2012 IRC: Rallies, teams, drivers

[Dug83]

Could it be for the BRC?

[noel157]

Didn't know JAS plans new generation of Civic. Is it going to be R3 again?

Only a guess Mirek about the Civic.

[Fri]

Hungarian Gergely SZABÓ (2 times Romanian Champion) will drive his Mitsubishi Lancer E10 R4 on 4 IRC events (Meccsek, San Marino, Sibiu, Barum) this year:

: : RallySport.hu - Szabó Gergõ 4 IRC futamon 2012-ben : : (http://www.rallysport.hu/info/2012/01/01-09_hu_szabo_gergo_2012.htm)

[[Madeira-Rally]]

there are rumours about Meeke and Vouilloz with a Kronos Peugeot 207 for IRC 2012... it would be really nice for the competition...

[Andre Oliveira]

Hope to Vouilloz comeback.

[RS]

]there are rumours about Meeke and Vouilloz with a Kronos Peugeot 207 for IRC 2012... it would be really nice for the competition...

That sounds more like a dream... unless Meeke cancels his Prodrive contract?

[Hartusvuori]

]... it would be really nice for the competition...

That is exactly what IRC 2012 seems to be craving for. Now with Neuville growing up to have a date to meet the demands of big boys' league, Wilks left unsure, Bouffier's unclear, Loix cutting his program (?), Sandell in Mini WRC, heck, even Gardemeister renting his car and Protons in SWRC, IRC would need more drivers that could win rallies and that could win stages also. With Mikkelsen, Hänninen and Kopecky it'll be nice battles for the win, but for last couples of years with IRC, we have settled for more. However, it is of course way too early to tell anything.

[[Madeira-Rally]]

Peugeot will be in IRC for sure... they wouldn't waste money and time developing the 207 only for national champs.

[danon]

IRC Rally Sliven live on Eurosport (http://slivenpress.bg/sliven-novini/107-%D0%A0%D0%90%D0%9B%D0%98-%D0%A1%D0%9B%D0%98%D0%92%D0%95%D0%9D-2012-%D0%94%D0%98%D0%A0%D0%95%D0%9A%D0%A2%D0%9D%D0%9E-%D0%9F%D0%9E-EUROSPORT-%D0%9F%D0%A0%D0%95%D0%97-%D0%A1%D0%95%D0%9F%D0%A2%D0%95%D0%9C%D0%92%D0%A0%D 0%98)

http://slivenpress.bg/images/Snimki/rally_456.jpg

[RS]

IRC Rally Sliven live on Eurosport (http://slivenpress.bg/sliven-novini/107-%D0%A0%D0%90%D0%9B%D0%98-%D0%A1%D0%9B%D0%98%D0%92%D0%95%D0%9D-2012-%D0%94%D0%98%D0%A0%D0%95%D0%9A%D0%A2%D0%9D%D0%9E-%D0%9F%D0%9E-EUROSPORT-%D0%9F%D0%A0%D0%95%D0%97-%D0%A1%D0%95%D0%9F%D0%A2%D0%95%D0%9C%D0%92%D0%A0%D 0%98)


Good news!

[tolis]

Yeray Lemes tries to find budget for some IRC events in a Fabia S2000: El plan para subir a Lemes al Fabia S2000 | MotorEnLinea.es - La revista digital del mundo del motor en Canarias (http://www.motorenlinea.es/articulo.php?id=3019)
Anyone from Spain can translate the main parts of the article?

[pucky54]

He is doing Acores and Canarias and then he will see if he can continue the season...

[RICARDO75]

He is doing Acores and Canarias and then he will see if he can continue the season...

That was the ideal plan for him but nothing is secure.
It's very dificult to find suport in Spain, but he is trying to find budget to race with a car from Skoda Italia in more than half of the Championship events.
He would like to start in Azores because he was here in 2008 and after the rally, the ferry goes right to the Canary Islands, which would be a good opportunity to save money.

[Bartek]

According to Guy Willks status on Facebook "The Power of dreams" he should be with Honda. Maybe IRC?

[RS]

According to Guy Willks status on Facebook "The Power of dreams" he should be with Honda. Maybe IRC?

Ok, it's not S2000 but a regular drive in IRC, even with a 2wd car would be good for Guy.

[Hartusvuori]

Regulations for IRC 2012 published. Download here: http://www.ircseries.com/html/uploadedFiles/documents/sporting.regulations.pdf

- RRCs (S2000 w/ turbo 30 mm restrictor) will be allowed by registered manufactures.
- Best out of 8 results count
- Cyprus will have double points/ coefficient 2

[mousti]

Restrictor rule sucks a bit.

[Mirek]

It would be very difficult to handle if it is different than in ERC.

[hari]

Hermann Gassner jr. in Red Bull Skoda for 8 IRC events in 2012!

http://www.brr.at/cms/redbullskoda_season_2012.html

Acores, Gran Canaria, Tour de Corse, Mecsek, Ypres, Barum, San Remo and Cyprus.

[RS]

Nice. Gassner showed reasonable development last year in my opinion. Not sure why VW have overlooked him for those other two.

[Mirek]

He was already driving Škoda in WRC, so they saw pretty well what he is capable of.

[mousti]

It would be very difficult to handle if it is different than in ERC.
I still hoped it would change in the overall fia rules. With the 1.6t eligible in IRC rules will Mini registrate or if they don't will there be again some trouble caused by Eurosport forcing s1.6t drivers giving them a higher number?

[Mirek]

Don't think so. Eurosport has usually no word in starting order. It is up to organizers and FIA priorities.

[mousti]

Eurosport definately gave Superstage a hint about Snijers last year. Pretty sure about that..

[Mirek]

But last year was different situation because 1.6T were banned in IRC.

[mousti]

Yep, but if the Mini not registers, I don't think they will do show any footage of the car? When Impreza's were not allowed no Impreza has been shown :D

[RS]

Restrictor rule sucks a bit.

In my opinion they should err on the side of caution when thinking about the restrictor size for the RRC cars. I would hate to have a situation in IRC or ERC where somebody could just turn up with an RRC and win everything just because he could afford a more expensive car.

[Mirek]

Looks like official Subaru cars will be driven by Andreas Aigner, Jarkko Nikkara and Toshi Arai.

[mousti]

Already a specific program released for those three? I would like to see a big program for Nikara, he's a typical finnish driver with talent who goes flat out everywhere..

[alleskids]

Looks like official Subaru cars will be driven by Andreas Aigner, Jarkko Nikkara and Toshi Arai.

This program is coming from Subaru Japan/STI? Chris Atkinsons SWRC is also coming from Sbaru Japan/STI?

[tolis]

This program is coming from Subaru Japan/STI? Chris Atkinsons SWRC is also coming from Sbaru Japan/STI?
Who said Atkinson will do SWRC? Have I missed anything?

