Monster Energy Ford Team

[JAM]

It seems hard to some heads understand the value of Block's program on WRC... :rolleyes:

tsss tsss tsss

[Sulland]

In 2010 the US is coming into F1 with USF1 and to Rally with the Monster Team.
Should do something to get those two on the US sports map, but they have their own world series to worry about, so it might take some time to get to the level where the Standard Joe start to notice it !!

[bluuford]

But the point is that Rally isn't ever news for the major media in the US until Ken Block
Can you see his marketing skills. He just told that he does more rallies than 1 and he will do Mexico. Sooner or later he adds another press release where he says which rallies he will do more. And even if he plans to add Chris to his team, be sure that there will be separate story for that as well :-) Guy knows what he does:-)

[Tomi]

There has been a lot of interest in Kimi doing rallying. There was lots of discussions about Kimi doing rally Finland in F1 and F1 forums for example. According to some of the fans there was also a lot of Kimi fans who went to rally Finland.
There is currently a lot of discussions going on about Kimi's participation in WRC in F1 circles and F1 forums, which wasn't the case before Kimi started to show an interest in rallying. Most of Kimi's fans comes from places like China, India, or the Philippines for example, and a lot of those fans have expressed that they will definitely follow Kimi in rally. The problem is just that it is a bit difficult for most of us, at this stage to join in the discussions especially in the off season, because we dont know much about rallying. I think people still needs to get used to the idea. But there is definitely some interest.
Kimi going to WRC was the 2nd and 3rd most read articles of autosport in 2009:
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80707


As for Block, he also has a very large fan base. Many of his loyal fans will defintily want to see him in action so they will follow him WRC, and the USA have a very large market, which will also be benefical to the sponsors. The advatage of Block's fans is that they at least already know something about rallying.

Once the season gets under way and there is a bit more action, I think there will generally be a lot of interest.

Yes propably true, but i was refering about how Kimis rally stuff was announced in the media here, around 1000 lakes quite much and after it was clear that he wont drive F1 this year, more again, but no more than about other rallydrivers, if they are in same situation. With media I mean main Newspapers and TV.
About Block it was also same like for all all drivers who sign contract, normal news here, but offcourse big in US, because he is the first in long time.

[wotaguy]

also in U.S. there,s many forms of motorsport cart/indy/nascar etc rallying has to compete with all those.

[WRCMAD Sean]

it should be interesting

[ShiftingGears]

Can you explaine why it is sad that if someone who is not interested in rally dont know who Loeb is?

It means that sponsors and manufacturers are much less likely to invest in rallying.

[Simmi]

It means that sponsors and manufacturers are much less likely to invest in rallying.

Exactly!

If you imagine some sponsorship guys go upstairs to their boss who writes the cheques. We have a chance to get on board with a new WRC rally team (VW/Mini etc). Now theoretically they could be running a team of Loeb and Gronholm and if this guy who writes the cheques hasn't heard of either then he assumes maybe his customers wont either. Then they might hire a market research team that would tell them pretty much the same thing. Bottom line the deal doesn't get made.

[Tomi]

I dont think so, neither Loeb or Grönholm has no problem to get sponsor money, but thats because what they have done them self.

[Simmi]

I dont think so, neither Loeb or Grönholm has no problem to get sponsor money, but thats because what they have done them self.

The drivers were merely examples. And I'm not talking about personal sponsors from their own countries. To be fair Loeb has garnered the Playstation backing. But in this case new large companies that are new to rallying. Fresh investment from overseas. Big multinational companies. Blue chip dream sponsors that rallying has to aspire to attract.

Not a bit of backing from Karjala.

[Tomi]

The drivers were merely examples. And I'm not talking about personal sponsors from their own countries. To be fair Loeb has garnered the Playstation backing. But in this case new large companies that are new to rallying. Fresh investment from overseas. Big multinational companies. Blue chip dream sponsors that rallying has to aspire to attract.

Not a bit of backing from Karjala.

I cant remember a single brit whining about too little exposure when McRae and Burns was driving, why not try to find someone who can drive a car instead, then i guess things there would be back to normal.

[Vargåsen]

Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet says Ken Block will drive "chosen stages" of Rally Sweden. Does anyone know more about this? Will he appear at the super special stage in Karlstad perhaps?

