Rally of Spain-Catalunya 2009- Oficial Thread

[106 sport]

Hi, next week is going to be closed the entry period. I would like to know which drivers will compete in the rally.

I saw in this forum this news:

"Paul Bird will enter the final two rounds of this year's World Rally Championship in a new M-Sport built Ford Focus WRC, according to Motorsport News.

Bird will contest Rally Catalunya and GB this October in a move that could lead a full WRC campaign next year. He has recruited ex-Hyundai WRC team manager Paul Risbridger to oversee his rally activities."

Thanks in advance. ;)


This is a info about the new shakedown:

"Shakedown in “Coll de la Teixeta”, the start section of the Riudecanyes stage

Following the authorisation by the FIA, the idea of the RACC, of using part of the real stages of the race to make the Shakedown will be another contribution of the Rally de España to the continuous cost reduction battle.
This test area, that will be used on Thursday October 1st in the morning, will start exactly at the start of stages number 13 and 16 “Riudecanyes”, that will be raced on Day 3, to cover the 4.32 initial km until Coll de la Teixeta and then turn back following the road section to the village of Les Irles on the N-420 road.
Priority crews will be able to set-up a reduced service area 360 metres before the start of the stage, while the rest will have their service areas in Les Irles. The complete infrastructure of the teams will obviously be set-up at the service park in PortAventura.
P1 and P2 drivers will do the Shakedown from 08.00 to 10.00 a.m., while P3 drivers will join them from 10.00 a.m. to noon. Last but not least, the rest of the drivers will be able to do the shakedown from 12.30 to 02.30 p.m.
Supplementary Regulations published at www.rallyracc.com (http://www.rallyracc.com/)
On August 1st, the Supplementary Regulations of the 45 RallyRACC Catalunya-COSTA DAURADA, Rally de España, were published at www.rallyracc.com (http://www.rallyracc.com/) in Spanish and English, with all the sporting and technical information needed by drivers entered or having the intention to enter the race. Moreover, the entry period will close on Tuesday, August 25th."

[Wim_Impreza]

Jasper van den Heuvel/Martine Kolman (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 10) have this rally on their calendar:
http://www.heuvel-motorsport.com/index.php?mod=kalender.

They won the Group N last year in this rally.

[WRCS14]

What bussiness does Paul Bird have, I know he runs a motorbike team maybe in WSB too? He must be very succesful to operate WRC campaign in 2010 :)

[Francis44]

Oh Cool!!!!

[richy]

Paul Bird used to own Monster Mob, which was a ringtone company for mobiles, not sure what he does now though:

http://www.paulbirdmotorsport.com/

any other news of entries?

[106 sport]

According to the Spanish magazine Auto Hebdo Prokop could to take part in the last two round of the WRC (Spain and GB) with a C4 WRC...I hope it...

[StevieWonder]

according to http://www.rallye-magazin.de/r/wm/d/n/d/2009/08/21/solberg-testete-citroen-c4/index.html
Petter is concentrating of using a more competitive car in Wales - Focus
or C4 (already tested) and maybe he will cancel Spain in his rally program this year to have more time for a good deal.

[106 sport]

30 years of world championship history at the RallyRACC 2009

http://www.rallyracc.com/fototeca/f_331_Peugeot205Turbo16.RallyRACC2008.JPGPeugeot 205 Turbo 16. RallyRACC 2008 Just like last year, a caravan of Rally Vehicles with History will form part of the RallyRACC Catalunya-COSTA DAURADA, Rally de España (1 to 4 October 2009), travelling along all of the stages between the two daily passages to be done by the participants of the world championship. With the co-operation of the German organization led by Reinhard Klein, photographer and businessman, the participation of the Vehicles with History will, in a certain way, pay homage to the 30 years since the creation of the Drivers’ World Rally Championship.
Since Björn Waldegaards victory in 1979 at the wheel of his Ford Escort, a total of 16 drivers have become World Champions, and fans will be able to see a representation of the models that have been used in the WRC throughout these years on the roads of Tarragona. Some 25 vehicles of many different types and with a great historic interest, in perfect conditions, and with their original decorations, will be travelling along the stages of the RallyRACC, driven by their owners, delighting the attending spectators.
The vehicles will be exhibited at the PortAventura Service Park as well, but their movement will obviously be the most expected event by all fans. On Thursday, 1 October, these Vehicles with History (name that distinguishes them from the vehicles competing in the world championship) will start from the podium in Salou at 7 p.m. to travel along the city and back to the podium, where they will stay to be exhibited. On Friday, 2 October, they will be starting at 10 a.m. to cover the stages of La Mussara (11.10 a.m.), Querol (12.50 p.m.) and El Montmell (01.40 p.m.), to be back in PortAventura from 04.00 p.m.
On Saturday, 3 October, the start is scheduled at 09.45 a.m. to cover the stages of El Priorat/La Ribera (12.00), Les Garrigues (12.50 p.m.) and La Llena (01.30 p.m.), arriving in PortAventura from 03.20 p.m. Finally, on Sunday 4 October, the vehicles will have an early morning start at 08.50 a.m. and the stages they will cover will be again those to be raced on the last day by the participants, i.e. Riudecanyes (10.00 a.m.), Santa Marina (11.05 a.m.) and Serra d'Almos (11.55 p.m.). The Vehicles with history will cover the road sections in caravan formation and will start the stages at intervals of 15 seconds with specific 0 and 00 cars, to be back at the podium in Salou from 01.05 p.m. on Sunday, where they will remain to be exhibited.

[106 sport]

Today were closed the entries, any news??? :s mokin:

[richy]

Graham Coffey is also coming over from the uk to do it in his ex Mark Van Eldik S12 Impreza.

He's doing a UK tarmac event this sunday as a shakedown

[106 sport]

Graham Coffey is also coming over from the uk to do it in his ex Mark Van Eldik S12 Impreza.

He's doing a UK tarmac event this sunday as a shakedown



Hi, and what about Eamonn Boland, Gareth Jones, Tim Mcnulty and the Van Merksteijn´boys??? All of them were inside the entry list of last year.

