Petter Solberg WRT

[Krigen]

they have no website.. Not even sure if we will see the results.. This seems to be more like a test than a rally. Not sure how many competitors, i hear about entry fee about 30 000 nok..

[pettersolberg29]

http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/2010/01/27/ny-sponsor-for-petter-solberg/

Another sponsor - MadCroc. Remember it clearly on Mikkelsen's cars and it gives a good livery. More importantly thats even more budget now for every round in 2010.

[Wim_Impreza]

Energy Drink MadCroc is sponsoring Finnish Rallycross Driver Jussi Pinomäki for a lot of years and circuit driver Pertti Kuismanen too. If you want to see the colours of this firm, go to http://www.jussipinomaki.com

[Tom206wrc]

MadCroc was also sponsoring Patrik Sandell when he drove a 207 S2000 on Pwrc :p :

[JFL]

Why does MadCroc sponsor a has been?

[Langdale Forest]

what is a has been?

[JFL]

Ask N.O.T ;)

[Tomi]

Why does MadCroc sponsor a has been?

Propably the cheepest alternative, they have sponsored many Rallydrivers, F1 Boatdrivers, Rallycross, Track racing, but never the absolute top guys before either.

[Koppomsbo]

http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/2010/01/27/ny-sponsor-for-petter-solberg/

Another sponsor - MadCroc. Remember it clearly on Mikkelsen's cars and it gives a good livery. More importantly thats even more budget now for every round in 2010.

WRC 2010 - The battle of the Energy Drinks :D

Red Bull - Monster - Mad Croc

[Langdale Forest]

Ask N.O.T ;)

I'll ask him then, but I guess that PETTER SOLBERG is one of them. :rolleyes:

[White Sauron]

They also used to sponsor Matti Rantanen. I hope they can continue supporting him, even despite contract with Solberg.

[Langdale Forest]

Matti Rantanen did well in Finland in 2008.

[Sulland]

Mad Croc is sponsoring a few: http://www.energybrands.eu/marketing/new/marketing.html

[bluuford]

Mad Crock is also title sponsor for Rally Estonia that is planning to join IRC in the future:http://www.rallyestonia.ee/2010/
Hopefully Solberg will be there as well (Testing for Finland)

[Tomi]

They did sponsor Heikki Kovalainen also in the past, but stopped because they tought it's too expensive to sponsor F1 drivers.

[Krigen]

They also sponsored Mikkelsen when he drove the Focus wrc

[Krigen]

Don't think there is one. I've searched far and wide with no luck.


http://www.svullyrallydahbi.no/

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks - nothing like that appears on Google whatever you search! Now I look like a fool, a fool I say ;)

[Iskald]

WRC 2010 - The battle of the Energy Drinks :D

Red Bull - Monster - Mad Croc

All crap and chemical ;)

(..ucking ..ll, I start to sound like N.O.T.)

[Tomi]

All crap and chemical ;)

Agree, better to stick to the original, Lipovitan-D, and not theese watered crap imitations.

[Koppomsbo]

Agree, better to stick to the original, Lipovitan-D, and not theese watered crap imitations.

I always use Carlsberg or Corona :D always Max effect :up:

[Tomi]

I always use Carlsberg or Corona :D always Max effect :up:
Me too, i always drink Carlsberg when i play Corona :D

[Maui J.]

Looks as if Energy Drinks have taken over where Tobacco advertising left off.
Obviously there's way too much profit margin in a product thats mostly water, chemicals and sugar (or artificial sugar).
Oh well, thanks for sponsoring the cars, but I'm sorry but you won't get a sale from me though.

[JFL]

What happened to Vodka Kick that sponsored Stobart? Or was it Kick Energy? Kick Energy is still there I think..

[6789]

What happened to Vodka Kick that sponsored Stobart? Or was it Kick Energy? Kick Energy is still there I think..
http://yfrog.com/7gimg5565bj
http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/9591/img5565b.th.jpg (http://img268.imageshack.us/i/img5565b.jpg/)
Its Kick Energy, this was from Rally Australia this year :) So there are 4 energy drinks companies in WRC these days lol

[Motorsportfun]

Where Red Devil (Atolye Kazaz Subaru team) has gone? :D

In rallying there is also Battery (historical Hirvonen's sponsor) and Dark Dog (some JWRC drivers I remember).

[Sulland]

http://yfrog.com/7gimg5565bj
http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/9591/img5565b.th.jpg (http://img268.imageshack.us/i/img5565b.jpg/)
Its Kick Energy, this was from Rally Australia this year :) So there are 4 energy drinks companies in WRC these days lol


And the conclusion is that the energy drink companies have taken the role of the Tobacco industry used to have in motorsport !

[tmx]

Well I haven't smoked nor drank energy drinks, but if I have to choose I'd go with the latter. Unless the drinks also glow green when put next to black lights, then I might pass also.

[Fide]

Who knows how much contributes a small sponsor (in average) and the biggest one to Petter's annual budget ?

[Rallyper]

http://yfrog.com/7gimg5565bj
http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/9591/img5565b.th.jpg (http://img268.imageshack.us/i/img5565b.jpg/)
Its Kick Energy, this was from Rally Australia this year :) So there are 4 energy drinks companies in WRC these days lol


And Shark sponsoring my son a few years ago...

[pettersolberg29]

Petter winning Svully Rally Dhabi after the first 3 stages. Ahead of Marcus by 2 mins.

[MJW]

Petter winning Svully Rally Dhabi after the first 3 stages. Ahead of Marcus by 2 mins.
Yeah but hang on, Marcus is in a Subaru Cup car like Mikkelssen. This is a test.

[Iskald]

Yeah but hang on, Marcus is in a Subaru Cup car like Mikkelssen. This is a test.

Very interesting to note that Andreas Mikkelsen has been faster than Marcus Grønholm on six of the nine stages. Andreas has however noted "irregular" times on SS3 and 6, and therefore Grønholm ends up 38,2 seconds ahead of him after nearly 140 km of stages....

[Finni2]

Very interesting to note that Andreas Mikkelsen has been faster than Marcus Grønholm on six of the nine stages. Andreas has however noted "irregular" times on SS3 and 6, and therefore Grønholm ends up 38,2 seconds ahead of him after nearly 140 km of stages....

Is there any result page for the rally?!

[Iskald]

Very interesting to note that Andreas Mikkelsen has been faster than Marcus Grønholm on six of the nine stages. Andreas has however noted "irregular" times on SS3 and 6, and therefore Grønholm ends up 38,2 seconds ahead of him after nearly 140 km of stages....

More info: 10 kms with punctured tyre for Andreas on SS6. Should have beaten Grønholm without this problem. Not too bad... ;)
Results: http://www.svullyrallydahbi.no/files/2010/Resultater-4WD-etter-SS9.pdf

[pettersolberg29]

I knew Marcus was in a Cup car, but was just letting those who wondered about the results know! Very impressive by Andreas - quicker than Marcus isn't easily done.

[Finni2]

More info: 10 kms with punctured tyre for Andreas on SS6. Should have beaten Grønholm without this problem. Not too bad... ;)
Results: http://www.svullyrallydahbi.no/files/2010/Resultater-4WD-etter-SS9.pdf

Great job by Mikkelsen. I wonder why they withdrew financial support just before the moment when he started to gather some serious speed. It would have been much more smart to learn driving with Subaru sti and then upgrade the car to wrc-level. Now they stopped just before the harvest time.

Mikkelsen certainly is not only example of this kind of irrational and unrealistic driver management. Though I don't know if it's finacial crise.

Mikkelsen should definitely drive the C4 or Focus in Sweden. He could throw serious challlenge on Latvala at the moment.

[Rallyper]

I knew Marcus was in a Cup car, but was just letting those who wondered about the results know! Very impressive by Andreas - quicker than Marcus isn't easily done.

I agree, but remember MG hasnt driven any since Greece last year and Mikkelsen has been warming up all winter long. Also Sandell is kind of rusty behind the wheel.

[Iskald]

Great job by Mikkelsen. I wonder why they withdrew financial support just before the moment when he started to gather some serious speed. It would have been much more smart to learn driving with Subaru sti and then upgrade the car to wrc-level. Now they stopped just before the harvest time.

