2011 IRC: rallies, drivers, teams, plans?

[alleskids]

Petter Solberg to do IRC

http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=2358

only for Monte Carlo. Petter is interested in the 2011 WTCC

[ProRally]

..... Wevers Sport was asked to make on offer to run the Fabia for Loix and BFO Skoda Belgium, together with RGRS, Symtech and Motorsport International.

And which team got it ?

[alleskids]

We will know soon I guess. Loix' IRC program is still not confirmed by BFO or Skoda.

[vino_93]

Wevers Sport bought 2 Skoda Fabia S2000's (ex Hanninen and Loix). Bernard ten Brinke will use one for a limited IRC program. Wevers Sport was asked to make on offer to run the Fabia for Loix and BFO Skoda Belgium, together with RGRS, Symtech and Motorsport International.
Motorsport International ? :confused:

[mousti]

Motorsport International ? :confused:
MI team of Willy Plas who was the team of Hans Weijs this year :)

[vino_93]

Oh ... have they got a Fabia ?

[wwbroe]

We will know soon I guess. Loix' IRC program is still not confirmed by BFO or Skoda.

Official comfirmation of Loix' program will only be announced at "Car and motorshow" in Brussels in two weeks time. So we have to be patient. Anyhow, besides Monte Carlo, where he will drive factory Skoda Fabia, the rest of the rally's are still quite far away, so still lot of time. But i am sure everything is decided now allready, only waiting to be announced. ;)

[br21]

MI team of Willy Plas who was the team of Hans Weijs this year :)

Wasn't it My Racing and Yves Matton?

[mousti]

Wasn't it My Racing and Yves Matton?
Yep you're right about that Y and I almost the same :D

And only Wevers Sport has a Fabia Evo 2 none of the other teams have that.

[wwbroe]

Yep you're right about that Y and I almost the same :D

And only Wevers Sport has a Fabia Evo 2 none of the other teams have that.

Well, they do not necessary need to have one yet. I am sure they will have one at the appropriate time. :D

[RICARDO75]

I think that many drivers will have plenty of time to prepare the 2011 IRC.
After Monte Carlo Rally, the championship probably should only return in May.

[EavesFan09]

I think that many drivers will have plenty of time to prepare the 2011 IRC.
After Monte Carlo Rally, the championship probably should only return in May.

How do you mean?

[alleskids]

The second IRC rally was planned in Argentina (11 march), but it failed in getting the budget. Maybe an other Argentinian rally will fill up the empty place. If not, te next rally after that, Tour de Corse (5 may) will be the second 2011 IRC rally. Drivers who want to have a go on the championship, have plenty of time to organize their campaign.

[PLuto]

Canarias will be before Corse. And Corse maybe should be one week later.

[alleskids]

Is the Canarias rally still running for a place in the IRC?

[vino_93]

French driver Guillaume Canivenq wants to fight for the IRC 2WD title with a Renault Mégane N4 :) Now, he has not a lot of money ...
He was one of the Renault's development drivers ;)

[HaCo]

French driver Guillaume Canivenq wants to fight for the IRC 2WD title with a Renault Mégane N4 :) Now, he has not a lot of money ...
He was one of the Renault's development drivers ;)

Belgian driver Cedric Cherain plans 6 IRC rally's in the Megane.

[mousti]

French driver Guillaume Canivenq wants to fight for the IRC 2WD title with a Renault Mégane N4 :) Now, he has not a lot of money ...
He was one of the Renault's development drivers ;)
Cédric Cherain is also wanting to do that :)

[Gordini]

Cool, they should ofcourse paint them gordiniblue,and Renaultsport should have a Megane Gordini! Love that the megane will be in IRC, and maybe Renault will registe for the championchip!

[PLuto]

Is the Canarias rally still running for a place in the IRC?

Canarias is still in calendar, they werent off

[EavesFan09]

French driver Guillaume Canivenq wants to fight for the IRC 2WD title with a Renault Mégane N4 :) Now, he has not a lot of money ...
He was one of the Renault's development drivers ;)


Cédric Cherain is also wanting to do that :)


Belgian driver Cedric Cherain plans 6 IRC rally's in the Megane.


Cédric Cherain is also wanting to do that :)

With all this information I really would love to know which source(s) you get the information from.

[HaCo]

page 6 of this magazine http://issuu.com/jhouwenaghel/docs/229nl-ok

[vino_93]

Canivenq : articles in french newspaper ;) (Echappement or Rallye Mag, I don't remember)
He said this himself ;)

[Tom206wrc]

Also Matthieu Arzeno is aiming to run more IRC events after Monte i his DS3 R3(source Rumeur2rallye) ;)

[FabiaFan]

Skoda UK - Mikkelsen (other Skodas??? Kopecky? Loix? Germans???)
Peugeot UK - Wilks, Peugeot BE - Neuville (other Peugeots??? Bouffier?)
Proton - Atkinson (other Protons? Andersson? McRae?)
Ford - nobody???

[FabiaFan]

Meeke on this year's IRC...
http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=2363
...is he crazy??? He's not mentioning his successor Wilks at all...!!!
Instead he thinks Neuville is ready for the title win...crazy...

[Mirek]

Skoda UK - Mikkelsen (other Skodas??? Kopecky? Loix? Germans???)
Peugeot UK - Wilks, Peugeot BE - Neuville (other Peugeots??? Bouffier?)
Proton - Atkinson (other Protons? Andersson? McRae?)
Ford - nobody???

Kopecký and Loix yes. Most of the events in private teams (however factory supported). Another Škoda driver in several IRC events should be Dutch gentleman driver Bernhard Ten Brinke.

[darkstar]

He's not mentioning his successor Wilks at all...!!!
Instead he thinks Neuville is ready for the title win...crazy...

whats so crazy about it? wilks is really not so good, i dont understand why peugeot uk choosed him as their driver...thats crazy in my opinion.

[mousti]

whats so crazy about it? wilks is really not so good, i dont understand why peugeot uk choosed him as their driver...thats crazy in my opinion.
Guy drove 3-4 rallies not because of his injury and had still 3 points lesser than Magalhaes. What Loix did was exceptional en u can't compare that. But tell me who could they chose else besides Guy? Skoda UK investing in Mikkelsen says enough..

[FabiaFan]

whats so crazy about it? wilks is really not so good, i dont understand why peugeot uk choosed him as their driver...thats crazy in my opinion.
...difficult to say just now, but back in the JWRC years Wilks drove even with Meeke, Aava, Sandell... only maybe Sordo and Andersson were slightly better... but in the last season we are lacking proper comparison :-(

[MartijnS]

Skoda Livery 2011 ! Nice :D (EWRC.CZ)

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2011/monte/fabia1.jpg

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2011/monte/fabia2.jpg

[RS]

Not sure if I prefer the new Skoda livery or the old one, will have to wait to see some "real" photos.

[wwbroe]

For my point of view, i like it more then the former livery with all green. I for sure prefer this one. :D

[Wim_Impreza]

whats so crazy about it? wilks is really not so good, i dont understand why peugeot uk choosed him as their driver...thats crazy in my opinion.

Indeed. They could better chose for a young talented driver like Keith Cronin or if they really wanted a British driver they could choose for even Mark Higgins.

I am sure Wilks can't win the IRC title and Neuville isn't ready for the title. It will hopefully another good Škoda year.

[mousti]

Indeed. They could better chose for a young talented driver like Keith Cronin or if they really wanted a British driver they could choose for even Mark Higgins.

I am sure Wilks can't win the IRC title and Neuville isn't ready for the title. It will hopefully another good Škoda year.
I spoke with some British marshalls at the Wales Rally GB and they said Mark Higgins would not be chosen by both Skoda UK and Peugeot UK by his age and also the experience in IRC. That's why Wilks and Mikkelsen got chosen. Cronin rejected a Proton seat because of busy calendar of his business duties.

[RS]

For my point of view, i like it more then the former livery with all green. I for sure prefer this one. :D

Hmm, I'll make my mind up when we see it on Monte soon :)

The old one made more sense though as you can buy the Fabia in green with a white roof but not the other way around!

[MartijnS]

Wevers Sport will contest 3 rounds of the IRC with two Skoda Fabia Evo 2's driven by Bernhard ten Brinke and Erik van Loon.

Tour de Corse
Ypres
San Remo

[RS]

IRC will use the new FIA top-10 points scoring system for 2011 with 25 points for the win.

