Rally Sweden 2011

[cali]

The car is fast, fun and great to drive. I think it's faster than C4 WRC. I'm glad for every minute in the car. The day is almost over and we have done a lot things. We will definitely go up into the night, "said Petter Solberg.

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=cs&sl=cs&tl=en&u=http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/show.php%3Fid%3D15963
Petter knows nothing compared to N.O.T. :D

[N.O.T]

we can surely believe a guy who just says things for his sponsors to stay loyal....so from the 1 million euros gearbox to a faster car than the C4...Greeks are known to be yes men to everything, its within their mentality but i expect more from people from developed countries...maybe i ask too much.

[darkstar]

short video of petter testing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ougScQZyN3g&feature=player_embedded

the sound is amazing, especially when he hits the rev´limiter.

[dimviii]

@ΝΟΤ
it is just a link from what Petter said about his first drive with ds3 wrc.You haven t got to say yes or NOT.
@cali
that Petter said that is already faster is a bit difficult at this moment.Don t believe everything you read.He has to be ''good'' at citroen racing with a whole year of co-operation with them.

so is any ss in Sweden this year exactly same with previous years to compare?

[Catiocha7]

Actually it's a joke - there are only 2 Manufacturers!! Despite what we are told.

I think we have three Manufacturers in Sweden rally :

1-CITROEN TOTAL WRT
2-FORD ABU DHABI WORLD RALLY TEAM
3-M-SPORT STOBART FORD WRT

Am I right ?

[jbmarcus21]

and
Ice One
PSWRT
Monster
Stobart
and Ferm Power Tools

http://planetemarcus.free.fr/team11.htm

[Catiocha7]

I am speaking about Manufacturers which can have championship points ...!?

[Vargåsen]

@ΝΟΤ
it is just a link from what Petter said about his first drive with ds3 wrc.You haven t got to say yes or NOT.
@cali
that Petter said that is already faster is a bit difficult at this moment.Don t believe everything you read.He has to be ''good'' at citroen racing with a whole year of co-operation with them.

so is any ss in Sweden this year exactly same with previous years to compare?

Yes, Vargåsen, first stage on friday morning is exactly the same since 2007.

Times 2010: 1st run - Mikko Hirvonen 13.18,4
2nd run - Jari-Matti Latvala 13.06,4

Times 2008: 1st run - Sebastien Loeb 13.49
2nd run - Mikko Hirvonen 13.32

Time 2007 1st run - Sebastien Loeb - 13.57
2nd run - Marcus Grönholm - 13.17,9

Difficult to compare from year to year, since surface, snow banks etc are not the same, but we will get an indication friday morning at least

[cali]

@ΝΟΤ
it is just a link from what Petter said about his first drive with ds3 wrc.You haven t got to say yes or NOT.
@cali
that Petter said that is already faster is a bit difficult at this moment.Don t believe everything you read.He has to be ''good'' at citroen racing with a whole year of co-operation with them.

so is any ss in Sweden this year exactly same with previous years to compare?
like someone wrote here before that on certain conditions during testing new machinery is even a bit faster than the old 2.0L cars. Ofcourse this could be false as well but certainly those new cars are close enough to oled WRCars.

Some of the stages are the same, but road conditions and weather may affect times a lot, still we can have some clue after Sweden.

[cali]

we can surely believe a guy who just says things for his sponsors to stay loyal....so from the 1 million euros gearbox to a faster car than the C4...Greeks are known to be yes men to everything, its within their mentality but i expect more from people from developed countries...maybe i ask too much.

If I have to choose between you or Petter, then with all due respect ..... it's very easy decision :D

[N.O.T]

If I have to choose between you or Petter, then with all due respect ..... it's very easy decision :D

thank you, i bet peter will be sad....

[dimviii]

Yes, Vargåsen, first stage on friday morning is exactly the same since 2007.

Times 2010: 1st run - Mikko Hirvonen 13.18,4
2nd run - Jari-Matti Latvala 13.06,4

Times 2008: 1st run - Sebastien Loeb 13.49
2nd run - Mikko Hirvonen 13.32

Time 2007 1st run - Sebastien Loeb - 13.57
2nd run - Marcus Grönholm - 13.17,9

Difficult to compare from year to year, since surface, snow banks etc are not the same, but we will get an indication friday morning at least

Thanks Vargasen!

[Atob WRC]

Hello all,

Do somebody know which stage is, when in the video (min 2:15) the cars go out in the junction?

H-PruU5bM0o

Best regards.

[Salist]

This was a good place. :)

[hari]

Hello all,

Do somebody know which stage is, when in the video (min 2:15) the cars go out in the junction?

H-PruU5bM0o

Best regards.

Likenas Stage, some hundred meters before they enter the rallycross area at the finish.

[RICARDO75]

I am speaking about Manufacturers which can have championship points ...!?


http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2011/Pages/wrc_entries_swe.aspx

[dimviii]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdCfRYACM1Q

[Catiocha7]

http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2011/Pages/wrc_entries_swe.aspx

thanks Ricardo :)

[Atob WRC]

Likenas Stage, some hundred meters before they enter the rallycross area at the finish.

Thanks a lot! We were some meters before, in the junction before, there was a very small jump, but spectacular.

Best regards.

[Koceens]

Could someone suggest some good places in Day2 stages (Lesjofors, Varmulsassen)?

[Salist]

Could someone suggest some good places in Day2 stages (Lesjofors, Varmulsassen)?

We were in 2010 on Varmulsassen stage and that are some good corners and jump before the finish line.
http://wr-x.com/#/wrc-img/2010-6/rally-sweden-2010-13/ss-175/

[Atob WRC]

We were in 2010 on Varmulsassen stage and that are some good corners and jump before the finish line.
http://wr-x.com/#/wrc-img/2010-6/rally-sweden-2010-13/ss-175/

And also a good place for Sagen or Rammen??

Last year I was in the last hairpin of Sagen, but there is another access into the stage??

And also we were in Rammen, on a large hairpins upping on a hill. Somebody, know another interest access¿?

Best regards!

[Timole]

How are the road conditions over there at stages? Compared to last year and 2008 are there any similarities? Hopefully there is enough snow and ice roads!

[ProRally]

1 more week and of to first WRC event in 2011 :hot: :hot:

[HarriK]

Some my photos from last year:
http://www.harrinkuvat.1g.fi/kuvat/Rallikuvat/2010/RallySweden/

There is also Likenäs2 where was that corner which Atob WRC asked.

[Salist]

Some my photos from last year:
http://www.harrinkuvat.1g.fi/kuvat/Rallikuvat/2010/RallySweden/

There is also Likenäs2 where was that corner which Atob WRC asked.