Thanks in advance and best regards. :)

[Wim_Impreza]

The Van Merksteijn's have this rally on the calendar, see here: http://www.vm-motorsport.nl/nl/agenda.php

I must say it is by far not sure if they come to Catalunya. They weren't in the WRC rounds of Italy, Poland and Finland, which were on their calendar.

[richy]

Im not sure on the others, I would have thought Boland is a definate.

Also know that Craig Breen and Gareth Robrts are doing the event in the new "r2" fiesta. They've won both the British and Irish Fiesta Championshipsthis year and the two World Fiesta Rounds they've done. Im sure I remember reading that Jason Pritchard is also coming over to do it in his C2R2.

I cant wait to hit the Bus Stop bar again in the nights, rally in the day, drinking at night, brilliant ;)

[lcd]

Any news of Lambros Athanassoulas In Catalunya rally?
Greek site reported he will be behind the wheels of a Fiesta R2...
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=16817

[dimviii]

Any news of Lambros Athanassoulas In Catalunya rally?
Greek site reported he will be behind the wheels of a Fiesta R2...
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=16817

confirmed today! :D
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=16829

[richy]

One of the British drivers coming over:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d65/richy_m/2-6.jpg

Graham Coffey in his new Impreza S12B on the Mewla Rally yesterday, first time he's driven the car I believe, it sounded bloody lush ;)

[pucky54]

The Ex-van Eldik Impreza ;)

[lcd]

confirmed today! :D

Wonder If this Is going to be the ''chance of his life'', as some said his
possition In Greece wasn't that Impressive, as he was familiar to the locations/surfaces...
A great performance In Spain (...getting some points... ), will probably open some doors ( ? ) for the future...

[N.O.T]

If athanasoulas wants to boost his career in rallying he needs to do IRC in s2000 where the competition is fierce and he will measure up to drivers who had succesful careers....I am not that excited about his catalunya debut....not any real competition in the class he participates in, same as in acropolis.

If he wants to stay as he is his move is ok but if he wants to get something out of it he should start considering events with competition.

[lcd]

... if he wants to get something out of it he should start considering events with competition.

Does that mean he'd better start searching for some big sponsor?

'Cos he ain't going nowhere without money, right?
Unless he is noticed from a team abroad ( ? )

[N.O.T]

Every driver starts his career with pocket money...none started with a big sponsor...and no sponsor will come just because you are a good boy...Sponsors need results.

[lcd]

You're right! But I think he's running out of time...He's already 33! How long will It take him, to show the ''good results'' ?

[N.O.T]

As i said its a matter of approach....doing those one offs doesn;t really lead anywhere, and the Fiesta trophy he did a few years back was a watse of time and money...but as i said...if he doesn;t want to get anything from rallying its fine.


Its a very expensive sport so you have to think before you act, and its always a matter of what your goals are.

[MikeD]

One of the British drivers coming over:Graham Coffey in his new Impreza S12B on the Mewla Rally yesterday, first time he's driven the car I believe, it sounded bloody lush ;)

Do you know what team will run/prepare his car? Dom Buckley, or Val Eldiks team (called MenM Rallyteam)?

[RS]

Any good drivers going to Catalunya or just rich boys? :rolleyes:

[richy]

Do you know what team will run/prepare his car? Dom Buckley, or Val Eldiks team (called MenM Rallyteam)?

I think it could be ATM, not sure though

[dimviii]

Athanasoulas colors for R2 fiesta.

http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=16842
http://www.rally.gr/data/photo/50721.jpg

[richy]

Dave Weston Jr is coming over in his N14 Impreza according to Motoring News today

[StevieWonder]

Petter will compete with C4 in Catalunya and Wales !!!
GOOOOOD NEWS !

[lcd]

Athanasoulas colors for R2 fiesta.
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=16842


... :up:

[Wim_Impreza]

The Belgian talented driver Thierry Neuville, who drove the BF Goodrich Peugeot in Ypres, will drive this rally in the Citroën C2 R2 Max. It will be his debut in a WRC rally.

A photo of his car: http://www.autonews-magazine.com/blognl/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/neuville-030d.jpg

[Barreis]

Sponsors need good promotion..

[106 sport]

Tomorrow it is going to be release the entry list, anyone is waiting for some surprise???

[harriswrc]

And here is the list:
http://info.rallyracc.com/2009/descargas/inscritos.pdf

Surprise? Mikkelsen C4 WRC!!!

[VFTS]

And here is the list:
http://info.rallyracc.com/2009/descargas/inscritos.pdf

Surprise? Mikkelsen C4 WRC!!!

Mikkelsen will not start!

[muscrae]

Mikkelsen will not start!

Source?

[rsmith16]

Interesting number of R2 spec Fiestas on the entry list - Surely they are not eligible for the Fiesta Sporting Trophy?

[106 sport]

The entry list has disappointed me a bit... But just in these times of crisis ... Among the WRC I miss Mads Ostberg with the new Subaru, the Van Merksteijn with the Fords and to some Irish driver... Besides I read above that Mikkelsen will not compete...I really hoped about 20 WRC...Although is going to compete all the best drivers of the championship.

[rsmith16]

Interesting number of R2 spec Fiestas on the entry list - Surely they are not eligible for the Fiesta Sporting Trophy?

Ignore that - just found the regs for the championship & both the ST & R2 versions are eligible... Think this round is the first that the R2 version can be used...

[Tom206wrc]

Mikkelsen will not start!


:confused: :confused:



About entrylist: sad there are no S2000s ;(

[tolis]

@Tom:No 77:Albert Llovera-Punto S2000

[Mirek]

And that's special S2000 because Albert Llovera is dissabled and has throttle and brake controled by hands.

[jbmarcus21]

Program
Entrylist
Google Earth Map of the rally ...
http://planetemarcus.free.fr/espagne09.htm

[GTA]

:confused: :confused:


About entrylist: sad there are no S2000s ;(

there are 2 S2000: 1 Punto Llovera and 1 Skoda for Brynildsen

[wwbroe]

there are 2 S2000: 1 Punto Llovera and 1 Skoda for Brynildsen

Good luck in Spain, Jack, and hopefully Brynildsen can bring home some nice result. ;)

[Sulland]

Ignore that - just found the regs for the championship & both the ST & R2 versions are eligible... Think this round is the first that the R2 version can be used...

