Rally Sweden 2013

[Rallyper]

C'mon, dont dream out load..... Over the years I've had a bunch of drivers succeding in their home rally and they end up amounting to nothing. Im not saying Pontus cant be a future choice but works car in 2014?! Please be real.

Nice to hear your comment, which I relate to loads of comments on european drivers which are way off the capacity Tidemand shows and many of you guys still overestimate very much. Best not given any names but that is a fact. Tidemand shows pace no driver had shown in one of their first appearances in WRC, you can´t blund for that, can you??? Remember his lack of experience,

[stefanvv]

:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqFRhcHZUN4

[stefanvv]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAeSc4YBudk

[Rallyper]

Loeb - the whole point of him coming and competing in Sweden is because he has only ever won this event once. Not only did he fail to win, but he was beaten by the one man who he wants to fail, Ogier! This must have been a humiliation for Loeb, I bet he wishes he had stayed at home for this one, or behind the wheel of his MP4-12C.

It´s a say that you should leave the sport on top. Loeb should have left last year, never try to achive single goals in couple of event this year. That was, as said, stupid. Now he can only risk to be beaten over and over and leave him without the feeling of unbeateness...

[stefanvv]

Where the seconds go:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI99wnwrB84

[BleAivano]

C'mon, dont dream out load..... Over the years I've had a bunch of drivers succeding in their home rally and
they end up amounting to nothing. Im not saying Pontus cant be a future choice but works car in 2014?! Please be real.

I agree that 2014 is not realistic and Pontus himself have said that he aims for 2015 for a works team position.

Rally Sweden was a good start for him and hopefully he will get a chance to do a few gravel rallies abroad as well.

[MikeD]

What if Abu Dhabi pay for the rally side of things?

That's the only possible solution, is the same way that Qatar M-Sport isn't a factory Ford team and with no factory involvement.

Then it will be something like "Abu Dhabi PH-Sport WRT", but I will see it before I believe it. Like many other populist cases under the idiot Francois Hollande at the moment, then common sense isn't likely to prevail, and the PSA case is very political.

[Nornbugger]

Very impressed by Ogiers win. Also my Uncle competed in Beetles in the 60s and I guess it was this that started my interest in the sport, as a VW fan for longer than I can remember I'm delighted for them, but as a rally fan the style of the win feels ominous.



It´s a say that you should leave the sport on top. Loeb should have left last year, never try to achive single goals in couple of event this year. That was, as said, stupid. Now he can only risk to be beaten over and over and leave him without the feeling of unbeateness...


Loeb isnt stupid, I'm sure he knew Sweden wouldnt be a cruise and collect event for him, thats why he wanted to do it to try to win it again, to challenge himself, and to be fair he did a very good job, just happens that this year someone else did better.


Tidemand was very impressive, cant wait to see how Evans does when he gets his chance in bigger cars, 2 guys for the future I think

[Rallying UK]

TIDEMAND: Listen to audio of Malcolm Wilson being interviewed by SVT Sport on Saturday (9th February) during Rally Sweden.
The M-Sport boss was reflecting on Pontus Tidemand's explosive start to the rally just after he was forced out by engine failure:
Audioboo / Malcolm Wilson on Pontus Tidemand (http://audioboo.fm/boos/1203970-malcolm-wilson-on-pontus-tidemand)

[peg306]

Our highlights from this years edition of Rally Sweden (watch in HD)


http://youtu.be/IjYWDhD9pbU

http://imageshack.us/a/img267/8735/dsc7256n.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img849/9615/dsc7424ft.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img15/3807/dsc7434j.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img59/8651/dsc7629gb.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img94/118/dsc7807t.jpg

[A FONDO]

I know the driver/donkey awards are usually only in the F1 section, but I believe there are some notable drivers and donkeys in Sweden!
First of all, drivers.
Ogier-fantastic, faultless performance, surprised us all. And this is one of the reasons why I love rally Sweden, the best man always wins.
Tidemand - another fantastic performance, certainly one that I didn't expect.

Middle, not quite drivers, not quite donkeys - JML, and Mads. I don't know what to think of those two after this event. This is probably Ostbergs best surface, and after seeing him slay all the giants from absolutely nowhere like 2 years ago, I expect better. The same can be said about JML.