Very nice moments!
Thanks.

[Koppomsbo]

What stages are the national class driving?

[hari]

What stages are the national class driving?

Vargasen 1
Likenas 1
Lovhaugen 1
Lesjöfors 1
Sagen 1
Fredriksberg 1
Varmullsäsen 1
SSS Karlstad 2

[Atob WRC]

Some my photos from last year:
http://www.harrinkuvat.1g.fi/kuvat/Rallikuvat/2010/RallySweden/

There is also Likenäs2 where was that corner which Atob WRC asked.

Thanks a lot Harrik!! I don´t understand why they go out in the second stage?? There was totally out, when the snow disappear after the 1st pass?

Also I have seen in your photos a jump in the end of Lesjofors stage. It´s easy to access for the end, and has a good visibility??

Best regards!

[sindroms]

Also I have seen in your photos a jump in the end of Lesjofors stage. It´s easy to access for the end, and has a good visibility??


The jump is quite small. Access is pretty good - just a little (about 1.5 km???) uphill climbing from alpine ski track where the parking was (at lesat in 2008).
Visibility - excellent.

[Micke_VOC]

PG is testing a Ford Fiesta S2000 tomorrow. This because he want to know the car the Fiesta WRC are build on...

[Koceens]

We were in 2010 on Varmulsassen stage and that are some good corners and jump before the finish line.
http://wr-x.com/#/wrc-img/2010-6/rally-sweden-2010-13/ss-175/
Well, I preffer a high speed action so this I think is not for me. I would like to know some good places in forests (jumping, high speed and blind corners etc.)

[Fri]

some of my pictures from first day with Likenas 2 :)
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/index.htm

[Micke_VOC]

Start-list for National class
http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Rally-Sweden-2011-Entry-List-National-class.pdf

[Koceens]

some of my pictures from first day with Likenas 2 :)
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/index.htm
Where is that place where Ogier is going really sideways?

[Sébastien Vuillemard]

Where is that place .?? :)
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/pages/RSHU_Photo_022_jpg.htm
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/images/RSHU_Photo_009_jpg.jpg
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/images/RSHU_Photo_029_jpg.jpg

[Atob WRC]

Where is that place .?? :)
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/pages/RSHU_Photo_022_jpg.htm
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/images/RSHU_Photo_009_jpg.jpg
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2010/Photo/WRC/01_sved/02_1nap/images/RSHU_Photo_029_jpg.jpg

I think the second photo is in a jump in the finish of Likenas, before tha last junction in the forest, and before entry to the big spectator zone. But, wait to be confirmed by the author.

You can see, in the minute 1:42 of the video that I have putted some posts before. After in the junction, a lot of cars go out.

Best regards!

[N.O.T]

1 week before the event and on the official WRC site there is no info on stages, entry list, starting time, seeding order ects....lets hope the guys over there are doing the web site for free because if i was the one paying for it i would be a bit annoyed.

[Fri]

[quote="Atob WRC"]I think the second photo is in a jump in the finish of Likenas, before tha last junction in the forest, and before entry to the big spectator zone. But, wait to be confirmed by the author.

[quote="Atob WRC"]I think the second photo is in a jump in the finish of Likenas, before tha last junction in the forest, and before entry to the big spectator zone. But, wait to be confirmed by the author.

Yes, it is true!

About the first one (and Ogier's sideways) i can't remember exactly, it is also somweher on Likenas stage in the morning. it was -22.5. It was a high speed corner, i really liked that.

[cali]

Can someone locals post an update of weather and road conditions in the area. In Estonia we have had 0 degrees for few weeks now, snow has melted almost completely.

Bluuford, any idea about weather during the next weekend?

[Fri]

today morning in Hagfors:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=164956926885498&set=a.156087784439079.31445.127885313925993

[morganmilan]

today morning in Hagfors:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=164956926885498&set=a.156087784439079.31445.127885313925993 (http://www.facebook.com/#%21/photo.php?fbid=164956926885498&set=a.156087784439079.31445.127885313925993)
Sorry this post is not related with the topic, but I´ve seen a reference to a hungarian rally website in it, referring a link to results from a hundred series. I´ve visited the site, but I don´t know hungarian. How may I access that results database? Thnx in advance ;)

[pino]

today morning in Hagfors:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=164956926885498&set=a.156087784439079.31445.127885313925993

Couldn't be any better :up: :D

[BleAivano]

Can someone locals post an update of weather and road conditions in the area. In Estonia we have had 0 degrees for few weeks now, snow has melted almost completely.

Bluuford, any idea about weather during the next weekend?

you can watch these website for weather forecasts;

http://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/land/fiveDaysForecast.do?geonameid=2709214&redirect=false
http://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Hagfors/

[Mirek]

Prokop and Semerád will start on DMack tyres.

[dimviii]

interesting!

[ProRally]

Prokop and Semerád will start on DMack tyres.

I think many more to follow.....

[bluuford]

Can someone locals post an update of weather and road conditions in the area. In Estonia we have had 0 degrees for few weeks now, snow has melted almost completely.

Bluuford, any idea about weather during the next weekend?

Currently it looks like ideal conditions for rally. Next few days it will be between -2 and +2 degrees and plenty of new snow.. (10-15 cm new snow is expected) and you could see what happens with these kind of temperatures (very slippery ice, everywhere in Tallinn today). So, conditions should be much better than last year.
Roads should be covered with nice layer of ice by the beginning of the rally. Currently there is 25-50 cm of snow in the rally district (less in the south, more in the north).

The temperature during the rally should be quite freezy. It is going to fell to the minus side on Monday night and stays there until the end of rally. Current maps are showing that Sweden is going to be in quite a small area where the wind speed is low, temperature is near to -10 (plus or minus a few degrees) and possibility of lights snow from Friday afternoon until the end of rally. However, one cyclone is very close and weather forecast can change bit warmer and more snowy very rapidly.

[pantealex]

FIA preview:
http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2011/Pages/wrc_preview_swe.aspx

[pantealex]

I think many more to follow.....

I don´t think so...

http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.ns ... 202011.pdf (http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.nsf/109E49B9DD01C9C2C12577EE0064D37A/$FILE/WRC%20Regs&Appx%202011.pdf)
61.4.4
Tyres of the same tyre manufacturer or one substitute tyre manufacturer must be used
when the same driver (or entrant in Support Championships) participates in further WRC rallies of the
season where he is allocated Priority status. Having substituted a supplier, it will not be permitted to
use the original tyre supplier.