I am just amazed that so many R2 Fiestas are made by now. Lets see how they match the C2 R2. They have been around for a while, so they should have an advantage.

Brynildsen probably need a few ss to get up to speed, since his training was cut short by the tragic accident in Larvik.

[cannyboy]

Does the C2R2 have 30bhp over the fiesta or am i reading that wrong?

[Langdale Forest]

I think Sordo will win because I predict Loeb will suffer an engine failure. :D

[A.F.F.]

Program
Entrylist
Google Earth Map of the rally ...
http://planetemarcus.free.fr/espagne09.htm

Cheers JB :up:

[gloomyDAY]

If I have trouble falling asleep I'll just watch this rally.

Rally Spain is like eating handful of sleeping pills.

[Langdale Forest]

I agree with you for the last two years.

[WRCS14]

Which stage has the very crowded right hand hairpin onto a wide new road? Its sort of the new famous hairpin since the rally moved location :D

[Priorat]

Which stage has the very crowded right hand hairpin onto a wide new road? Its sort of the new famous hairpin since the rally moved location :D

Let me answer: It's Priorat - La Ribera d'Ebre TC 7/10 on Saturday

[Helstar]

I think Sordo will win because I predict Loeb will suffer an engine failure. :D
Based on what ^^ ? If you remember Montecarlo 2008 then you'll see it's more likely the other way round...

[Juha_Koo]

Based on what ^^ ?

I'm guessing the statistics. :D

[serial jeff]

I think Sordo will win because I predict Loeb will suffer an engine failure. :D

Heh, I just had a mental image of Malcolm Wilson pouring water into the C4 gas tanks...

[Helstar]

Ah Malcolm ... he's dying to win this driver championship I guess too :p !

[jonkka]

Would anyone know real name of "Asi" in crew #93 "Asi" / Piko Zsuzsa?

[noel157]

Would anyone know real name of "Asi" in crew #93 "Asi" / Piko Zsuzsa?

Orfű?

I like his co-driver, Piko: http://rallyfanclub.dyndns.org/downloads/video/asi/2008_szombathely_rallye/visszakapott_pontok/ASI_VISSZAKAPOTT_PONTOK_02.jpg

[Wim_Impreza]

Would anyone know real name of "Asi" in crew #93 "Asi" / Piko Zsuzsa?

György Aschenbrenner

[jonkka]

György Aschenbrenner

Thanks Wim!

[Xsara Fan]

Orfű?

I like his co-driver, Piko: http://rallyfanclub.dyndns.org/downloads/video/asi/2008_szombathely_rallye/visszakapott_pontok/ASI_VISSZAKAPOTT_PONTOK_02.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_0XbhQfSUDGE/SfRrSaIZFuI/AAAAAAAABEc/-W3F3zcMzzU/DSC06518.JPG

[noel157]

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_0XbhQfSUDGE/SfRrSaIZFuI/AAAAAAAABEc/-W3F3zcMzzU/DSC06518.JPG

Thanks XF.

[dimviii]

Athanasoulas fiesta is ready.
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=17006

[bluuford]

Athanasoulas fiesta is ready.
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=0&article_id=17006

His cars have always very nice livery :-)

[Xsara-WRC]

http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/297964/Nov.jpg

[Xsara Fan]

http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/297964/Nov.jpg

What happened with your forum, my friend?

[bluuford]

What happened with your forum, my friend?
I can see that Novikov has new sponsor? Or what?

[Mirek]

Does it relate to letting Sordo pass in Acropolis?

[Juha_Koo]

Looks like the colours of the Russian flag combined with "Citroen Russia", Russia written using cyrillic alphabet. Somehow the side looks like eagle's feathers. Double-headed eagle on the bonnet maybe?

[Xsara Fan]

At the last 2 rounds of the WRC Novikov will have a new sponsor - Citroen Russia.

[bluuford]

At the last 2 rounds of the WRC Novikov will have a new sponsor - Citroen Russia.

OK! That is a good news :-) He does not have many good results to show from this year but definitely he has speed, he has very spectacular driving style and he has got the most air time.. of course after Loeb and Hirvonen for sure :-)

[urabus-denoS2000]

Wow Asi in a rally outside Hungary,hope his "N4" passes the technical ;)

[noel157]

OK! That is a good news :-)
and he has got the most air time.. of course after Loeb and Hirvonen for sure :-)

He certainly got plenty of air time at NORF on that jump......... :)

[Xsara-WRC]

What happened with your forum, my friend?

Is allways on line why ? ;)

[teufel]

Wow Asi in a rally outside Hungary,hope his "N4" passes the technical ;)

He already passed the scrutineering ;)

[Xsara Fan]

Is allways on line why ? ;)

I try to open the link but I always redirect at www_canada_com

[Xsara Fan]

Shakedown: http://www.rallyracc.com/2009/ingles/online.html?pag=sk

[karo]

Wow Asi in a rally outside Hungary,hope his "N4" passes the technical ;)

? Explain?

[noel157]

SD times so far:

Loeb 2.36.4
Sordo +1.5
Ogier +1.8
P Solberg +2.1
Hirvonen +2.5
Latvala +2.8
Villagra +3.3
Wilson +3.4
Novikov +3.7
H Solberg +4.9

[toras]

I can see that Novikov has new sponsor? Or what?

Novikov has a contract with Citroen Russia from Rally Finland. New livery was to be for last two rallies. Evgeny also got to use private Citroen C4 coupe.

[Xsara Fan]

Novikov has a contract with Citroen Russia from Rally Finland. New livery was to be for last two rallies. Evgeny also got to use private Citroen C4 coupe.