Donkeys - Wilson. I am not one to bash Wilson, ever. But he is supposed to be Mr consistent, and I was hoping for another top ten finish for him.
Mikko - what was going on? After his roll, I was expecting a crazy drive and him to blow the doors off everyone on the stages like what happened in NORF a couple of years ago after he crashed into that tree.
Loeb - the whole point of him coming and competing in Sweden is because he has only ever won this event once. Not only did he fail to win, but he was beaten by the one man who he wants to fail, Ogier! This must have been a humiliation for Loeb, I bet he wishes he had stayed at home for this one, or behind the wheel of his MP4-12C.

Not a bad idea to bring it in here I think.

My drivers are: Ogier - perfect at every aspect; Tidemand - what a stunning debut! It even seemed to me that he deliberately eased off a bit in the second loop, but this is the bad side of the motor sport.
Notable mention to Neuville for finding a stable drive through the whole rally, resulting in 10 points.
Bad impression from: Latvala - I know he is under tremendous pressure for his crashes and not fully understanding the new car, but it's still poor to be slower on snow than Loeb and Ostberg with his penalty; Novikov - third consecutive crash, there was absolutely no pressure on him.
Donkeys: Hirvonen - known as regular favorite for the win in this rally, he failed to either set some good pace or reach the finish scarless; SlowSon, Sordo - all they had to do was use their experience to get to the finish with a handful of manu points - totally wasted the drive they were given.
And my utter donkey award goes to Motorsport Italia

[COD]

:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqFRhcHZUN4

Wife not, girlfriend sometimes. I like that :)

[PLuto]

#Ucci// I think you should give more credit to Mads Ostberg. Hasn´t he proved more than just being good at snow conditions?? You must have short memory. The arab winner, well, we can praise him, but please don´t overestimate his performance. But it´s very nice having these drivers in sweden, for sure.

But now to more impressions:

You guys has already forgot what Tidemand did in first leg? Remeber it was amongst his first couple of races in WRC car. Remember how he beat more experienced drivers from Finland, Belgium and Russia... So what about his work in Sweden? Wouldn´t it be great seeing him in a works car, let´s say in 2014???

Pontus has big potential, for sure he is very tallented driver, I am watching him for a long time. But dont forget that he was starting on "his" snow, where he is very good. He needs to gain more experience also out of Sweden. Go directly into WRC with WRC shouldnt be the best thing. If you want to win, you must go step by step...

[stefanvv]

No one has mentioned Prokop. After 2 Rallies he has the same points as the title favorite Hirvonen. That is good result for him with tyres with questionable quality.

[Rallyper]

TIDEMAND: Listen to audio of Malcolm Wilson being interviewed by SVT Sport on Saturday (9th February) during Rally Sweden.
The M-Sport boss was reflecting on Pontus Tidemand's explosive start to the rally just after he was forced out by engine failure:
Audioboo / Malcolm Wilson on Pontus Tidemand (http://audioboo.fm/boos/1203970-malcolm-wilson-on-pontus-tidemand)
"One of the best debuts in a WRC-car ever... and "excellent approach..."

That´s my thoghts too. MW has another guy to watch carefully!!

And as an answer to you guys thinking he´s only good at snow. He´s been driving Subaru-cup in Norway for I think two seasons before and has good experience, more than you might think. Not much though from WRC-car...

[dimviii]

Loebs mistake at snowbank,Novikovs incar roll,Sordos crash and Ogier incar at finish of last stage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mlyuhVJhTY0#!

[Koceens]

Just came back from rally and have to say this was my best rally Sweden from the last 3 years I had been there.

We managed to do 6 stages, but that was enough as the places I chose this year was really exciting. Took some great videos so maybe tomorrow will try to stick all together.

My impressions:
1. Latvala looked very agessive and fast and I was really surprised seeing that the result is not there. I could say the same about Hanninen.
2. Ogier - super fast everywhere and you could clearly see that he is the leader of the rally.
3. Loeb - much more aggressive than I used to see him, but still not so spectacular as some other drivers.
4. Hirvonen - quite disappointing even to watch, not only results.