[Tom206wrc]

whats so crazy about it? wilks is really not so good, i dont understand why peugeot uk choosed him as their driver...thats crazy in my opinion.


You didn't follow his races in 2010 then... :mark:

[alleskids]

The 2011 Tour de Corse, will it be on gravel or tarmac? On the IRC site it states asfalt, but there were news last year that it would be in gravel :confused:

[vino_93]

on tarmac.

Maybe a "Rallye Terre de Corse" will reborne, but for the french gravel championship ;)

[darkstar]

You didn't follow his races in 2010 then... :mark:

to be honest, maybe youre right. i mostly had that really bad result from monte in memory and the crash at sardinia. at the other races between he really did not bad, also in scottland! so maybe he´ll get some really good results in 2011 then.

[Pinto]

I spoke with some British marshalls at the Wales Rally GB and they said Mark Higgins would not be chosen by both Skoda UK and Peugeot UK by his age and also the experience in IRC. That's why Wilks and Mikkelsen got chosen. Cronin rejected a Proton seat because of busy calendar of his business duties.

Keith is an accountant and business duties would not be the reason,there was a few factors im lead to believe which i will not get into here.

[Mirek]

All five Škoda official cars in new livery live:

http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/img00019.jpg
http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/img00017.jpg
http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/img00021.jpg
http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/img00031.jpg
http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/img00025.jpg

Complete gallery here: http://www.johnfoto.cz/monte/index.htm

[FabiaFan]

... which i will not get into here. So thank you very much for posting this :-/

[FabiaFan]

All five Škoda official cars in new livery live:
[/url]

Beautiful!

[wwbroe]

I like the one of Loix' most of all :D

[FabiaFan]

I like the one of Loix' most of all :D
Let us guess why... ;-) Does this livery mean, tha Skoda is't supporting Loix as much as it does in case of Mikkelsen or Vouilloz?

[alleskids]

Mikkelsens and Vouilloz' entry is fully paid by the national Skoda importers, while Loix has a "real" sponsor in BFO. If Vouilloz had been sponsored by Playboy, we would see a lot less green and a lot more naked woman on the car :lol:

[FabiaFan]

Mikkelsens and Vouilloz' entry is fully paid by the national Skoda importers, while Loix has a "real" sponsor in BFO. If Vouilloz had been sponsored by Playboy, we would see a lot less green and a lot more naked woman on the car :lol:
;-) was that a possibility?!? :-D
No, seriously, I meant: ist he support (amount of money) of Loix smaller compared to Vouilloz, so that Loix couldn't start without finding another, "real", sponsor or is the money from BFO "additional", including also some kind of his "salary"... The mess comes from the fact, that Mikkelsen was entered by the UK importer, as well as Wallenwein by the German one - but Loix and Vouilloz they both have Skoda factory team as their entrant. On the other side - Mikkelsen was training together with the Skoda Motorsport team, but Wallenwein didn't...

[mousti]

;-) was that a possibility?!? :-D
No, seriously, I meant: ist he support (amount of money) of Loix smaller compared to Vouilloz, so that Loix couldn't start without finding another, "real", sponsor or is the money from BFO "additional", including also some kind of his "salary"... The mess comes from the fact, that Mikkelsen was entered by the UK importer, as well as Wallenwein by the German one - but Loix and Vouilloz they both have Skoda factory team as their entrant. On the other side - Mikkelsen was training together with the Skoda Motorsport team, but Wallenwein didn't...
Loix was last year sponsored by his main sponsor BFO Family office and co-sponsor Skoda Belgium. Though on this livery I don't see really a Skoda Brand on it especially not the Skoda.be what was last year on the car. But yeah Mikkelsen get full support of Skoda UK and Vouilloz full support of Skoda France only for MC though. For Loix will it be only BFO I think so maybe some of Skoda Belgium and they working together with Skoda Motorsport for top assistance and will probably for next IRC event under a team to do service for them.

[alleskids]

It is a grey zone. Loix, Hanninen, Kopecky, Mikkelsen and Vouilloz are al 5 entered by the factory team (hence the training together), were Hannine and Koppecky are paid by Skoda Motorsport, while the other 3 are sponsered/paid by there national importer (UK, France, Belgium) and BFO Home office. Wallenheim is pure a privat entry, paid by Skoda Germany. When Loix and Kopecky will do the IRC championship, on some rallies they will be serviced by privat teams and some by Skoda Motorsport.

[RS]

Loix was last year sponsored by his main sponsor BFO Family office and co-sponsor Skoda Belgium. Though on this livery I don't see really a Skoda Brand on it especially not the Skoda.be what was last year on the car.

It's on the rear hatch door.

[Livewireshock]

The Union Jack bonnet with a Norse Flag roof vent is interesting to see.

[Luis Pacheco]

In a portuguese forum someone talked about the new scoring regulation for this year.

In Cyprus and Scotland will be applied a scoring coefficient.

A nice way to call drivers for this two rounds.

14-16 October - Rally of Scotland - Coefficient 1.5
03-05 November -Cyprus Rally -Coefficient 2

[FabiaFan]

In a portuguese forum someone talked about the new scoring regulation for this year.

In Cyprus and Scotland will be applied a scoring coefficient.

A nice way to call drivers for this two rounds.

14-16 October - Rally of Scotland - Coefficient 1.5
03-05 November -Cyprus Rally -Coefficient 2

Is this a step to prevent Mikkelsen claim the trophy before Scotland already?!?! ;-))) Or to change the relation tarmac:gravel?

[wwbroe]

On friday Skoda Belgium will finally announce official program of Freddy Loix in IRC. They will do so on car and motorshow in Brussels. Unfortunally it is pressconference where you need an invitation. ;)

[RICARDO75]

In a portuguese forum someone talked about the new scoring regulation for this year.

In Cyprus and Scotland will be applied a scoring coefficient.

A nice way to call drivers for this two rounds.

14-16 October - Rally of Scotland - Coefficient 1.5
03-05 November -Cyprus Rally -Coefficient 2

Yes Luis. It's already on IRC web site and they will have a new Production Championship for Class 3 (N4)

5.1 Overall IRC Classification: For each event in the IRC, a classification of the IRC eligible drivers and co-drivers will be drawn-up from the general classification as published and the standard FIA points system will be applied as refered in 5.5. The best 7 results shall count. Ties will be resolved with the standard international FIA procedures.

5.2 2WD Classification: For each event in the IRC, a classification of IRC 2WD eligible drivers and co-drivers will be drawn-up from the general classification as published and the standard FIA points system will be applied as refered in 5.8. The best 6 results shall count. Ties will be resolved with the standard international FIA procedures.

5.3 Production GroupN4: For each event in the IRC, a classification of Production eligible drivers and co-drivers will be drawn-up from the general classification as published and the standard FIA points system will be applied as refered in 5.5.

5.4 Manufacturer points: the 3 above categories will be awarded to the best 2 finishing cars of each make. Non-scoring cars will be not taken into account for the purpose of the IRC. 7 results shall count including a maximum of 6 European events within the 7 scoring rounds.

5.5 IRC applies the FIA scoring points system as follows:

1st: 25 points
2nd: 18 points
3rd: 15 points
4th: 12 points
5th: 10 points
6th: 8 points
7th: 6 points
8th: 4 points
9th: 2 points
10th: 1 point


5.6 Coefficients will be applied to the scoring system of the following events:
14-16 October RAC MSA Rally of Scotland Coefficient 1.5
03-05 November Cyprus Rally Coefficient 2

[PLuto]

I wanted to write about it since last week, but it looks that on IRC pages they were faster than me...

So, despite it here is an article - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11580

[pettersolberg29]

Surely this means that drivers will just skip other events mid-season and replace them with Scotland and Cyprus as it offers more points. How does this effect barren entry lists at some events - surely it just recycles entries? It will just create a rubbish event in Ukraine for example, and a good one in Cyprus instead of vice versa. Seems bizarre to me...

[mousti]

Coincidence or not but those 2 rallies were both rallies with low list of top contenders Scotland for sure, Cyprus a bit though it had new additions with Nasser and Feghali

[Mirek]

I don't agree that it's just recycling entries. Situation in mid-season and at the end is different for crews. Most of the crews don't drive last events because they already lost championship targets by that time. It's not the case of earlier events where there is always a lot to fight for.

[PLuto]

The reason is to make championship more interesting for longer season. To fight till the end...