:) He use C4 for recce because the engine of his Mitsubishi was broken.
http://eng.e-novikov.net/ru/news/info/49/

[toras]

:) He use C4 for recce because the engine of his Mitsubishi was broken.
http://eng.e-novikov.net/ru/news/info/49/

Yes, but i told about private use, not about recce car.;-)

[bluuford]

Seems like Petter has gone crazy, 9 runs in shakedown already!

[Viking]

Seems like Petter has gone crazy, 9 runs in shakedown already!

Seems like he tried everything, he even changed co-driver for his last run :)

http://www.pettersolberg.com/html/?lang_pref=en

[ARF]

Yes, but i told about private use, not about recce car.;-)

What a bargain, as he already was using Bentley. To change it into C4, who wouldn't :)

[toras]

What a bargain, as he already was using Bentley. To change it into C4, who wouldn't :)

Perhaps this is only Citroen's marketing ;-)

"В рамках сотрудничества запланированы различные мероприятия – от интервью и пресс-брифингов до крупномасштабных акций, призванных популяризировать марку Citroёn в России. До конца года гонщику будет предоставлен для личного использования автомобиль Citroёn С4 купе."

[Brother John]

Seems like Petter has gone crazy, 9 runs in shakedown already!

He can´t run the stages 9 times! :p

[Helstar]

SD times so far:
Loeb 2.36.4
Sordo +1.5
Ogier +1.8
P Solberg +2.1
Hirvonen +2.5
Latvala +2.8

lol ! Not looking good for Ford (as expected ^^; !)

[Mirek]

? Explain?

Asi was many times excluded for various infrigements of the rulles in the past...

[Brother John]

lol ! Not looking good for Ford (as expected ^^; !)

2 of C4s probable do not will reach the finnish. :s mokin: Guess which!

[Jafry]

Photos from shakedown HERE (http://www.rally-mania.cz/photogallery.php?id=589&fseason=2009) ;)

[Xsara Fan]

Yes, but i told about private use, not about recce car.;-)

People say he has a Bugatti Veyron... :)

[bluuford]

So, Ogier and Rautenbach (Citroen junior team) and Bird, Villagra (Munchis) are nominated drivers in Spain? as far as I understood.

[Mirek]

Lambros Athanassoulas has been fastest from Fiesta R2 drivers so far (0,6 seconds infront of Craig Breen. All of them have been slower than Thierry Neuville in C2 R2 Max.

[bluuford]

Autosport: Pirelli Star Driver Nicos Thomas crashed on the third corner of shakedown. The Cypriot's Mitsubishi did not take any further part in shakedown, but it will start the Salou-based penultimate WRC round this evening.

[RallyPT]

Hi!
I'm a portuguese student doing Erasmus in Zaragoza. I would like to go watch this rally and i'm searching for people to go with me.. no one want's to go?
At this moment, I already have 2 people that will go with me.

[dimviii]

]Lambros Athanassoulas has been fastest from Fiesta R2 drivers so far (0,6 seconds infront of Craig Breen. All of them have been slower than Thierry Neuville in C2 R2 Max.

Good start for Lambros!
fingers crossed for a good result. :s mokin:

[dimviii]

Lambros said that he would like to fix better the car,after the 25km they done with it.
It is soft,and a little understeered.Cause of the high grip of Catalunya,i d like to have stiffer springs and a more oversteer car,but we couldn t fix it at this time.
http://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=671&article_id=17017

http://www.rally.gr/data/photo/51301.jpg

[Xsara-WRC]

Shakedown: http://www.rallyracc.com/2009/ingles/online.html?pag=sk

Strange Alex , mail me your'e ip and i check it out ;)

[COD]

I can see that Novikov has new sponsor? Or what?

Does it say "I let other Citroen's past" in Russian?

[Lousada]

Does it say "I let other Citroen's past" in Russian?

To let them past, he first needs to get in front.

[teufel]

? Explain?

He has every year some kind of scandal: lighter car, bigger turbo, shortened ss... But one thing is for sure: he is very precise and damn fast! I'm really curious about his performance this weekend!

[urabus-denoS2000]

He is very fast ;)

[bennizw]

The first stage starts now doesn't it?

[Brother John]

The first stage starts now doesn't it?

Timetable

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=404&season=2009&rally_id=E

[jonkka]

What's up, Loeb is down from Mikko on split 2?

[jonkka]

Even more so at split 3...

[bennizw]

Two seconds down on split three!

[Brother John]

What's up, Loeb is down from Mikko on split 2?


Is Loeb not awake yet? :p

[bennizw]

Latvala way off the pace!

[Wim_Impreza]

The livery of Paul Bird's Focus is beautiful, just as his WSBK team.

[Halvis]

Loeb must be saving his tyres maybe? Or is it the first tarmac rally with legal roll-bars? ;)

Very excited to see Petters first split...

[A.F.F.]

Good morning folks :)

[White Sauron]

Latvala s_x...

[Halvis]

And there it was, Petter equal time to Hirvo! I thought he said he would start easy and increase pace as he got used to the C4...

[Psycho!]

Conditions are dump...!!

[jonkka]

And there it was, Petter equal time to Hirvo!

+6,5s on second split is not exactly equal... :eek:

[Mirek]

Conditions are dump...!!

I think rather damp than dump ;)

[Halvis]

+6,5s on second split is not exactly equal... :eek:

Split 1 was...didn't see that it was after just 47 secs though...

[Finni]

Latvala has to learn asphalt every year.. this guy is eternal problem.

[jonkka]

I think he knows that 4th is best he can do so it's pointless to take unnecessary risks at this point. A wise approach, IMHO.

[Wim_Impreza]

Latvala is always slow on asphalt or he has an accident.

[bennizw]

Ogier surprisingly slow too. Conditions difficult?

[Halvis]

Decent start from Petter, 4th, +15.9 secs - he actually might get on the podium if one of the top three gets problems.

Henning painfully slow on tarmac as always...

[Finni]

Latvala is always slow on asphalt or he has an accident.

Latvala has been considerably fast for instance in Catalunya but never from the first metres. I remeber that already with Stobart Latvala was setting times near to leading cars but he always needs some time to heed up. As I said Latvala has to learn asphalt again. You will see.