[ProRally]

I don´t think so...

http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.ns ... 202011.pdf (http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.nsf/109E49B9DD01C9C2C12577EE0064D37A/$FILE/WRC%20Regs&Appx%202011.pdf)
61.4.4
Tyres of the same tyre manufacturer or one substitute tyre manufacturer must be used
when the same driver (or entrant in Support Championships) participates in further WRC rallies of the
season where he is allocated Priority status. Having substituted a supplier, it will not be permitted to
use the original tyre supplier.

Sorry I mean more drivers will follow and go D-Mack, if you go to their website (of D-Mack) price on gravel is nearly 50% of the 'other' maker....

[Mirek]

Plus they offer a lot of bonuses to successful crews which make them even cheaper.

[Iskald]

Currently it looks like ideal conditions for rally. Next few days it will be between -2 and +2 degrees and plenty of new snow.. (10-15 cm new snow is expected) and you could see what happens with these kind of temperatures (very slippery ice, everywhere in Tallinn today). So, conditions should be much better than last year.
Roads should be covered with nice layer of ice by the beginning of the rally. Currently there is 25-50 cm of snow in the rally district (less in the south, more in the north).

The temperature during the rally should be quite freezy. It is going to fell to the minus side on Monday night and stays there until the end of rally. Current maps are showing that Sweden is going to be in quite a small area where the wind speed is low, temperature is near to -10 (plus or minus a few degrees) and possibility of lights snow from Friday afternoon until the end of rally. However, one cyclone is very close and weather forecast can change bit warmer and more snowy very rapidly.

It looks good on the outside, but I think you`re wrong. Its plenty of snow, but very little ice underneath. We have had two norwegian championship rallies during the last three weeks and conditions have been exactly the same. No ice base underneath the snow, and gravel coming through after very few cars. The reason for this is that there was no mild weather in the beginning of the winter. Just very cold weather and snow on top. So no ice base was built up on the roads. It will look very "wintry" in sweden, but it will be a rally on frozen gravel roads.

[Vargåsen]

It looks good on the outside, but I think you`re wrong. Its plenty of snow, but very little ice underneath. We have had two norwegian championship rallies during the last three weeks and conditions have been exactly the same. No ice base underneath the snow, and gravel coming through after very few cars. The reason for this is that there was no mild weather in the beginning of the winter. Just very cold weather and snow on top. So no ice base was built up on the roads. It will look very "wintry" in sweden, but it will be a rally on frozen gravel roads.

You're wrong, at least at Vargåsen. Last year the conditions were as you describe, but this year we have A LOT of ice. But is was more "wintry" last year, the snow has melted quite a lot the last week, only about 20-30 cm in the surroundings. But more snow should arrive in a couple of hours.

[Salist]

Is not much snow in Karlstad. :(
http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1234294571-Weather-centrum-till-kalrstad-Karlstad

[peg306]

I drove stage 11/15 Värmullsåsen today, and the conditions could not be better! Some snow (maybe 3-5 cm) on the road from last nights snowfall, but i'll guess they will plow the roads tonight or tomorrow. Underneath there is plenty of ice and very hard snowbanks. This is the best conditions we have seen in years in my opinion :)

[alleskids]

are the rally roads being prepared by local goverments? I mean, how long before the rally starts will the snow be removed (for the safety of the local citizen)?

[Viktory]

here are some pictures people have uploaded to the Rally Sweden facebook page:

From Friday:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1553492277922&set=o.127885313925993
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1553491437901&set=o.127885313925993

Today:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=498226652878&set=o.127885313925993

Looks very good if you ask me. They say there is a lot of ice and hard snowbanks.

[SubaruNorway]

Does anybody have any clue how the finish at Løvhaugen by the lake is?

Should be possible to walk the 300m across there...

Any jumps on Lesjöfors or Rämmen?

[SunDanceRanch]

Can someone locals post an update of weather and road conditions in the area. In Estonia we have had 0 degrees for few weeks now, snow has melted almost completely.

Bluuford, any idea about weather during the next weekend?

Here do you have the weather forecast for our region http://www.yr.no/sted/Sverige/Värmland/Hagfors/langtidsvarsel.html

Have fun for who is going next weekend look on our website for our last minute prices.

Greetings from Ekshärad (hagfors)
Dimitry en Anita
www.sundanceranch.eu (http://www.sundanceranch.eu)

[Micke_VOC]

Tomorrow i gonna attend M-sport/Stobart pretest Sweden with Henning, Östberg and Block.
It gonna be very intrestning to see the new Fiesta WRC in action.. i post some photos tomorrow evening..

[Juha_Koo]

Tomorrow i gonna attend M-sport/Stobart pretest Sweden with Henning, Östberg and Block.
It gonna be very intrestning to see the new Fiesta WRC in action.. i post some photos tomorrow evening..

Video would be very interesting...

[Salist]

I don't know why will not the SS1 in Likenas Rallycross Arena instead of Karlstad.
In Karlstad no snow than in 2008. :(

[Koceens]

Is there any onboard from last year Fredriksberg available?

[bennizw]

Does anybody know of an inboard from Rämmen?

[BleAivano]

I don't know why will not the SS1 in Likenas Rallycross Arena instead of Karlstad.
In Karlstad no snow than in 2008. :(

i think it has to do with spectator capacity. They used to have the SSS at the rallycross track in Hagfors but moved it to the horse racetrack in Karlstad.

[Timole]

So how bad is it in karlstad sss, eaven worse than in 2008?

[bluuford]

Well, it looks like the snow for Karlstad is ordered with the clouds that arrive on Tuesday and with some of the clouds that arrive on Thursday morning ;-)

The weather maps have changed significantly. Now we expect heavy snowfall for Thursday and Friday early in the morning and first starters might experience something like 10 cm of fresh snow. Next days should be bone dry and the temperature might drop to nearly -20 degrees in Celsius! On Friday it should be relatively warm (around -5 degrees)

[ELPE]

The important thing is how thick the ice is on the road. If it´s true that it`s plenty of ice it will be a fantastic rally. If there is no ice and just snow we will see the grevel after a few cars and it´s not fun. Where i live, 200km south of the rally, there is a lot of ice on the roads so i think the condition will be just perfect!

