superally and is in 9th position before the last stage and the only Citroen in front is Solberg who is leading:-) What is going to happen ;-)

[Gard]

It was nice to see that we have now 6 fast cars in each rally:-) But I would be more cautious with GB bets. He just had major tests on tarmac and car that is The Benchmark on tarmac. Now he is back on gravel, where he has just a very fast car. I was just imaging the situation when Loeb retires, Hirvonen retires, Loeb comes back in Superally and is in 9th position before the last stage and the only Citroen in front is Solberg who is leading:-) What is going to happen ;-)
depends on the plans for next year :-)

[Sladden]

Like I said before... Petter had a very good track record on tarmac in his early Subaru days. Esp look at his performances in 2002 and you see my point. Im not surprised that he did well now when the package was competetive. He is a neat and tidy, flowing driver that suits tarmac very well.
A shame he was not on the pace right away. Imagine how fun the battle for 3rd could have been with Hirvonen :)

[Brother John]

Keep on dreaming and http://www.mysmiley.net/imgs/smile/animated/anim_25.gif (http://www.mysmiley.net/freesmiley.php?smiley=animated/anim_25.gif).

[Halvis]

Like I said before... Petter had a very good track record on tarmac in his early Subaru days. Esp look at his performances in 2002 and you see my point. Im not surprised that he did well now when the package was competetive. He is a neat and tidy, flowing driver that suits tarmac very well.
A shame he was not on the pace right away. Imagine how fun the battle for 3rd could have been with Hirvonen :)

Yes, end result is Petter +18.3, when it after SS1 was +14.9.

[Rallyper]

It was nice to see that we have now 6 fast cars in each rally:-) But I would be more cautious with GB bets. He just had major tests on tarmac and car that is The Benchmark on tarmac. Now he is back on gravel, where he has just a very fast car. I was just imaging the situation when Loeb retires, Hirvonen retires, Loeb comes back in Superally and is in 9th position before the last stage and the only Citroen in front is Solberg who is leading:-) What is going to happen ;-)

It´s tempting but for sure there would be no eight place for Loeb in that case, unless something real happened to Petter.

No way he´d loose a victory. And I must say no way Citroen would demand it either. Or..... :confused:

[Gard]

I can see Quesnel approach a leading Petter. Trying to convince him to let a guy who has "stolen" 5 championships from him pas, to get a 6'th. He would need some serious leverage to accomplish that.

[Barreis]

It's Subaru's and Prodrive's faulth..

[N.O.T]

I can see Quesnel approach a leading Petter. Trying to convince him to let a guy who has "stolen" 5 championships from him pas, to get a 6'th. He would need some serious leverage to accomplish that.

are you serious ???

[Tomi]

are you serious ???

the amusing thing is that they usually are :)

[Buzz Lightyear]

There was always a fine line giving Petter a C4. Quick enough to beat the Ford's but not quick enough to beat Seb.

[Gard]

the amusing thing is that they usually are :)
Usually bates like this is for COD, but you'll do fine ;)

Now knowing that Loebs titles is due to his car. I hope Mikko takes it, and he will. Petter can do what he wants in GB, because Mikko will be ahead of Loeb anyway.

[Tomi]

Petter can do what he wants in GB,

sure, and if he dont it's probably because a downgraded car, or too tight shoes.

[Barreis]

In Citroen juniors he will do what they'll ask him to do..

[Mintexmemory]

Well I thought Petter was bloody good value throughout the whole w/e. Everywhere I was spectating he was getting the C4 to angles that no one else seemed able to. one of my pics attached (El Priorat second run)

[Mintexmemory]

And at Pratdip on Sunday

[Barreis]

Who would say that he bought the car..
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79330

[cannyboy]

Petters Xsara must not have been too old a spec if they are looking for 400,000 euro for it!
The mustn't feel the car is too slow and old given that price :)

[noel157]

So according to Monsieur Quesnel Petter has bought the C4 and a 2nd car worth of spares. Citroen say they have to make money next year and Petter needs money from his sponsors and support from Citroen Sport to run the car.
Making money and wanting support? Mutually exclusive I think. Hope he gets something sorted.
More interesting is that M Quesnel will not tell Petter to slow down if he is in the lead ahead of the regular team drivers.... We shall see.

[Barreis]

Petters Xsara must not have been too old a spec if they are looking for 400,000 euro for it!
The mustn't feel the car is too slow and old given that price :)

Where's advertisment?

[MJW]

So according to Monsieur Quesnel Petter has bought the C4 and a 2nd car worth of spares. Citroen say they have to make money next year and Petter needs money from his sponsors and support from Citroen Sport to run the car.
Making money and wanting support? Mutually exclusive I think. Hope he gets something sorted.
More interesting is that M Quesnel will not tell Petter to slow down if he is in the lead ahead of the regular team drivers.... We shall see.

PG Andersson a likely partner in the second car.

[Barreis]

Petters Xsara must not have been too old a spec if they are looking for 400,000 euro for it!
The mustn't feel the car is too slow and old given that price :)

Focus WRC 2008 + some cosmetic additional parts = 500 000 GBP + fat..

[Pinto]

would there be any truth that Eyvind Brynildsen and Peter are to become team mates next year

[pettersolberg29]

I wouldn't be that surpised - does Eyvind have a lot of money to give to the business?