[Simmi]

I cant remember a single brit whining about too little exposure when McRae and Burns was driving, why not try to find someone who can drive a car instead, then i guess things there would be back to normal.

Ha what!!?? I'm talking about rallying as a whole Tomi.

You're initial argument was that it does not matter if people who aren't interested in rallying don't know who our greatest driver is. They aren't important.

The theugsquirrel then made a spot on point about lack of visibility meaning sponsors/manufacturers are less likely to join.

You say this is ok because our best drivers can create sponsorship money to run their teams. But when Marcus, Seb and Petter are fully retired. Don't you think that leaves a massive blackhole void in the WRC? Because the next group of drivers simply aren't going to be able to attract sponsors in the same way. Especially in times of such blanket domination (Loeb) these guys can't claim to be champions or even rally winners bar a couple of exceptions.

So this is a problem. I didn't want to make this about nationality, but even if things are ok in Finland, if you haven't got anyone to compete against then what's the point?

Hence why in an ideal world teams (not drivers) should be able to generate sponsorship because they compete in the WRC. Drivers have personal contracts that can help but this should be as well as a team budget.

But rallying has to undergo massive advance and changes in order to reach this point. Maybe it never will but that was what I was getting at before you started drinking.

[Tomi]

But when Marcus, Seb and Petter are fully retired. Don't you think that leaves a massive blackhole void in the WRC? Because the next group of drivers simply aren't going to be able to attract sponsors in the same way.

No it doesent leave any black hole, rally is nothing new, drivers comes and goes. There will always be drivers to fill the seats, why would not the next group not attract sponsors, I think they will in the same way like always.

[Simmi]

No it doesent leave any black hole, rally is nothing new, drivers comes and goes. There will always be drivers to fill the seats, why would not the next group not attract sponsors, I think they will in the same way like always.

Only a few of the current group can just about string together a budget for a season. And this is on a season by season basis meaning no non-works driver is guaranteed participation. Seems like a lot of guys are struggling - not to mention those that are on the sidelines.

I expect this to improve from 2011 onwards with new regs so lets hope you are right. Things look to be getting better slowly.

[Tomi]

I expect this to improve from 2011 onwards with new regs so lets hope you are right. Things look to be getting better slowly.
Im 100% sure, its not the first time a some teams stops in a few years, sometimes loosing all the time in sport, becomes an burdon for the public image of the manufacturers.
If rally temporary has gone a bit backwards in some places, it has increased its popularity in many others, its more about to take advantage of the momentum, thats for instance what the Norwegians try to do now, thats the only way to get continuity so no big up and downs happens.

[Buzz Lightyear]

I cant remember a single brit whining about too little exposure when McRae and Burns was driving, why not try to find someone who can drive a car instead, then i guess things there would be back to normal. Everyone seems quiet happy with level of rally exposure here at the moment.

[Tomi]

Everyone seems quiet happy with level of rally exposure here at the moment.

Nothing to complaine here, more from tv again this year, live stuff and so on.
In other words there is alot of material available.

[Buzz Lightyear]

The whole Monster thing seems a bit vague., but maybe rightly so. Block is probably 100% right not to commit to WRC, as the pace might a little hot and heavy, and the PR machine might not be able to find enough stuff to right about. He obviously has the backing of Ford MC in the USA, and the Fiesta is brand new model in the States, so I can see maybe some Pikes Peak efforts, Super 2000 in the Open Championship etc..

[Buzz Lightyear]

Nothing to complaine here, more from tv again this year, live stuff and so on.
In other words there is alot of material available.
Briliant.. were in agreement then. First for everything.

[ProRally]

Good interview with Ken here..... seems he is going to use Olsberg Fiesta in Rally America (that is going to be a blast :D :D )

http://www.bybillwood.com/online/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=54&Itemid=106

[AndyRAC]

The drivers were merely examples. And I'm not talking about personal sponsors from their own countries. To be fair Loeb has garnered the Playstation backing. But in this case new large companies that are new to rallying. Fresh investment from overseas. Big multinational companies. Blue chip dream sponsors that rallying has to aspire to attract.

Not a bit of backing from Karjala.

The day Rallying attracts sponsorship from the big multinational/Blue chip tcompanies is the day it really will have arrived, and will show how far it has come. Whether it happens is another matter, but at least it is now on an upward curve, and that can only be good.