[darkstar]

imagine loeb wouldnt have done these two wrc events, citroen would be absolutely nowhere(yes, its still early in the season)! ok, that sordo wont shine in sweden was clear. monte is very special too, didnt expect to much from hirvonen there also and he did good, same for sordo. but hirvonen not delivering anything in sweden, thats dissapointing. i bet they bag loeb to stay...i really hope hirvonen can do better this season, same for latvala(i hope it´s just the experience from testing the polo all year that makes ogier so much faster then him)...if they don´t, it will be a pretty boring season and it will be with ogier like it was with leob.

congrats to ogier and vw, what a stunning perfomance!

[Rallyper]

Anyway. What about the rally itself? Was it good? Does RS deserve a place in WRC?

My answer is for sure it does. But what do you think after this year? Comments please!

[BleAivano]

Pontus has big potential, for sure he is very tallented driver, I am watching him for a long time. But dont forget that he was starting on "his" snow, where he is very good. He needs to gain more experience also out of Sweden. Go directly into WRC with WRC shouldnt be the best thing. If you want to win, you must go step by step...

Pontus will primarily do the WRC academy for this season and I think for next season as well.
But obviously his good drive in Sweden means that he's got the eyes on him.

Eventually though as you all know, just being a fast driver is rarely enough I'm pretty sure that it in
the end his likeliness of getting a factory seat for 2015 comes down to if he can get the funds that is necessary.




Anyway. What about the rally itself? Was it good? Does RS deserve a place in WRC?

My answer is for sure it does. But what do you think after this year? Comments please!

It sure does when the conditions are like the were this year but we will see what the future brings in terms of snow and ice.

[BleAivano]

Anyway. What about the rally itself? Was it good? Does RS deserve a place in WRC?

My answer is for sure it does. But what do you think after this year? Comments please!

It sure does when the conditions are like the were this year but we will see what the future brings in terms of snow and ice.

[oyunbozan]

it was 2006 since last time 3 manufacturers on the podium at rally sweeden. it is a good sign for the future
ogier ruled the rally. the rest failed. i expected more from mads only.

[stefanvv]

Anyway. What about the rally itself? Was it good? Does RS deserve a place in WRC?

My answer is for sure it does. But what do you think after this year? Comments please!

The Rally - great, I had so much fun with it and the live streaming. It sure has it's place in WRC, for one simple fact - it is unique with the fast and flowing snow + ice roads. Beautiful landscapes and forests. What can we ask for more?

[bluuford]

If I remember correctly then Ford is coming out with new evolution of Fiesta WRC in spring?
And keep in mind the fact that until now VW was able to test and develop the car day by day.. every day. Now they must use more than half of their time on competing, preparing and repairing cars. I expect the others to copy as many new solutions by the next homologation and more equal compeition on gravel.

[Kielder]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/734666_10200756090205034_1364915905_n.jpg
http://motorsport.nextgen-auto.com/gallery/pictures/2013/wrc/wrc-sweden/310.jpg
http://sphotos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/539633_409721249120774_730822680_n.jpg
http://sphotos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/563158_409721012454131_1478454068_n.jpg
http://cdn-0.motorsport.com/static/img/mgl/1500000/1510000/1511000/1511500/1511580/s1_1.jpg

[danon]

The moment Loeb steps off the saddest Ogie will be.
The easier part is over - the hard one is yet to come.

The Hunter Becomes the Hunted -
http://et.tv/UkadrC

"Lose the rally win the champ"

[dj_masch_hr]

Besides Scandinavian drivers, only two Frenchmen ever have won the Sweden rally in history :)
Too bad Loeb plans to start next WRC rally in may :(

[SubaruNorway]

Video from day 3 of the Swedish Rally. A highlights video will be posted later in the week. Hope you have enjoyed my daily videos :) Could sleep for a week now but it's been the best WRC rally I've been too!
https://vimeo.com/59366693

[danon]

Team orders & pickems 2013 sounds like a new thread

Jari-Matti Latvala (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=FCGz8Nkncc0#t=63s) ... hopes to be back in 2014 :?: :!:

[danon]

That's for Dim: Loeb when looking at Ogier! :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BCvsdAfCYAA4s5t.jpg:large

:rolleyes: ... :s tare:

http://photos.motoiq.com/MotoIQ/Features/Rally-France/i-br88fjF/0/L/Ogiers_twFr1111_329-L.jpg

[BruceC]

Hirvonen's poor performance could partly be explained by the strange situation he finds himself in. Nominally Citroen's main title hope, he has Loeb popping back for the odd play through the season to remind him who's boss. Pretty demotivating and confusing. I hope he's strong enough to learn to drive like he is the boss, and ignore the distraction of Loeb like Ogier did so well in Monte Carlo.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Has anybody got any pictures of the one-off entries for this event? I've seen plenty of Ketomaa, Tidemand and Solberg, but none of Nikara, Tamrazov, or Gustafsson.