[Koppomsbo]

Decent start from Petter, 4th, +15.9 secs - he actually might get on the podium if one of the top three gets problems.

Henning painfully slow on tarmac as always...

if Henning is painfully slow ? What is Rautenbach???

[A.F.F.]

Wilson jr might actually get on podium. It just needs a few retirements.. :)

[Brother John]

Why aren't Seat present with the STCC cars? :p

[Halvis]

if Henning is painfully slow ? What is Rautenbach???

Even more painfully slow ;)

[Wim_Impreza]

Ogier surprisingly slow too. Conditions difficult?

Surprisingly slow? He isn't a tarmac driver.

Finni: I forgot that, sorry. Fourth place should be great for him at the end of the rally, but I doubt if he can do that.

[Wim_Impreza]

Why aren't Seat present with the STCC cars? :p

Why isn't there a Córdoba WRC? :p

[Wim_Impreza]

Wilson jr might actually get on podium. It just needs a few retirements.. :)

That will not be the case normally. This circuit race will be soon again very boring.

[J.Lindstroem]

Al-Quassimi starts to be faster than Rautenbach!

[Buzz Lightyear]

Ogier surprisingly slow too. Conditions difficult?

complaining of brakes

[Buzz Lightyear]

Surprisingly slow? He isn't a tarmac driver.

Finni: I forgot that, sorry. Fourth place should be great for him at the end of the rally, but I doubt if he can do that.

If he want to replace Loeb.. he better start learning

[bennizw]

Surprisingly slow? He isn't a tarmac driver.

Ogier not a tarmac driver? I was pretty sure he had learnt to drive on the black stuff, judging his pace on earlier events.

[Wim_Impreza]

Ogier not a tarmac driver? I was pretty sure he had learnt to drive on the black stuff, judging his pace on earlier events.

Earlier events were all on gravel, his favourite surface. His performance in Ireland earlier this year wasn't good.
In the JWRC 2008 Prokop was faster than Ogier on tarmac.

[bluuford]

Ogier not a tarmac driver? I was pretty sure he had learnt to drive on the black stuff, judging his pace on earlier events.

No Ogier is much better in gravel. He is untypical French driver:-) He is much better on slippery and loose stuff.

[Brother John]

That will not be the case normally. This circuit race will be soon again very boring.

For this reason them would have had allow the STCC cars in this rally! :D

[Wim_Impreza]

For this reason them would have had allow the STCC cars in this rally! :D

That would be much better indeed. Drivers as Rickard Rydell, James Thompson, Thed Björk, Tommy Rustad, Richard Goransson, Fredrik Ekblom... can give a lot of spectacle. :)

[Mirek]

From what I saw aerlier this year in WTCC I prefere Jaap Van Lagen drifting with Lada :D

[Juha_Koo]

What a start from Mikko. :)

Normal tarmac start for Latvala. He's clearly evolved, now he lost less time in La Mussara than last year even though it was now damp.

[Mihai]

Stage times section on wrc.com appears to be out of service. Anyone knows how did finish the #71 Clio R3 of Edwin Keleti on special stage 1 ?

[noel157]

Stage times section on wrc.com appears to be out of service. Anyone knows how did finish the #71 Clio R3 of Edwin Keleti on special stage 1 ?

So far he sitting in 43rd place. May change as more times come in.

[Leon]

Stage times section on wrc.com appears to be out of service. Anyone knows how did finish the #71 Clio R3 of Edwin Keleti on special stage 1 ?

http://www.ewrc-results.com/results_main.php?event=398

[noel157]

Breen fastest of the Fiesta R2s so far. Hopefully he can secure the championship this weekend.

[Francis44]

What happened to Brynildsenhttp://www.ewrc-results.com/driver_info.php?event=398&stage=7220&driver=37265??!! Loosing a bunch of time to R3's and Evo's with a Skoda Fabia S2000!!!!

[noel157]

What happened to Brynildsenhttp://www.ewrc-results.com/driver_info.php?event=398&stage=7220&driver=37265??!! Loosing a bunch of time to R3's and Evo's with a Skoda Fabia S2000!!!!

Lost brakes on a downhill section. He'll go well once he settles in with the car and the stages.

[noel157]

Breen fastest of the Fiesta R2s so far. Hopefully he can secure the championship this weekend.

Apart from Athanassoulas......

[Francis44]

Sebastien Ogier crashed his car on the way to the 2 stage?? It's what they said on the Wrc radio!!!!

[jonkka]

Loeb and Sordo mirror each others' times... :)

[jonkka]

To a half-way at least...

[jonkka]

This time Petter is much closer to Mikko

[Mirek]

Sebastien Ogier crashed his car on the way to the 2 stage?? It's what they said on the Wrc radio!!!!

He is running normaly it seems.

[jonkka]

Sebastien Ogier crashed his car on the way to the 2 stage?? It's what they said on the Wrc radio!!!!

Don't know but he's on stage anyhoo...

[Halvis]

This time Petter is much closer to Mikko

Yes, looking good for Petters pace throughout the rally, I must say.

[Halvis]

Petters actually almost halfed the time loss to Loeb/Sordo from stage 1 also.

[jonkka]

Final stage of this loop - now we'll see if trend continues

[jonkka]

Seems so ...

[Psycho!]

Citroen are running away and Sordo seems to have enough speed to beat Seb,but he won't be allowed....

[jonkka]

Ouch - now he's bleeding a lot...

[jonkka]

Sordo missing a split

[Brother John]

Ouch - now he's bleeding a lot...


Be you surprised! :?:

[jonkka]

Be you surprised! :?:

Got my hopes up after SS1 - so yes, I am a bit...

[Buzz Lightyear]

Loeb demolishes Mikko..

[Brother John]

Where is Sordo? Don´t see him on the splits.

[noel157]

Loeb demolishes Mikko..

Almost 0.5 sec a km faster.

[Buzz Lightyear]

The C4 must idle at about 4000rpm!