Just one final point - I don't think our Finnish friends realise just how little coverage there has been recently of the WRC, particularly here in UK. No matter what the state of the sport, they seem to get brilliant coverage, so I'm not sure all of them have realised how bad it's been for the rest of us.

[Datto1600]

Have you guys been reading the coments in youtube for the MonsterEnergyTeam? Looks like its going to take a while for WRC to make it in America cause they don't know a thing about it....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zve4h1IhfLU

[Cloverleaf]

Have you guys been reading the coments in youtube for the MonsterEnergyTeam? Looks like its going to take a while for WRC to make it in America cause they don't know a thing about it....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zve4h1IhfLU
:)

[N.O.T]

more click clowns please.....we need exposure.

[Koppomsbo]

Has he annonced what his calender for 2010 is?

[JAM]

Just one final point - I don't think our Finnish friends realise just how little coverage there has been recently of the WRC, particularly here in UK. No matter what the state of the sport, they seem to get brilliant coverage, so I'm not sure all of them have realised how bad it's been for the rest of us.

Totally agree, UK is just like Portugal.

That's why i always said that Eurosport coverage was a big value to WRC.

I stay surprized with some positive comments about the change from Eurosport to MotorsTV. There's nothing positive. 45 or 50% of portguese had Eurosport at home, but only 20% have MotorsTV. Is obvious that less people could see WRC on TV in Portugal.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Have you guys been reading the coments in youtube for the MonsterEnergyTeam? Looks like its going to take a while for WRC to make it in America cause they don't know a thing about it....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zve4h1IhfLU

I just read them all. Let's explain what it is.....

hahahahaahahaha

Hilarious dumb people. I like the arguement where the guy said that Block was driving in the WRC no PWRC, yet was driving a PWRCar which is like a WRCar...

[Salist]

Ken Block is ready for test:
http://teamrs.aeston.no/?vis=nyhet&id=6606

[Langdale Forest]

more click clowns please.....we need exposure.

why do you refer to everyone as clowns?

[RallyCat909]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.

[Krigen]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.

Agreed :)

[JFL]

:up:

[WRCfan]

Its a shame yes, so I suppose when smelling the roses be careful to avoid the pricks...

[grugsticles]

A fantastic post!
Its just a shame that such quality posting had to be reserved for you expressing your disappointment on Block's acceptance by the online rallying world.

/ sides with RallyCat909

[WRCfan]

A fantastic post!
Its just a shame that such quality posting had to be reserved for you expressing your disappointment on Block's acceptance by the online rallying world.

/ sides with RallyCat909

+1

[L5->R5/CR]

http://rallyehq.com/photos/Ken-Block-Ford-Fiesta/Ken%20Block%20Ford%20Fiesta.jpg with this for a livery how can you not be excited...

[Camelopard]

:up:


me too.

[Koppomsbo]

The car that Grönholm used? Not with Pikes Peak specs? If so, i have to travel to the states to watch rallies from now on

[6789]

The car that Grönholm used? Not with Pikes Peak specs? If so, i have to travel to the states to watch rallies from now on
Doesnt have the pikes peak specs :(

The paint job does look awesone but!!

[Langdale Forest]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

[bluuford]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.

There was a research work related to the people who wish bad to the others and saying it out loud. And it appeared that in 95% cases it happens only in internet! So, those who are bashing here are just cowards who just want to say something somewhere :-) I support all drivers are they rich or not and I just ignore those bashing comments and threads, that saves more time to my daily work :-) You know, I have seen couple of rich guys whom I thought they were hopeless developed actually to quite fast drivers. Never say never!

[Datto1600]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

Ya think????

[Koppomsbo]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

:up:

[Viking]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

It sure does... :D

Andréas Eriksson and Olsberg MSE will also build a new Fiesta for KB to use in "Gymkhana III"


http://www.drivingsports.com/site/2010/01/ken-blocks-fire-breathing-fiesta/

[N.O.T]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.

nice post it made me cry....

but isn;t it a bit strange that Mr block discovered the WRC at the age of 40 ?? and all the atkinson rumours ended up Atko being the lap dog of the guy making notes for him ??

we know the WRC is all about money as 99.9% aspects of this world are....but its starnge that we have this influx of clowns now that the WRC is not at its best....where were they when the WRC was flourishing ??? but hey when something is flourishing you hardly see any vultures around....they usually gather around corspes to eat whats left.....

ok i will continue crying now...