[pettersolberg29]

I can see what you all mean I suppose - it does mean that anyone within 49 points of the top of the championship going in to Cyprus can still win which is quite exciting. However it also means that if you win Scotland and Cyprus you get 37.5 more points than if you win Monte Carlo and Tour de Corse which seems odd to me.
I shouldn't complain though as it means the rally at Scotland will be more exciting this year when I go to watch it! Also it strengthens Mikkelsen's chances in my opinion as these two events are probably his strongest.

[Luis Pacheco]

Coincidence or not but those 2 rallies were both rallies with low list of top contenders Scotland for sure, Cyprus a bit though it had new additions with Nasser and Feghali

With low list of top contenders and with live $coverage$. ;)

[Ondra WRC]

Andreas Mikkelsen:

http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/540370/167996_186062661412995_185806838105244_612947_3132 372_n.jpg

http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/540370/163129_186062598079668_185806838105244_612945_6680 392_n.jpg

[alleskids]

http://www.rallyandraces.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1471:didier-vanwijnsberghe-terug-met-de-escort-historic&catid=47:nieuws&Itemid=80

Didier Vanwijnsberghe sold his Skoda Fabia Evo1 to Wevers Sport. One of the reason he gives for the sale, is that Evo 1's are not permitted for the Ypres Rally :confused:

[Mirek]

http://www.rallyandraces.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1471:didier-vanwijnsberghe-terug-met-de-escort-historic&catid=47:nieuws&Itemid=80

Didier Vanwijnsberghe sold his Skoda Fabia Evo1 to Wevers Sport. One of the reason he gives for the sale, is that Evo 1's are not permitted for the Ypres Rally :confused:

According to FIA rules any part homologated in erratum (ER) is mandatory after one year from homologation. For wide body wheel guards, bumpers and bonnet of Fabia it's 1st June 2011. But it's not difficult to rebuild the car (it's probably more about money). Wevers will do that too.

[alleskids]

thanks for explanation :) . after 1 june 2011 only Fabia evo2 is allowed in IRC and S-WRC?

[Mirek]

I had a look into FIA page. There are these erratums. Mandatory use is meant in any FIA event.

1st June (mandatory for Ypres):

TRANSMISSION / POWER TRAIN
SUSPENSION / SUSPENSION
CARROSSERIE / BODYWORK

1st July:

TRAIN ROULANT / RUNNING GEAR
MOTEUR / ENGINE

Plus also new safety features which must be use in all cars since 1st January (plastic windows, safety foam in door).

[Tom206wrc]

Green livery for Brit Harry Hunt's DS3 R3 :D

[Luis Pacheco]

Looks like Canarias is IN.

http://rally-mania.blogspot.com/2011/01/rally-islas-canarias-continua-no-irc.html#more

[pucky54]

Looks like Canarias is IN.

http://rally-mania.blogspot.com/2011/01/rally-islas-canarias-continua-no-irc.html#more

Nice :)

[PLuto]

In last weeks Canarias were still IN. Only date wasnt sure because of Argentina...

[Tom206wrc]

On friday Skoda Belgium will finally announce official program of Freddy Loix in IRC. They will do so on car and motorshow in Brussels. Unfortunally it is pressconference where you need an invitation. ;)


So...news ??? :confused:

[PLuto]

Freddy Loix will start in IRC with factory car:
http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11592

[pucky54]

Corsica one week later now: May 13-15

[wwbroe]

Corsica one week later now: May 13-15

That was decided allready few weeks ago. Only Islas Canarias remains to be seen when it will take place.

[RS]

That was decided allready few weeks ago. Only Islas Canarias remains to be seen when it will take place.

There is also some speculation that Scotland will merge with the Granite City Rally and run in April.

[RS]

Freddy Loix will start in IRC with factory car:
http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11592

Factory car? Do they have Quesnel's permission?

[PLuto]

There is also some speculation that Scotland will merge with the Granite City Rally and run in April.

I think they will stay on their normal date.

[RICARDO75]

Freddy Loix will start in IRC with factory car:
http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11592

Pluto, do you know if this program for Loix (Monte Carlo, Canarias, Corsica, Ypres, Madeira, Barum and Sanremo), will be the same for Kopecký?

[pettersolberg29]

I think they will stay on their normal date.

It will almost certainly stay at the end of the season as the IRC points co-efficents have been put in place to encourage it to stay there as it should still get a good entry.


Pluto, do you know if this program for Loix (Monte Carlo, Canarias, Corsica, Ypres, Madeira, Barum and Sanremo), will be the same for Kopecký?

I assume Kopecky will do more events if he wants to win the IRC. In the article it says Loix will compete on more events if he has a chance of winning the championship.

[RICARDO75]

My concern is the Rally Azores.
To be the only gravel rally in the middle, I begin to feel reticent

[mousti]

Factory car? Do they have Quesnel's permission?
Quesnel whining was trying to get effect on the IRC bosses what didn't work. And I'm happy the guys around Loix and BFO negotiated for a good deal to get under the official Skoda flag. :)

[Luis Pacheco]

My concern is the Rally Azores.
To be the only gravel rally in the middle, I begin to feel reticent

I begin to feel reticent about the rallye in self...

[FabiaFan]

Pluto, do you know if this program for Loix (Monte Carlo, Canarias, Corsica, Ypres, Madeira, Barum and Sanremo), will be the same for Kopecký? Yes, that's what the article says - Loix will enter as a nr.2 aside of Kopecky those named events - in case somebody from the Skoda factory team will still have the chance to win the series at the end of the season, he (or the whole team) will do more rounds...

[FabiaFan]

http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/index.php/IRC-Monte-Carlo---Nur-nicht-aufgeben/article=161209

[Tom206wrc]

Quesnel whining was trying to get effect on the IRC bosses what didn't work. And I'm happy the guys around Loix and BFO negotiated for a good deal to get under the official Skoda flag. :)


At least Quesnel didn't retire the 207 S2000s of entrylists as resulting of IRC organizers negative answer... ;)

[mousti]

At least Quesnel didn't retire the 207 S2000s of entrylists as resulting of IRC organizers negative answer... ;)
If he would done that he would destroy his own windows ;) quite stupid to do that. He was just playing some bluff poker but didn't work out like he wanted and that's good, cry babies like him don't deserve any attention.

[mousti]

Suprising livery for Hunt's DS3.... NOT :D


http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1396.snc4/164884_1788610720840_1406751981_2011277_2951101_n. jpg

[Hartusvuori]

Suprising livery for Hunt's DS3.... NOT :D

It's a brand in the making! Wherever you go, Harry's there and wherever Harry is, there's action.

Where he gets funding to all the events, btw? Don't know his this season's schedule though.

[tolis]

It's a brand in the making! Wherever you go, Harry's there and wherever Harry is, there's action.

Where he gets funding to all the events, btw? Don't know his this season's schedule though.
I've read that he'll do 15 international rallies (WRC+IRC) [http://www.rallybel.be/2011mco17.html]
He has also registered for PWRC this year. :)

[mousti]

It's a brand in the making! Wherever you go, Harry's there and wherever Harry is, there's action.

Where he gets funding to all the events, btw? Don't know his this season's schedule though.
Heard in Wales he father had a big company and selled everything and is putting alot of money of that now in his son Harry hence there is no really any sponsor on the car.

[106 sport]

hi, Do you think Proton is going to be in Rally Islas Canarias?


Regards from Gran Canaria.

[pucky54]

hi, Do you think Proton is going to be in Rally Islas Canarias?


Regards from Gran Canaria.

Canarias is not on their schedule yet, but Argentina. If Argentina is out, may be they go to Canarias instead.

[PLuto]

Argentina is out, I wrote it in the past...

[rallyfiend]

Heard in Wales he father had a big company and selled everything and is putting alot of money of that now in his son Harry hence there is no really any sponsor on the car.

There's more than enough money in that family to sponsor EVERY rally driver....
http://www.thisisnorthdevon.co.uk/news/Gwynn-joins-Hunt-world-stage/article-1702379-detail/article.html

[rallyfiend]

Argentina is out, I wrote it in the past...

IRC sure are waiting a long time to make that news public....

[RICARDO75]

No pickems this year???