Mikkelsen certainly is not only example of this kind of irrational and unrealistic driver management. Though I don't know if it's finacial crise.

Mikkelsen should definitely drive the C4 or Focus in Sweden. He could throw serious challlenge on Latvala at the moment.

You are speculating wildly, but no offense, you really haven`t got a clue.

Btw. Petter Solberg won all stages, as he should. SS2/5/8 was an old classic from Finnskog Rally. Petters best time was 4.03,6. Stage record belongs to - surprise, Andreas Mikkelsen - and it`s 3.55,5 (set in 2008).

[bennizw]

Pictures from the rally here:

http://www.rallybilder.net/bilder/svully_rally_dhabi/

[ProRally]

I agree, but remember MG hasnt driven any since Greece last year and Mikkelsen has been warming up all winter long. Also Sandell is kind of rusty behind the wheel.

For your info Marcus did Rally Show Monza which is 180km on tarmac... but he said to me there, he was little bit rusty :D but still retired.... When I asked him about Swedish he said yes, but still retired :D :D

[Langdale Forest]

After many years of bad luck, I think things will change for Petter in 2010.
Now he has a good car he could win, but I think he will only win if the works drivers have problems. But anyway, a win is still a win. :bounce:

[pucky54]

Will there be a team presentation of the PSWRT 2010 before Rally Sweden?

[Viking]

Will there be a team presentation of the PSWRT 2010 before Rally Sweden?

I am sure it will be, rumor says black, white, red, yellow and…. Flames! :)

[Koppomsbo]

I am sure it will be, rumor says black, white, red, yellow and…. Flames! :)

:up:

[Finni2]

After many years of bad luck, I think things will change for Petter in 2010.
Now he has a good car he could win, but I think he will only win if the works drivers have problems. But anyway, a win is still a win. :bounce:

I reckon that Petter will beat at least Sordo and Latvala.

[Finni2]

You are speculating wildly, but no offense, you really haven`t got a clue.

Yeah, and if you have got a clue in your indefinite wisdom and knowledge you could reveal it.

[Tomi]

I reckon that Petter will beat at least Sordo and Latvala.

Feels a bit like a déjà vu, Petter comes out with big noise about his car and his chances, his fans gets carried away big time, it will be interesting to see, if it again this year will end up with mega crying, how unfair the world is. :)

[nr7wave]

After many years of bad luck, I think things will change for Petter in 2010.
Now he has a good car he could win, but I think he will only win if the works drivers have problems. But anyway, a win is still a win. :bounce:

I think Petter will surprise many drivers in this years championship. The key factors that will contribute to that in my oppinion is:

1. Petter has got his confidence back. After the stagewin i Spain, he knew that he could be competetive again, given he had equally good equipment as Miko and Seb.
2. He finally has gotten a car that suits his driving style and that he can push to the limit without loosing his confidence. The car is exactly the same as the one Seb uses, exepct for the gearbox.
3. He is his own boss and can do whatever he pleases when it comes to setup of the car and team strategy
4. He is planning extended testing this year, which I think is crucial if he is going to be able to push for victory. He has planed 7-8 more days of testing than Ford and Citroen.

I think his first win this season will come in Mexico. This is a rally that suits him and he has won it before. I don't think he will win i Sweden. Snow has never been his favourite surface, even tough he has won it once before. I think a top 3 will be posible here.

I can't wait for this season to start!

[Viking]

Feels a bit like a déjà vu, Petter comes out with big noise about his car and his chances, his fans gets carried away big time, it will be interesting to see, if it again this year will end up with mega crying, how unfair the world is. :)

Who has been “mega crying” Petter? or us that still believe in him as a top driver?? Enlighten us…

[Tomi]

Who has been “mega crying” Petter? or us that still believe in him as a top driver?? Enlighten us…

his fans

[Viking]

his fans

Well I think most of his fans know he is a privateer and fighting from below against works teams. Some podiums, maybe a rare win and a podium (third) in WDC would be a cracking season.

[Halvis]

Feels a bit like a déjà vu, Petter comes out with big noise about his car and his chances, his fans gets carried away big time, it will be interesting to see, if it again this year will end up with mega crying, how unfair the world is. :)

This year he really has the opportunity to win rallies, since he's in competetive machinery for the first time since 2004. If he won't be up there fighting for wins in 2010, the time gone since he had the confidence to push 100 % is too long - so this is his last chance I think. Time will show.

Can't wait for the season to come!

[cali]

This year he really has the opportunity to win rallies, since he's in competetive machinery for the first time since 2004. If he won't be up there fighting for wins in 2010, the time gone since he had the confidence to push 100 % is too long - so this is his last chance I think. Time will show.

Can't wait for the season to come!

Let's wait and see. I would be very happy if Petter starts to fight for the wins, but I also do not like (read: sometimes silly) excuses afterwards. But ofcourse I understand why norwegians get carried away a bit too much ...

[JFL]

I'll hope and knows he'll do well. Another thing to remember: He can't write off any cars.. I don't know if he cares or have the budget to do that, but I guess that will be in his mind a little bit.. Try to finish every rally on 4 wheels, and maybe push even more at the second half of the season.. ?? ?

[Alpha]

Sure he can write off a car, he's got two ;)
Writing it off is perhaps a bit drastic, but he can certainly smash one up pretty bad without it becoming a problem. He can switch to the other one while the first gets put back together. He'll probably start off a bit cautious and try to rack up some points and show consistent performance to his sponsors though.

[Viking]

With all the testing before RS it looks more like coming out with guns blazing ;)

[Viking]

Will there be a team presentation of the PSWRT 2010 before Rally Sweden?

Team presentation is Friday..

[pucky54]

Great to hear

[Halvis]

Petter and Phil have achieved their goal regarding weight reduction, -4 on Petter and -8 on Phil - that is 6 times more weight reduction than the allegedly advantage of the newest gearbox :)

Much, much cheaper too.

The whole article in norwegian:

http://nrksport.no/motorsport/rally-vm/1.6974016

[JFL]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLZ2hQYn3AI
5 min. intervieiw with motors tv.

[Simmi]

Sure he can write off a car, he's got two ;)
Writing it off is perhaps a bit drastic, but he can certainly smash one up pretty bad without it becoming a problem. He can switch to the other one while the first gets put back together. He'll probably start off a bit cautious and try to rack up some points and show consistent performance to his sponsors though.

Not really. You are shipping a car off to a long haul event so far in advance you cant afford to be demolishing cars. The cars take time to fix, you also need to be prepping them for events. To run the year with just two chassis is nowhere near as easy as you make out.

[Langdale Forest]

Crashing a car is alway a bad thing.

[bennizw]

They have blowed off the presentation on friday due to the small amount of sports journalists left in Norway. Most have already left off to Vancouver.

[alleskids]

Former World Rally Champion Petter Solberg has commented that the WRC 2010 may be the last season

Running his own program this year as it did in 2009, the Norwegian has assembled a team he believes will give him another chance to repeat his title in 2003. But with tight finances, Solberg, 35, has only now been able to confirm a full season in his new Citroen C4 WRC.

"It was hard work, I must say," said Solberg. "But after being away from my wife and son two months, and after a series of phone calls with Citroen, we reached a very good plan. We will make the entire league and I really hope to have a good fight with the staff and large manufacturers. "

Solberg, who will start a 150 ° Mundialde Rally Championship next week in Sweden, said the amount of work out of the season had been tiring, but he was determined to take full advantage of the opportunity - what could be the last fight for a second title.

"Give me a couple of days of sleep and I'll be happy for the rest of the year - no problem," he said. "I'm ready, and at least I have a chance now. You never know, perhaps the last year that I'm doing it. Who knows? These are difficult times. So I will put every effort I can. I was pushing me, is very difficult - I'm thinner than when I was 17! "

[pettersolberg29]

I don't think Petter will still be here in 2011 if any of the following occur:
- he wins the WDC which is admittedly unlikely
- he has to be a privateer again
- WRC cars continue and not S2000 or 1.6T

If the new rules come in then there should be enough seats so that Petter won't have to pay and therefore should compete. If he has to do it himself with no investment from other drivers in PSWRT then this could be it. I hope for the best either way.