[alleskids]

Stephane Prevot said in Belgium that Atkinson wil do more then Sweden with the Subaru, probarly the SWRC in 2012.

[RS]

Looks like official Subaru cars will be driven by Andreas Aigner, Jarkko Nikkara and Toshi Arai.

Won't be able to compete with the S2000s but certainly three nice drivers to have in IRC.

[mousti]

Program is Corsica, Ypres, Romania, Barum and Cyprus :)

[RS]

Program is Corsica, Ypres, Romania, Barum and Cyprus :)

Is that for all three or just Aigner?

[mousti]

Normally for all three, that's what I understand of it.

[Co-driven]

According to Guy Willks status on Facebook "The Power of dreams" he should be with Honda. Maybe IRC?

Maybe this is what he was talking about?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0nMuMz50aI&feature=g-u&context=G24c75a2FUAAAAAAABAA

[Mirek]

Definitely not, this no FIA class car.

[Co-driven]

What is this car about? And what model is that?

It looks like the Honda Fit we have here in Brazil...

[pantealex]

what model is that?

It looks like the Honda Fit we have here in Brazil...

Jazz and Fit are same car. It´s jazz in europe also.

[RICARDO75]

2.000cc engine fwd. It's like a kit car

[RS]

Some rumours on the WRC forum that Flodin is going to do IRC with a Fiesta from Solberg's team.

Further rumours hereon MaxRally: "The addition of Aigner, Arai and Nikara to the IRC line-up represents yet another boost for the series following confirmation of Hermann Gassner Jr's participation last week. Maxrally understands more high profile entries will be announced shortly, with two teams run by former world champions close to agreeing deals for 2012.

A source close to the IRC said: "All we know is that they will be very exciting additions to the IRC and won't be running Peugeots or Skodas."

So one is Flodin- PSRT Fiesta

Other? I guess Loeb(PHSport), but it says not a Peugeot. I'm gonna guess Arzeno in a DS3 RRC?

[mousti]

Why not in a Peugeot for Arzeno? He's already starting with that in RMC. Arzeno won't gain anything in the 2wd championship I think besides experience in some foreign rallies.

[Mirek]

We are still waiting for program for Loix. I guess it's Ford but which championship?

[wwbroe]

We are still waiting for program for Loix. I guess it's Ford but which championship?

We will know pretty soon i guess, latest i heard is that Freddy is meeting with Wilson in Monte, so i think soon after we will know for sure. I think he will do a mixed program of some Belgian rally's with Ford Fiesta WRC and some IRC's with Fiesta S2000. The RRC version would be too slow to fight with S2000 cars. But nothing comfirmed for the moment, just rumours. :D

[pantealex]

Why not in a Peugeot for Arzeno? He's already starting with that in RMC. Arzeno won't gain anything in the 2wd championship I think besides experience in some foreign rallies.

RRC is 4wd

[mousti]

Ahh you mean that one.. That car is not even unveiled yet. Only thing we know about a possible drive with that is Nasser.. Peugeot is much better for Arzeno.

[Tofrallye29]

Why not in a Peugeot for Arzeno? He's already starting with that in RMC. Arzeno won't gain anything in the 2wd championship I think besides experience in some foreign rallies.
Arzeno will drive a Sainteloc's 207 S2000 with Robert in French Championship ;)

[mousti]

Yep I know but doesn't mean he couldn't do any IRC rallies..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwUBzZltxYM&context=C3635b24ADOEgsToPDskJHPvJiE3Em9plAf3QBTcw2

[shock]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpqHJo--E7w

[shock]

this stage of 6te drive downhill Rally Sliven 2012http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpqHJo--E7w

[Barreis]

Photo is after long night of crying. They stole his title.
IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge (http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=3380)

[Sulland]

Do anyone know more on the rumour of Eivind Brynildsen will do IRC in 2012?

[mousti]

Sadly no :( . Where u heard it / read it? I think we'll see Kruuda back often in IRC now he's not doing SWRC..

[RS]

Sadly no :( . Where u heard it / read it? I think we'll see Kruuda back often in IRC now he's not doing SWRC..

Good if you're right about Kruuda. More competition will be good for him.

I thought Brynildsen was going to do sWRC again in a Fabia run by Solberg's team or are they only going to do IRC with Flodin's Fiesta now?

[tolis]

Good if you're right about Kruuda. More competition will be good for him.

I thought Brynildsen was going to do sWRC again in a Fabia run by Solberg's team or are they only going to do IRC with Flodin's Fiesta now?
Brynildsen doesn't have the budget for SWRC this year. He said that in an interview.

[danon]

Rally Sliven launches new website for its IRC debut (http://www.rallysliven.com/en/news/item/177-rally-sliven-nov-web-site/177-rally-sliven-nov-web-site.html)

http://www.rallysliven.com/media/k2/items/cache/5288462d048e0d3f60f64bb84cff6df4_M.jpg

Organisational work for Rally Sliven, which will make its debut in IRC is at "full throttle". While working on all sporting and technical aspects the orginisers form ASC "Sliven" are also taking care for the image of the event which will accommodate some of the best drivers in europe form 28th to 30th of September 2012.

The new redesigned website of the event has just been launched. Under the new modern "skin" of the site is hidden improved functionality which will assist both fans and competitors.

The developers form Boxfish Design Studio and Vital Advertising have loaded the website with lots of images from previous rally editions and for second consecutive year plan to offer the visitors the successful "Rally TV". Last year thanks to it many fans who couldn't come to see the rally were able to watch live all pressconferences and the rally super special stage.

http://www.rallysliven.com/images/stories/frontpage_slides/33.jpg
http://www.rallysliven.com/images/stories/banner_top.jpg

[danon]

Legendary stages are back in Rally Sliven (http://www.rallysliven.com/en/news/item/176-legendarni-otsechki-na-rally-sliven.html)

In 2012 all spectators and guest of Rally Sliven will be able to watch some of the most attractive and difficult stages in Bulgaria. The organisers from ASC "Sliven"decided to include in the itinerary of the competition which will be round 11 of the Intercontitnental Rally Challange, the legendary downhill stages "Bulgarka" and "Stara reka".

And while the run down form the Bulgarka peak was part of the rally a few years ago, the stage that finishes in the Stara reka village haven't been driven in this direction for more than 20 years.

"By including these stages in the itinerayr we aim to make the competition more spactacular for the fans. Since many years all rally fans realy want to see "Bulgarka"in its downhull variation and to spice it up we decided to give them one of the most difficult stages - "Stara reka" also in downhill direction. And these two stages will be a real challenge for all of the competitors and we are sure that our guest from IRC will enjoy them" - said Atanas Chanev, Deputy Clerk of the Course of rally Sliven.