The rally starts in 3 days from today :(

[alleskids]

There's more than enough money in that family to sponsor EVERY rally driver....
http://www.thisisnorthdevon.co.uk/news/Gwynn-joins-Hunt-world-stage/article-1702379-detail/article.html

What you are saying is, Harry Hunt could not only buy himself a WRcar, but he could buy the whole of Ford AND Citroen teams.... en still he takes the conservartive road of learning the stuff in small cars, before stepping up step by step in faster cars? respect for the guy :up:

[wwbroe]

Does anybody have some idea for expected date for Islas Canarias Rally. On their website it says that most probably it will take place on weekend of 14-17 april. Can somebody comfirm this, because my Spanish isn't that good. Website of ircseries is very slow in updating dates for their rally's. Even Argentina is still on calendar of IRC, alltough many people has said that it won't take place. ;)

[FabiaFan]

No pickems this year???

The rally starts in 3 days from today :(

My bet would be on: 1. Henning Solberg 2. Loix 3. Kopecky 4. Bouffier 5. Wilks ... but I know, this is rather a lottery...

[Barreis]

There's more than enough money in that family to sponsor EVERY rally driver....
http://www.thisisnorthdevon.co.uk/news/Gwynn-joins-Hunt-world-stage/article-1702379-detail/article.html

Poor guys.. :D

[PLuto]

Does anybody have some idea for expected date for Islas Canarias Rally. On their website it says that most probably it will take place on weekend of 14-17 april. Can somebody comfirm this, because my Spanish isn't that good. Website of ircseries is very slow in updating dates for their rally's. Even Argentina is still on calendar of IRC, alltough many people has said that it won't take place. ;)

I can confirm the date.

[mousti]

What you are saying is, Harry Hunt could not only buy himself a WRcar, but he could buy the whole of Ford AND Citroen teams.... en still he takes the conservartive road of learning the stuff in small cars, before stepping up step by step in faster cars? respect for the guy :up:
If you have a clear mind being a bit smart and being realistic u know u have to do that and not doing it like Kimi is doing it. That's why I like Kubica a lot more then Kimi as a rallydriver.

[Barreis]

But Kubica didn't drive against Seb.Loeb.. And drivers has ego.. :D

[mousti]

But Kubica didn't drive against Seb.Loeb.. And drivers has ego.. :D
And that means Kimi is great? Kimi didn't achieve for me anything in rally. Anyone doing competition has ego not only drivers that's just part of a human being.

[RJM]

What you are saying is, Harry Hunt could not only buy himself a WRcar, but he could buy the whole of Ford AND Citroen teams.... en still he takes the conservartive road of learning the stuff in small cars, before stepping up step by step in faster cars? respect for the guy :up:

What he's trying to say is harry hunts dad could buy quesnel, shine his bold head up and stick him on the front of his Rolls Royce!

[alleskids]

...and still is realistic about his sons rally hobby and gives only a budget big enough for small rallycars, so Harry can learn the tricks from lower rally classes instead of trying first out with the big cars. I respect thier vision, as many would immediatly buy a WRCar for their son

[RJM]

Yeah I agree, it's the best way to learn, the drivers who can drive slow cars fast are always better drivers than people like Wilson who just jump straight into a big car.

[RS]

Nice little interview with Mikkelsen here: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88974

On gravel he thinks the Fiesta and Fabia are on the same level but on tarmac the Fabia is ahead.

[Tom206wrc]

And he thinks nothing about the 207 ??? :p :


Edit: in fact he never drove the 207 he can speak only about what he tried :mark:

[FabiaFan]

And he thinks nothing about the 207 ??? :p :


Edit: in fact he never drove the 207 he can speak only about what he tried :mark:

You should be so lucky! ;-) Have you noticed that Wilks is better not comparing his current car to the previous one?!?

[Bobcat]

Nice little interview with Mikkelsen here: http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88974

On gravel he thinks the Fiesta and Fabia are on the same level but on tarmac the Fabia is ahead.

He who pays the piper calls the tune.

[RS]

He who pays the piper calls the tune.

There may be an element of truth in that, to be fair though he did point out he drove the cars with different tyres. On the other hand I can't think of any evidence to say he is wrong?

[Mirek]

He who pays the piper calls the tune.

Hehe, every interview or press release is the best possible evidence if it suits You but just a rubbish if not. Think a bit before You ridicule Yourself, please. Everyone can search Your previous posts...

[Fly]

Andersson to drive full IRC season for Proton. Don't know if it's been written before.

http://www.teknikensvarld.se/motorsport/nyheter/110120-p-g-irc-2011/index.xml

If Atkinson drives for Proton as well, they will have the best line-up for the 2011 season. (but not the best car, I know...)

[mousti]

To the czech guys here especially Mirek or Pluto, Autosport.cz FB page: Bryan Bouffier by měl za Peugeot France kromě Monte startovat i v devíti dalších soutěžích IRC 2011.

Means that he signed for nine other IRC rallies if that's right this is great news !

[br21]

Yep, it seems Bouffier will do 10 IRC rounds in Peugeot this season.

[cali]

Good news!

[HaCo]

Superb!

[FabiaFan]

If Atkinson drives for Proton as well, they will have the best line-up for the 2011 season. (but not the best car, I know...)
But Atkinson will be doing APRC - originally there should have been only McRae, but they have changed it, they will be both doing Asia-Pacific and the second driver for IRC is yet unknown - they are still searching... no idea who it might be...

[FabiaFan]

Andersson to drive full IRC season for Proton.

It isnt sure Proton will do FULL season, ALL events...

[Wim_Impreza]

Andersson to drive full IRC season for Proton. Don't know if it's been written before.

http://www.teknikensvarld.se/motorsport/nyheter/110120-p-g-irc-2011/index.xml

If Atkinson drives for Proton as well, they will have the best line-up for the 2011 season. (but not the best car, I know...)

Not so sure about the best line-up. Andersson has crashed again in this rally.

[RICARDO75]

Not so sure about the best line-up. Andersson has crashed again in this rally.

I don´t see that as a crash. It was a large stone that was under some leaves when cutting a corner.
Maybe other cars could broke the suspension if they hit the same stone

[MJW]

IRC rally radio with Olivier Quensel said that Petter will be back for Peugeot in another IRC round, possibly Corsica.

[cali]

Petter hungry for revenge? Bring it on!! Nice to see him back in IRC for more rallyes.

Btw, IRC drivers are no pushovers if we can conclude anything from this years Monte

[RS]

IRC rally radio with Olivier Quensel said that Petter will be back for Peugeot in another IRC round, possibly Corsica.

That's good news. I can imagine seeing Kimi on some IRC events too...

[alleskids]

Is Peugeot France providing the whole budget for Bouffier, or does Peugeot Polen have some sharing too? And does it mean Sarrazin will NOT have his championship try?

[pettersolberg29]

Is Peugeot France providing the whole budget for Bouffier, or does Peugeot Polen have some sharing too? And does it mean Sarrazin will NOT have his championship try?

Sarrazin really deserves a chance in the IRC - I honestly think he could win the championship. He was one of, if not the fastest driver in Monte this year and the past couple of years too. He could win tarmac rounds and he isn't exactly incompetent on gravel too. However his commitment to Le Mans seems to be (arguably) holding him back.


IRC rally radio with Olivier Quensel said that Petter will be back for Peugeot in another IRC round, possibly Corsica.

Great news - maybe part of the deal Solberg negotiated to get a DS3. With it being just a simple tarmac round I can see him winning that if he has no issues.


Petter hungry for revenge? Bring it on!! Nice to see him back in IRC for more rallyes.

Btw, IRC drivers are no pushovers if we can conclude anything from this years Monte

IRC drivers aren't pushovers no, but I don't think Petter did much worse than I expected. He was 2nd before the snow chaos despite a rubbish first stage where he lost 30s, and had alternator issues and nothing to fight for this evening on the Turini. I think all this has shown is that Monte is a rally for specialists, and Petter is definately NOT a Monte specialist!

[Barreis]

What for?! IRC is better..

[pettersolberg29]

What for?! IRC is better..

'What for' what? If aimed at my post, I don't understand the question!

[ridder]

Sarrazin really deserves a chance in the IRC - I honestly think he could win the championship. He was one of, if not the fastest driver in Monte this year and the past couple of years too. He could win tarmac rounds and he isn't exactly incompetent on gravel too. However his commitment to Le Mans seems to be (arguably) holding him back.
...