[Iskald]

They have blowed off the presentation on friday due to the small amount of sports journalists left in Norway. Most have already left off to Vancouver.

This is a rubbish explanation. Simply because its not true. No media are sending their journalists to Vancouver more than one week ahead of competitions.

[Tomi]

This is a rubbish explanation. Simply because its not true. No media are sending their journalists to Vancouver more than one week ahead of competitions.

I was thinking it sounded a bit odd too, but again norvegians and skiing you never know :)

[Gard]

This is a rubbish explanation. Simply because its not true. No media are sending their journalists to Vancouver more than one week ahead of competitions.

Well, a big group of them left yesterday. Most of the journalists I know, left yesterday or today.

[bennizw]

Well, a big group of them left yesterday. Most of the journalists I know, left yesterday or today.

Exactly. I am only quoting what Petters media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, told me.

[swordsman]

This is a rubbish explanation. Simply because its not true. No media are sending their journalists to Vancouver more than one week ahead of competitions.

I know a bunch of Swedish journalists (SVT guys etc) left Sweden a few weeks before the olympics in Beijing, so I'm not too sure...

[JFL]

It's not rubbish, a friend of mine left thursday with many journalists and technicians... There are many left too, but I'm afraid there is some more important news going on then a WRC team launch..

[Langdale Forest]

I still think that this will be Petters lucky year! :D

[pettersolberg29]

What is this I see here? I can't open it because I'm not in Norway. Looks like Petter's new team in a brightly designed car?

http://www1.nrk.no/nett-tv/sport/spill/verdi/122883

[Langdale Forest]

Surley if he wanted luck, he would have painted hid C4 in Subaru blue.

[Langdale Forest]

Former World Rally Champion Petter Solberg has commented that the WRC 2010 may be the last season

"

:(

[JFL]

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs164.snc3/19178_314440790497_665445497_5076420_5299167_n.jpg
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs184.snc3/19178_314448170497_665445497_5076431_1243643_n.jpg
I dont know if you can see it?

[Langdale Forest]

Looks awful, but it might bring him good luck.

[Alpha]

:(

Quote Petter: "You never know, perhaps the last year that I'm doing it. Who knows? These are difficult times."

It's not so sad or serious as the heading would make it seem.

[Krigen]

Looks awful, but it might bring him good luck.

Think it looks Ok.. I have seen alot of worse liveries, but also many who are better.. Well, anyway...

[Langdale Forest]

But for anyone who respects all the work and effort he has put into building a winning team, it is.

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks JFL. I like it - reminds me of Galli's Citroen and Whale in the past. Any interesting things said in the video?

[JFL]

Thanks JFL. I like it - reminds me of Galli's Citroen and Whale in the past. Any interesting things said in the video?
Same as in motors tv interview.
*does'nt make any money.
* He bet's all on this year, doesn't know what happens next year..

[Alpha]

Translation:

Interviewer: "Still as popular with the fans as ever but with no manufacturer backing him, the challenge is bigger than ever for Petter Solberg".

Petter: "It's gonna be hard, I know, to fight with the manufacturer teams. But if you don't try you'll never know. But I'll give the boys a good rund for their money".

Interviewer: "Solberg has gone from an income of 6 million euros to nothing. But for the rally driver, it isn't the income that's most rewarding."

Petter: "What I gain is the feeling of accomplishment. It also feels like a revenge in a small way against what has been the last years. But if you're talking about money there is nothing."

Interviewer: "Starting his own team isn't easy and Solberg is hinting that this years effort might be the last."

Petter: "What I'm doing this year is risking everything on one shot. We just have to take one year at a time. Who knows what's going to happen? There might not be a drive for next year. But I don't plan any further than the current season."

[Rallyper]

It looks good and Petter is delivering again. And you´ll see the difference between the C4: s now easily. You´ll see when Petter arrives...!

I think Petter is well worth all respects regarding all the work hé has done again. Good luck Petter!!

[Iskald]

Exactly. I am only quoting what Petters media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, told me.

Quoting rubbish then...There are still tons of sport journalists left in Norway. Do you really think the country is empty, one week ahead of Vancouver???

Media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, fine title. Never even heard of the lady. But she is obviously a media expert...

[Viking]

Quoting rubbish then...There are still tons of sport journalists left in Norway. Do you really think the country is empty, one week ahead of Vancouver???

Media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, fine title. Never even heard of the lady. But she is obviously a media expert...

I get this feeling she forgot to invite you Iskald :D

[pettersolberg29]

I know Tone so can guarantee her existence ;)

I'm also worried about Petter's continual mention of 'this is it' and he has no money left. He desparately needs a good year this year so that next year he gets a paid drive with a manufacturer otherwise it may be the end of him in the WRC.

[Rallyper]

Quoting rubbish then...There are still tons of sport journalists left in Norway. Do you really think the country is empty, one week ahead of Vancouver???

Media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, fine title. Never even heard of the lady. But she is obviously a media expert...

Looking at swedish media it doesnt mean a thing if they left for Vancouver or they are still in sweden, they only seems to focus on the olympics and none at other sports, rallying included, I´m afraid. Thanks that Kimi is there and making some extra publicity. Else there wouldnt been anything before the Rally sweden starts up. Sorry but that seems to be the way it is... :(

[MJW]

Looking at swedish media it doesnt mean a thing if they left for Vancouver or they are still in sweden, they only seems to focus on the olympics and none at other sports, rallying included, I´m afraid. Thanks that Kimi is there and making some extra publicity. Else there wouldnt been anything before the Rally sweden starts up. Sorry but that seems to be the way it is... :(
Same in GB, - We love rallying but media (except for Finland and the brilliant efforts of Welsh language tv Ralio+) only want to know about John Terry and football, and Katie Price, and reality tv shows. Even the Button and Hamilton novelty has worn away, - that may pick up when the F1 season starts though.

[pettersolberg29]

The one relief we do have in GB is Motorsport News - the only good motorsport paper availible to the masses.

[VFTS]

Quoting rubbish then...There are still tons of sport journalists left in Norway. Do you really think the country is empty, one week ahead of Vancouver???

Media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, fine title. Never even heard of the lady. But she is obviously a media expert...


She has been the media officer for PSWRT from the start of the team.

[bennizw]

Quoting rubbish then...There are still tons of sport journalists left in Norway. Do you really think the country is empty, one week ahead of Vancouver???

Media officer, Tone Nesheim Tonerud, fine title. Never even heard of the lady. But she is obviously a media expert...

I have never said what I think. I have only quoted what I have been told. You must be taking the piss when you say you haven´t heard of Tonerud. Either you are dwelling over a minor definition fault of her position as media officer from my side, or you obviously haven´t been following PWRT close enough. As VFTS says, she has been there since Petter presented the team a year ago.

[Motorsportfun]

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs164.snc3/19178_314440790497_665445497_5076420_5299167_n.jpg
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs184.snc3/19178_314448170497_665445497_5076431_1243643_n.jpg
I dont know if you can see it?

Geoblocking. :D

[RS]

I'm also worried about Petter's continual mention of 'this is it' and he has no money left. He desparately needs a good year this year so that next year he gets a paid drive with a manufacturer otherwise it may be the end of him in the WRC.

Is he subsidising his programme out of his own pocket then?

I guess Petter is pinning his hopes on a new manufacturer joining in 2011.

[pettersolberg29]

RS - I don't know if you're being serious because there have been some sarcastic 'poor Petter' comments, but yes. He has put a lot into the last two years (millions) and would be as poor as a tramp without Johs Lunde Yachting and Mad Croc!

I would have thought that Petter is next on the list of unemployed drivers for manufacturer's to want. Citroen are full for the forseeable future with Ogier as back up if Loeb retires, but Ford may have a space if JML fails again in2010. Other hopes are for a new manufacturer - but would Petter want to start afresh with a new team?

[MJW]

There IS LIFE outside WRC, its called Le Mans series and European (or ultimately World) Rallycross.