[Seppala]

Here you can find the stage maps and other stuff, like a 3D flight or elevation data for each special stage:

Rally Sweden 2011 - interactive stage map (http://www.rally-maps.com/map/rally/193/Rally-Sweden)[/*:m:2d14osw7]
Rally Sweden 2011 - 3D stage tour (http://www.rally-maps.com/country/Sweden/rally/193/Rally-Sweden/3D-Tour)[/*:m:2d14osw7]

http://www.rally-maps.com/img/Rally-Sweden-Map-Overview-en.jpg (http://www.rally-maps.com/map/rally/193/Rally-Sweden)

[SunDanceRanch]

Look on our website for the super last minute prices for the rally.
http://www.sundanceranch.eu/pages/startpagina_engels.html

Greetings Dimitry and Anita

[SunDanceRanch]

Henning Solberg helps to learn Ken Block driving on spike tires.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xgwhkn_ken-block-pre-sweden_sport

[HarriK]

Thanks a lot Harrik!! I don´t understand why they go out in the second stage?? There was totally out, when the snow disappear after the 1st pass?

Also I have seen in your photos a jump in the end of Lesjofors stage. It´s easy to access for the end, and has a good visibility??

Best regards!

This was the reason:
http://harrinkuvat.1g.fi/kuvat/Rallikuvat/2010/RallySweden/SS05+Liken%E4s2/IMG_1896.JPG

http://harrinkuvat.1g.fi/kuvat/Rallikuvat/2010/RallySweden/SS05+Liken%E4s2/IMG_1903.JPG
So big tracks which where in downhill. Tracks came because after first round there was national competitors. So many drivers and brakepoint was downhill.
Someone said that this SS was iced by carrying water to there. I think it's true because over 15cm ice on the road is not normal there...

What comes to Lesjöfors last little jump, it's 300m meters before finish of the SS. We walk there from 600m earlier road . Not from finish.

[Micke_VOC]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=609132&id=822440466&l=2c72f54c83
Some pictures from today. Östberg and Wilson testing Ford Fiesta WRC, Henning testing Fiesta S2000 and Pontus Tidemand, Subaru Impreza Sti

[Francis44]

How did you find the new WRC cars speed?

[Micke_VOC]

How did you find the new WRC cars speed?

Think they look fast, really fast. The speed in to the corners was more than i expected. Maybe they gonna loose some speed on really fast stages but else i think they are faster than the focus.

[Francis44]

Thanks for the impressions ;) .

[fastboy]

How did Wilsons speed compare to Ostbergs,and roughly how many km's did they cover?
Also was there any problems with any of the Fiesta's ?

[Sulland]

Henning and PG to test WRC tomorrow.

[Micke_VOC]

How did Wilsons speed compare to Ostbergs,and roughly how many km's did they cover?
Also was there any problems with any of the Fiesta's ?

You already know the answer about speed compare Wilson and Östberg =)
No problems what i know..

[Micke_VOC]

Henning and PG to test WRC tomorrow.

I will be there ...

[Sulland]

I will be there ...
Try to compare MadMads with PG and Henning pls?

[MartijnS]

Really short video of Dennis Kuipers testing his Fiesta WRC.
http://yfrog.com/j0atmz

[Sulland]

Anything from todays test with Henning in his new WRC Fiesta?

[SunDanceRanch]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=609132&id=822440466&l=2c72f54c83
Some pictures from today. Östberg and Wilson testing Ford Fiesta WRC, Henning testing Fiesta S2000 and Pontus Tidemand, Subaru Impreza Sti

Hej Micke
Where were they testing today???
Greetings from Ekshärad

[SunDanceRanch]

At the moment it's snowing here i don't know for how long but weshall see.

Greetings from Ekshärad

[Salist]

Sunne webcam: http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1216893303-Weather-Sunne-Riksväg-45-vid-Kolsnäs-Rottneros
IT'S SNOWING!!!! :)

[fastboy]

Sunne webcam: http://hu.webcams.travel/webcam/1216893303-Weather-Sunne-Riksväg-45-vid-Kolsnäs-Rottneros
IT'S SNOWING!!!! :)

It's been snowing since 2 p.m

[Micke_VOC]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=58154&l=e43ea867a6&id=196240740402087
Pics from Day 2 of FORD pre-test Rally Sweden . Today was Henning, PG, Block and Al Qassimi testing.

The livery on PG´s car its one of the best i ever seen on a wrc car.

[Ondra WRC]

Martin Prokop test:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMu0adBpZLc&feature=BF&list=ULRYVD4YBMv0Y&index=3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEXwWDYCtUQ

[Micke_VOC]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=58154&l=e43ea867a6&id=196240740402087
Pics from Day 2 of FORD pre-test Rally Sweden . Today was Henning, PG, Block and Al Qassimi testing.

The livery on PG´s car its one of the best i ever seen on a wrc car.

This link working...
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=58154&l=b38f5f9d46&id=196240740402087

[Slipzen]

From PG test today
http://svtplay.se/t/103701/motor
Link may not be available outside Sweden?

[MartijnS]

Works for me! Thanks! Looks great :)

[Krigen]

The livery on PG´s car its one of the best i ever seen on a wrc car.[/QUOTE]

LOL :o

[darkstar]

very aggressive driving from pg, looks extremely promising!

[Viktory]

Patrik Sandell and Staffan Parmander testing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AROJ00hwMWI&feature=player_embedded

[Francis44]

Jeez that Fiesta sounds and looks very good :D .

[Koceens]

Where the official program can buy and how much it costs?

[Brother John]

Where the official program can buy and how much it costs?

Like usually at all OK-Q8 petrol pumps in Värmland.

[Micke_VOC]

We can add one more S2000 car in Rally Sweden.
Pontus Tidemand in the Swedish Championship in a Ford Fiesta S2000
http://www.ptm-racing.se/bloggen.html

[BleAivano]

Where the official program can buy and how much it costs?

Here is a list of all petrol stations that sells the official program:

http://www.rallysweden.com/take-part/tickets/okq8-petrol-stations?lang=en

[Viktory]

Some pictures from recce, first one is from the start of Sågen.

http://patrikflodinsblogg.blogspot.com/

Pictures from new part of Lesjöfors, taken today (from facebook rally sweden page)

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993#!/photo.php?fbid=10150090574823542&set=o.127885313925993&pid=6330659&id=653853541
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993#!/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993&pid=6330655&id=653853541

[cali]

Some pictures from recce, first one is from the start of Sågen.

http://patrikflodinsblogg.blogspot.com/

Pictures from new part of Lesjöfors, taken today (from facebook rally sweden page)

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993#!/photo.php?fbid=10150090574823542&set=o.127885313925993&pid=6330659&id=653853541
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993#!/photo.php?fbid=10150090574283542&set=o.127885313925993&pid=6330655&id=653853541
very nice! will be there on thursday :)

[Seppala]

Does anyone of you Swedish guys have the rally special edition of the Värmlands Folkblad and would be so kind to send it to me (photo/scan)?