[tobbe3]

Video from Rally sweden 2013!

Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://youtu.be/vFRF5QWm2SQ)

[RobertS]

same for latvala(i hope it´s just the experience from testing the polo all year that makes ogier so much faster then him)...
Latvala is very slow learner. Check his tarmac progress(?)! The acceptable speed appeared in his 8th full-season in WRC...

[Camelopard]

That was a great rally, up amongst the best I've been to.

As for Monte Carlo, I will not bother going there again.........

[MikeD]

Has anybody got any pictures of the one-off entries for this event? I've seen plenty of Ketomaa, Tidemand and Solberg, but none of Nikara, Tamrazov, or Gustafsson.

I have Nikara in this link - 3 row
WRC Sweden 2013 | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.502513336457687.108345.279998242042532&type=3#!/media/set/?set=a.502513336457687.108345.279998242042532&type=3)

and again Nikara in this link - 5 row
https://www.facebook.com/SOLORALLY/photos_stream#!/SOLORALLY/photos_stream

[Aquagen]

Photos of Tamrazov car (and Kikireshko also) you can find on the official AT Rally facebook gallery:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.325733077546986.76965.306307039489590&type=1

[Doon]

Finally a real challenger to Loeb's domination......so Loeb is running away! Boring!! I cant see anyone beating Ogier anywhere this season from now on, bar France! Was a great weekend in Sweden though, apart from the drunk Swede on the rally bus who threatened to kill me. Didnt find the locals to be very friendly or helpful in general.

[Wim_Impreza]

#Ucci// I think you should give more credit to Mads Ostberg. Hasn´t he proved more than just being good at snow conditions?? You must have short memory. The arab winner, well, we can praise him, but please don´t overestimate his performance. But it´s very nice having these drivers in sweden, for sure.

But now to more impressions:

You guys has already forgot what Tidemand did in first leg? Remeber it was amongst his first couple of races in WRC car. Remember how he beat more experienced drivers from Finland, Belgium and Russia... So what about his work in Sweden? Wouldn´t it be great seeing him in a works car, let´s say in 2014???

It was one the first rallies on snow for Neuville. I am sure Tidemand has done a lot more snow rallies and so he has a lot more experience on snow and it was his home event. It was expected that he was faster than Neuville on this event. Tidemand has to show also some results outside Sweden this year. How can you already talk about a works car when he has (almost) no experience outside Sweden and Norway?

[Rallyper]

It was one the first rallies on snow for Neuville. I am sure Tidemand has done a lot more snow rallies and so he has a lot more experience on snow and it was his home event. It was expected that he was faster than Neuville on this event. Tidemand has to show also some results outside Sweden this year. How can you already talk about a works car when he has (almost) no experience outside Sweden and Norway?

It´s easy to explain. Me amongst many others has seen the next super star in rallying. It was long time since we saw this fast and so mayure young driver in Sweden. Comparing him to Neuville... Well Neuville might not have experience in snowconditions but for sure ways of more experience driving a WRC-car.

But let´s not argue who´s best, just make the conclusion Tidemand is a coming man. At least we swedes knows that already. :s mokin:

[dupanton]

It´s easy to explain. Me amongst many others has seen the next super star in rallying. It was long time since we saw this fast and so mayure young driver in Sweden. Comparing him to Neuville... Well Neuville might not have experience in snowconditions but for sure ways of more experience driving a WRC-car.