[jonkka]

Sordo finished the stage with best time

[Brother John]

Sordo finished the stage with best time

For my Pickems Sordo has to win! ;) And Loeb............no i don´t say it! :D

[Halvis]

Petter vs Hirvonen:

SS1: +14.9
SS2: +3.3
SS3: +0.6

SS4: - ?

[Buzz Lightyear]

All the Ford testing not worth jack.. it would appear.

[Psycho!]

Sorry,but how could the Finns get better on tarmac,while there is only one true event for nearly a year??Sordo has improved tremendously on gravel,because there are 10 events!!

[Wim_Impreza]

Psycho: no excuses. They have tested a lot on tarmac before this event.

[Fly]

Check out nr 104 Thierry Neuville. Belgium's up and coming driver.

[bluuford]

All the Ford testing not worth jack.. it would appear.

In my view, they have improved a lot. last year Hirvonen lost approximately 26 sek after the same stages to Loeb, now only 14.3 sek to Loeb. And Citroen has definitely improved their car as well. And the biggest timeloss came on the first day (last year). Hirvonen was 44 sek behind Loeb after 6 stages last year.

At the end of second day he was 64 sek behind and at the finish the difference was 62 sek.

It is pointless to calculate timedifferences between Sordo and Hirvonen rught now, because he is ordered to stay behind Loeb anyway (later). So, the only way to win this rally for Sordo is the possibility that Hirvonen beats Loeb :-)

[Sulland]

Sorry,but how could the Finns get better on tarmac,while there is only one true event for nearly a year??Sordo has improved tremendously on gravel,because there are 10 events!!

Has a lot to do with background. Most of them are raised on gravel and snow, and have challenges to trust the huge grip you get on asphalt. It also has a bit to do with a bit different track choice compared to a sliding style.

Same situation with most Nordic drivers !

[mdesign]

In my view, they have improved a lot. last year Hirvonen lost approximately 26 sek after the same stages to Loeb, now only 14.3 sek to Loeb. And Citroen has definitely improved their car as well. And the biggest timeloss came on the first day (last year). Hirvonen was 44 sek behind Loeb after 6 stages last year.

At the end of second day he was 64 sek behind and at the finish the difference was 62 sek.

It is pointless to calculate timedifferences between Sordo and Hirvonen rught now, because he is ordered to stay behind Loeb anyway (later). So, the only way to win this rally for Sordo is the possibility that Hirvonen beats Loeb :-)
I can imagine Sordo wishing that Hirvonen beats Loeb so he can win in front of his crowd.

[AndyRAC]

Sorry,but how could the Finns get better on tarmac,while there is only one true event for nearly a year??Sordo has improved tremendously on gravel,because there are 10 events!!

One true Tarmac event in a year? What's all that about. A ridiculous calendar, at least a 1/4 of the season should be Tarmac. Whether the events are boring or not doesn't matter, this is the WRC, not the Gravel World Championship.

[Psycho!]

One true Tarmac event in a year? What's all that about. A ridiculous calendar, at least a 1/4 of the season should be Tarmac. Whether the events are boring or not doesn't matter, this is the WRC, not the Gravel World Championship.
Rallying=Gravel,mud,snow

Racing=Tarmac ;)

[Wim_Impreza]

Rallying=Gravel,mud,snow

Racing=Tarmac ;)

Tarmac can be very spectacular too (just ask to as example Czech, Italian, Belgian, Dutch people) but of course not in a circuit race like Rally Catalunya is.

The mix of events is what we must have in a World Championship and for sure that isn't this year.

[Brother John]

Tarmac can be very spectacular too (just ask to as example Czech, Italian, Belgian, Dutch people) but of course not in a circuit race like Rally Catalunya is.

The mix of events is what we must have in a World Championship and for sure that isn't this year.

You forgot Ireland Wim! ;)

[Donney]

Tarmac is great with RWD cars.

[ProRally]

Check out nr 104 Thierry Neuville. Belgium's up and coming driver.

Lets see sunday afternoon

Hans Weijs is also going very fast, beating Rautenbach in a C4 with a C2 :D

[Mauri A]

Citroen are running away and Sordo seems to have enough speed to beat Seb,but he won't be allowed....
How dare you say that? Already ages ago N.O.T teached us that Citroen never plays tacticts on contrary to Ford!

[N.O.T]

nice to see solberg on pace...remains to see if he can keep it up. UK will be interesting.

[gravelman]

Craig Breen beating Eamon Boland. Oh Dear, oh dear

[jonkka]

2nd loop... I fear the earlier trend continues

[jimakos]

Rallying=Gravel,mud,snow

Racing=Tarmac ;)

Can't agree more with your opinion!!!

[jonkka]

Rallying = everything in all conditions

[cali]

Can't agree more with your opinion!!!

I totally disagree, rallying has included tarmac for ages. Best driver is who can be fast on every surface.

[Brother John]

I totally disagree, rallying has included tarmac for ages. Best driver is who can be fast on every surface.

Yes but not on that tarmac and roads like Spain. :rolleyes:

[cali]

Yes but not on that tarmac and roads like Spain. :rolleyes:
Somehow WRC has dumped the events like classic San Remo and Monte, which are quite special and tricky, Catalunya has been for ages in WRC calendar. Monte now has turned their back at WRC and is concentrating on IRC.

Roads are alike to everyone and you have to be best of the rest to win. Same as driving on snow or gravel. I also like to have more snow rounds into the calendar, otherwise it just is plain World Gravel Cup not WRC.

[tmx]

World Gravel Cup is fine by me, although yes I would prefer Monte or Sanremo, but I'm watching IRC as well.

It looks like Mikko will be third and even if Dani is faster he will be told to slow down for Loeb to win. That means Mikko will go to GB with 84 points and Loeb 83 points, in which Mikko must be one place ahead of Loeb there to be champion.

[JFL]

nice to see solberg on pace...remains to see if he can keep it up. UK will be interesting.
huh? Nice? lol.. I'm not surprised.. He's just getting used to the car... Watch out.. ;) The guys in the lead are fighting for a championship I guess. ;)

[AndyRAC]

People seem to have forgotten that Rallying's roots are on Tarmac.