[pettersolberg29]

I assume that's what will happen - Petter is very keen to try in the LMS after his ORECA tests. Also Henning and Petter would make a mean Rallycross team!

[RS]

RS - I don't know if you're being serious because there have been some sarcastic 'poor Petter' comments, but yes. He has put a lot into the last two years (millions) and would be as poor as a tramp without Johs Lunde Yachting and Mad Croc!

I would have thought that Petter is next on the list of unemployed drivers for manufacturer's to want. Citroen are full for the forseeable future with Ogier as back up if Loeb retires, but Ford may have a space if JML fails again in2010. Other hopes are for a new manufacturer - but would Petter want to start afresh with a new team?

Yes, I was being serious. I appreciate Petter's big efforts to keep himself active at the top level of the sport and given the relatively poor state of the WRC I believe all fans of the sport should do so too....

I would have thought Petter's best hopes of a works seat would be with a new manufacturer. He should probably be no.1 on the shopping list for prospective new teams, unless Citroen give Sordo the boot to promote Ogier...

[pettersolberg29]

Yes, I was being serious. I appreciate Petter's big efforts to keep himself active at the top level of the sport and given the relatively poor state of the WRC I believe all fans of the sport should do so too...

I'm glad RS. Unfortunately there are a lot out there who don't like Petter for some reason or another. IMO he is an integral part of the WRC as other than Kimi he is the only personality who attracts any attention to rallying. Others do not capture the imagination in the same way.


I would have thought Petter's best hopes of a works seat would be with a new manufacturer. He should probably be no.1 on the shopping list for prospective new teams, unless Citroen give Sordo the boot to promote Ogier...

I agree, but his disadvantage is his age - he isn't getting better. Ogier is on Citroen's long-term list, while Mikkelsen is on Ford's long-term list so unless a shock happens, Petter's hopes lie on a new team.

[Barreis]

Mikkelsen bought 5 cars from M-sport.. Money plays around..

[MJW]

Mikkelsen can drive, but he is also a money kid.

[VFTS]

Mikkelsen can drive, but he is also a money kid.

There are no more money from his father. He has an another organization who helps him.

[Tomi]

unless Citroen give Sordo the boot to promote Ogier...

I think after this year he understand him self that if he ever want to become the nr1 in any team, he has to leave Citroen, Ogiers learning curve has been that convinsing.

[pettersolberg29]

Anyone else having trouble getting on http://www.pettersolberg.com ?

[Gordini]

Mikkelsen can drive, but he is also a money kid.

He was, but his father cut him off, as part of the grow up phase!

[JFL]

Anyone else having trouble getting on http://www.pettersolberg.com ?
No?

[Langdale Forest]

I never knew that Petter Solberg had a pet shop! :D

[pettersolberg29]

No?

For me and Langdale it comes up with some weird and completely unrelated adverts. It says the domain name is availible and all that malarkey. I assume the website is still the same for you JFL?

[Langdale Forest]

Prehaps he is going to be sponsored by a pet store or something!

[JFL]

http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/?lang_pref=en
works fine here.. nothing new.. still Johs Lunde there and last news is pictures from svulli rally dahbi..

[Langdale Forest]

That link still does not work, prehaps it only works in Norway.

[JFL]

A new site is probably in works...

[alleskids]

Mikkelsen bought 5 cars from M-sport.. Money plays around..

what kind of (rally)cars did Mikkelsen buy? Focus WRcars or Fiesta S2000's? and is it not better to put this in the news and rumours section?

[VFTS]

what kind of (rally)cars did Mikkelsen buy? Focus WRcars or Fiesta S2000's? and is it not better to put this in the news and rumours section?

Its already several years ago the team bought Focus WRC cars. Exept from one WRC07 they are all sold.

[alleskids]

so it is old news that Barries brouth to the forum? :)

[Barreis]

Old news.. :)

[Langdale Forest]

I want petter to win! :bounce: :champion:

[pettersolberg29]

It's posts like that which give fans of Mr.Solberg a bad name...

[Langdale Forest]

Who gives them a bad name then?

[pettersolberg29]

People who add nothing to the discussion, and seem uneducated as they post very simple comments that are already fully expressed in a signature. Comments like yours LF.

This isn't a fan's forum for Petter - it is a discussion. Develop it, say why you want him to win or something. Rant over.

[Langdale Forest]

I uderstand now.

[JFL]

the site does'nt work anymore here either... Probably a new design coming soon..

[MartijnS]

His new livery:

http://cdn.images.autosport.com/editorial/1265568665.jpg

[Langdale Forest]

Looks a bit like Novikov's car from 2009.

[N.O.T]

Very nice livery...

[pettersolberg29]

Hope the website is being redone - be a shame if they can't run it because they want to save money. Although the new site may be a bit blinding if it's bright yellow and red like his car...

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81327

2 more test days for Petter. 2010 could be his year? I know what's going to happen though. I've built myself up with hope and expectation for 2010, but I know he'll end up getting 3 podiums a few 4ths and end 5th in the championship. I just hope for his sake and the fans' too that he at least gives us something to get excited about...

...Starting off with a podium in Sweden!

[MJW]

Hope the website is being redone - be a shame if they can't run it because they want to save money.



In this day and age no one can afford to neglect the "new media", websites, blogg updates, Facebook & Twitter pages as well as a YouTube channel.
Expect a re-launced site soon, maybe even tomorrow

[Lousada]

In this day and age no one can afford to neglect the "new media", websites, blogg updates, Facebook & Twitter pages as well as a YouTube channel.
Expect a re-launced site soon, maybe even tomorrow

They already missed the ball by taking the website offline right AFTER the big presentation. I was searching for some clear pics of the new livery and of course couldn't find them on his own website.

[jrjohn]

Petter Solberg WRT! 2010! go!!!!!

[kiil]

Anyone else having trouble getting on http://www.pettersolberg.com ?

Seems like they forgot to renew the domain :-)

[jrjohn]

New looking like is very good! But I thought before black and white matches colors also completely suits his.

[pettersolberg29]

Anyone know if Petter will have the same car number for all races or do you, as a privateer, get a different one every rally? In Sweden he is number 11, while he is 10 in Mexico.

[pantealex]

Anyone know if Petter will have the same car number for all races or do you, as a privateer, get a different one every rally? In Sweden he is number 11, while he is 10 in Mexico.
If you look Mexico entrylist you will notice that biggest number in list is 35 and that is local peugeot 206 n2, so those are not car numbers! (SWRC starting number 21 and PWRC from 31, so under 20 numbers for those is impossible) I think Petter will be number 11 in Mexico!

[pettersolberg29]

Good point - thanks.

[GigiGalliNo1]

So will his clothing still be Silver and Black even though the car is Red and Yellow?

[serial jeff]

Nice livery... Not sure if I like it more than his old one, but it's definitely better than the manufacturer cars.

[Sulland]

Homebrew livery: http://translate.google.no/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dagbladet.no%2F2010%2 F02%2F08%2Fsport%2Fpetter_solberg%2Frally%2Fmotors port%2Fwrc%2F10302289%2F&sl=no&tl=en&hl=&ie=UTF-8

[EavesFan09]

If you look Mexico entrylist you will notice that biggest number in list is 35 and that is local peugeot 206 n2, so those are not car numbers! (SWRC starting number 21 and PWRC from 31, so under 20 numbers for those is impossible) I think Petter will be number 11 in Mexico!

So numbers 1-20 are WRC, 21-29 are SWRC AND 31-52 are SWRC? I see 63 & 65 are Van Merksteijn Motorsport who are WRC entries but from 61 onward no driver has a priority number so they won't be doing this year at all (apart from those who are PSD's.

So yes, Solberg will be #11. But I think all season and not just Mexico.

http://www.fia.com/en-GB/sport/championships/wrc/2010/sweden/Pages/entry_list.aspx

[Viking]

Testing times...

http://www.youtube.com/user/PetterSolbergRally#p/a/u/0/P1DbtD4jQio

http://www.youtube.com/user/PetterSolbergRally#p/a/u/1/0YMvYq6xyk0

[N.O.T]

wow ...he looks way faster than last year.....