But let´s not argue who´s best, just make the conclusion Tidemand is a coming man. At least we swedes knows that already. :s mokin:

You know what the result of Ogier was in his 2nd snow rally (first one was norway) in his 2nd year in WRC? 5th :)
This is already his 4th year in a WRC, so you can't compare it. I don't say Neuville will ever win Sweden, but your comparison isn't really correct :)

[Mintexmemory]

Very interesting rally, loved the live streams and RS deserves a permanent place in the calender.
I note with some satisfaction that the 'Ogier is arrogant / unsporting / no good' crowd are being very quiet now. The dominance shown here by VW leads me to believe that when Mikkelsen is competing they will score a number of 1-2-3s and that Seb O may be a serious challenge to Loeb on Tarmac this year. I think the JML - bashing is premature but it may take him another 3 events to really feel at home in the Polo, by which time the Championship will be a no-contest!

[Kielder]

http://sphotos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/426129_537160512981248_926107220_n.jpg
http://sphotos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307456_537154796315153_1923337006_n.jpg
http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/179726_537154826315150_262305446_n.jpg

http://www.facebook.com/fia/photos_stream

http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/529847_537160466314586_2090877615_n.jpg
http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/600598_502061693184305_1904574145_n.jpg

http://www.facebook.com/volkswagenmotorsport/photos_stream (http://www.facebook.com/volkswagenmotorsport/photos_stream)

[rallyfanbelgium]

Al-Qassami's crash - WRC Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whoqR6fYvco)


http://www.facebook.com/bestrallyvideos

[Kielder]

A-Rahji's full onboard SS14 Frediksberg 2 (scratch WRC2 with a time of 10:57.3):


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9GqZyrGGOuI

[AMSS]

No one has mentioned Prokop. After 2 Rallies he has the same points as the title favorite Hirvonen. That is good result for him with tyres with questionable quality.

Look at Brynildsens times in the RRC fiesta on DMacks before saying their bad, clearly fastest in the WRC-2 (except the spin)and even faster than Ketomaa(who was slower than Prokop on Saturday..) on the splits before engine blew, also he was praising the tires in the intervierws( but I guess he can`t say much bad as they`re paying it)
Anyhow biggest disapointments ALL the finns and biggest positives Ogier and Tidemand.
Slightly negative is the upcoming dominance of Ogier who looks like making a very boring championship year. but that`s the others fault not his!

[Barreis]

Maybe Citroen would be satisfied with only manufacturers crown this season (if this is possible). :D

[stefanvv]

Look at Brynildsens times in the RRC fiesta on DMacks before saying their bad, clearly fastest in the WRC-2 (except the spin)and even faster than Ketomaa(who was slower than Prokop on Saturday..) on the splits before engine blew, also he was praising the tires in the intervierws( but I guess he can`t say much bad as they`re paying it)

I missed that progress I must admit. But best times aginst who? Non-scandivanian drivers (also is Prokop)? I guess that is completely normal. I'm not promoting Michelin anyway, but I believe their tyres are developed for many more years, test & close work with top teams I guess. But if D-Mack has made some progress, I have no problem with that. In fact I'm glad for any competition ;)

[Astro83]

Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcQ3dFcF4NU)

Here you have my little movie from this beautiful rally! Enjoy!

[AMSS]

I missed that progress I must admit. But best times aginst who? Non-scandivanian drivers (also is Prokop)? I guess that is completely normal. I'm not promoting Michelin anyway, but I believe their tyres are developed for many more years, test & close work with top teams I guess. But if D-Mack has made some progress, I have no problem with that. In fact I'm glad for any competition ;)

No problem :D , I`m not saying they`re as good as Michelins which they`re probably not! But it just appears that with the right driver it seems the difference is alot smaller than generally believed( like Novikov in Spain)
I just find it funny that Ketomaa in a WRC wasn`t any faster than Brynildsen in a RRC and also Ketomaa was slower than Prokop..
Ketomaa on Michelins last year or the year before in portugal? or where ever it was wasn`t any faster than he`s been on DMacks either?!

Anyhow rumours say both Hankook and Kumho are interested in the WRC so lots of tire suppliers could be there, but the WRC factories will most likely be on Michelins for as long as they stay in the Championship so it really won`t matter...

[Mirek]

Prokop said he felt really good with the tyres during first two days and enjoyed the rally a lot more than last year. He said it was somewhat worse in last day due to the ice on which he said the DMacks were not working so good. He also said that DMack was working hard on development. He said he would be testing new DMack development tyres modified according to driver's feedback from Sweden in just three weeks.