Thank you!

[HarriK]

Sorry is this are been here already...

Mikko Hirvonen preparing for Rally Sweden (last weekend nearby Kankkunen's home)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gyr9CTRGBNs

also more:
http://www.youtube.com/user/morfn

[Micke_VOC]

Mads Östberg test
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gHmv7k6HTw

[Juha_Koo]

Maybe a bit stupid request for the upcoming days, but you people who have access to the service park, please try to see/photo in what kind of places/angles are the onboard cameras attached in the new WRC cars...

Me, crazy, what? :rolleyes:

;)

[pdr]

From PG test today
http://svtplay.se/t/103701/motor
Link may not be available outside Sweden?


Link works in Canada. Thank you.

[pino]

Works for me too, nice video thanks :up:

btw surface conditions are just perfect http://www.glittergirl.co.uk/banana/51.gif

[Brother John]

Drivers critical of the new TV section

Hirvonen and Loeb don´t like Swedish Rally Power Stage and have mixed feelings. http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/forarna-kritiska-till-ny-tv-stracka
Are they frightened there to lose points? :p :

[Viking]

Drivers critical of the new TV section

Hirvonen and Loeb don´t like Swedish Rally Power Stage and have mixed feelings. http://www.vf.se/sport/bilsport/forarna-kritiska-till-ny-tv-stracka
Are they frightened there to lose points? :p :

"- To finish the rally with a Power Stage is a great idea, says Petter Solberg. – If you are fastest trough, you will be awarded with 3 points, and that is important points. I think that this may give the spectators some action at the end of the rally, and prevent us from just driving safely to secure our places."

+1

[Viking]

Drivers are lyrical about the conditions (from recce) :up:

Googlish: http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nwt.se%2Fsport%2Fmotorsport%2Fa rticle848696.ece


Henning: - It looks incredibly good. I drove the Swedish Rally for the first time in 1998 and I have never experienced better rally roads. :)

[Brother John]

"- To finish the rally with a Power Stage is a great idea, says Petter Solberg. – If you are fastest trough, you will be awarded with 3 points, and that is important points. I think that this may give the spectators some action at the end of the rally, and prevent us from just driving safely to secure our places."

+1

I entirely agree with you Viking, yes If you are fastest trough, you will be awarded with 3 points, and that is important points. :D
I found it remarkable that they want to drive that stage rather after the rally!!!

[BleAivano]

an intense weather system will hit the western parts if Sweden tomorrow, and the rally area is expected to get as much as 20cm of fresh snow according to this article (http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fsvt.se%2F2.22620%2F1.2321607%2Fsnov adret_drar_in_i_natt) and this (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=sv&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fsvt.se%2Fsvttext%2Fweb%2Fpages%2F11 8.html).
Video version (http://svt.se/2.2173/vader).

[Brother John]

an intense weather system will hit the western parts if Sweden tomorrow, and the rally area is expected to get as much as 20cm of fresh snow according to this article (http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=sv&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fsvt.se%2F2.22620%2F1.2321607%2Fsnov adret_drar_in_i_natt) and this (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=sv&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fsvt.se%2Fsvttext%2Fweb%2Fpages%2F11 8.html).
Video version (http://svt.se/2.2173/vader).

I like this, Värmland looks will receive the largest quantities of snow on Thursday.http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.png

[Jafry]

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_6eb662513c.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_97f70352a0.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_1df547e2ab.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_4345bb6e26.jpg

More photos from Sweden before start HERE (http://www.rally-mania.cz/photogallery.php?id=835&fseason=2011) ;)

[Juha_Koo]

I like this, Värmland looks will receive the largest quantities of snow on Thursday.http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.png

I don't know whether to like this or not... Mikko has said that the new Michelin tyre is a bit unpredictable when there's a layer of snow on top of the ice. Then there's the question of whether the organizers will plough the stages or not.

[Viktory]

Hopefully my flight to Gothenburg won't get delayed/cancelled tomorrow morning...

[BleAivano]

I don't know whether to like this or not... Mikko has said that the new Michelin tyre is a bit unpredictable when there's a layer of snow on top of the ice. Then there's the question of whether the organizers will plough the stages or not.

i'd prefer if they didnt plow but sent a couple of trucks through the stages to compress the snow.


Hopefully my flight to Gothenburg won't get delayed/cancelled tomorrow morning...

according to the article, most of the snowing will have stopped on the west coast by tomorrow evening so you should be fine.

[Fri]

Some pictures from today:
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2011/photo/wrc/01_sved/01_sved_fri/index.htm

[dimviii]

Some pictures from today:
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2011/photo/wrc/01_sved/01_sved_fri/index.htm

Νice photos with some details from new wrc cars.Thank you.
Fiesta still have the spare wheel back/under like Focus.Too much tyre ups in engine compartment for fiesta lol

[MJW]

Some pictures from today:
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2011/photo/wrc/01_sved/01_sved_fri/index.htm
Anyone know why Henning Solberg's car is still in the orange colour of Expert but totally devoid of any Expert (or any other sponsor) logo's?

[OldF]

Νice photos with some details from new wrc cars.Thank you.
Fiesta still have the spare wheel back/under like Focus.Too much tyre ups in engine compartment for fiesta lol


It looks like the spare wheel would be at the rear but today on the Finnish web site http://www.mtv3.fi/ralli/, JML lists the pros and cons.

Google translated (http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=fi&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2F2011%2F02%2F1270966%2Flatvalan-lista-uuden-fiesta-wrcn-plussat-ja-miinukset)

Pros:
The balance is much better than in the Focus.
The Fiesta is better tham the Focus on tarmac
The spare wheel is in the middle of the car

Cons:
Fiesta is more nervous on fast sections due to the shorter wheelbase.
The functionally rev band is quite narrow.
The handbrake is not as good as in the Focus.

[Roy]

Anyone know why Henning Solberg's car is still in the orange colour of Expert but totally devoid of any Expert (or any other sponsor) logo's?

Very strange indeed. Who will payed?

[N.O.T]

maybe they will put the stickers just before shakedown...the car was used for testing a day before so they didn't put the decals on in order to avoid tearing.

[Juha_Koo]

It looks like the spare wheel would be at the rear but today on the Finnish web site http://www.mtv3.fi/ralli/, JML lists the pros and cons.

Pros:
The spare wheel is in the middle of the car


JML is talking about the second spare wheel. Focus was basically designed to carry only one spare in the "rear tyre compartment" but when there was two spare tyres, the second one had to be placed to a very bad place (rear) inside the car.


Shakedown is underway, right?

Waiting for results... First glimpse to the difference between Ford and Citroen...