[Fide]

wow ...he looks way faster than last year.....

Nonsense and lousy comments have returned...

[Red bull]

Mikkelsen can drive, but he is also a money kid.
five ford focus wrc cars!he must be stinking $s. :p :

[alleskids]

five ford focus wrc cars!he must be stinking $s. :p :
it is offtopic, but has Mikkelsen sold al of the Fouys WRcars to get his S2000 budget complete?

[Roy]

...I see 63 & 65 are Van Merksteijn Motorsport who are WRC entries but from 61 onward no driver has a priority number so they won't be doing this year at all...

http://www.fia.com/en-GB/sport/championships/wrc/2010/sweden/Pages/entry_list.aspx

What do you mean with "they won't be doing this year at all..." Father and son Van Merksteijn does drive rally Sweden and they plan a some more rallies in WRC.
I can't follow you here.

[Langdale Forest]

wow ...he looks way faster than last year.....

He has always been very fast.

[pettersolberg29]

Just in case people haven't looked, Petter's website is being redeveloped. Bad timing in my opinion, but it says it will be back in time for 'News from Rally Sweden'. Whether that means before, during or after the rally only he knows!

[swordsman]

Just in case people haven't looked, Petter's website is being redeveloped. Bad timing in my opinion, but it says it will be back in time for 'News from Rally Sweden'. Whether that means before, during or after the rally only he knows!

A beta is online now! ;) Very beta, btw... It even features some lorem ipsum text in the bottom :D

[pettersolberg29]

Typical - within seconds of my post it's online! Very nice site - video page, podcasts and everything. Be interesting to see if he continues to update it as much as he did last year.

[bluuford]

What do you mean with "they won't be doing this year at all..." Father and son Van Merksteijn does drive rally Sweden and they plan a some more rallies in WRC.
I can't follow you here.

It just seems that EF is trying a lot but his knowledge on rallying is a bit holey. He thinks that when you are not P1, P2 or P3 driver then you are not doing Championship. Well, there is very easy explanation for you EF.

P1 drivers are the highest priority. Those are so called Manufacturers or WRC Team cars. Manufacturer who is doing whole championship nominates one driver who does all 13 events and they can change their second driver as many times as they like. However second driver is always P1 driver as well. Car number is also the same for both (Manufacurer and WRC Team) for the whole season. WRC Team can change their drivers all the time.

P2 drivers list is here: http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.ns ... 202010.pdf (http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.nsf/E1B70131EBD97895C12576A8003D174B/$FILE/LISTE%20-%20Priorit%C3%A9%20%202%20-%202010.pdf)
Drivers entered with a WRCar who have been classified among the first ten in a World Championship Rally during one of the two previous years or during the current year. Have won the JWRC title or the PWRC title in either of the two previous years. Have been entered by a Manufacturer or WRC Team but not for scoring points in the Manufacturers’ Championship and have been proposed by an organiser to the FIA and whose entry is supported by a letter from the drivers’ ASN and whose results justify Priority 2 inclusion.

P3 Drivers: Drivers who:
1. enter rounds of the Support Championships or the WRC Cup, when scoring points.
2. are entered by a WRC Team using other than a World Rally car.
3. enter events as part of the Pirelli Star Driver programme. Exceptionally these drivers may score points for the FIA Production car World Rally Championship in a minimum of 4 events.
The FIA will allocate a permanent competition number between 21 and 55 to each driver registered in the Support Championships and the WRC Cup for the Championship season. At events qualifying for PWRC/SWRC and JWRC, JWRC permanent competition numbers shall be preceded by 1, ie. 121.

Drivers who have no priority are always on the general classification and for example if Harry Hunt (which is not possible in normal conditions) finishes in 8th place he still gets 1 point. So. Driver without priority is either beginner, driver who is not registered in JWRC, SWRC, PWRC or not driving with WR Car but he is always included in general standings.

Petter Solberg is P2 driver and there is no rule for their competition number but there is always possibility that driver can ask permission from FIA to fix one number for the whole season or for certain races (Galli always asked to use his favorite number when he was P2 driver) for example if he wants to sale his car models and it is good when he is recognized with one number.

So, I hope it helps you all a bit. Sorry for talking it under PSWRT thread.

[Fide]

Anybody knows what are the differences between Solberg's C4 and Raikonen ones ?

[JFL]

I don't know if Raikkonen has Loeb-spec, but Petter did'nt. Some less hp in engine, a littlebit on the suspension and the gearbox.. Petter hoped to get the latest spec. engine for Jordan.
It was just on the world rally radio.

[EavesFan09]

The FIA will allocate a permanent competition number between 21 and 55 to each driver registered in the Support Championships and the WRC Cup for the Championship season. At events qualifying for PWRC/SWRC and JWRC, JWRC permanent competition numbers shall be preceded by 1, ie. 121.

Am I right in thinking that 1-20 have been allocated to WRC, race numbers 21-30 have been allocated to the SWRC and numbers 31-46 have been allocated to the PWRC? Number 21# has been allocated to Martin Prokop and #30 has been allocated to Albert Llovera which is the highest number in the SWRC and #31 begins with Armindo Arajuo in the PWRC and ends with Anders Grondal.

Therefore are numbers 46-55 to be allocated to the JWRC? And what number has Ken Block been allocated?

[[WRCRR]]

Am I right in thinking that 1-20 have been allocated to WRC, race numbers 21-30 have been allocated to the SWRC and numbers 31-46 have been allocated to the PWRC? Number 21# has been allocated to Martin Prokop and #30 has been allocated to Albert Llovera which is the highest number in the SWRC and #31 begins with Armindo Arajuo in the PWRC and ends with Anders Grondal.

Therefore are numbers 46-55 to be allocated to the JWRC? And what number has Ken Block been allocated?

It goes pretty much like you said...only some corrections:

Numbers 1-20 are generally used for WRC-cars, except for number 13 that has not been in use for many seasons (do remember Jesus Puras using 13 in 555 China Rally once, and complaining about it :D ). Also numbers from 1-10 are permanent, because they belong to manufacturer/M2 entries. I assume Petter Solberg will also have the number 11 permanently this season as he is participating in all the events. Numbers 12 and 14-20 are changing and used for rally-by-rally WRC-entries. If there are more WRC entries OR if the driver of the WRCar has not got FIA 2 priority, they will be given numbers starting from 61 usually. No idea what number Ken Block will use, 43 maybe :D

In SWRC the numbers 21-30 are used, if there will be more entries still I assume numbers from 47- will be used for these entries. In PWRC the same, from 31-46 and if more entries come, numbers until 55 can be used. No idea about number 56, but 57-60 will likely be used for quest SWRC/PWRC entries after Sweden...or not :D ...because in Sweden for some reason they are 49-52...

It remains to be seen what numbers will be given to JWRC entries this season. EDIT: Oh right, maybe numbers 47-55 will be given to JWRC then...

[EavesFan09]

]Numbers 12 and 14-20 are changing and used for rally-by-rally WRC-entries. If there are more WRC entries OR if the driver of the WRCar has not got FIA 2 priority, they will be given numbers starting from 61 usually. No idea what number Ken Block will use, 43 maybe :D

In what way do the numbers change? If Mads Osberg were to leave number #15 could be handed to someone else who comes in?

Regarding the entries allocated numbers from #61 we have already seen this with both Adapta and van Merksteijn cars.


]In SWRC the numbers 21-30 are used, if there will be more entries still I assume numbers from 47- will be used for these entries. In PWRC the same, from 31-46 and if more entries come, numbers until 55 can be used. No idea about number 56, but 57-60 will likely be used for quest SWRC/PWRC entries after Sweden...or not :D ...because in Sweden for some reason they are 49-52...

Indeed if you look on the entry list no driver as yet to enter the SWRC running a S2000 rally car have a number under #47. Only those we know and those have a number ranging from #21 to #30.

I do notice that drivers entering an Impreza or an Evo do have numbers in excess of #56. What defines a "quest" entry?

[Langdale Forest]

A very dissapointing rally from Petter Solberg in Sweden. :(

[A.F.F.]