I much prefer Gravel, but Tarmac is needed, and a fair amount of events. Not 1 or 2.

[Retlub Ecaps]

World Gravel Cup is fine by me, although yes I would prefer Monte or Sanremo, but I'm watching IRC as well.

It looks like Mikko will be third and even if Dani is faster he will be told to slow down for Loeb to win. That means Mikko will go to GB with 84 points and Loeb 83 points, in which Mikko must be one place ahead of Loeb there to be champion.

I wonder if Ford would play tactics in that situation, and have Mikko drop back in order to finish one point behind Loeb overall. A one-point advantage is almost meaningless since he'd still have to beat Loeb to win, so being one point behind Loeb and second in the starting order would be the stronger position.

[tmx]

Well it may backfire if Wales will be wet and muddy. Mikko is very quick in wet and slippy conditions. Remember in Argentina 2008 Mikko took 50seconds from Loeb on the first stage. I'm eager see how Petter will play a role as well at Wales.

Nice first post, welcome to the forum. Remember to ignore the trolls.

[Brother John]

World Gravel Cup is fine by me, although yes I would prefer Monte or Sanremo, but I'm watching IRC as well.

It looks like Mikko will be third and even if Dani is faster he will be told to slow down for Loeb to win. That means Mikko will go to GB with 84 points and Loeb 83 points, in which Mikko must be one place ahead of Loeb there to be champion.

Don´t talk about points already, first they have to finish the rally on Sunday afternoon in the same order in which they are now. A technical problem for one of them can changes the complete championship.

[A.F.F.]

Rallying = everything in all conditions

Rallying = is my ratto.

[Barreis]

Rallying = everything in all conditions

I agree..

[Retlub Ecaps]

Well it may backfire if Wales will be wet and muddy. Mikko is very quick in wet and slippy conditions. Remember in Argentina 2008 Mikko took 50seconds from Loeb on the first stage.

Yeah, but would that really be a problem? If it's wet, he'd still be just as fast running 2nd as he would running 1st, wouldn't he?

[Psycho!]

Not so possible,but if it is dry???

[Retlub Ecaps]

If it's dry, then Mikko would be in a better position if he's 2nd in the standings for GB instead of 1st.. And if it's wet, being 1 point behind Loeb would be no different than being 1 point ahead, he'd have to beat Loeb either way. So unless I'm missing something, then if Mikko can't do better than 3rd place in Catalunya, then he's best to drop further back so that he'll be one point behind Loeb in GB.

[jonkka]

Would it possible to concentrate on the rally at hand instead of speculating about something still three weeks away?

[teufel]

Hm, Asi is leading groupN after 4 stages with 23,8s. Great performance, especially that it's his first wrc event! :up:

[Psycho!]

At last Seb won a stage...!!

[Retlub Ecaps]

Would it possible to concentrate on the rally at hand instead of speculating about something still three weeks away?

Well really I was talking about what Mikko's strategy here in Spain should be. Sorry if that's offtopic; I'll stop posting.

[noel157]

Well really I was talking about what Mikko's strategy here in Spain should be. Sorry if that's offtopic; I'll stop posting.

Post away Pal, the more opinions the better.

[tmx]

Well really I was talking about what Mikko's strategy here in Spain should be. Sorry if that's offtopic; I'll stop posting. If you've missed my previous post edit. I would like to say welcome to the forum and please ignore the trolls.

[jonkka]

Well really I was talking about what Mikko's strategy here in Spain should be. Sorry if that's offtopic; I'll stop posting.

I didn't mean you should stop posting, I just find it strange to start speculations after just four stages. Mikko's primary concern now should be (1) to keep it on the road and (2) try to get to second overall without endangering the first priority. Come Sunday he can start thinking tactical games for Rally GB.

[Mirek]

In my opinion the problem with tarmac roads like Catalunya isn't just the nature of them but especialy the possibility to built very different car suitable for particular conditions. That's what makes it circuit-like I think.

[VFTS]

Hm, Asi is leading groupN after 4 stages with 23,8s. Great performance, especially that it's his first wrc event! :up:


Asi is doing very well!

Brynildsen in his Fabia S2000 have troubles with his brakes. He lost the brakes on both ss1 and ss2 and lost a lot of important seconds.

[Retlub Ecaps]

If you've missed my previous post edit. I would like to say welcome to the forum and please ignore the trolls.

Yeah, I did miss that; thanks. :) I've been lurking for a couple of weeks, and I was a little nervous about posting because discussions here sometimes get a bit.. confrontational. I love rally, but I only discovered it last year, so I still have a lot to learn, and I'm a little nervous of saying something stupid. :p

To get back on-topic, I've seen a few people call the Catalunya roads "circuit-like", even more so than other tarmac rallies. Why is that? Do they use a different kind of tarmac in that region, or is it more to do with how wide the road is or how sharp the corners are?

[jonkka]

I've been lurking for a couple of weeks, and I was a little nervous about posting because discussions here sometimes get a bit.. confrontational. I love rally, but I only discovered it last year, so I still have a lot to learn, and I'm a little nervous of saying something stupid. :p

Don't be nervous, most people on this forum are more or less friendly. Just observe the usual rules and incidentally even off-topic posts aren't that bad offense here.

On my behalf, welcome to the forum and enjoy!


To get back on-topic, I've seen a few people call the Catalunya roads "circuit-like", even more so than other tarmac rallies. Why is that? Do they use a different kind of tarmac in that region, or is it more to do with how wide the road is or how sharp the corners are?

Most of the roads used in rally today are wide, with good grade tarmac and flowing bends and less cutting than a decade ago. In the old days roads were more varying ie. not always so wide, tarmac wasn't so good, some legs had more abrasive surface than others and corner cutting was much more prominent feature. If you manage to get old videos from late 1990's you'll see the difference to current roads.

[jonkka]

Loeb closes in on Sordo but maybe doesn't get past just yet...

[Psycho!]

Petter faster than Mikko as well even by a small margin...