With these itinerary changes Rally Sliven has the ambitions to be on of the most compact events in the IRC calendar.

"Our goal is to make top level event which is also very compact. We belive that our rally will be one of the most accessibe events for all the teams because of our efforts in reducing their cost as musch as possible."

http://www.rallysliven.com/images/stories/frontpage_slides/55.jpg
http://www.rallysliven.com/images/stories/banner_top.jpg

[danon]

Where all the action unfolds :arrow: Сливен | Sliven - SkyscraperCity (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=424397)

http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/7411/27383379906157wo3.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/9772/8781560179525qv8.jpg

[mousti]

Please make a topic around the rally, this topic really getting spammed with promoting the Sliven IRC rally..

[PLuto]

Michael Kogler in 6 IRC events with Renault Clio R3 - Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13296)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/d6056a5d13b9c2cf2a32ad8969112c22.jpg

[Wim_Impreza]

Is Renault subscribed for the IRC 2WD Cup this year?

[bluuford]

Sadly no :( . Where u heard it / read it? I think we'll see Kruuda back often in IRC now he's not doing SWRC..

I think that you will not see Kruuda before the summer (apart from some Estonian rallies) he has to concentrate on graduating his school. So, he has many exsams starting at the end of April and ending in the beginning of June. I think his father told him that no rally before graduating school (at least no international rallies).

[mousti]

True he's still on school :p . Saw that on his twitter, must be awesome doing a IRC/SWRC rally in the weekend monday at school asking him "what have u done this weekend Karl?" "Oh I worked a bit in Greece doing a SWRC rally" :D . How's the planning there june exams like here in Belgium?

[mousti]

Is Renault subscribed for the IRC 2WD Cup this year?
Probably not but for the drivers that's not a problem..

[bluuford]

True he's still on school :p . Saw that on his twitter, must be awesome doing a IRC/SWRC rally in the weekend monday at school asking him "what have u done this weekend Karl?" "Oh I worked a bit in Greece doing a SWRC rally" :D . How's the planning there june exams like here in Belgium?
The first exam is at the end of April and the last will be at the beginning of June

[mousti]

So Ypres is possible :D

[106 sport]

For those who want to come to Gran Canaria (Rally Islas Canarias), this web could to help them...


There are videos of all stages.


El 36º Rally Islas Canarias, también en vídeo - Motor 2000 | La Revista de Canarias (http://www.motor2000.net/noticia.php?N=3363&CM=C1)


Regards.

[PLuto]

Rashid Al Ketbi on 8-10 IRC events - Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13304)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/ed9f0588bbe4a7f7f95a842384770242.jpg

[Sulland]

Probably not but for the drivers that's not a problem..

It should be, because they will not score points, and not be part of the result list, or have IRC moved away from that ?

[hari]

It should be, because they will not score points, and not be part of the result list, or have IRC moved away from that ?

According to Regulations: http://www.ircseries.com/html/uploadedFiles/documents/sporting.regulations.pdf every 2WD car takes points.

[mousti]

Indeed that's what I meant..

[Luis Pacheco]

Rashid Al Ketbi to make IRC debut in Skydive Dubai Rally Team| Sport360 (http://www.sport360.com/article/rashid-al-ketbi-make-irc-debut-skydive-dubai-rally-team)

[mousti]

Already with the Evo 3 Fabia, so I guess the works drivers will have it too also. Was Janner with Evo 2 or 3 didn't saw any differences on the outside of car.

[RICARDO75]

I think the Evo 3 it's on the engine

“We will be driving the latest Skoda 2000 fitted with a powerful Evo3 engine,”

[liposh]

At the end of 2011 Mr. Hrabanek (Skoda motorsport boss) said there isn´t big space to improve the car, but for 2012 season they plan small changes of engine and changes in weight distribution of the car. And that´s it. I think the changes of engine has to be very small because the homologation is frozen.

[Mirek]

Why do You think the homologation is frozen? I don't see any reason for that. Engine Evo 2 was used already in 2010, so Evo 3 might not be anything newer than what they use since Hustopeče/Ypres 2011 (If I remember right).

Anyway nothing like Evo 2 as a name for whole car exists. It is only unofficially used to separate 1800 and 1820 mm wide versions.

[mousti]

Homologation is frozen for making new models, not for existing models those can change whatever they want if it's applies to the S2000 rules offcourse.

[liposh]

Oh, you are right. I badly understand meaning of that FIA press release about new homologations, sorry... but it means there is no need for Skoda motorsport to build R4T car in this moment.

[Mirek]

It is. The current generation of Fabia is closing its days and there will be a need for promotion of new model soon.

[liposh]

Yes , for new car, but not yet for fabia. So at first the new car has to be revealed and then... ;)

[Mirek]

The time when new generation comes is pretty same with expected homologation of R4T - 2013.

[liposh]

Yes , for new car, but not yet for fabia. So at first the new car has to be revealed and then... ;)

[pucky54]

Wiegand is doing 10 rounds in a Skoda Motorsport factory car!

[liposh]

pucky54: specify the source ;) It is big difference between factory car (why not, skoda germany can run car in last specification supported by SM like Mikkelsen do) vs. skoda motorsport factory car ..and sorry boys for sending last post twice. I just wanted to do some changes, then my PC frozen, so you can delete one of them. ;)

[mousti]

pucky54: specify the source ;) ..and sorry boys for sending last post twice. I just wanted to do some changes, then my PC frozen, so you can delete one of them. ;)
http://rampazampa.eu/blog/2012/01/30/skoda-auto-deutschland-startet-mit-junior-team-in-die-irc-2012/

Google is your friend ;)

[RS]

The time when new generation comes is pretty same with expected homologation of R4T - 2013.

I guess that means that the test car will have to be heavily disguised!

[darkstar]

IRC-Programm für Wiegand*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/int/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/01/30/irc-programm-fuer-wiegand/index.html)

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/uploads/pics/news_int_20120130.jpg

[alleskids]

Wiegand is doing 10 rounds in a Skoda Motorsport factory car!

Technically supervised the rally events in the IRC by JUKA Motorsport. The Czech team is a longstanding partner of SKODA AUTO Germany and the Fabia S2000 very familiar. The project also receives support from the manufacturer in the Czech Republic itself Thus, in addition to technical assistance provided under other common testing activities with the work team.
Which starts at the events SKODA AUTO Germany, is yet to be decided.

[pucky54]

Yes, so same situation like Loix & Mikkelsen last year

[mousti]

Loix and Mikkelsen car came not from Juka but from the Skoda Motorsport itself. Skoda Italia prepared mainly the car of Andreas with probably some factory assistance. Loix was prepared by Skoda Motorsport fully.