You haven't been following his career much I guess. Check the profile http://www.ewrc-results.com/profile.php?profile=166

Truth is that he's really slow on gravel and on tarmac he only ever did well in Monte and then in Spain on Michelin tires (works subarus were on Pirelli).
Even if he did whole IRC he would have no chance to win the championship.
Mikkelsen, Kopecky and Wilks are much faster than him on gravel and 2 of these also about as fast on tarmac.

[pettersolberg29]

You haven't been following his career much I guess. Check the profile http://www.ewrc-results.com/profile.php?profile=166

Truth is that he's really slow on gravel and on tarmac he only ever did well in Monte and then in Spain on Michelin tires (works subarus were on Pirelli).
Even if he did whole IRC he would have no chance to win the championship.
Mikkelsen, Kopecky and Wilks are much faster than him on gravel and 2 of these also about as fast on tarmac.

Well, I have followed his career for over 10 years but I suppose that doesn't matter ;)

He's not great on gravel, but he'd get 5-8th places I think - around Magalhaes pace. But tarmac events dominate this years IRC and his tarmac pace is great. He should have won the 2009 Monte, had the most stage wins this year and has come 4th twice, 6th and 8th in the WRC with an Impreza that wasn't a good tarmac car when his experience was low. I think he could challenge for wins in every tarmac event except Barum. Just my opinion.

[Wim_Impreza]

Well, I have followed his career for over 10 years but I suppose that doesn't matter ;)

He's not great on gravel, but he'd get 5-8th places I think - around Magalhaes pace. But tarmac events dominate this years IRC and his tarmac pace is great. He should have won the 2009 Monte, had the most stage wins this year and has come 4th twice, 6th and 8th in the WRC with an Impreza that wasn't a good tarmac car when his experience was low. I think he could challenge for wins in every tarmac event except Barum. Just my opinion.

His tarmac pace in the Rallye du Var 2010 was very poor and he is nowhere on gravel, just as as example Gilles Panizzi in the past. We all know that Panizzi was very fast on tarmac, but Sarrazin is only really fast in the Monte-Carlo. I am agree with the comment from ridder about Sarrazin.

[cali]

IRC drivers aren't pushovers no, but I don't think Petter did much worse than I expected. He was 2nd before the snow chaos despite a rubbish first stage where he lost 30s, and had alternator issues and nothing to fight for this evening on the Turini. I think all this has shown is that Monte is a rally for specialists, and Petter is definately NOT a Monte specialist!

My comment was aimed to guys who thought that WRC drivers should win their hands down against IRC "B-class" drivers. This was more of a praise towards IRC guys and I actually think that Petter did well until Friday's night stages. It's always nice to see him on stages and trying to give his best everytime. Waiting for Petter's return to IRC this year, he has a lot to prove and this adds excitement :)

[ridder]

Loix, Sarrazin, Vouilloz, Kopecky, Gardemeister, Delecour are all exWRC drivers so I never kinda got the IRC vs WRC drivers debate.
Think it comes from Hanninen+Meeke beating those exWRC drivers and some people claiming that they would beat Loeb etc. and then other people using the cheap argument of "B-drivers".

- Hanninen and Meeke are IMO on the same level as the top 6 WRC drivers (Latvala, Solberg, Ogier, Hirvonen, Sordo) Loeb is a bit different though.
- the mentioned exWRC drivers did drive quite a few rallies in WRC so there are plenty of opportunities to compare.
- Wilks is usually around 5-6th place in IRC if there's some competition
- Basso seems only fast on smooth tarmac/hairpins rallies, like most of Italian pilots
- Bouffier seems to be a bit behind Hanninen even on tarmac which is his best surface

[FabiaFan]

Loix, Sarrazin, Vouilloz, Kopecky, Gardemeister, Delecour - the mentioned exWRC drivers did drive quite a few rallies in WRC so there are plenty of opportunities to compare.

Loix IS A 2nd CLASS DRIVER, suspended by a works team and replaced by Robert or Rovanpera, at Mitsubishi totally outpaced by his colleague, at Hyundai not able to outpace Schwarz, another 2nd class driver. Currently serves Loix as a benchmark to me - who beats him regularly with a distance, is in my eyes "qualified to do WRC" (as Meeke or Hanninen) - who can´t, stays at his level... (Kopecky, Bouffier, Wilks). Just now I´m looking for the comparison with Mikkelsen, I´m quite sure he would join the first two...

[pettersolberg29]

His tarmac pace in the Rallye du Var 2010 was very poor and he is nowhere on gravel, just as as example Gilles Panizzi in the past. We all know that Panizzi was very fast on tarmac, but Sarrazin is only really fast in the Monte-Carlo. I am agree with the comment from ridder about Sarrazin.

It wasn't too bad - he had a lot of issues and a puncture, and yet still finished close to Bouffier who is French champion and has more experience in the car. Also, comparing him to Panizzi is a compliment...he could have won the WRC based on tarmac rallies alone. Sarrazin could do a similar thing in the IRC as the new points system heavily favours winners. Sarrazin could (not would necessarily) win Monte, Corsica, San Remo and possibly another round. This plus a couple of 4ths could win him the title.

[Tom206wrc]

"Poor pace" of Sarrazin in rallye du Var ???? Is it a joke ???? :crazy:

Even in the Citroën DS3 at Critérium des Cévennes he had very good run cloth to Manu Guigou, hampered by a puncture and a final mechanical issue forcing him to go out late(so penalties) :rolleyes:


By the way, apparently FULL IRC season for Bryan Bouffier :bounce: :bounce:

[FabiaFan]

Sarrazin could (not would necessarily) win Monte, Corsica, San Remo and possibly another round. This plus a couple of 4ths could win him the title. Reasonable analysis. That´s why I agree with the bonuses for the gravel rallyes in the end and this is also why (together with the fact that there is a lot of tarmac "almost specialists" this year who will steel the victories from each other) I believe Mikkelsen will be the winner this year.

[pettersolberg29]

Reasonable analysis. That´s why I agree with the bonuses for the gravel rallyes in the end and this is also why (together with the fact that there is a lot of tarmac "almost specialists" this year who will steel the victories from each other) I believe Mikkelsen will be the winner this year.

I sort of agree, however I don't think Mikkelsen will get many podiums on tarmac rallies other than Ypres and Barum possibly where he has experience. But you are right that by winning Cyprus and Scotland he could get 87.5 points just from those two events and this could win him the whole thing. I think it depends what rallies Hanninen and Solberg may come back to do as they are likely to be right at the top of the timesheets and possibly take points off the contenders - especially if Juho does Scotland and steals the win from Mikkelsen. Unlikely Skoda will do that against their own driver though!

[alleskids]

Chris Atkinson wil concentrate on the Asia-Pacific program of Proton? Together with Alister McRae he will be the Asia-team. So then who will be PG's teammate in the European-team? With the majority of tarmac rallies, a tarmac specialist with be a good option.

[FabiaFan]

... So then who will be PG's teammate in the European-team? With the majority of tarmac rallies, a tarmac specialist with be a good option. Does it make a difference at Proton?!? They could easily hire me, the final result will be the same...!!! :-DDD

[Sergio-Rallymax]

As it puts in Juho Häninnen's web page, seems to be that it rejects to run in Jordan Rally (the calendar that appears they are dates of 2011, not of 2010). Might it take part in the Rally Islas Canarias that apparently he liked last year?

http://www.juhohanninen.com/fi/etusivu/

[bluuford]

As it puts in Juho Häninnen's web page, seems to be that it rejects to run in Jordan Rally (the calendar that appears they are dates of 2011, not of 2010). Might it take part in the Rally Islas Canarias that apparently he liked last year?

http://www.juhohanninen.com/fi/etusivu/

I think it is more related to the rough nature of that rally. remeber.In 2010 only one or was it two S2000 finished it without superally.