[HarriK]

First times:

http://translate.google.fi/translate?hl=fi&sl=auto&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rally-mania.cz%2Fnews.php%3Fid%3D10577

[Juha_Koo]

From Rally Sweden webpage:

The last test for the drivers, the Shakedown at Råda near Hagfors is on the way with the WRC drivers first on the road. This is top four so far:
1. LATVALA (Ford Abu Dhabi WRT) Ford Fiesta RS WRC 2:04,8
2. LOEB (Citroën Total WRT) Citroën DS3 WRC 2:06,0
3. ÖSTBERG (M-Sport Stobart Ford WRT) Ford Fiesta RS WRC 2:06,1
4. P. SOLBERG (Petter Solberg WRT) Citroën DS3 WRC 2:07,8

[euskalteam]

Go Jari!!!!

[N.O.T]

the cars are close...which is nice.

[Pinto]

id say there will be a bit of cat and mouse in shakedown,not to many will overally show their hand today

[gregwrc]

the cars are close...which is nice.

ok but it's too early .... let's see

[Mirek]

JML is talking about the second spare wheel. Focus was basically designed to carry only one spare in the "rear tyre compartment" but when there was two spare tyres, the second one had to be placed to a very bad place (rear) inside the car.

Are You sure? Latest S2000 Fiesta model has spare wheel inside the cabin (first time in Barum 09). The space behind rear axle is used for transversal exhaust silencer like in other cars (longitudinal along the spare wheel caused overheating in that part of the car). I expect that WRC is made as the late S2000 rather than contrary.

[Sulland]

Are the shakedown list live somewhere, and the complete list ?


There it came: http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Shakedown3TimeOrder.pdf

[Viking]

http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Shakedown3TimeOrder.pdf

[HarriK]

JM average speed ~117kmh

[mm1]

If these times are anything to go by Hirvonen has found his mojo back - NOT :(

[Viking]

If these times are anything to go by Hirvonen has found his mojo back - NOT :(

Looks like Mikko only has done 1 run, and he was fastest "out of the box"...

[mm1]

I hope you`re right, want to see him back and fighting.

[nr7wave]

id say there will be a bit of cat and mouse in shakedown,not to many will overally show their hand today
I think that in Petters case, he will do as many rounds as he can and go as fast as he can. With only one day of testing, this shakedown extremly important for him.

[N.O.T]

i think these are normal shakedown times, its a good thing the cars are close and we might see a good fight, although Sweden is not an indication of speed of the drivers or the cars since its local knowledge that counts more.

[tolis]

It's snowing in the SD.

[Mirek]

According to my friend who is there it's been snowing all night heavily and keeps falling.

[N.O.T]

also being first on the road will be a big disadvantage with the snowfall.

the superspecial stage will give us a clear taste how much slower are these cars compared to the WRCs of 2010.

wish all a good start of the season with as little accidents and bad news as possible.

[Rallyper]

I think we still see a pattern here. Loeb and PG identical times. LAtvala fast on snow. Loeb will suffer tomorrow, for sure. More snow is to come up to 20 cm until friday morning.
In a couple of hour we´ll leave for Värmland and the rally. Three days of exciting rallying.

GO PG!!! GO!!!! :bounce:

[nr7wave]

One interesting fact: Prokop is the quickest of the s2000 so far and he is on DMACK tires...

[Halvis]

Nice time(s) for Østberg aswell. Will be very interesting too see how much closer (?) he and others will be the factory drivers this year, when the machinery is more even.

Bring on 2011!

[6789]

Whats up with Mikko??

[chryby]

complete results:
http://www.rally-mania.cz/news.php?id=10577

[6789]

Just looking at the results and Mikko was faster than JML on his first run, but then didn't complete any further runs. So maybe don't discount him just yet

[Viking]

Just looking at the results and Mikko was faster than JML on his first run, but then didn't complete any further runs. So maybe don't discount him just yet

I dont think this is the final results...
"For registered Manufacturers and WRC Teams, each car entered to
score points shall complete a minimum of 4 passages of the shakedown stage"

[mdesign]

Shakedown times don't say much, but I think these times show that Mikko is on a good pace. Afterall on a stage you need to be the fastest on one try not repeatedly until your learned every corner.

[chryby]

quick pictures:
http://www.rally-mania.cz/news.php?id=10578

[Viking]

Gerard Quinn Twitter
"Henning fastest in S/D from Mikko"

[Viking]

Gerard Quinn Twitter
"Henning fastest in S/D from Mikko"

[Viking]

updated
http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/Shakedown4TimeOrder.pdf

[HarriK]

Just heard that kimi has been gone off already one time at SD and people lifted him back to road :cool:

http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=fi&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iltalehti.fi%2Fralli%2F20110210 13163960_ri.shtml

[mm1]

It`s nice to see PG/Henning/Ostberg so quick on SD, that looks promising (I`m optimistic, would like to see them joining the fight for podium).

[Rallyper]

And also that both factoryteams are equal in speed...

[swordsman]

Preliminary heat order for SSS1 here: http://www.rallysweden.com/sandell-och-flodin-inleder-rallyt

Nice to see that the organiser has rescued PG from going first on the road ;)

[Viking]

Fastest WRC (Henning) 6,1 sec faster than fastest S2000 (Brynildsen) over 4km. Maybe an indication that WRC cars is a little bit slower than last year??

[Juha_Koo]

Excellent to see Henning loving and pushing the Fiesta!

Kimi in the snowbank: http://twitpic.com/3y9uft

[Mirek]

Fastest WRC (Henning) 6,1 sec faster than fastest S2000 (Brynildsen) over 4km. Maybe an indication that WRC cars is a little bit slower than last year??

Yes, probably they are but I don't care about some tenths of a second as long as they are spectacular and sound nice :)

[tolis]

Preliminary heat order for SSS1 here: http://www.rallysweden.com/sandell-och-flodin-inleder-rallyt

Nice to see that the organiser has rescued PG from going first on the road ;)
So, 45 starters. Non starters:
55 Mellquist
67 Sauvan

[Fri]

My pics from shakedown:
http://www.rallysport.hu/images/2011/photo/wrc/01_sved/03_teszt_fri/index.htm

[Mirek]

Any impressions? :)

[chryby]

first shakedown rally-mania.cz gallery:
http://www.rally-mania.cz/photogallery.php?id=837&fseason=2011
other will be soon :)

[HarriK]

Is the going to be any live tv broadcasting on SS1? any streams?

[Marre]

Viasat Motor is showing live 19.45 local, but dont know about any streams

[swordsman]

Swedish TV10 will broadcast live - but I doubt there are legal streams from that broadcast. Illegal, maybe!?