[pucky54]

Loix and Mikkelsen car came not from Juka but from the Skoda Motorsport itself. Skoda Italia prepared mainly the car of Andreas with probably some factory assistance. Loix was prepared by Skoda Motorsport fully.

Yes ,I know. That's what the article about Wiegand says. Car from Skoda Motorsport serviced by JUKA.

[Mirek]

Guys, Juka Motorsport is long time close partner of Škoda Motorsport. They were even involved in building new Fabias S2000. They are also capable of full service and rebuilds of cars including older Fabia or Octavia WRC. Don't worry about the quality ;)

[PLuto]

Wiegand is doing 10 rounds in a Skoda Motorsport factory car!

This is not so big news, I wrote about it one month earlier (here (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13152)). Only new is confirmed number of events and photo of car :)

[mousti]

Arzeno and Flodin have both now confirmed on IRCseries.com to do some IRC events but nothing sure which rallies they'll do. Flodin obviously with the Fiesta and Arzeno with the 207.

[darkstar]

cool, arzeno did very good at monte until his small off, wich was realy unlucky i think. only very low impact and car was broken.

short interview with wiegand:

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/int/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/01/31/moeglichst-rasch-an-die-spitze/index.html

http://translate.google.de/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallye-magazin.de%2Frallyes%2Fint%2Fnachrichten%2Fnews-detail%2Fd%2F2012%2F01%2F31%2Fmoeglichst-rasch-an-die-spitze%2Findex.html&sl=de&tl=en&hl=&ie=UTF-8

he thinks that he wont have much chance in the beginning to fight the top drivers, but he will try and wants to get closer to them during the season. he doesnt realy know the car yet and also he doesnt know the rallyes he says, but he´s going to try to get as much info from the internet as possible and watch onboards to prepare as good as possible. he wants to show his best and it wont fail on his attitude. he´s happy to have a international experienced codriver now, and hopes they can improve his pacenotes and gottschalk can help him with tyrechoice etc.

i like him, he has this winning attitude, in general german drivers only talk about not to crash to get experience and finish the rallye, bla, bla, bla...

[rp]

Jarkko Nikara´s four IRC events will be San Marino, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus. The Subaru Impreza STi R4 is prepared by Tommi Mäkinen Racing and supported by Subaru and Yokohama.

Nikara´s aim is also to drive the British Rally Championship, but the last event will be missed, because Bulgaria is during the same weekend than Yorkshire...

[Hartusvuori]

Jarkko Nikara´s four IRC events will be San Marino, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus. The Subaru Impreza STi R4 is prepared by Tommi Mäkinen Racing and supported by Subaru and Yokohama.

Nikara´s aim is also to drive the British Rally Championship, but the last event will be missed, because Bulgaria is during the same weekend than Yorkshire...

This is good, but somehow I expected more. He also misses all the classic events Tour de Corse, Ypres, Barum and Sanremo, but obvisously he prefers gravel which of course is a bit of pointless.

[A FONDO]

On the other hand these events will have weaker entries so he will take more points easier.

[mousti]

He should have done indeed one of those 4 events instead of Bulgaria when it's the same weekend during Yorkshire. If he wants to learn to drive on tarmac and prove his speed there, 2 events will not be enough.

With doing 4 events u don't have ambitions for a good classification in the championship.

[rp]

This is good, but somehow I expected more. He also misses all the classic events Tour de Corse, Ypres, Barum and Sanremo, but obvisously he prefers gravel which of course is a bit of pointless.

Yes, but there is no chance on the tarmac if you are driving R4 car. I think that on the gravel Nikara is able to beat many Super 2000 cars and show once again his skills...

[Hartusvuori]

Yes, but there is no chance on the tarmac if you are driving R4 car. I think that on the gravel Nikara is able to beat many Super 2000 cars and show once again his skills...

But you will learn tarmac skills with R4 as well. It shouldn't be all about overall classifications.

[PLuto]

Arzeno and Flodin have both now confirmed on IRCseries.com to do some IRC events but nothing sure which rallies they'll do. Flodin obviously with the Fiesta and Arzeno with the 207.

Nothing is confirmed yet. They only wrote that they WANT to do some IRC rounds. And this is different...

[mousti]

Flodin will for sure do something otherwise he wouldn't withdraw his entry in his home event.. Or he must be broke lol.

[markf8691]

Jarkko Nikara´s four IRC events will be San Marino, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus. The Subaru Impreza STi R4 is prepared by Tommi Mäkinen Racing and supported by Subaru and Yokohama.

Nikara´s aim is also to drive the British Rally Championship, but the last event will be missed, because Bulgaria is during the same weekend than Yorkshire...


How much support is coming from Subaru? Is it going to be a semi works team or are these all private entries?

[Mirek]

All three drivers were mentioned in STI press-release as officially supported ones so some sort of support is there.

[markf8691]

All three drivers were mentioned in STI press-release as officially supported ones so some sort of support is there.

Ok so seems like a semi works team possibly. Mirek do you know anything about the level of support Honda bring to the IRC?

[Mirek]

Sorry, I don't.

[F1boat]

For me the good news are that Bulgaria is in the calendar. This makes me very happy. I was very proud with the WRC Rally Bulgaria and that I was able to see the legendary Mr. Loeb in action!

[RS]

What now for Kris Meeke now that his chances of getting anything with Prodrive seem even more remote (not that todays announcement changed a lot)

Some words on Circuit of Ireland: Meeke hints at Circuit entry - Motorsport, Sport - Belfasttelegraph.co.uk (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/meeke-hints-at-circuit-entry-16109904.html)

[wildboar]

Apologies, if these questions have already been answered. I have some difficulties in understanding the IRC reglementations.

There is this rule that drivers in 4WD car can only score points if the car is from a registered manufacturer: does that mean the a driver in a Mini RRC cannot score (driver) points?

[Wim_Impreza]

That is true. As example, Patrick Snijers was with a Mini RRC last year 4th overall in Ypres, but he didn't score points for the IRC.

[Mirek]

That was in 2011. Prodrive can register for 2012 (and logically should). What we know is that Proton and Abarth will not register for 2012.

[mousti]

Because Prodrive still has the development rights it can register in IRC under Mini flag?

Logically should indeed, but no word on it that they would do it.. :-/

[Mirek]

I don't know how exactly it is with IRC but I think there is logo of that one who pays the registration. We saw M-sport and Ralliart there instead of Ford and Mitsubishi...

[mousti]

True indeed. But I don't expect much from them to register on it. Or some driver with a big programma for IRC with a Mini has to request to Prodrive for doing that. Mikkelsen was probably the reason why Msport registered I think

[PLuto]

M-Sport registered into IRC because of business :-)

[RS]

M-Sport registered into IRC because of business :-)

Mini should do the same.