[Lousada]

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

You know the suits in the boardroom once thought that they could sell cars and make money by building the Mini, the Escort, the Stratos, etc. and letting them drive over the Turini by Hopkirk, Rohrl and Mikkola. Times change.

[milly]

The picture is of the US Rally-spec Fiesta S2000.

[bennizw]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

I wonder why?

[Mitch555]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.

Yay for by far the most well thought out and rally passionate post of the year so far. I salute you! I wish all fellow rally followers loved rallying this way.

[Blitzerflitzer]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.

could be: Ken Block 's Ford Fiesta under the spotlight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8lSbpAHRnk)

[SubaruNorway]

It looks more like a fiesta than a focus.


No s**t Holmes!

[Koppomsbo]

I went through the trouble of reading this entire thread to get a feel (or something like that) of the European perception of an American driver and b$$$ coming to the WRC. I knew there would be a bit of skepticism, but I hardly fathomed the somewhat malicious remarks made about a guy that most people that post on this forum never heard of a couple of years ago. Its pretty common to roast Americans on just about anything (I admit, as a culture of consumers that are content to watch the rest of the world burn as long at the doors at Best Buy are still opened, we deserve that to some degree) whether its F1, or rallying. But here you have a guy that has done what most of the Americans are content to just bi**h and grumble about, that is to say "We dont have any US guys in the WRC, there is no WRC rally here, there never will be, and that is that." So Ken Block connects the dots as best he can to do so, and he gets flack from both sides of the pond. There are fewer well wishers and pundits hoping he will off the car on the first corner at the first rally. How can you call yourselves rally fans with such a sh*t attitude? (You cant really blame a Finn for faulting anyone that resides outside of their home country wanting to step into the WRC as the two national pastimes are rallying and alcoholism (since the US is at the top of the list, you'd do well to make friends at the bar).

Im willing to bet that most of the pundits that make all the stink over this matter were not only crying the hardest at Colin Mcrae's passing (RIP), but were also among those that laughed the hardest at the name 'Colin Mcrash'.
Expand your damned worldview, if only for the sake of rallying.

As for heritage and dignity of the sport, well heh, motorsport at any level is all about marketing and money. The suits in the boardrooms could give two dung piles about Paddy Hopkirk, Rauno Altonen, Hannu Mikkola, Water Rorhl, The Mini, the Ford Cortina and Escort, the Lancia Stratos and Rally037, The Col De Turini, Yumps, Pacenotes....for them its all about how to make a car sell and make more and more money. Whoever has that money can be a poor of character, a paraplegic, young, old male or female.....it doesn't really matter. Block has the money, loves the sport, feels lucky to be in the place he is in, and I for one would be no different.

Im likely going to be banned for this post, and I seldom make posts, but I have been a member for years, and have always told my other rally friends that this a great place to learn about what rallying really is.....

How disheartening this thread is for one that loves rallying so very much.


:up:

[Donney]

That Fiesta looks great!!!!

[L5->R5/CR]

The picture is of the US Rally-spec Fiesta S2000.


Not S2000.

US Open Class Spec.

Turbo and 34mm restrictor and 2600 pounds minimum weight.

[Doug Woods]

Not S2000.

US Open Class Spec.

Turbo and 34mm restrictor and 2600 pounds minimum weight.

It is one of the cars used in 2009 at Pike's Peak and the X Games.

[janvanvurpa]

Not S2000.

US Open Class Spec.

Turbo and 34mm restrictor and 2600 pounds minimum weight.

Missed the bulletin on increased minimum weight?

The newer Blue things weight a lot more than old GC8s, so couldn't have ol' GC8s having an advantage..

I think min wight went up to 2900 lbs/1318kg

Smells like another rule done just for some people who have pull.

[cali]

One thing is for sure, all WRC teams and europeans should learn how to advertise their product. These Block videos may sometimes feel a bit corny, but they work. Looking forward to see him in action, though not expecting too much from him.

[I am evil Homer]

Block's brilliance is embracing new media....twitter, YouTube, MySpace - he's done it all and got a loyal following/fan base which is a sponsors dream because everything he does you see the Monster logo among others.

If only the other drivers and teams would realise this and grab it. Only person that's come close is Kris Meeke.

[Tomi]

One thing is for sure, all WRC teams and europeans should learn how to advertise their product.