[alleskids]

One of the bussiest man around in 2011 will be Fred Miclotte, the navigator of Dennis Kuipers (11x WRC) and Freddy Loix (7x IRC). But he will have a class with Jordan (Kuipers) and Islas Canarias (Loix)

19-23 jan: Monte Carlo Rally > Loix - IRC - Skoda fabia S20000
11-13 feb: Swedisch Rally > Kuipers - WRC - Ford Fiesta WRC
4- 6 mrt: Rally Mexico > Kuipers
25-27 mrt: Rallye de Portugal> Kuipers
14-16 apr: Rally Islas Canarias > Loix
15-17 apr: Jordania Rally > Kuipers
6-8 may: Rally Sardegna > Kuipers (after the finish take a boat to Corsica)
12-15 may: Tour de Corse > Loix
17-19 jun: Acropolis Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a high speed car to Ypres)
23-25 jun: Ypres Westhoek Rally > Loix
29-31 jul: Finland Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a plane to Madeira)
4-6 aug: Rali Vinho Madeira > Loix
19-21 aug: Deutschland Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a high speed car to Barum)
26-28 aug: Barum Rally Zlin > Loix
22-24 sep: Rally Sanremo > Loix (after the finish take a high speed car to the Alsac)
30 sep-2 okt: Rally France- Alsac > Kuipers
21–23 okt: Rallye Catalunya > Kuipers
11-13 nov: Wales Rally GB > Kuipers
plus 2 Belgium rally championship rallies

[morganmilan]

One of the bussiest man around in 2011 will be Fred Miclotte, the navigator of Dennis Kuipers (11x WRC) and Freddy Loix (7x IRC). But he will have a class with Jordan (Kuipers) and Islas Canarias (Loix)

19-23 jan: Monte Carlo Rally > Loix - IRC - Skoda fabia S20000
11-13 feb: Swedisch Rally > Kuipers - WRC - Ford Fiesta WRC
4- 6 mrt: Rally Mexico > Kuipers
25-27 mrt: Rallye de Portugal> Kuipers
14-16 apr: Rally Islas Canarias > Loix
15-17 apr: Jordania Rally > Kuipers
6-8 may: Rally Sardegna > Kuipers (after the finish take a boat to Corsica)
12-15 may: Tour de Corse > Loix
17-19 jun: Acropolis Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a high speed car to Ypres)
23-25 jun: Ypres Westhoek Rally > Loix
29-31 jul: Finland Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a plane to Madeira)
4-6 aug: Rali Vinho Madeira > Loix
19-21 aug: Deutschland Rally > Kuipers (after the finish take a high speed car to Barum)
26-28 aug: Barum Rally Zlin > Loix
22-24 sep: Rally Sanremo > Loix (after the finish take a high speed car to the Alsac)
30 sep-2 okt: Rally France- Alsac > Kuipers
21–23 okt: Rallye Catalunya > Kuipers
11-13 nov: Wales Rally GB > Kuipers
plus 2 Belgium rally championship rallies
:D :D+1 Astonishing Miclotte!!

[Mirek]

Loix IS A 2nd CLASS DRIVER, suspended by a works team and replaced by Robert or Rovanpera, at Mitsubishi totally outpaced by his colleague, at Hyundai not able to outpace Schwarz, another 2nd class driver. Currently serves Loix as a benchmark to me - who beats him regularly with a distance, is in my eyes "qualified to do WRC" (as Meeke or Hanninen) - who can´t, stays at his level... (Kopecky, Bouffier, Wilks). Just now I´m looking for the comparison with Mikkelsen, I´m quite sure he would join the first two...

It's not that easy my friend. Rallysport is not only about driving skills. You have two people onboard, car and team and only the best combination makes the winner. So comparing Loix in Fabia S2000 (which obviously suits his driving very good and where team allows him to do what he wants) is quite difficult with Evo VI Gr.A (which suited only to Mäkkinen) or with 307 WRC (where he couldn't drive his own setups) or even with 207 S2000 (where it was similar with setup politics). Same applies to any driver.

[BDunnell]

Loix IS A 2nd CLASS DRIVER, suspended by a works team and replaced by Robert or Rovanpera, at Mitsubishi totally outpaced by his colleague, at Hyundai not able to outpace Schwarz, another 2nd class driver.

Bit unfair, in my view. In the Celica, and to some extent the Corolla, Loix looked a real talent. After he left Toyota, things did start to fall apart somewhat, and it was perhaps a surprise that he lasted so long in WRC manufacturer teams. But it is no surprise at all to me that he should be competitive in the IRC, because before all of that I recall him always being pretty quick in Formula 2 Astra GSis.

[aykutbilir]

Loix is fast very fast with Fabia S2000 for sure.
And about Hanninen i think he will shine @ SWRC this year and at 2012 he will drive the number one VW WRCar :)
Sure if VW annouce his WRC program soon.

[Barreis]

Bit unfair, in my view. In the Celica, and to some extent the Corolla, Loix looked a real talent. After he left Toyota, things did start to fall apart somewhat, and it was perhaps a surprise that he lasted so long in WRC manufacturer teams. But it is no surprise at all to me that he should be competitive in the IRC, because before all of that I recall him always being pretty quick in Formula 2 Astra GSis.

I remember Loix had lead in private Corolla WRC at Acropolis back in 1998 and been better then Auriol so put as a nominated driver instead of Didier.. After that Mitsu signed him.. But Tommi M. "killed" him..

[PLuto]

Giandomenico Basso on tests with Proton?

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11652

[MR666]

Why is there such a big gap btween rounds 1 and 2?

[pettersolberg29]

Because Rally Argentina was scheduled in between them but was subsequently cancelled.

[RS]

Giandomenico Basso on tests with Proton?

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11652

Well Proton need a 2nd driver for IRC and most of the events are asphalt this year. You can't really get better than Basso for that. I was hoping to see Basso get a bigger programme in a Peugeot or something but this would be better than nothing!

[bluuford]

Well Proton need a 2nd driver for IRC and most of the events are asphalt this year. You can't really get better than Basso for that. I was hoping to see Basso get a bigger programme in a Peugeot or something but this would be better than nothing!

Well, seems that in last couple of years Peugeot is funding only some wild-cards that always fail to finish, mostly thanks to the car failure (Ogier in MC and Italy last year, Solberg this year in MC), sometimes thanks to driver error (Sarrazin at Ypres in 2010). Looks like fruitful policy.
On the other hand, Proton has very good driver policy. They try to get very decent drivers into their cars (PG,Panizzi,Atko...)...the only thing they are lacking is the proper car right now. On smoother tarmac like Canarias Basso +reliable Proton=something good.

[Barreis]

They have great drivers but bad car..

[Tom206wrc]

Giandomenico Basso on tests with Proton?

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11652


:mark:

[PLuto]

Bruno Magalhaes revealed his program in IRC 2011 - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11669

[PLuto]

Programme of Challenge Renault Sport 2WD - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11670

[alleskids]

Julien Maurin will do a IRC program. After his not so succesful start in Monte Carlo, he wil do Tour de Corse, Ypres, Azores. Madeira, Barum and Sanremo.

[Tom206wrc]

Bruno Magalhaes revealed his program in IRC 2011 - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11669


Glad his crash in Monte didn't put an end to his IRC program :)

[Wim_Impreza]

Glad his crash in Monte didn't put an end to his IRC program :)

Logical, there are again 2 rounds in Portugal.

[PLuto]

Yazeed Al Rajhi in IRC - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11672

[alleskids]

great news, IRC is becoming to much an European championship. Can we expect someting from Simon Evans from Australia? He had serieus plans last year.

[Mirek]

Škoda reacts on point coefficients in last two rounds of IRC and adds both into Juho's schedule (it's logical not to let Peugeot bigger chances on double-pointed events). So in the moment he has SWRC, Barum, Scotland and Cyprus confirmed. Mr. Hortek said he may do even more events.

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11675

[alleskids]

Hanninen is in a supporting role to Kopecky. So we can expect Kopecky also in Scotland and Cyprus? Hanninen wants to use the IRC tarmac rallies to prepare for the SWRC tarmac rallies. Does this mean we can expect Hanninen in Madaira (directly afterwards Finland and a week before Germany) ?

[Mirek]

I don't think he needs some extra preparation for SWRC tarmac rounds. Maybe if there are some new names on the entry list but now there is only Prokop capable of being a threat to him (maybe). And Prokop is no match for him on gravel.

[pettersolberg29]

Škoda reacts on point coefficients in last two rounds of IRC and adds both into Juho's schedule (it's logical not to let Peugeot bigger chances on double-pointed events). So in the moment he has SWRC, Barum, Scotland and Cyprus confirmed. Mr. Hortek said he may do even more events.

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11675

I know its very unlikely, but could Hanninen win the IRC again? If he wins Barum, Scotland and Cyprus, as well as possibly one more round, then its more than possible with the coefficients.
Also, if Juho is coming as a supporting role, then what if Andreas is behind him and needs to win? I assume he would be asked to step aside and let Andreas win if it means a title for Skoda.