[Roy]

Swedish TV10 will broadcast live - but I doubt there are legal streams from that broadcast. Illegal, maybe!?

I hope WRC.com has it live at the website, but am afraid the don't do it.

[Jafry]

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_00e2523566.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_8da8232624.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_69225e4eeb.jpg

http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2011/835/835_rally_sweden_2011_53642550f5.jpg

More photos from snowy shake HERE (http://www.rally-mania.cz/photogallery.php?id=835&fseason=2011) ;)

[Juha_Koo]

Not sure if this can be seen outside Finland but here's a video of Kimi's little off: http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/2011/02/1271477/raikkonen-ajoi-heti-penkkaan---katso-video

Finnish spectators on the scene, immediate "perä tielle!" and "varotus päälle!" yelling. :D

[kobefly]

Nice to see some action again!
Will still be waiting for Rally México to see Villagra again in this new car.

[Miika]

Youtubing the Kimi-in-the-snow-bank incident, in case the MTV3 one is limited to Finland only:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1O-x7HCbXM

[HarriK]

I did reconn the voice ;)

[HarriK]

Swedish TV10 will broadcast live - but I doubt there are legal streams from that broadcast. Illegal, maybe!?

Thanks! Stream found ;)

[Roy]

Thanks! Stream found ;)

Come on. I want to know ;-)

[OldF]

Quite surprising that Kimi was faster than Ogier although Kimi had seven runs compare to five for Ogier.

[CABAIO E'LONA]

much snow this year in Sweden, that good!

[ProRally]

Still just now, Henning Solberg car nearly no stickers on it ....? Strange....

[Perra71]

On this Facebookpage Viasat will Livestream the whole rally from inside Richard Göranssons and Patrik Sandells cars.
Starting with the SSS this evening. 20:04 and 20:22 are the guys startingtime for tonight!
http://www.facebook.com/viasatmotorsverige

[Ondra WRC]

It's somewhere on the internet live broadcast SSS?

[Fide]

does anyone know starting order for tomorrow ?

[PLuto]

Results from Rally Sweden you should find here: http://www.vysledky-rally.cz/vysledky/?id=1

[kubiczech]

starting order for tomorrow:
http://www.rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/StartList_Section2_docno5-2.pdf

[Allyc85]

Henning was lucky in shakedown!

http://twitpic.com/3yce6u

[Krigen]

Henning was lucky in shakedown!

http://twitpic.com/3yce6u

Oooh :O

[ngd]

when looking at the fiesta of henning solberg, there are no sponsors except from samsung.. do you know why? has he got a full campaign for 2011?

[BleAivano]

On this Facebookpage Viasat will Livestream the whole rally from inside Richard Göranssons and Patrik Sandells cars.
Starting with the SSS this evening. 20:04 and 20:22 are the guys startingtime for tonight!
http://www.facebook.com/viasatmotorsverige

you can also watch live in car on these websites (which is were Viasat gets its stream from i guess):

http://www.net1.se/rally/

or at the drivers webpages:

http://www.richardgoransson.com/
http://www.ramonarallying.com/

[HarriK]

Block off at SD:
http://wrc.com/video/onboards/iceman-covered-in-snow/?vid=1981

Sorry earlier.. no stream found (yet)

[noel157]

Ok Harri, thanks anyway.

[MrJan]

Come on children, someone must have a live stream

[kubiczech]

http://www.wrc.com - video section - Hennings onboard from the shakedown - with that hot moment from the foto.

he is throwing the car all over the place, definitely much more sideways than last years cars

[HarriK]

Please someone from sweden, use Justin.tv and let us see!!!

[swordsman]

Prokop was on a short off and then Linari in the same place - the Italian lost more than 5 minutes!
Ketomäkis drive most impressive to me so far.
Now, 4 times STCC champion Göransson is on the track...

[swordsman]

Henning off for a few secs!

[sp0+]

Not a good start for results transmission though..... :-(

[mm1]

pathetic

[N.O.T]

well well....last years ss time was 1.31 min this year 1.40 min. Last years difference between wrc and s2000 was 8 seconds this year 5.

so i guess the cars LOOK and ARE slow after all.....not just in videos.

Will you ever learn something ?? apart from opening your mouths fo nothing ???

[HarriK]

http://www.ralsys.com/michelin/comm.html

[Miika]

Some footage from shakedown:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovGnooFtpbs

[Viking]

Henning "i come in an hole!!" that for sure would slow everyone down...

[noel157]

Wilson starts as he means to go on. No where near the top 10 after 1.9 km. Is it year 5 or 6? Who cares.

[mm1]

Really can`t understand why is he bothering, I understand rich boys - as a hobby, but him -I don`t get it.

[HarriK]

Last time it was year 2000 when swedish driver lead the Rally Sweden!

[N.O.T]

Wilson is the most unskilled and undeveloped driver in the history of the sport....its both pathetic and funny. Hope Sweden is his last rally ever.

[HarriK]

Wilson out, Ketomaa IN!

SD video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCG5YTkScGo

Prokop's action on recce:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3QG8P6B_bA

[J.Lindstroem]

I understand its early to say, but the new wrc-era starts well for sweden. the 2000-2010 was really bad for swedish motorsport, hopefully it is time for a change...

[Roy]

For Hirvonen is the new car not easy.

"It was okay but we had lots of problems with gear change, it was not working like it should. We have to wait and see, everything is so new."

[PLuto]

Ricardo Trivino exluded, his competitors licence wasnt valdi :D

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11747

[N.O.T]

Wilson out, Ketomaa IN!




that would be a wise choice but it will not happen

[mm1]

I thought aswell about Wilson / Ketomaa, it`s so unfair, but papa Wilson has the saying.

[jiipee64]

>>Last time it was year 2000 when swedish driver lead the Rally Sweden!

According to World rallying 2001

[tolis]

Ricardo Trivino exluded, his competitors licence wasnt valdi :D

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=11747
He was also excluded after Rally Mexico 2008... The reason had something to do with rallying gloves...
Edit: You've already written it in your article PLuto! ;)

[J.Lindstroem]

Yeah Thomas Rådström was actually in the lead after SS3 of Swedish Rally 2001. That must be the last time...

[HarriK]

>>Last time it was year 2000 when swedish driver lead the Rally Sweden!

According to World rallying 2001

My mistake! Both years Rådström.

[ZequeArgentina]

not much to say after this short SS.
only that everyone said to have taken it easy (even PG showed surprise to be leading). Henning was obviously an exemption.