I agree, the car makes could do much more, during the events they could arrange different kind of happenings, and introduce their road products, now most of them only bring plane loads of VIP people and arrange stuff for them, when they rather should see every spectator as a potential customer.

[RallyCat909]

Thanks guys for the replies to my rant. When I watch how much hatred there is in this world, I remember the moments at about every rally I have been too and stood alongside individuals from Italy, Poland, Ireland, the UK, Russia, Australia, Japan.. it makes me feel that rally fans are a breed apart. Because when those cars come through, at that moment we are kids again, it doesn't matter where we are from, what we believe, who we are, we are standing there freezing, wet, sweating in the mud, snow, sand dirt, etc. We are laughing and screaming as people that love a thing together. Its rare in sport that such an opportunity exists. When Im there, I take the time to appreciate how unique that is. So I holler and root on every guy that makes a pass, from the poster-boy to the guy that has to drive his rallycar to work on occasion. Im just happy to be a part of something that binds so many diverse people in this world that sees some many boundaries.

Maybe I listen to to much Rush. :)

*sorry for the thread hi-jack*

[AndyRAC]

One thing is for sure, all WRC teams and europeans should learn how to advertise their product. These Block videos may sometimes feel a bit corny, but they work. Looking forward to see him in action, though not expecting too much from him.

Quite right - during a Rally weekend you should be able to go into a Ford/Citroen/etc dealership and be able to follow the Rally on Rally Radio, etc There needs to be more promotion of the sport by the Manufacturers at this level - think of the possible newcomers to the sport. Ford and especially Citroen haven't really made enough of their success in the WRC. Putting a Loeb sticker on a C4 just isn't good enough.

[jonny hurlock]

fistea livery looks sexy and sick. bring on the focus

[Leon]

Quite right - during a Rally weekend you should be able to go into a Ford/Citroen/etc dealership and be able to follow the Rally on Rally Radio, etc There needs to be more promotion of the sport by the Manufacturers at this level - think of the possible newcomers to the sport. Ford and especially Citroen haven't really made enough of their success in the WRC. Putting a Loeb sticker on a C4 just isn't good enough.

Actually the thing you are suggesting is happening here in Cyprus. The local club, organisers of the WRC Cyprus rally and this years IRC round, were broadcasting the rally Monte Carlo at their stand during a motorshow organised by local car dealers...

The same thing also happened some years ago in another automobile show and they were showing lots of Group B stuff like videos and display old classic rally cars...

What I want to say is that rallying needs as much promotion as it can gets and regarding this thread I also agree that Ken Block is a master at publicity.

[L5->R5/CR]

Missed the bulletin on increased minimum weight?

The newer Blue things weight a lot more than old GC8s, so couldn't have ol' GC8s having an advantage..

I think min wight went up to 2900 lbs/1318kg

Smells like another rule done just for some people who have pull.


I did miss that.

That is LAME.

[TMorel]

Maybe I listen to to much Rush. :)

There's no such thing as too much Rush

[janvanvurpa]

I did miss that.

That is LAME.

Read the "rationalisations" for the increased weight.
Alan Parry (or whoever drafts their claptrap) obviously has no shame.

It's lamer than lame.

[Donney]

Thanks guys for the replies to my rant. When I watch how much hatred there is in this world, I remember the moments at about every rally I have been too and stood alongside individuals from Italy, Poland, Ireland, the UK, Russia, Australia, Japan.. it makes me feel that rally fans are a breed apart. Because when those cars come through, at that moment we are kids again, it doesn't matter where we are from, what we believe, who we are, we are standing there freezing, wet, sweating in the mud, snow, sand dirt, etc. We are laughing and screaming as people that love a thing together. Its rare in sport that such an opportunity exists. When Im there, I take the time to appreciate how unique that is. So I holler and root on every guy that makes a pass, from the poster-boy to the guy that has to drive his rallycar to work on occasion. Im just happy to be a part of something that binds so many diverse people in this world that sees some many boundaries.

Maybe I listen to to much Rush. :)

*sorry for the thread hi-jack*


+1 :up:

[macksrallye]

Found this 3 part interview with Ken Block on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I38POigrZ-g&feature=SeriesPlayList&p=3DB490801DD72B9A

I think some of us have made a few assumptions about Ken but it's interesting to hear him humble about what 2010 is going to bring him. It's well worth a listen.