A very dissapointing rally from Petter Solberg in Sweden. :(

I agree.... I've been believing given the chance he woudl still make something of it. But Sweden proved otherwise. He was prone to make mistakes and slow. I couldn't help but thinking it's all over.

I hope I'm wrong....

[Tomi]

comon guys, Mexico is next, there is usually a weak entry, he will for sure be on the first page in the result sheets. :D

[MJW]

Well Petter said on the finish ramp at Sweden sh*t happens, so I guess he was trying too hard. No blaming of the car, team or anyone, just trying to make up too much in one go. He has worked harder than people realise to raise the money for this C4 campaign.And thats a huge effort in this day and age, to get the money, and get the car from Quensel. Others in the past, including the great Colin after losing works drives have expected it to be handed on a plate and make money from deals. Petter WANTS to drive, and WANTS to win. He deserves a break,

[A.F.F.]

Well Petter said on the finish ramp at Sweden sh*t happens, so I guess he was trying too hard. No blaming of the car, team or anyone, just trying to make up too much in one go. He has worked harder than people realise to raise the money for this C4 campaign.And thats a huge effort in this day and age, to get the money, and get the car from Quensel. Others in the past, including the great Colin after losing works drives have expected it to be handed on a plate and make money from deals. Petter WANTS to drive, and WANTS to win. He deserves a break,

Not trying to bash him at all. But if he himself feels disappointed, I think we ought as well.

[N.O.T]

after his perfomance in sweden i wonder what can we expect from him on the rest of the calendar events....and how long will it take since the sponsors start to jump ship ??

[Tomi]

I dont think there is much to expect, maybe a few top 6 finishes, and this will propably be his last season. I think he had big problems to find budget this year already, and it wont be any easier next year.

[Brother John]

I dont think there is much to expect, maybe a few top 6 finishes, and this will propably be his last season. I think he had big problems to find budget this year already, and it wont be any easier next year.

It is about time that he will stop driving rallys.
He can be team leader from his team and give his car seat to a young driver and make money in the future! There its examples enough in Finland!!! :s mokin:

[Viking]

comon guys, Mexico is next, there is usually a weak entry, he will for sure be on the first page in the result sheets. :D

Despite the poor entry it must be one of wery few wrc rallies never won by a Finn ;)

[Halvis]

I agree.... I've been believing given the chance he woudl still make something of it. But Sweden proved otherwise. He was prone to make mistakes and slow. I couldn't help but thinking it's all over.

I hope I'm wrong....

I agree completely, he didn't even have some fast stage times - as he had many of last year in the ancient Xsara.

I'll give hime the benefit of the doubt though, and look forward to Mexico.

[A.F.F.]

Despite the poor entry it must be one of wery few wrc rallies never won by a Finn ;)

And thanks to Loeb, it never will be won by a Finn.

[Iskald]

after his perfomance in sweden i wonder what can we expect from him on the rest of the calendar events....and how long will it take since the sponsors start to jump ship ??

Don`t know how you write your contracts in Greece, but sponsors in Norway doesn`t normally jump ship after one rally. ;)
Btw. I do agree that Petter`s performance in Sweden was hugely disappointing. But Petter was realistic about it and didn`t try to blame anyone or anything outside himself or his own team. I am sure things will get better than this, but it remains to see if he actually can fight for podiums.

[Tomi]

Despite the poor entry it must be one of wery few wrc rallies never won by a Finn ;)

Thats true, but Citroen has upper hand this year too.

[swordsman]

I think we (or at least I) may have had too high hopes of Petter's abilities to challenge this year. However, I also think we shouldn't judge Petter from his performance in Sweden. Looking at his driving and his speeches with media his brain was obviously more in marketing/finances mode than in driving-a-rally-mode. He started the friday talking about his mistake on Thursday evening... Quite obviously it's not the best mental approach. Of course it's hard to switch mode after a few months of intense work and search for money...

Hopefully Petter will have had more time to prepare mentally for Mexico! I still have hopes on him... :D

[Barreis]

I agree.. More focus on drive and less on business - an ideal..

[Tomi]

I think we (or at least I) may have had too high hopes of Petter's abilities to challenge this year. However, I also think we shouldn't judge Petter from his performance in Sweden. Looking at his driving and his speeches with media his brain was obviously more in marketing/finances mode than in driving-a-rally-mode. He started the friday talking about his mistake on Thursday evening... Quite obviously it's not the best mental approach. Of course it's hard to switch mode after a few months of intense work and search for money...

Hopefully Petter will have had more time to prepare mentally for Mexico! I still have hopes on him... :D

I belive this might be the case, if he would be a novice in WRC, but sure a veteran in WRC should be capable to focus on the obvious, and not carry around with him a stupid error from a meaningless super special.

[swordsman]

I belive this might be the case, if he would be a novice in WRC, but sure a veteran in WRC should be capable to focus on the obvious, and not carry around with him a stupid error from a meaningless super special.

Sure... Maybe he should be - but obviously he was carrying it around as he talked about it on the rally radio by himself - without people even asking him... :)

[Tomi]

Sure... Maybe he should be - but obviously he was carrying it around as he talked about it on the rally radio by himself - without people even asking him... :)

What interests me more than speculations about his menthal capability, is that someone here on forum said petter claimed that the setup in the actual rally had been changed from what it where after the test, any news on that point? Who changed, and why?

[swordsman]

What interests me more than speculations about his menthal capability, is that someone here on forum said petter claimed that the setup in the actual rally had been changed from what it where after the test, any news on that point? Who changed, and why?

Agree, that's really interesting. First off, did Citroën even have access to the car between the tests and the rally? I mean, it sounded on Petter he had it all in his own hands this year (even if I doubt Citroën would give him that).

If Citroën had the car in some phase between the tests and the rally, it wouldn't surprise me at all...

[Tomi]

Agree, that's really interesting. First off, did Citroën even have access to the car between the tests and the rally? I mean, it sounded on Petter he had it all in his own hands this year (even if I doubt Citroën would give him that).

If Citroën had the car in some phase between the tests and the rally, it wouldn't surprise me at all...

Thats what i mean, he talk about his own team, and more testing what the works guys gets, this changing of settings sounds wierd really.
The off on the sss was also actually small, so that can not have damaged anything important.

But still nr1 in explanations is Hennings, a few years back, "the car settings was changet during night".

[Koppomsbo]

Petter a least had the car in his own workshop from the small rally "finnskogsvalsen" he did som weeks before the Rally Sweden until the acctual Rally Sweden

[swordsman]

Petter a least had the car in his own workshop from the small rally "finnskogsvalsen" he did som weeks before the Rally Sweden until the acctual Rally Sweden

Then I guess he can't blame anyone else for changing it... His own mechanics? Sounds odd ;)

[Viking]

Citroën changed the engine before the rally, they found some small damage to one of the cylinders, as I understand petter also changed diffs and dampers before the rally but settings should have been the same.

Methinks the problem was that all the testing were done on perfect ice but conditions was wery different in Sweden.

[Tomi]

Citroën changed the engine before the rally, they found some small damage to one of the cylinders, as I understand petter also changed diffs and dampers before the rally but settings should have been the same.

Methinks the problem was that all the testing were done on perfect ice but conditions was wery different in Sweden.

All the Citroens tested in perfect conditions or different from Sweden this year.

[Viking]

But still nr1 in explanations is Hennings, a few years back, "the car settings was changet during night".

Remember that one :) ... found it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnwHBHcifko

[Halvis]

Thats what i mean, he talk about his own team, and more testing what the works guys gets, this changing of settings sounds wierd really.
The off on the sss was also actually small, so that can not have damaged anything important.

But still nr1 in explanations is Hennings, a few years back, "the car settings was changet during night".

But wasn't it actually correct, the setup had been changed? If my memory serves me correctly it was.

[Tomi]

But wasn't it actually correct, the setup had been changed? If my memory serves me correctly it was.

during night the cars are in a place called park ferme, where nobody has access.

[Viking]

during night the cars are in a place called park ferme, where nobody has access.

when Henning calmed down he said the mistake was made by someone in the team on the service before or after park ferme.