[jonkka]

Not in the end

[Retlub Ecaps]

Rautenbach is falling way behind.. Is he having car trouble?

jonkka: Thanks for the welcome, and the info.. I'll see what videos I can find. I imagine there must be bunch of Colin McRae videos from that period around, even if I can't find full rallies.

[Retlub Ecaps]

Heh, looks like I spoke too soon, Rautenbach's last split is actually a little faster than Henning

[mdesign]

Hirvonen seems to have some problems with this third stage. Does anyone knows why? Is it the tyre wear?

[Psycho!]

Hirvonen seems to have some problems with this third stage. Does anyone knows why? Is it the tyre wear?
Last year he was losing a lot in there as well...Who knows?? :confused:

[jonkka]

I'll see what videos I can find. I imagine there must be bunch of Colin McRae videos from that period around, even if I can't find full rallies.

Some from juu-telly:

1997 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ7KKD2CCMc
1995 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AeLWNQ4cnb4 part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8i_4MjwP4dQ part 2

[ZequeArgentina]

Villagra is doing beter than expected, and in tarmac which is not his surface at all.
Overpassed Henning, and closing on Wilson.

[tmx]

Is the new guy at WRC Radio Dale Moscatt who was Evgeny's ex-codriver? Would be strange interviewing your ex-driver.

[Buzz Lightyear]

Wilson manages to be 3m30s down after one day... thats quite something.

[jonkka]

Wilson manages to be 3m30s down after one day... thats quite something.

He's got talent - his father thinks so.

[VFTS]

Villagra is doing beter than expected, and in tarmac which is not his surface at all.
Overpassed Henning, and closing on Wilson.
.
Nice driving by Villagra, but tarmac is not Hennings surface either.

[N.O.T]

quite predicateble day 1, i expected Hirvonen to battle with SOlberg and Ogier but that doesn;t seem the case

[ZequeArgentina]

.
Nice driving by Villagra, but tarmac is not Hennings surface either.

I still do not consider it as nice driving, just betterthan expected, in his worst surface.
I know Henning is way worse in tarmac than other surfaces, but he is doing well.

[mdesign]

He's got talent - his father thinks so.

Don't rush him, he has 5 more years to show talent...

[Retlub Ecaps]

Is the new guy at WRC Radio Dale Moscatt who was Evgeny's ex-codriver? Would be strange interviewing your ex-driver.

I haven't been listening to the radio yet today, but they had Dale Moscatt with them in Australia -- apparently he saved the day for them early on, setting up a satellite link after their normal communications equipment broke, or something like that. The host said he could have a job with rally radio if he wanted, maybe he took them up on it. :D

[bretddog]

Petter's times compared to 2008. About as I expected. Hope we will see some improvement tomorrow. But great to have him back in the mood though.

2413 (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2413&stc=1&d=1254495255)

[tmx]

Even funnier if Novikov pulls up to him with a broken car, although I don't mean for that to happen.
Here's the link to WRC Radio incase any hasn't heard it: http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=250

[dimviii]

Petter's times compared to 2008. About as I expected. Hope we will see some improvement tomorrow. But great to have him back in the mood though.

(how to show the image?)
http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2413&stc=1&d=1254495255
Νice first post mate! Welcome! :)

[Mirek]

Petter's times compared to 2008. About as I expected. Hope we will see some improvement tomorrow. But great to have him back in the mood though.

I know it's minor but Petter is loosing 59,7 seconds after SS6, not 63 actualy ;) Anyway nice improvement.

[dimviii]

Athanasoulas again first @ fiestas R2

previous stage had a tet a ke.

http://http://www.rally.gr/data/photo/51318.jpghttp://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=671&article_id=17021

[bretddog]

]I know it's minor but Petter is loosing 59,7 seconds after SS6, not 63 actualy ;) Anyway nice improvement.

I know.. I just noticed myself.. Can't understand.. Must be a bad calc by wrc.com.. My stage time diff. to 1st seems correct as they have displayed them ?

[bretddog]

Ah.. silly me.. Of course, I compare to each stage winner. So total to leader will not be real. But I think it's good to view it this way :)

[Mirek]

Edit: I'm slow ;)

[noel157]

Athanasoulas again first @ fiestas R2

previous stage had a tet a ke.

http://http://www.rally.gr/data/photo/51318.jpghttp://www.rally.gr/default.asp?menu_code=wrc-news-article&race_id=671&article_id=17021

Dim, what did Athanasoulas do on the last stage? He had a had a tet a ke, what?

[dimviii]

Dim, what did Athanasoulas do on the last stage? He had a had a tet a ke, what?

Yes on stage 3 he had a tet a ke.

[Donney]

He had a spin.

[dimviii]

He had a spin.

Thanks mate i had forgot the right word :dozey:

[Wim_Impreza]

tête à que is French.

After I followed only in the morning the results, it seems I have nothing missed. Boring as hell. Lucky there are other rallies to follow tomorrow.

[bretddog]

Νice first post mate! Welcome! :)

Oh, thanks! :) I missed ur post.

Well, I can't avoid to say I really like how this plays out with respect to GB. I have so long been waiting to see Mikko really pulling out all he got.

It's all wide open of course. We have two tough days to go, so anything can happen. But I can't stop wishing for this situation.. that's all. I want Mikko to win this year, but only if he at least can take one more rally win in a full fought fight.

[jimakos]

It seems that GB will be the most important event of the season!
He that will take this rally will take and the title to his home...
Hope Mikko can pass Loeb finally :)

[Psycho!]

It seems that GB will be the most important event of the season!
He that will take this rally will take and the title to his home...
Hope Mikko can pass Loeb finally :)
Fingers crossed!!!GB will be the highlight of the year,because five drivers will fight at full speed and have the ability to win:Seb,Mikko,Petter,JM and Dani...(I don't count Ogier,but who knows???)

[Retlub Ecaps]

What happened to Al Qassimi? He dropped ten minutes in SS5 and SS6, but he's not listed in the penalties (http://wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=408&season=2009&rally_id=E) or retirements (http://wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=407&season=2009&rally_id=E)