[manta400]

Found this 3 part interview with Ken Block on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I38POigrZ-g&feature=SeriesPlayList&p=3DB490801DD72B9A

I think some of us have made a few assumptions about Ken but it's interesting to hear him humble about what 2010 is going to bring him. It's well worth a listen.

Any word on what Chris Atkinson is doing with the team if any roll?

[N.O.T]

he is going to be blocks sponsor lap dog....making notes.

[logic]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K37p0vw9cU&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fd_4nYfIZWQ

[ProRally]

Later today there will be a extra You Tube video of testing 2 days before SnoDrift....

[Macd]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K37p0vw9cU&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fd_4nYfIZWQ

Is it a cosworth engine ?

[ProRally]

Is it a cosworth engine ?

Duratec engine I believe, but not 100% sure

[JFL]

Yes it is.. Downtuned rallycross engine I believe..

[Rallyper]

Yes it is.. Downtuned rallycross engine I believe..

I think it´s the same car that Gronholm drove in USA on Pikes Peak. Duratec engine block, with cylinder head from Olsberg/Ford sweden.

[ProRally]

I think it´s the same car that Gronholm drove in USA on Pikes Peak. Duratec engine block, with cylinder head from Olsberg/Ford sweden.

Yes it is, with some modifications... Also note it is the 4 door version (Kenny Brack drove 2 door version) as for the moment Ford USA is going to sell only the 4 door version.

Must say I saw on the road yesterday the 2 door sporty version it was nice one

[ProRally]

Specially for N.O.T.

Ken testing the Fiesta http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K37p0vw9cU

[Simmi]

Specially for N.O.T.

Ken testing the Fiesta http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K37p0vw9cU

I have to say I am interested to see how they will combine this type of PR with his WRC programme. It will be good to see what they come up with in terms of promotion. Ken and his team could set a new benchmark in that area of the sport for the modern day. I have no ill feelings towards this guy.

[wotaguy]

and unfortuatly mechanical problems halted him on first day :(

[Alpha]

I've seen some interviews with Ken now and I appreciate his humbleness. He says himself that he is nowhere near the top WRC drivers but he hopes to some day come close to where the top talent is. Thats a good attitude to have before this year.
I guess the problem I have with his effort and the exposure Ken has gotten is that most of the people that talk about it are Americans and don't actually know much about the WRC. They call themselves rally-fans but think that X-Games "heroes" like Block, Pastrana and Mirra are top drivers. Compared to WRC-talent, they're more Wilson than Loeb... "Fans" often link to silly videos like the Gymkhana ones or various X-Games indoor stadium show-off races to prove their skills but with the amount of black tire marks on the asphalt in the Gymkhana videos you can see how many tries he used to get the tricks right. With 50 attempts even I could pull of some of those moves.

Either way, I welcome Block to the WRC. He definitely adds some color and publicity to the series. I don't expect any results but I'll be happy if he beats Matthew.

[ProRally]

I've seen some interviews with Ken now and I appreciate his humbleness. He says himself that he is nowhere near the top WRC drivers but he hopes to some day come close to where the top talent is. Thats a good attitude to have before this year.
I guess the problem I have with his effort and the exposure Ken has gotten is that most of the people that talk about it are Americans and don't actually know much about the WRC. They call themselves rally-fans but think that X-Games "heroes" like Block, Pastrana and Mirra are top drivers. Compared to WRC-talent, they're more Wilson than Loeb... "Fans" often link to silly videos like the Gymkhana ones or various X-Games indoor stadium show-off races to prove their skills but with the amount of black tire marks on the asphalt in the Gymkhana videos you can see how many tries he used to get the tricks right. With 50 attempts even I could pull of some of those moves.

Either way, I welcome Block to the WRC. He definitely adds some color and publicity to the series. I don't expect any results but I'll be happy if he beats Matthew.

Very good and nice post :D

[Tomi]

Anything about Atkinson, will he drive or not?

[Motorsportfun]

Looks like he'll have a consultant role, then (with a good budget) could arrange a WRC programme for 2011 as Block's team-mate.

[Boudica]

Block won the 100 Acre wood rally for the 5th time.

http://www.monsterworldrallyteam.com/sites/default/files/blog/images/Final%20100AW-1-NMCD.jpg?1267347433

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2he40gClJmU&feature=player_embedded

[N.O.T]

the slow motion video is amazing....