[Luis Pacheco]

IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge (http://www.ircseries.com/html/readnews.asp?id=3403)

[Wim_Impreza]

Gábor Talmácsi, the former motorcycle star and the World Champion 125cc in 2007, will contest the Mecsek Rally this year: MaxRally | News | Bike star Talmacsi takes up rallying (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/bike_star_talmacsi_takes_up_rallying/)

[tolis]

Double points again in Cyprus.
IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge (http://www.rally-irc.com/html/readnews.asp?id=3405)

[focus206]

Any news about Harry Hunt? Is he going to fight for 2WD championship again?

[A FONDO]

I heard he will drive all the IRC events this year

[tolis]

Any news about Harry Hunt? Is he going to fight for 2WD championship again?
He'll do 10 events this year in his DS3!

[focus206]

Thanks for the answers ;)

[A FONDO]

harry hunt 2012 irc - Google (http://www.google.bg/search?q=harry+hunt+2012+irc&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t)

the initial announce was for all the 13 rounds but on 7th Feb. ircseries says only 10 :confused:

[Wasted Talent]

He'll do 10 events this year in his DS3!

Interesting, he did the Wyedean this weekend in an S2000 Fiesta

WT

[tolis]

Interesting, he did the Wyedean this weekend in an S2000 Fiesta

WT
It was an one-off!

[RS]

So if Bouffier's entry on Azores is purely private, it sems as if Peugeot really will do nothing official this year? Maybe some appearances on the 'big' events such as Ypres, Corsica, Sanremo?....

Anyhow, I guess a few more might start their championship campaigns when the series returns to mainland Europe? Still hoping for something for Gardemeister and Flodin.

[cut full]

in the latest pressrelease, where they talk about the 207 evo+, they say nothing about an official entry in irc. they only say that "thanks to programmes run by local Peugeot subsidiaries and privateer teams the car is competing in many local championships".

[RS]

in the latest pressrelease, where they talk about the 207 evo+, they say nothing about an official entry in irc. they only say that "thanks to programmes run by local Peugeot subsidiaries and privateer teams the car is competing in many local championships".

The one I am reading says:

"The 207 S2000 will be active in a long list of national championships thanks to programmes run by local Peugeot subsidiaries and privateer teams. The car continues to be considered a benchmark and will also be seen in the European Rally Championship, on certain rounds of the World Rally Championship, the IRC and the Middle East Championship."

It seems there will be no official full programme but I am sure Peugeot will still be registered and we wil see some good entries on certain rounds, before hopefully a bigger comeback with the 208 R4T next year.

I fear we will see Skoda stepping back next year as I don't think the Fabia R4T will be ready at the beginning of the year, unless IRC will allow S2000 to continue as well.

[Mirek]

Of course S2000 will continue to be allowed in IRC or would You like to run a season opening events with two or three cars in top class?

Anyway I heard Škoda is working on homologation at 1st January 2013 as well. But it's just rumors.

[RS]

Of course S2000 will continue to be allowed in IRC or would You like to run a season opening events with two or three cars in top class?

Good point, lol. I hadn't thought of that. But won't R4T cars be quite a lot slower than S2000?


Anyway I heard Škoda is working on homologation at 1st January 2013 as well. But it's just rumors.

But new Fabia road car won't be presented until Geneva 2013 at the earlist I would think? Would be strange if the rally car was in action first!

[Mirek]

Good point, lol. I hadn't thought of that. But won't R4T cars be quite a lot slower than S2000?

Difficult to say. Definitely they have lesser potential but if they give them very strong engine (heard they shall have 32 mm restrictor) it could be interesting combination of worse chassis and better engine with similar weight...


But new Fabia road car won't be presented until Geneva 2013 at the earlist I would think? Would be strange if the rally car was in action first!

We'll see. I don't know...

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jl0IRVOo4bw&feature=player_embedded

[Mirek]

Sounds like new specification of engine.

[mousti]

Yep, the sound of acceleration is a bit different and feel faster. Bang Bang of the Gearbox sounds not so loud anymore.

[Bartek]

Sounds like new specification of engine.

Like in VW Fabias? Without bang :(

[RS]

Shame about the missing bangs...

Looks like Juho is going to Canarias then!

[focus206]

Any info about Martin Kangur and Janos Puskadi? Could they do another season in IRC 2WD Cup with the Civic R3?

[PLuto]

Shame about the missing bangs...

Looks like Juho is going to Canarias then!

This missing "bang" should be also on actual version of engine, it is about software and it looks it wasnt advantage as expected..

According to actual plans Canarias will be without Juho.

[pucky54]

Any info about Martin Kangur and Janos Puskadi? Could they do another season in IRC 2WD Cup with the Civic R3?

Puskadi is entered for Canarias in his Civic

[PLuto]

Any info about Martin Kangur and Janos Puskadi? Could they do another season in IRC 2WD Cup with the Civic R3?

Martin Kangur told at the end of last year, that he will focus on school, some rumours also told that in Honda they werent satisfied with his performance.
Janos Puskadi has bought Skoda Fabia S2000 (ex-Hanninen from SWRC), first start is expected on Canarias. His usual Honda will use on Acores Menyhert Kroszer, his brand new Fabia R2 will use on Acores Laszlo Vizin.

[mousti]

This missing "bang" should be also on actual version of engine, it is about software and it looks it wasnt advantage as expected..

According to actual plans Canarias will be without Juho.
The silenced bang was no advantage or the big "bang" wasn't a advantage. Hope it's the first I love the "bangs" of switching gears!

Nice news about Puskadi hope he does some nice aphalt program in IRC

[focus206]

Martin Kangur told at the end of last year, that he will focus on school, some rumours also told that in Honda they werent satisfied with his performance.
Janos Puskadi has bought Skoda Fabia S2000 (ex-Hanninen from SWRC), first start is expected on Canarias. His usual Honda will use on Acores Menyhert Kroszer, his brand new Fabia R2 will use on Acores Laszlo Vizin.

Ok thanks for the answer ;)

[A FONDO]

Saliuk said he will do the whole IRC championship with Fiesta for some "AT racing team" that chose him.

[Aquagen]

No, it will be a Dream Team Ukraine based on AT and with Mr Chervonenko support and 3 drivers: Tamrazov, Saliuk and Pushkar. More information in next days

[106 sport]

No, it will be a Dream Team Ukraine based on AT and with Mr Chervonenko support and 3 drivers: Tamrazov, Saliuk and Pushkar. More information in next days

And Pushkar also is going to participate in Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Ingles (Gran Canaria)???

Thanks

[RS]

No, it will be a Dream Team Ukraine based on AT and with Mr Chervonenko support and 3 drivers: Tamrazov, Saliuk and Pushkar. More information in next days

With three Fiesta S2000s?