[JFL]

the car he tested was perfectly set up( First and only time he did a proper test before a WRC-round.) But that was in a test car. The team did'nt manage to setup the car the same as the test car, and ruined his rally.. At least the first day..

[Koppomsbo]

the car he tested was perfectly set up( First and only time he did a proper test before a WRC-round.) But that was in a test car. The team did'nt manage to setup the car the same as the test car, and ruined his rally.. At least the first day..

I hope that Henning put "return to sender" on the next invoice from M sport then...

[swordsman]

Citroën changed the engine before the rally, they found some small damage to one of the cylinders, as I understand petter also changed diffs and dampers before the rally but settings should have been the same.

Methinks the problem was that all the testing were done on perfect ice but conditions was wery different in Sweden.

Hmm... But he ran Finnskogsvalsen as part of his testing, and that can't have been on perfect ice if the Rally Sweden stages wasn't perfect ice? It's in exactly the same area...

[Tomi]

Hmm... But he ran Finnskogsvalsen as part of his testing, and that can't have been on perfect ice if the Rally Sweden stages wasn't perfect ice? It's in exactly the same area...

strange he did not notice anything odd during shakedown either, there would have been plenty of time to fix the setup.

[ShiftingGears]

I'll be amazed if he wins another WRC rally.

[Langdale Forest]

And so would everyone. ;)

[N.O.T]

all these idiotic excuses about the setup are just ridiculous.....Solberg has been in the wrc for around 10 years now...i doubt that this was the first time the testing was in different conditions than the actual rally...and if he cannot adapt the setup to the current conditions after all these years then he should pack his little circus and got home.

[Langdale Forest]

Have you ever run a private WRC team? :rolleyes:
Have you realised how hard it can be? :rolleyes:

Even still, I think that he is past his best.

[tmx]

Even still, I think that he is past his best. You would have to put Loeb or Sordo into Petter car to see if they perform the same/

Here's is a good interview of Chris about his time at Subaru: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81576

[Barreis]

Lost money is that RallyIreland last year citroen rent..

[JFL]

You would have to put Loeb or Sordo into Petter car to see if they perform the same/

Here's is a good interview of Chris about his time at Subaru: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81576

Great interview.. Pretty much the same as PS has explained about the car.. But when Petter told about it.. It was just whining and excuses.. :D

[Iskald]

all these idiotic excuses about the setup are just ridiculous.....Solberg has been in the wrc for around 10 years now...i doubt that this was the first time the testing was in different conditions than the actual rally...and if he cannot adapt the setup to the current conditions after all these years then he should pack his little circus and got home.

Yeah, I bet he`ll listen to your advice. If you`re lucky it could be that you will be hired - as a clown, in his little circus. ;) Don`t forget the white face makeup and the pointed hat.

[Fide]

all these idiotic excuses about the setup are just ridiculous.....Solberg has been in the wrc for around 10 years now...i doubt that this was the first time the testing was in different conditions than the actual rally...and if he cannot adapt the setup to the current conditions after all these years then he should pack his little circus and got home.

I can bet Petter will win again this year, then I would like to see what will you do with all your ironic and not constructive comments. BTW you continue talking and talking about Solberg..... seems you are an undercover fan or too bored to do anything else.

[N.O.T]

I can bet Petter will win again this year, then I would like to see what will you do with all your ironic and not constructive comments.

what indications do you have and say such a thing ??

[Langdale Forest]

I will laugh if he does win though!

[Fide]

what indications do you have and say such a thing ??


I have a crystal ball :) :)

[Tomi]

I have a crystal ball :) :)
Can you check from your crystal ball, is it 5 or 6 that has to retire from the front to make your wish come true? :D

[Fide]

Can you check from your crystal ball, is it 5 or 6 that has to retire from the front to make your wish come true? :D

After Mex I will refine my forecast, but I strongly believe Crystal Ball will say there will be not need to count with retirements......

[N.O.T]

well i expect solberg on 1st day to be around top 4 with his road position and then lose around 10-20 seconds per stage on the following days.....a normal rally for him.

[Langdale Forest]

Loosing 20 seconds per stage, that sounds like a bit too much?

[JFL]

N.O.T
It must be jealousy or something....??
I'm sure after all this writing you have convinced all the people that you are right..
20 sec. per stage is a good bet I think.. I hope you are right, so you can get your sleep at night..

[gravelman]

I don't know if Raikkonen has Loeb-spec, but Petter did'nt. Some less hp in engine, a littlebit on the suspension and the gearbox.. Petter hoped to get the latest spec. engine for Jordan.
It was just on the world rally radio.

Was in Sweden and there was a definite difference between the works cars and Petters. The works cars were noticably punchier out of the corners than Petters, the Hagfors stage being the perfect example. I was not the only person spectating that noticed this.

[Iskald]

N.O.T
It must be jealousy or something....??
I'm sure after all this writing you have convinced all the people that you are right..
20 sec. per stage is a good bet I think.. I hope you are right, so you can get your sleep at night..

You know, we should really ignore "the guy presently known as a clown in a little circus". He has more than 10 000 posts on his account, and most certainly the forum record for sarcasm and negativity, which surely is his main goal and ambition in life. Its really unbelievable, but we are actually giving his life some value with our reactions! :rolleyes:

[N.O.T]

i said 10-20 seconds per stage..... am i wrong ??? check his results guys of the last few rallies....you are acting like i make things up to diminish solberg.....

[Langdale Forest]

Nonsense, Petter solberg has lost alot of time on some stages last year, but 8 seconds a stage is nowhere like 20 seconds so what is the point Mr. N.O.T?

[Donney]

Oh no, never! You are known for your constructive posts and patience about what Solberg does or can do in the future....

[Fide]

People doesn't stop to talk about Petter.... This is charism my friends, the rest are lack of... (i.e. Sebastien). WRC needs more people like Petter (I miss Marcus, Colin and some other monster of the golden age of Group B). Some of you who support this passion for WRC should desire his succes on benefit this fantastic discipline. (My humble opinion). Fide

[amilk]

I'm fan of Petter and I agree that WRC need guys like Petter. But the target to fight for WRC title too high (it will be difficult to win a single rally)
I was in sweden last week and watched the team during recce time in service park and also during the rally. I think Petter still doing and dealing with to much thing itself meantime others are focusing to just to driving.
An other thing on the stage: a bit dissapointed - I'm not analysed the times and read stage interviews so the background I don't know but ont he stages the driving style/speed not convinced me. Ogier done more clear and agressive drive. I hope it will change and he will fight for podium next time

[WRCfan]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

[Langdale Forest]

Al-Quassimi is only there because he brings a massive sponsor into the Ford team.

[Woodeye]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

Good post. I think it's rediculous to demand someone to be sent home. If this someone is driving in WRC, that's good. If that someone wouldn't be driving it would be one car less on the road making the rally even more boring as it is now. The more cars on the road, the better. Petter for example is not going to win anything this year, but I give him credit for trying at least and paying nearly everything himself.

[tmx]

Al-Quassimi is only there because he brings a massive sponsor into the Ford team. So is this a negative or a positive thing? (PS. It's a rhetorical question so no need to answer.)

[Donney]

Al-Quassimi is only there because he brings a massive sponsor into the Ford team.


And thank God he does.

[Langdale Forest]

Without him, there probably be no Ford works team, so it has to be a good thing.

[Halvis]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

Best post I've read in a long time!

[Fide]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

You know why ???????????? because Petter still has the talent in there... Because with a crappy car last year he obtained good results and he has been the only guy with really big b a l l s to build from zero a decent private team. Then probably this wave of crticism towards him has a little of dissapoint and anxiety to see the old Solberg fighting in the top three.

[Langdale Forest]

... Because with a crappy car last year he obtained good results and he has been the only guy with really big b a l l s to build from zero a decent private team.

I don't think many other drivers would want to build their own team so we should respect Petter. :)

[GigiGalliNo1]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

You go Girl!

[BDunnell]

All the armchair experts really sound like a bunch of tossers...

The way everyone picks on Solberg, he's crap send him home, ok well while we are at it, Sordo has never won a WRC, send him home, Latvala crashes too much send him home too, Ogier - not a win in WRC class so he goes home too.