[Langdale Forest]

What can we expect from Block in Mexico?

[Macd]

What can we expect from Block in Mexico?

A massive accident

[Pinto]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sm0euMQwYoY

[userwave]

Originally Posted by Langdale Forest http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/aria/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=757945#post757945)
What can we expect from Block in Mexico?


A massive accident


hilarious

[MikeD]

I actually think he looked quite good on that test. I was positively surprised...

BTW - is it M-Sport who is running his car or is it a private team?

[serial jeff]

I actually think he looked quite good on that test. I was positively surprised...

Same. He may not be a world class contender but he definitely knows how to rally.

[JFL]

M -Sport yes.. And the test did'nt look bad at all.. Time will show..

[Tomi]

I remember once going to look at the icecream guys Ford test, it also looked good until we vent to the other side of the lake where Loeb tested, its difficult to say whats really fast when there is nothing what to compaire with.

[pettersolberg29]

All WRC drivers look fast over a few corners. The great ones are fast over all corners, on every stage, with no mistakes.

[Tomi]

All WRC drivers look fast over a few corners. The great ones are fast over all corners, on every stage, with no mistakes.

Maybe, but if one goes to a difficult place in a rally, so is it very easy to see who can and who can not drive, a jump or a waterslpash tells nothing.

[cali]

But there is a chance that he may surprise us all (or at least me). In the same time he lacks massively experience, which is very important in rallying. We will see ...

[pettersolberg29]

Maybe, but if one goes to a difficult place in a rally, so is it very easy to see who can and who can not drive, a jump or a waterslpash tells nothing.

True - actually as soon as I posted my comment I realised that you can tell onstage. At Rally GB the last few years Loeb seems on a different level - even compared to Sordo, Petter and JML who you wouldn't think are that much slower.

[Mitch555]

Anyone else impressed with how Block has gone so far. For a bloke who has only done 170km of testing in the car on very snowy gravel, he's doing pretty well, even beating Wilson on some stages!

[Josti]

He's doing good so far, indeed given the limited testing he's done at this stage.

Keeping up with Wilson seems special, but it also says a lot about Wilson.

If he doesn't make a mistake, I expect him in a point scoring position at the end, although that's not the biggest achievement in such a weak entry list.

[GigiGalliNo1]

"Stoked!"

Hate that word.

[Saabaru]

Why does a guy approaching his 50's try to dress like he's a teenager? Shouldn't he be past a midlife crises by now?

[JFL]

haha.. the 40's is the new 20's.. Did'nt you hear?

[tmx]

Why does a guy approaching his 50's try to dress like he's a teenager? Shouldn't he be past a midlife crises by now? No, I'm sure his racing suit has to comply with the regulation if he is even allow to race. As for the design on the suit, that is if he want to be given money by the sponsor to afford to pay MSport.

[Mitch555]

Why does a guy approaching his 50's try to dress like he's a teenager? Shouldn't he be past a midlife crises by now?

Why not? He's only promoting his own brand. For those who didn't know, Ken is the co-founder of DC Shoes and Chief Brand Officer. I'm a young person and I have nothing against him wearing what he wears. Ken is regarded in most youth circles as a cool person because of his Gymkhana videos.

[Red bull]

maybe he should get a 3piece suit with his sponsors logos on it also an m-sport tie.

[WRCMAD Sean]

ken did pretty darn well on rally Mexico really

[WRCfan]

Ken was a pro snowboarder, and co-founder of DC shoes.
The way he dresses reflects his lifestyle since he was young.

If he was a librarian then now he would be wearing a brown woolen vest, red tie and white shirt with a combover...

Of course he will dress the way he does, it's his company and achievement, why wouldn't he wear DC skate oriented clothing, it is his 'life' at the end of the day...

[gloomyDAY]

"Stoked!"

Hate that word.


Why does a guy approaching his 50's try to dress like he's a teenager? Shouldn't he be past a midlife crises by now?


haha.. the 40's is the new 20's.. Did'nt you hear?http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c123/killincommies/srhydhd.jpg

[Daniel]

"Stoked!"

Hate that word.
:D

Cowabunga dude!

[WRCfan]

Totally rad!!

[Daniel]

http://mutantreviewers.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/wyld-stallyns.jpg

Excellent!

[GigiGalliNo1]

lol