[PLuto]

Pushkar with N4

[Mirek]

New more modern looking website plus updated list of registered manufacturers: IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge - Eurosport (http://www.ircseries.com/)

[tolis]

New more modern looking website plus updated list of registered manufacturers: IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge - Eurosport (http://www.ircseries.com/)
Old style is here: IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge (http://www.rally-irc.com/html/)

[mousti]

Interesting to see they have a drivers list involving people like Monzon.. All those people must have made cleared to the promoters they do a program?

Renault Sport also now registered. No prodrive and I expect no Prodrive for whole season.

[wildboar]

Interesting bit in the regulations where they say that RGT cars will also be eligible in the 2WD cup. Might make the 2WD cup interesting, if the Lotus Exige comes in time. I think ERC explicitly excludes RGT from the 2WD championship.

[Mirek]

Yes, good point. Lotus shall be available since the start of April so it would really make sense to register. IRC is largely asphalt championship and most of the events are after this date.

[RS]

I wonder whether Renault are considering making an R4T car for the future and this is maybe a toe in the water?

New website looks good.

[harriswrc]

The absence of Sliven Rally from new site means something? Or they just forgot to put the logo?

[mousti]

It's on the site.

[harriswrc]

It's on the site.When I wrote my post it wasn't. Probably they forgot it ;-)

[Aquagen]

And Pushkar also is going to participate in Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Ingles (Gran Canaria)???Dont know real things about Pushkar but I think we'll see him on the next IRC events driving N4/R4.

[Aquagen]

With three Fiesta S2000s?No. Fiestas for Saliuk and Tamrazov and Evo/Impreza N4/R4 for Pushkar

[tolis]

Marco Tempestini will do 7 IRC rounds this year:
Acores, Mecsek, San Marino, Sibiu, Yalta, Sliven and Cyprus.

[mousti]

No. Fiestas for Saliuk and Tamrazov and Evo/Impreza N4/R4 for Pushkar
u know a specific program?


And does somebody know what's that driver list means at IRC site. Campos, Monzon.. Loix with Fabia that can't be because that era is 99% done, Gardemeister with 207...

[PLuto]

Press conference of Dream Team Ukraine is tomorrow. It is sure minimum 10 events, maybe they will do all.

I think driver list at IRC means nothing...

[Plan9]

What is Wilks doing, I take it not IRC for Peugeot UK anymore as he is not listed on the IRC site anymore...

[mousti]

Press conference of Dream Team Ukraine is tomorrow. It is sure minimum 10 events, maybe they will do all.

I think driver list at IRC means nothing...
Think so too, although it's weird that drivers like Monzon and Campos metioned those had nothing to do with IRC from the beginning.

Let's hope a full program then :D

[RS]

Can someone say something about the Ukranian drivers. Do they have potential or are they competing just for fun?

[tolis]

Can someone say something about the Ukranian drivers. Do they have potential or are they competing just for fun?
About Tamrazov: 5 IRC events in total. Best place 15th in Yalta Rally last year in a Fiesta S2000.

[PLuto]

Saliuk was 7x champion in Ukraine, last year he was doing PWRC (but was injured at the end of spring, he missed some events like Yalta where he wanted to start with Proton), very famous is his "big jump" on Rally Turkey few years ago (red Mitsubishi in colors of Mentos), he has no experience with S2000, but he should be fast. But must stay on the road.

Tamrazov started as codriver of Aleksandrov, after his death on Rally Sliven 2007 Alex moved behind the wheel. He was starting with Subaru and Mitsubishi, since middle 2010 he has Ford Fiesta S2000. He is not the best driver, but also not the worst. He is able to make good times, but not constantly through the whole event. I think that Nicola Arena with his experience should help.

[pucky54]

Saliuk was 7x champion in Ukraine, last year he was doing PWRC (but was injured at the end of spring, he missed some events like Yalta where he wanted to start with Proton), very famous is his "big jump" on Rally Turkey few years ago (red Mitsubishi in colors of Mentos), he has no experience with S2000, but he should be fast. But must stay on the road.

Tamrazov started as codriver of Aleksandrov, after his death on Rally Sliven 2007 Alex moved behind the wheel. He was starting with Subaru and Mitsubishi, since middle 2010 he has Ford Fiesta S2000. He is not the best driver, but also not the worst. He is able to make good times, but not constantly through the whole event. I think that Nicola Arena with his experience should help.

Also famous for letting his Evo rolling down the finish ramp into the traffic :D :D :D

[focus206]

Marco Tempestini will do 7 IRC rounds this year:
Acores, Mecsek, San Marino, Sibiu, Yalta, Sliven and Cyprus.

Do you know what car will he use?

[tolis]

Do you know what car will he use?
Subaru Impreza R4!
So, Impreza's R4 are registered in the Production Cup.

[mousti]

Saliuk is a spectacular driver indeed.

[Sulland]

Renault Sport also now registered.


Interesting bit in the regulations where they say that RGT cars will also be eligible in the 2WD cup. Might make the 2WD cup interesting, if the Lotus Exige comes in time. I think ERC explicitly excludes RGT from the 2WD championship.

Good to see Renault registered, they will run a Megane cup in IRC.


Perfect for RGT to compete in 2WD cup, to get competition.

[Aquagen]

u know a specific program?what do you mean specific? I'm not part of the team but know something because I'm Ukrainian :)

[bluuford]

Also famous for letting his Evo rolling down the finish ramp into the traffic :D :D :D
Tamrazov has done a lot of Estonian events as well. Some stage times are very good, but consistency is not there. Even I have seen him twice going off the road IRL.

His Fiesta is registered in Estonia and he had small base in South Estonia as well. It is probably easier to compete in EU when the car is based and registered in EU country.

Saliuk has competed in Estonia (Saaremaa Rally) only once (if I am not mistaken) and therefore rolled only once as well ;-) Very spectacular driver.

[mousti]

what do you mean specific? I'm not part of the team but know something because I'm Ukrainian :)
Gonna wait now for the presser.

But I meant with specific which rallies he's going to do, I'm minimal attending 1 IRC event maybe and hopefully even two.

[Aquagen]

They says about minimum 10 IRC rallyes this year and whole Ukrainian Rally Championship.

http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac160/subarenko/Car_3v2.jpg

http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac160/subarenko/Car_2v2.jpg

http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac160/subarenko/Car_1v2.jpg

[Aquagen]

More info about Dream Team Ukraine - they'll take part in following events: Acores, Islas Canarias, Mecsek, Ypres, Barum, Sliven, SanRemo, Sibiu, Cyprus and definitely Yalta

[RS]

Nice livery!