Rautenbach, ohh wait he went home, Henning, send him home too because he is not consistently on the podium, Matt Wilson, he gets to go home as he is winless too, Al Qassimi, send him home because he is a joke. Mads, sorry your on the plane home as well, Kimi, sorry you didn't get much of a chance but your without a win so off we go...Ah screw it; send everyone home except Hirvonen and Loeb because they are the only two consistently winning rallies.

It's no longer a discussion, it's just boring and become far too personal. No one whinges about any other driver being there getting crap results EXCEPT when Petter does.

If Solberg should be sent packing, then every other driver except Loeb and Hirvonen should too because none of them are quicker than the top two and will not win a rally as long as Loeb and Mikko are on the road.

When Graham Hill's driving career was nearly over, and his F1 appearances were becoming increasingly lame, he once told an interviewer that people suggested he was embarrassing himself with these poor performances. His response to this was to say that what was really happening was that he was embarrassing them, meaning those who used to support him. I suppose the same is true of Solberg to an extent.

[WRCS14]

I agree the more semi privateer teams that compete the better. In these times they are fewer between in the the WRC events. I would rather see another top car going past even if it is driven by a middle eastern driver who mightnt have the outright pace of Loeb. I go to rallys for the spectacle also and this is most surely lost if its only 6 or so cars in the top class.

[serial jeff]

When Graham Hill's driving career was nearly over, and his F1 appearances were becoming increasingly lame, he once told an interviewer that people suggested he was embarrassing himself with these poor performances. His response to this was to say that what was really happening was that he was embarrassing them, meaning those who used to support him. I suppose the same is true of Solberg to an extent.

What's embarrasing about being the best non-works (top 4) driver?

[Tomi]

Good post. I think it's rediculous to demand someone to be sent home.

Agree even if the guy is off pace, i dont see also why he should be sent home.

[pettersolberg29]

Finally some sense being spoken ;)

I find it bizarre anyone criticises Petter when he's easily in the top 5 rally drivers in the world. Yes, he's nowhere near as good as Loeb or Mikko, but that doesn't mean he doesn't have a place. As WRCfan says, if Petter isn't good enough, then that will leave only 4 drivers on each rally!

[Langdale Forest]

I think that anyone who criticises Petter needs to be criticised themselves.

Another thing that is good about Petter is that he helped in a boat rescue before the Acropolis Rally last year. :)

[jbmarcus21]

Petter according to his website, he is going to Test 2 Days before Mexico.... Someone says where ??

[N.O.T]

you cannot really sent home a guy who pays for everything...if he was in a works team then it would be open to discussion.

I don;t know what kind of contracts with sponsors Solberg has but if its allowed for them to withdraw depending on results then i cannot see solberg finishing the season.

[MJW]

Petter according to his website, he is going to Test 2 Days before Mexico.... Someone says where ??
Its in Mexico not Europe (France / Spain / Italy etc.) where you may do a dry gravel test in prep for Mexico. Like Ford and Citroen have done.

[Langdale Forest]

you cannot really sent home a guy who pays for everything...if he was in a works team then it would be open to discussion.

I don;t know what kind of contracts with sponsors Solberg has but if its allowed for them to withdraw depending on results then i cannot see solberg finishing the season.

There is still time for Solberg to imprress his sponsors even more. :)

[jbmarcus21]

Its in Mexico not Europe (France / Spain / Italy etc.) where you may do a dry gravel test in prep for Mexico. Like Ford and Citroen have done.

Ford and Citroen prepares in Spain ;)

[BDunnell]

What's embarrasing about being the best non-works (top 4) driver?

Nothing. If you re-read my post, I wasn't being critical of Solberg, but of the view some people have of his performances.

[WRCfan]

You go Girl!

Thanks honey. Don't forget your cheering pom poms when Petter comes to NZ ok Matt! ;)

[Iskald]

you cannot really sent home a guy who pays for everything...if he was in a works team then it would be open to discussion.

I don;t know what kind of contracts with sponsors Solberg has but if its allowed for them to withdraw depending on results then i cannot see solberg finishing the season.

It may come as a big disappointment for you, N.O.T, but I`m sure that Petter Solberg has proper contracts and ditto loyal sponsors to complete the season. Don`t burst out crying violently now then, N.O.T, its just a sport you know. ;)

[Rallyper]

Nice one in shakedown in Mexico by Petter!

Could be a podium place...! :)

[N.O.T]

he was 1st in shakedown so expect him to win there followed by the true legend human race ambasadors Blok and kimmi.

[Fide]

More than 10 thousands of boring comments...............

[Donney]

and counting...

[Langdale Forest]

I have a sitxh sense that is telling me that Solberg is going to win.

[pino]

he was 1st in shakedown so expect him to win there followed by the true legend human race ambasadors Blok and kimmi.

How about you stay away from threads you don't like, insted of posting negative comments all the time...I am tired of them. And yes this is an official warning !

[Fide]

How about you stay away from threads you don't like, insted of posting negative comments all the time...I am tired of them. And yes this is an official warning !

Fully agree...

[Sulland]

Best result for PS WRT so far. Petter and Phil needed this booster, and especially winning the fight with Ogier on the Last SSS !

No bulls... tactics, but full attack from start to finish !

Looking forward to the next one guys !

[Donney]

Great rally, fantastic result!!!!

[pino]

Great result for Petter, hopefully we will se him on podium many times this year :D

[Barreis]

Maybe this testing paid off..

[Langdale Forest]

The 2nd place in Mexico would have given Petter his confidence back, a reapeat performance in Jordan would be good.

[EavesFan09]

What hasn't been mentioned is his battle with Ogier.

Ogier was always up Solbergs trumpet the whole time till SS11 when Loeb took the lead having been 3rd at Super Special 2. Ogier was always within touching distance of Solberg. Then it was between Solberg and Ogier. From SS11 to SS13 Solberg was leading Ogier...till SS14 when Ogier took the lead. But after SS15 Solberg too the lead from Ogier all the way till SS19 when Ogier retook top stop from Solberg. But on the final stage Solberg retook the lead from Ogier for about the 3rd time. Every way along the rally Ogier and Solberg were only seconds apart.

Petters team is the only Citroen team I will to do well and I pray he puts in another similar great rally in the Middle East.

[JFL]

http://www.viasatsport.no/
The last stages and drama of Mexico.. With full "interview" with Petter after the super special stage.. "Solberg i tårer"
Don't know if this works outside Norway? Sorry.. Worth a try anyway...

[Iskald]

How about you stay away from threads you don't like, insted of posting negative comments all the time...I am tired of them. And yes this is an official warning !

I would never have thought that it should come to this, but here goes: I am writing this in support of forumer N.O.T and the principle of freedom of expression on this forum.

I have seen that you have posted "official warnings" on two diffrent threads, pino. In my opinion this is very harsh, based on your subjective interpretation that N.O.T is "negative".

On a forum like this there must be accept for satire, irony and critisism, even heavy critisism. Sometimes satire can be (falsely) interpreted as "negative", but it isn`t always the case. Freedom of expression is a most important principle, and it has nothing to do whether other discussion participants is completely disagreeing with you or not. I myself disagree (sometimes completely) with N.O.T in most of his statements and caracteristics, but I do not find them especially offensive or offending. He has a different kind of humour than most other forumers, and it may be well and truly irritating when he is repeating his old jokes, but from time to time he is actually somewhere near being a bit funny, too!

What isn`t acceptable is of course personal abuse and blatant disrespect. It may seem that N.O.T is being close to disrespectful in his caracteristics of for instance Ken Block and Kimi Raikkkönen during the last days. Many of us find this highly annoying, but in principle I will say that as public performers and persons, Block, Raikkönen and others should accept this level of satire and critisism. They are not "attacked" with personal abuse, but they are critisised for being hyped up and/or slow rally drivers. This is the personal opinion of N.O.T, like it or not, but it is actually his right to express these opinions.

It may be that I should have started a thread on Forum Feedback instead of posting here, pino, but as you are posting your official warnings on an existing thread instead of sending a PM to N.O.T, I chose to post here.