[HarriK]

Qassimi little off:
Rally Sweden 2013 Smaller off/Mindre avåkning - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVMdsaj-E44)

and bigger one:
Al-Qassami's crash - WRC Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whoqR6fYvco)
UR Quattro:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4mzTONfLHY

[stefanvv]

No problem :D , I`m not saying they`re as good as Michelins which they`re probably not! But it just appears that with the right driver it seems the difference is alot smaller than generally believed( like Novikov in Spain)
I just find it funny that Ketomaa in a WRC wasn`t any faster than Brynildsen in a RRC and also Ketomaa was slower than Prokop..
Ketomaa on Michelins last year or the year before in portugal? or where ever it was wasn`t any faster than he`s been on DMacks either?!

Anyhow rumours say both Hankook and Kumho are interested in the WRC so lots of tire suppliers could be there, but the WRC factories will most likely be on Michelins for as long as they stay in the Championship so it really won`t matter...

Great, no problems then :D I don't know what to say about Ketomaa, his driving is dissapointment really. Novikov was fast in Spain yes, but looks like the tyres were not that relieble as the rubber quickly had gone out and he took away penalty for that :D Perhaps he had been used to Michelins too much

[Back-N-Black]

Best vehicle for drivers liking to jump in snow banks:
http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/fileadmin/user_upload/Fans_Friends/1%20WRC/Rallye/Schweden/Berichterstattung/2013/20130209/Galerie_des_Tages/886x498px_vw-20130209-0901-max-VW-WRC13-02-MC-054.jpg

Leave it to those Germans to be ready for every eventuality. VW figured they would need this for JML seeing as how he had been off the road, as much as on, when at Ford. Didn't have to use it here in Sweden though. May have been a waste of money, we'll see, prolly switch to some monster turck tires for Mexico.

[Fly_Half]

Arrived home in the early hours of this morning and now partially recovered from an epic few days. Easily the best event I've ever been to - marginally beating Sardinia last year. The pace really is mind blowing and if you have a chance to go I'd highly recommend it! Just make sure you take plenty of thermals as the coldest we saw was -16 on Saturday morning.

The highlight of the event for me was the Fredriksberg stage on Saturday. The section of stage is a 2km straight with 5 jumps, the last being the biggest which the top crews take at around 180kph. Last year the biggest jump was 48m...

Here's a selection of my favourite shots from the weekend:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8464518277_0c872221de_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8465633810_4df7ee6e6a_c.jpg




http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8464524059_5af1631017_c.jpg


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8465634882_ebb32620da_c.jpg


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8464519847_74ef02b4b2_c.jpg

I would like to thank all the Forum members for the help they gave me in identifying some of the locations (particularly SubaruNorway and Kielder amongst others), it certainly made our weekend much easier. Also great to meet J4MIE, Brother John and Pino.

Rhod

[dimviii]

Arrived home in the early hours of this morning and now partially recovered from an epic few days. Easily the best event I've ever been to - marginally beating Sardinia last year. The pace really is mind blowing and if you have a chance to go I'd highly recommend it! Just make sure you take plenty of thermals as the coldest we saw was -16 on Saturday morning.
dont be lazy,tell us moar!!!!

[stefanvv]

Leave it to those Germans to be ready for every eventuality. VW figured they would need this for JML seeing as how he had been off the road, as much as on, when at Ford. Didn't have to use it here in Sweden though. May have been a waste of money, we'll see, prolly switch to some monster turck tires for Mexico.

Wunderbar!

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

-16c is nice picnic temperature, but couple of years ago in Tunturi Ralli there was -40c and that was cold :D

[Humber]

Very interesting rally, loved the live streams and RS deserves a permanent place in the calender.
I note with some satisfaction that the 'Ogier is arrogant / unsporting / no good' crowd are being very quiet now. The dominance shown here by VW leads me to believe that when Mikkelsen is competing they will score a number of 1-2-3s and that Seb O may be a serious challenge to Loeb on Tarmac this year. I think the JML - bashing is premature but it may take him another 3 events to really feel at home in the Polo, by which time the Championship will be a no-contest!

M-Sport have a new Fiesta coming, who knows what little tweaks that might have.
Agree - that drivers championship appears Ogier's to lose rather others to win.