[RS]

More info about Dream Team Ukraine - they'll take part in following events: Acores, Islas Canarias, Mecsek, Ypres, Barum, Sliven, SanRemo, Sibiu, Cyprus and definitely Yalta

Is that with both Fiesta S2000 on all events?

[Aquagen]

yes

[106 sport]

More info about Dream Team Ukraine - they'll take part in following events: Acores, Islas Canarias, Mecsek, Ypres, Barum, Sliven, SanRemo, Sibiu, Cyprus and definitely Yalta


And Pushkar also is going to participate in Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Ingles (Gran Canaria) with his N4/R4???

Regards.

[veegog]

Jarkko Nikara´s four IRC events will be San Marino, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus. The Subaru Impreza STi R4 is prepared by Tommi Mäkinen Racing and supported by Subaru and Yokohama.

Nikara´s aim is also to drive the British Rally Championship, but the last event will be missed, because Bulgaria is during the same weekend than Yorkshire...

Do you know why he chooses tarmac event like the Bulgarian rally ? I guess he is not having much chance on such event against the S2000 cars...

[mousti]

Do you know why he chooses tarmac event like the Bulgarian rally ? I guess he is not having much chance on such event against the S2000 cars...
He wanted to show his Tarmac speed and learn also, so his program had to have more tarmac events than this. He can't learn on tarmac on one event. Driving with a R4 u don't have ambition to win overall, that makes no sense :)

[Mirek]

Do you know why he chooses tarmac event like the Bulgarian rally ? I guess he is not having much chance on such event against the S2000 cars...

You can't learn tarmac avoiding it.

[veegog]

You can't learn tarmac avoiding it.

I was just thinking that he may drive some less expensive rallies which are maybe part of the Finnish championship... but I got your point :)

[Aquagen]

And Pushkar also is going to participate in Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Ingles (Gran Canaria) with his N4/R4???

Regards.Dont know, cause his car hasn't been ready to the racing now.

[106 sport]

Dont know, cause his car hasn't been ready to the racing now.


Thanks for the answer.

[mousti]

is an open championship. There is no obligation to compete in all events. We'll see these drivers during the season!

That's IRCRally Twitter answer on my question of the driver list on their site.

Monzon will do Canarias I guess, and Campos?? I really don't know.

And Loix-Skoda is history.

Breen will announce news around IRC soon.

[wwbroe]

I am not sure that Loix-Skoda will be history, latest news i heard was that he will use different cars in Belgian championship and IRC, maybe Ford in Belgian BFO championship and Skoda in IRC. But i think we still need to wait a little bit to see if deal will be closed.

[mousti]

I hear also different stuff, but it would be bad communication if they suddenly return to them after Skoda said that they won't wait anymore.. Don't know why they would return to Skoda then, could be only that MSport service is expensiver then Skoda Motorsport service. I could be wrong also, alot of things going on that we don't know :D

[Andre Oliveira]

First photos (from rallyazores.blogspot.com):

Luis Pacheco (http://www.fotosralis.online.pt/desembarquelp12/) (ralis.online.pt)

Emanuel Câmara (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.375362432493167.106317.100000582416720&type=1) (facebook)

Azoresrallyes (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.302062329849782.80626.155648707824479&type=1) (facebook)

Auto Açores (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.386722558007773.116025.111302915549740&type=1) (facebook)

[PLuto]

I am not sure that Loix-Skoda will be history, latest news i heard was that he will use different cars in Belgian championship and IRC, maybe Ford in Belgian BFO championship and Skoda in IRC. But i think we still need to wait a little bit to see if deal will be closed.

I hope this will not come true. We need good drivers in different cars, not only Skoda... Freddy can win Ypres with every car (after this year improvement I think also with Proton).

[RS]

I hope this will not come true. We need good drivers in different cars, not only Skoda... Freddy can win Ypres with every car (after this year improvement I think also with Proton).

I agree we need some different cars. Not sure about Proton yet though; they definitely made a step but Monte and Sweden are both unusual events.

If Skoda are going to run only either Kopecky or Hanninen on most events then they surely have some capacity in the works team for an extra car though.

[Barreis]

What about Loix?

[Mirek]

I agree we need some different cars. Not sure about Proton yet though; they definitely made a step but Monte and Sweden are both unusual events.

With expected absence of Kopecký and Meeke there will be probably no opposition for Freddy in Ypres.

[mousti]

Neuville is free that Weekend :D

With the progress he makes rally per rally, he should be able to beat the King of Ypres .

[Mirek]

Ah, sorry, I forgot about him. If he drives, he is big threat to Freddy for sure.

[liposh]

I would prefer Hänninen in Hustopece and Kopecky in Ypres that weekend. It makes sense, but it is only my dream :D

[Mirek]

It makes no sense because the target for Kopecký is Czech title, not IRC. Not even speaking about a sense of start in Hustopeče for Juho...

[RS]

Dream Team Ukraine have hired Ari Vatanen as a team coach, it seems they have some serious ambitions: Dream Team Ukraine enters IRC - News - IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge - Eurosport (http://www.ircseries.com/news/detail/id/50)

Robert Barrable is aiming to do up to 6 IRC events in his Fabia, depending on how Ireland goes.

[Bartek]

Standings - IRC Intercontinental Rally Challenge - Eurosport (http://www.ircseries.com/standings?idCategory=1)

Kresta, Tidemand? What is it? Only provisional or what? :) Other drivers are correct....

By the way, new IRC website is very nice

[Mirek]

I think that it doesn't have any meaning. Probably just testing purposes.

[mousti]

IRC Twitter clarified they will do some events. Although I can't believe it 100 %

[Mirek]

I'm sure Roman Kresta has no plans for IRC. Of course he will do Barum rally but not because it is IRC. I think that for some others it must be same - at best.

[mousti]

Yep, Monzon probably Canarias. Tidemand?? Campos?? Azores is this weekend, Sohier (WRCke) said he want to do Ypres again. But wanting and doing it is a big difference in it.

[Tom206wrc]

...
Robert Barrable is aiming to do up to 6 IRC events in his Fabia, depending on how Ireland goes.

On entrylist in irish rally this week-end in C2 R2 Max :confused:

[Hartusvuori]

I haven't heard anything from Tidemand's plans, but his "teammate" at Even Rally, Esapekka Lappi, has revealed in an interview that they are eyeing one IRC start this year. Perhaps there's similar plans for Tidemand too. There are also many names on the list that seem just out of place, as pointed out already.

[mousti]

On entrylist in irish rally this week-end in C2 R2 Max :confused:
can u post a link from that list? :)

[liposh]

And now it is Pluto´s turn... So how many IRC events for Tidemand this year? :)

[Francis44]

Campos was trying some projects last year, perhaps he is trying to secure something together for this year but I highly doubt it.

[Mirek]

And now it is Pluto´s turn... So how many IRC events for Tidemand this year? :)

We have here on forum a member of Pontus's team. If they want to tell us, they will do it.