And other notable thing is how good result from Grondal and Flodin, in a battle of 2 in PWRC.
I expect Ketomaki to match them, and Semerad a little step down on them.

I read tht it started snowing after the SS started, so it can also be that the special got slower because of the soft snow.

[Micke_VOC]

Just heard that kimi has been gone off already one time at SD and people lifted him back to road :cool:

http://translate.google.fi/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=fi&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iltalehti.fi%2Fralli%2F20110210 13163960_ri.shtml

I was there =)

Pictures from Shakedown, with pis of Kimi off.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=58576&id=196240740402087&l=63a9e04d5a
(Open for everybody, you NOt need to be a member of facebook)

[peg306]

Just watched the wheater forecast for Värmland. Heavy snowfall during all night and tomorrow morning, 20-30 cm of snow expected. The first run thru the stages will be hard for the guys up front.. Now it's time to go to bed, the alarm rings early tomorrow so we can go out on the stages :)

[Josti]

Very exciting, I expect a troubling first day for some top drivers. Hope PG can profit.

[Mirek]

Another video from shakedown. The cars are just great to watch :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QepuCZpS-E&feature=player_embedded

[Juha_Koo]

Another video from shakedown. The cars are just great to watch :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QepuCZpS-E&feature=player_embedded

That section in the end with the music... Great! Awwww fffak, can't wait for tomorrow! :D

[ZequeArgentina]

So, with that weather forecast, it is true good opportunity for PG, but also for Mikko.
It will also depend on what to expect for wether of Saturday and sunday.

[Aquagen]

Wensday and Thursday photos frow Rally Sweden 2011:

http://www.reporters.com.ua/gallery/1/103/

http://www.reporters.com.ua/gall_img/3693cce4c2e1f3c7c94511d91da6424b.jpg

http://www.reporters.com.ua/gall_img/16b07837d062ed8c6fca73e08a0ce8c2.jpg

[urabus-denoS2000]

Actually the cars are very attractive :) Really glad about it :D

[dimviii]

well well....last years ss time was 1.31 min this year 1.40 min. Last years difference between wrc and s2000 was 8 seconds this year 5.

so i guess the cars LOOK and ARE slow after all.....not just in videos.

Will you ever learn something ?? apart from opening your mouths fo nothing ???

don t be in a hurry....first stage for new cars,and this years Sweden is VERY different from previous years conditions to see how slower are the 1,6t wrc cars..On Sunday we will see more safe conclusions.
S2000 cars were strangling to N4 in gravel at the beggining...now n4s need binoculars to see them.
Fact is that are better to watch and hear.
Lets have a good rally year mates!

[dimviii]

photo No18!
http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=1230&fotograf=35&all=1

[BDunnell]

well well....last years ss time was 1.31 min this year 1.40 min. Last years difference between wrc and s2000 was 8 seconds this year 5.

so i guess the cars LOOK and ARE slow after all.....not just in videos.

Will you ever learn something ?? apart from opening your mouths fo nothing ???

No-one should ever claim to be a rallying enthusiast who thinks that the most important thing about the cars is the constant improvement of their outright speed.

[BDunnell]

Wilson starts as he means to go on. No where near the top 10 after 1.9 km. Is it year 5 or 6? Who cares.

This, of course, from the driver who put the very first miles on the new Fiesta.

[rjbetty]

Come on Matty, pull your finger out!

[AndyRAC]

To be fair, he's still learning and getting that vital experience needed..........



.......oh, okay maybe not.

Anyway, let's hope Sweden is a good one and we have more than the usual suspects at the front. The sport needs more challengers if it is to get more interest and viewers. I suspect Loeb will take it relatively easily - and only really push if he thinks he can win. If not, then a solid podium will do.

[satnav]

Heres a clip i found from SS1 tonight http://svtplay.se/v/2323228/motor/p-g_andersson_fick_en_kanonstart_pa_svenska_rallyt?c b,a1364159,1,f,-1/pb,a1364158,1,f,-1/pl,v/sb,p104183,1,f,-1

[Plan9]

what happened to Henning Solberg? he just seems to have disappeared off the times sheet on wrc.com. Has he had a crash during ss1?

[Zico]

No-one should ever claim to be a rallying enthusiast who thinks that the most important thing about the cars is the constant improvement of their outright speed.

Totally agree, last years WRC cars were far quicker over a stage than the quickest of the group B cars before the ban, but which would you rather watch????

[rjbetty]

This is brilliant that the playing field is more level. Why couldn't it be like this all the time? I would have liked it if the production cars were the same as before, then they could get in amongst the WRCs.

So Matt's 17th... Unfortunately, when I read his comments before the rally

"the challenge will be to get up to speed straight away on the first day. Of course that is going to be very difficult as we’ve got a totally new car...but this year is going to be a leap into the unknown for everyone. I don’t think any amount of testing will fully prepare us for what’s in store.”

It's already a losing attitude, preparing to fail!

[BDunnell]

So Matt's 17th... Unfortunately, when I read his comments before the rally

"the challenge will be to get up to speed straight away on the first day.

Maybe this would have been a more fitting response: "The challenge will be to get up to speed straight away in the sixth year".

Walter Röhrl winning the Monte three years running in three totally different types of car Matt Wilson is not.

[GigiGalliNo1]

He also said on TV that everyone will be starting equal and everyone will be equal because they all have same spec cars and are going into the unknown.

HAH! Yeh right, Wilson same field as Ogier?!? I don't think so. Not a chance.

[N.O.T]

don t be in a hurry....first stage for new cars,and this years Sweden is VERY different from previous years conditions to see how slower are the 1,6t wrc cars..On Sunday we will see more safe conclusions.
S2000 cars were strangling to N4 in gravel at the beggining...now n4s need binoculars to see them.
Fact is that are better to watch and hear.
Lets have a good rally year mates!

of course development will see the 1.6T to be faster than the WRCs of the old....but some suggested that would be 1sec/km faster right out of the box....and when i was saying that during testing they lookedslow they rushed to critisize me...but i was right once more...it gets boring.

[WRCfan]

Good morning all, 7 minutes away from stage start.

2011 season is about to be all go!

[N.O.T]

3 minutes to go....

[WRCfan]

Surely we are not the only two up to listen in...haha

[N.O.T]

no splits so far....

[J.Lindstroem]

Im up as well!! =)

[Doug Woods]

At least three of us logged in.

[spyros]

im here too,good season to all.

[MartijnS]

First split of Solberg..

[N.O.T]

P. Solberg appeared ...no latvala or PG....

[Koz]

Hola.

[N.O.T]

Solberg faster than Loeb on 1st split.