[RS]

I guess Juho is there more to help Skoda with the manufacturers title.

[alleskids]

Also, if Juho is coming as a supporting role, then what if Andreas is behind him and needs to win? I assume he would be asked to step aside and let Andreas win if it means a title for Skoda.

Juha's aim is to have Skoda score al the major prices, so ofcourse he will step aside if it brings the title to a Skoda driver..

[FabiaFan]

Juha's aim is to have Skoda score al the major prices, so ofcourse he will step aside if it brings the title to a Skoda driver.. Hypothetically yes...and I would accept such step...but name just one example when this happened (I mean from the side of Skoda, not other teams that are famous for it...)...in contrary - they didn't do it in MC, they didn't switch their drivers on places 6-8...

[FabiaFan]

... SWRC tarmac rounds. Maybe if there are some new names on the entry list but now there is only Prokop capable of being a threat to him (maybe)... No, never!!! Are you serious!?!

[alleskids]

It was too early to mix up the standings. In Scotland and Cyprus the championship is ending, and it will be clear who can be champion and what score they have to get.

[RS]

I just got round to watching the Monte review on Eurosport and they interviewed Subaru's George Donaldson who said that they are looking to run their own team with the R4 Impreza in IRC this year with some "top drivers"

[mousti]

Hans Weijs Jr is still looking for budget for IRC program 2011 with DS3 R3T

[tolis]

Hans Weijs Jr is still looking for budget for IRC program 2011 with DS3 R3T
Any news avout Abbring jr? Thx!

[br21]

Any news avout Abbring jr? Thx!

Same as with Weijs Jr. - still looking for budget...

[Micke_VOC]

Patrik Sandell will do 7 events in IRC in a Skoda ( JM Racing? )

* 13-15/05: Tour de Corse, Frankrike - (IRC).
* 02-04/06: Prime Yalta Rally, Ukraina - (IRC).
* 23-25/06: Geko Ypres Rally, Belgien - (IRC).
* 14-16/07: Sata Rallye Acores, Portugal - (IRC).
* 26-28/08: Barum Czech Rally Zlin, Tjeckien - (IRC).
* 14-16/10: RACMSA Rally of Scotland, Skottland - (IRC).
* 03-05/11: Cyprus Rally, Cypern - (IRC).

[RS]

Good news!

Is this instead of sWRC?

This will certainly boost Patrik's tarmac skills. He was already one of the best on tarmac in sWRC but I guess IRC will be a bit tougher.

[PLuto]

Yes, instead. I was writing/talking about it 3 weeks ago, but now it is officially confirmed.

[tolis]

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11698
Translation?

[uranium]

Translation?
http://translate.google.com/

[tolis]

http://translate.google.com/
I tried that but didn't understand much... :)

[uranium]

I tried that but didn't understand much... :)

Use translation to english always. It is much better.


Burcu Cetinkaya competed last year in the colors of the Peugeot Sport Türkiye IRC in most races. While there will be this year's international program is limited, could be selected to complement the racing mentor Serkan Yazici.


Due to lower budget plans will be directed mainly Turkish Peugeot in Turkish domestic championship, where the model 207 S2000 should not start Burcu Cetinkaya. It is possible that a race to make the four-time champion of Turkey's Serkan Yazici. Both, however, look in the wake of the international startups.

"It's not all agreed, but I would like to start at least two races Intercontinental Rally Challenge," Yazici told thirty eight years old, who last year competed in the domestic championship with Fiat Punto S2000. This year, however, had to change a Peugeot, with whom he has experience in the Italian championship šotolinového.

And because the gravel surface and popular Burcu Cetinkaya, it is highly likely that if their external appearances made, it's just that loose surface.

-PLU-; AutoSport.CZ

[PLuto]

Yes, instead. I was writing/talking about it 3 weeks ago, but now it is officially confirmed.

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/b_cd43db101eccc3e6243b534e9ff7d4a7.jpg

[PLuto]

Stefano Albertini is next driver who may join IRC - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11699

[Micke_VOC]

Patrik Sandell will do 7 events in IRC in a Skoda ( JM Racing? )

* 13-15/05: Tour de Corse, Frankrike - (IRC).
* 02-04/06: Prime Yalta Rally, Ukraina - (IRC).
* 23-25/06: Geko Ypres Rally, Belgien - (IRC).
* 14-16/07: Sata Rallye Acores, Portugal - (IRC).
* 26-28/08: Barum Czech Rally Zlin, Tjeckien - (IRC).
* 14-16/10: RACMSA Rally of Scotland, Skottland - (IRC).
* 03-05/11: Cyprus Rally, Cypern - (IRC).

And new codriver for Sandell .
Staffan Parmander, A Swedish codriverlegend =) (With Kenneth Ericsson)

[bluuford]

Looks like the manufacturers title is decided even before the second event of the season. Skoda has veery strong and long row of cars for most of the events.

[Motorsportfun]

Stefano Albertini is next driver who may join IRC - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11699

I talked with him some minutes ago and he confirmed me he's 99% in!

http://www.rallyemotion.it/news/531-irc--esclusivo-stefano-albertini-sceglie-la-megane-n4

[Mirek]

Looks like 2WD cup will be finally something like a proper competition this year. Also it looks like ideal platform for new Megane. I heard about three possible Meganes in IRC so far - Albertini, Cherrain and Canivenque.

[RICARDO75]

Indeed Mirek.
The new rules for 2WD Championship, allowing drivers to score points with any elegible 2WD car, it's starting to bring many interesting projects to IRC this year

[morganmilan]

Looks like 2WD cup will be finally something like a proper competition this year. Also it looks like ideal platform for new Megane. I heard about three possible Meganes in IRC so far - Albertini, Cherrain and Canivenque.
But, are there different scoring systems for different classes or compete all 2FWD classes amongst them as one only group? In that case they are very different cars... :rolleyes:

[Mirek]

Only 2WD. There is no point in having special class for every single car doing whole championship. Everyone knows that before the championship starts, so it's no problem.

[PLuto]

I talked with him some minutes ago and he confirmed me he's 99% in!

http://www.rallyemotion.it/news/531-irc--esclusivo-stefano-albertini-sceglie-la-megane-n4

You didnt believed me? I didnt wrote it as a speculation, but as regular info ;)

[HaCo]

Looking forward to seeing the Megane in action in IRC events!

[OldF]

More IRC rounds for Toni Gardemeister with his own TGS team.

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/gardemeister_gets_own_team_for_irc_attack/

[alleskids]

that's great news :) . Gardemeister deserve a change to show his talent. IRC becomes more and more exciting in 2011: Gardemeister, Sandell, plus Hanninen who will defend his title

[mousti]

Scandola doing around 5 IRC rallies with a Fiesta of MSport on Michelins !

http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/breve-26-2-13072/080211-scandola-sur-fiesta-en-irc

[dimviii]

like!

[PLuto]

Scandola doing around 5 IRC rallies with a Fiesta of MSport on Michelins !

http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/breve-26-2-13072/080211-scandola-sur-fiesta-en-irc

3 weeks old (http://forum.autosport.cz/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=492&start=160#p46000) info :)

[dimviii]

3 weeks old (http://forum.autosport.cz/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=492&start=160#p46000) info :)

for you.For not czech speaking is just some minutes old.

[PLuto]

If you will watch http://www.autosport.cz, it was written as an "flash news" on mainpage (and Umberto Scandola, IRC, 5 rounds, Fiesta you can understand in every language)...

Me or Mirek are trying to write here are important news from our country, but in time of publication this info we were on the way to Col de Turini ;)

[dimviii]

If you will watch http://www.autosport.cz, it was written as an "flash news" on mainpage (and Umberto Scandola, IRC, 5 rounds, Fiesta you can understand in every language)...

Me or Mirek are trying to write here are important news from our country, but in time of publication this info we were on the way to Col de Turini ;)

Thanks Pluto!
is it difficult to have translator in autosport.cz? Will be very helpfull for all foreigners like me.Some other czech sites they have,and it is pitty for autosport.cz as it seems to be much more info in it.

[alleskids]

It 's true. eWRC.cz and autosport.cz are very reliable sources for rally news. they both must have microfones and cameras inside the team offices and under the beds of drivers :) . thanks for all the big news and inside scoops guys :up:

[PLuto]

Thanks Pluto!
is it difficult to have translator in autosport.cz? Will be very helpfull for all foreigners like me.Some other czech sites they have,and it is pitty for autosport.cz as it seems to be much more info in it.