[SubaruNorway]

Just make sure you take plenty of thermals as the coldest we saw was -16 on Saturday morning.

Start of Sågen? Very windy! I managed to leave my outside pants at home that morning, luckily the rest of the guys came after so i got it after the first run :)

[Fly_Half]

Start of Sågen? Very windy! I managed to leave my outside pants at home that morning, luckily the rest of the guys came after so i got it after the first run :)

Very early on the way to Fredriksberg. Great videos as usual Tor, and thanks again for all your help.

[Rasantes]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7yg8INgjz4

[Franky]

Just make sure you take plenty of thermals as the coldest we saw was -16 on Saturday morning.


You didn't pick up the tricks of the locals? As someone called it during the rally in this thread, internal heating or sth like that.

[Fly_Half]

You didn't pick up the tricks of the locals? As someone called it during the rally in this thread, internal heating or sth like that.

I was there to take pictures, being blind drunk like the locals wouldn't have helped ;)

[Kielder]

http://motorsport.motorionline.com/wp-content/gallery/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/wrc_rally_di_svezia_2013_214.jpg
http://motorsport.motorionline.com/wp-content/gallery/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/wrc_rally_di_svezia_2013_29.jpg
http://motorsport.motorionline.com/wp-content/gallery/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/wrc_rally_di_svezia_2013_101.jpg
http://motorsport.motorionline.com/wp-content/gallery/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/wrc_rally_di_svezia_2013_100.jpg
http://motorsport.motorionline.com/wp-content/gallery/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/wrc_rally_di_svezia_2013_104.jpg

If you want to watch photos of other drivers, here is the full gallery: WRC Rally Sweden (1280x853) (http://motorsport.motorionline.com/foto/wrc-rally-sweden-karlstad-07-10-02-2013/)

[Kielder]

A little present: five photos of the winner (resolution of 4256 x 2832):

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Polo-R-WRC-at-the-Rally-Sweden-2013-18.jpg
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Polo-R-WRC-at-the-Rally-Sweden-2013-20.jpg
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Polo-R-WRC-at-the-Rally-Sweden-2013-7.jpg
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Polo-R-WRC-at-the-Rally-Sweden-2013-12.jpg
http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Polo-R-WRC-at-the-Rally-Sweden-2013-13.jpg

[Kielder]

One more...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/559998_10151321547945678_562533989_n.jpg

[stefanvv]

Serious competition ahead:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYwGwEyQQk0

[Brother John]

Arrived home in the early hours of this morning and now partially recovered from an epic few days. Easily the best event I've ever been to - marginally beating Sardinia last year. The pace really is mind blowing and if you have a chance to go I'd highly recommend it! Just make sure you take plenty of thermals as the coldest we saw was -16 on Saturday morning.

The highlight of the event for me was the Fredriksberg stage on Saturday. The section of stage is a 2km straight with 5 jumps, the last being the biggest which the top crews take at around 180kph. Last year the biggest jump was 48m...

I would like to thank all the Forum members for the help they gave me in identifying some of the locations (particularly SubaruNorway and Kielder amongst others), it certainly made our weekend much easier. Also great to meet J4MIE, Brother John and Pino.
Rhod

http://www.motorsportforums.com/images/icons/icon14.png Yes it was nice to meet some forum friends. Also, everyone here thanks for the beautiful pictures and videos. We had a great time on the Swedish WRC RALLY 2013.http://www.motorsportforums.com/images/icons/icon6.gif

[tommeke_B]

Serious competition ahead:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYwGwEyQQk0
Nice to see my friend's video already linked on here. We had a great event, seen 11 stages, all were great places. Perhaps the most spectacular event I've ever seen... Also the organisation of the event was great, everyone was very friendly etc. :) My photos are to be online this afternoon/evening.

[pino]

Great video tommeke :up: btw you can see us (Brother John, Jamie4 and myself) at 5:26 and 8:08 on the left side, and yes we had a great time as usually :D

[satukata]

Video from Rally sweden 2013!

Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://youtu.be/vFRF5QWm2SQ)

Great videa TOBBE3. where are the places 4.50 and 8.50? looking god places for next years rally...

[Rallyper]

Serious competition ahead:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYwGwEyQQk0

Can anyone tell where places at 6,17, 6,21, 7,12 and 8,12 are? Stagenumber and if possible also spot?