[PLuto]

And now it is Pluto´s turn... So how many IRC events for Tidemand this year? :)

Not so many as I would like to see ;)

[Tom206wrc]

Mathieu Arzéno in IRC with Saintéloc team ??? :confused:

[Tom206wrc]

can u post a link from that list? :)

You can get it on rally.ie - Stories (http://www.rally.ie/) ;)

[RS]

Any news on Hankook? I am wondering about the Basso/Fiesta rumours for Canarias... I think Giandomenico with a Fiesta could overcome the tyre performance deficit on asphalt at least.

[mousti]

You can get it on rally.ie - Stories (http://www.rally.ie/) ;)
I see two Barrable's one with a R2 but Robert is there with the S2000 or did I miss something??

[Tom206wrc]

Oops sorry...indeed I didn't watch the right Barrable :s

[RS]

Craig Breen to announce an IRC programme soon?: https://twitter.com/#!/craig_breen

[pucky54]

Craig Breen to announce an IRC programme soon?: https://twitter.com/#!/craig_breen

Yes, he is doing CIR, Corsica and Ypres for sure!

[Pinto]

I see two Barrable's one with a R2 but Robert is there with the S2000 or did I miss something??

they are Brothers Rob and Peter nothing strange there,

Rob got a finish on his run out off the year in Birr 4th O/A the super fast stages ment he couldnt live with the three world cars infont

[Pinto]

Yes, he is doing CIR, Corsica and Ypres for sure!


I herd a wee whisper of a link up with the Saintéloc team for some events,but that he will be doing the Circuit in a two car Ford team with Ali Fisher

[mousti]

they are Brothers Rob and Peter nothing strange there,

Rob got a finish on his run out off the year in Birr 4th O/A the super fast stages ment he couldnt live with the three world cars infont
It was more on what Tom said. Robert, Craig and Fisher are indeed trying to do some IRC events all in a S2000.

[RS]

Little bit OT but Toni Gardemeister drove the Skoda UK Fabia S2000 on last week's Top Gear (was filmed last year): BBC iPlayer - Top Gear: Series 18: Episode 5 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01cytpx/Top_Gear_Series_18_Episode_5/)

[PLuto]

I dont know if there was any notice here, but there will be again Renault Cup at IRC, this year only for Megane RS - Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13424)

[PLuto]

Also Florian Gonon is switching to S2000, he will do 3 IRC events - Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13427)

[mousti]

Quite good driver so good news :)

[PLuto]

Itinerary and maps of Tour de Corse - Autosport (http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=13435)

[alleskids]

Little bit OT but Toni Gardemeister drove the Skoda UK Fabia S2000 on last week's Top Gear (was filmed last year): BBC iPlayer - Top Gear: Series 18: Episode 5 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01cytpx/Top_Gear_Series_18_Episode_5/)


Toni Gardemeister will do the Italian Baja cross country rally (15-18 march) in a Mitsubishi Pajero

Freddy Loix will do the French rally championship with a Peugoet 207 S2000 and some rallies with a 307 WRC. His only IRC outing will be Ypres

[RS]

Toni Gardemeister will do the Italian Baja cross country rally (15-18 march) in a Mitsubishi Pajero

Freddy Loix will do the French rally championship with a Peugoet 207 S2000 and some rallies with a 307 WRC. His only IRC outing will be Ypres

Weird about Freddy when the only rumours linked him to Ford and Skoda. French Championship? A bit random! Why not Belgian?

Hope Toni is only guesting in that Mitsu and we will see him again on IRC this year with his Fabia.

[mousti]

Different stuff happened, and also the crisis in Belgium. I'm happy he'll still driving a nice program.

[RS]

Different stuff happened, and also the crisis in Belgium. I'm happy he'll still driving a nice program.

True. Is he still supported by BFO?

[MartijnS]

Yes.

[RS]

So they are trying to expand their business in France?

[Plan9]

Toni Gardemeister will do the Italian Baja cross country rally (15-18 march) in a Mitsubishi Pajero

Freddy Loix will do the French rally championship with a Peugoet 207 S2000 and some rallies with a 307 WRC. His only IRC outing will be Ypres

Good to see two veterans continue in the sport in difficult economic times. Has finance been the reason that these two have not had better programs for this season?

[Luis Pacheco]

According to the tv show "Maquinas" from RTP-Acores, Ricardo Moura may be present in some IRC events after the Azores Rallye.

[tolis]

Craig Breen will do at least 4 IRC rallies with Sainteloc Racing and the support of Peugeot Sport in a Peugeot 207 S2000!

[mousti]

Ireland, Ypres, Tour de Corse and Mecsek.

Hopefully Sainteloc can get a 2012 evo then, would be nice. A bit surprised Peugeot Sport is going to support him.

[RS]

Will be great to see another well driven Peugeot in IRC this year.

[Sulland]

Yes, Skoda need the competition as well, too bad Proton and Ford does not give IRC priority !

[EightGear]

A Fiesta would have been nice for the sake of some diversity, but still good to have him in the series as well.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The Sainteloc IRC Junior Team will include Craig and his team mate Mathieu Arzeno both driving full spec Peugeot 207, EVO 12.

Brilliant news... go smash them Skoda's Craig !! :)

[N.O.T]

Yes, Skoda need the competition as well, too bad Proton and Ford does not give IRC priority !

people usually give priority to A class drivers and competitions... and as far as i know skoda are a VW brand and VW also doesn't give priority to IRC nowadays...

IRC is a good support series.

[RS]

people usually give priority to A class drivers and competitions... and as far as i know skoda are a VW brand and VW also doesn't give priority to IRC nowadays...

IRC is a good support series.

It's the only serious support series and the premier series for S2000 cars.

VW have never been in IRC oficially.

[Sulland]

Impressive bull**** stamina on you NOT!

I will give you that ;)

[Tom206wrc]

The Sainteloc IRC Junior Team will include Craig and his team mate Mathieu Arzeno both driving full spec Peugeot 207, EVO 12.

Brilliant news... go smash them Skoda's Craig !! :)



WOW !!! Great !!!! :eek:

[alleskids]

Florian Gonon is also planning a go in a Saintéloc Peugeot


The Swiss will contest the GEKO Ypres Rally, Barum Czech Rally Zlín and Rallye Sanremo in a Peugeot 207 Super 2000 that he will share with co-driver Sandra Arlettaz. Gonon’s latest-specification Peugeot will be run under the Annie Spiers Rallye Team banner in conjunction with the French preparation specialist. It will mark the end of Gonon’s four-year stint driving Subaru Imprezas.

[Mirek]

Florian Gonon ;) Yes, he will do also Barum so I guess the other guys will be there as well.