Translator will be soon...

[RS]

Scandola doing around 5 IRC rallies with a Fiesta of MSport on Michelins !

http://www.autohebdo.fr/rallye/irc/breve-26-2-13072/080211-scandola-sur-fiesta-en-irc

Good news. Scandola is a very fast driver but was quite crash-prone in his Abarth days.

[Mirek]

Eric Maufrey with Mégane R.S. in IRC 2WD Cup :)
http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11743

[urabus-denoS2000]

IRC 2WD is going to be good , hopefully it will receive more TV coverage :)

[PLuto]

First informations about Tour de Corse 2011 - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11735

[uranium]

I see I must start learning czech ;-) I tried once already

[PLuto]

For you it should be easier because our languages are "little bit similar" :) But I promise that "online translator" will be ready soon.

[nzabevAMSM]

For you it should be easier because our languages are "little bit similar" :) But I promise that "online translator" will be ready soon.

What type of "online translator" you are plannig to use, could help me with my web page translation in english.

[PLuto]

Thierry Neuville and Nicolas Klinger divorce - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11750

[wwbroe]

Apparently he will team up with Nicolas Gilsoul, but nothing official yet. ;)

[alleskids]

Andreas Mikkelsen will do all the remaining rallies of the 2011 IRC, except Ralli Vinho Madaira. Skoda Uk confirmed his program

[[Madeira-Rally]]

As always... Madeira is one of the favourit rallys to discard for foreigners drivers...

[PLuto]

Yes. Because it is most expensive and teams "lost" car for a long time because of travel...

[PLuto]

Also Massimiliano Settembrini will start in more IRC events - http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11758

[Aquagen]

Yalta Rally 2011 Special Stages has been announced:

http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_1day.jpg
http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_2day.jpg
http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_3day.jpg

[wwbroe]

Yalta Rally 2011 Special Stages has been announced:

http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_1day.jpg
http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_2day.jpg
http://www.yaltarally.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/specialstages_3day.jpg

Thanks for the info Aquagen, does anybody have gps-coordinates of start/finishplaces?

[Mirek]

Is Freddy going there?

[wwbroe]

No, normally he will not do Yalta rally unfortunally.

[alleskids]

Peugeot Belgium-Luxembourg have announced the program of Thierry Neuville and Nicolas Gilsoul
19/22 januari : Monte Carlo Rally
14/16 april : Rallye Islas Canarias
13/15 mei : Tour de Corse
23/25 juni : Ypres Rally
26/28 augustus : Czech Barum Rally Zlin
9/11 september : Meszek rally
22/24 septembre : Rallye Sanremo
14/16 oktober : RAC Rally of Scotland
03/05 november : Condrozrally

[Tom206wrc]

No Yalta and no Madeira neither for Neuville then :mark:

[RICARDO75]

Unfortunately there´s not many drivers interested in doing the Yalta Rally.
So far, I think only Andreas Mikkelsen and Guy Wilks shoulb there from the top drivers. Maybe Jan Kopecký to

[Mirek]

In my opinion Kopecký will be there. Ukraine is quite important market for Škoda.

[alleskids]

Sandell, Mikkelsen, Wilks are confirmed for Yalta rally, plus Anderson and his Proton teammate and we can expect Kopecky. Not bad for a start. Ofcourse Tour de Corse wil be the second highlight of the 2011 IRC (after Monte Carlo), with every regular IRC driver plus Solberg, Vouilloz and Delecour.

[RICARDO75]

I forgot Sandell :)

[Motorsportfun]

]As always... Madeira is one of the favourit rallys to discard for foreigners drivers...

Arrange a free cargo-flight from Paris or Frankfurt, many drivers will do like for Brazil event! lol

[mousti]

Robert Barrable will do the Geko Ypres Rally and Scotland rally with his newly bought former Kopecky Fabia S2000! (autonews-magazine)

[andre93]

Do you know the old registration plate of Barrable's Skoda??
Thank'you!!

[Plhus]

11R 0120 ek-Kopecky Canarias and Madeira

[andre93]

11R 0120 ek-Kopecky Canarias and Madeira

i think that it's impossible,because 11R 0120 is a skoda evo 2 and 600 S2E of Barrable is a evo 1!

[Plhus]

"Robert recently completed negotiations with the Skoda team in the Czech Republic to secure the car which in the hands of Kopecky won the Canary Islands Rally last season and which he drove to second place on the eight round of the IRC Rally Maderia...."

http://robertbarrable.com/

[Mirek]

Car of Kopecký from Canarias is already in Wevers Sport and the car from Madeira is really wide one. Moreover these were two different cars...

I guess it's 11R 0102 or 11R 0103.

[alleskids]

Yazeed Al Rajhi will do 6 IRC rallies in 2011 in a Krono Peugeot 207 S2000 , starting with Tour de Corse

Marc van Dalen, the joint boss of Kronos Racing, is delighted to be welcoming Al Rajhi back to his team for a third consecutive season.
“Yazeed wants to learn asphalt rallies because his experience on this surface is not so big,” he said. “It's also great for us to have him in the team again because it's the third year in a row that he has been with us. He's a good guy and will have the latest specification Peugeot available.”
Al Rajhi, who will be co-driven by Matthieu Baumel, has still to be finalise his exact schedule.
http://www.crash.net/world+rally/news/167122/1/irc_al_rajhi_inks_six-event_deal_with_kronos.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss

[alleskids]

Reigning Intercontinental Rally Challenge 2WD Cup champion Harry Hunt has confirmed the remainder of his IRC schedule for 2011. he will contest Tour de Corse, Geko Ypres Rally, Sata Rallye Acores, Barum Czech Rally Zlin, Rallye Sanremo, RACMSA Rally of Scotland and the Cyprus Rally.

Hunt, who began his IRC 2WD Cup defence on Rallye Monte-Carlo in January, will drive a Citroen DS3 R3 alongside co-driver Sebastian Marshall. The Welsh I Cars Motorsport operation will prepare and maintain Hunt's car.

[stepunk]

Giandomenico Basso testing Proton!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgihGiCsPJ4

[Tom206wrc]

Reigning Intercontinental Rally Challenge 2WD Cup champion Harry Hunt has confirmed the remainder of his IRC schedule for 2011. he will contest Tour de Corse, Geko Ypres Rally, Sata Rallye Acores, Barum Czech Rally Zlin, Rallye Sanremo, RACMSA Rally of Scotland and the Cyprus Rally.

Hunt, who began his IRC 2WD Cup defence on Rallye Monte-Carlo in January, will drive a Citroen DS3 R3 alongside co-driver Sebastian Marshall. The Welsh I Cars Motorsport operation will prepare and maintain Hunt's car.


He's also on entrylist or Rally de Portugal ;)

[RS]

Giandomenico Basso testing Proton!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgihGiCsPJ4

If there is one thing you can't criticise Proton for it is their choice of drivers. Hopefully Basso gets the seat.

[dimviii]

http://www.rallybuzz.com/toni-gardemeister-hankook-2011/

[Hartusvuori]

http://www.rallybuzz.com/toni-gardemeister-hankook-2011/

Good news! I don't expect to see him at the very top, but he still is a nice addition to the series. Glad to Barum on his calender.

[Mirek]

Hungarian János Puskádi will drive Corse, Barum, Mecsek, Sanremo, Scotland and Cyprus with Civic R3.

[mousti]

Test of Bruno Magalhaes


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHX1R3OY4Ro&feature=player_embedded#at=40

Seems TMN got back for some funding !

[Hartusvuori]

Those that know better, could Gardemeister hold some record in starting international rallies with most different S2000 cars? He has started with Fiat, Opel, Ford and Peugeot and now he's doing it with Skoda. That leaves only Proton out of the current selection.

[mousti]

Those that know better, could Gardemeister hold some record in starting international rallies with most different S2000 cars? He has started with Fiat, Opel, Ford and Peugeot and now he's doing it with Skoda. That leaves only Proton out of the current selection.
Mikkelsen is almost there too. Skoda, Proton, Opel, Ford no Abarth and don't think Peugeot too. Garde need to drive with the Toyota , Polo and MG and he driven them all then I think :D

[RICARDO75]

Livery from Grademeister's Skoda

http://www.mundorally.com.br/images/2010_2/Velocidade/irc/gardemeister.jpg