I can see there has come up some massive forest cutting on many places at the stages. That changes the drama very much from year to year. Seems you´ll have to make recce every year...

[dimviii]

flat out!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Q1ReIACLzkw#!

[katxal]

Some of my pics from Rally Sweden 2013 (website under construction) you can see all of them here --> Rally de Suecia 2013 (Sweden Rally) - a set on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/andres_cachalvite/sets/72157632742756591/)

http://i45.tinypic.com/wi3f5u.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/344wqk8.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/4jonc.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/14ebceg.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2wghkb7.jpg

[tommeke_B]

Can anyone tell where places at 6,17, 6,21, 7,12 and 8,12 are? Stagenumber and if possible also spot?

I can see there has come up some massive forest cutting on many places at the stages. That changes the drama very much from year to year. Seems you´ll have to make recce every year...
When I'm done putting my pics online I'll tell all of them... The video is made by a friend who was with us. ;)

[A FONDO]

http://i48.tinypic.com/2wghkb7.jpg
Can you or somebody else try his photoshop skills on this pic and make the snow, ummm how to say it - easier to distinguish its relief, but at the same time don't make the trees above darker?

[tommeke_B]

My photos of this amazing rally are online.

A few of them:

http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/050.jpg

http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/034.jpg

http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/081.jpg

http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/120.jpg

http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/073.jpg

Complete album (120 photos) on www.rally-image.be (http://www.rally-image.be)

[Mirek]

These photos nicely show the incredible suspension travel of Polo:

http://www.rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/120.jpg
http://www.autosport.cz/img/fotografie/f3145e02142b26a1c168cbdc0439e8e3.jpg

[dimviii]

Tom excellent photos!! ;)

[tommeke_B]

Thanks Dimvii!

@rallyper:
Places from the video you asked.
6min17: Finish of SS Sagen, only 20m after the corner there was the finish line.
6min21: SS Rämmen, public area 4. Best way to approach it is when you're coming from North, at the junction walk a few hundred meters back on the stage. Good place to combine with Sagen. :)
7min12 and 8min12: SS Torsby, public area 2, best way to approach is from before the public area (green road you see on program book), then it is maybe 100m to walk further on the stage, nice place!

[Hartusvuori]

Returned home late Monday night from my first travel to Rally Sweden and I must say I've never seen so many Volvo Sport Wagons over a weekend than I did now...

Seriously, it was very nice and warm visit to a WRC rally, at many times the atmosphere was hjärtliga. Wintry conditions definitely gives its own twist to the spectator behaviour as at times it seemed more about a camping trip than your normal let's-go-see-rally thing. Like in Vargåsen on Friday the Norwegian party who had put up their tent on the stage the weekend before, stayed there overnight and planned to stay the next night too (being too drunk to drive). But they had everything from chainsaw to cut wood for fire to a portable outhouse with picture of a king on the wall. On same stage we ended up as a party of Finns, Belgian, German and Greek trying to start a fire of wet wood in Swedish forest without any proper gear, but with little help we managed. Historic cars kept passing us as we kept the fire alive, Petter Solberg sideways in his MkII. I didn't feel cold at all. Apart from the actual rallying, this kind of things will stuck my mind for good. My clothes still smell of smoke.

We started our rally trip on Tuesday evening, arrived Stockholm on early Wednesday morning and drove to Uddeholm. On Wednesday we stopped at shakedown recce in the afternoon and also recced the part of Vargåsen we planned. I think it was well known that Mikkelsen did the recce-only, but Elfyn Evans did that too. No sign of Henning there though, how did he do the recce?

On Thursday we did shakedown, practise runs at the jump near the finish and then walked back towards start only to find Nikara's beached car there. Watched QS there at that corner. Then visited service park which at the time was very sleepy. Citroen and VW as some private teams too had their pits covered by plastic walls to keep the heat inside. But hey, no Malcolm's kitchen and also NO plastic wrap to keep the temperatures better for mechanics. Small thing or not, but for sure this kind of stuff seperates M-Sport from the two bigger brothers. After service park we opted to skip ceremonies in Karlstad and do spectator recce for Torsby, Rämmen and Fredriksberg. We skipped the SSS on Friday too. I really don't see why they have to take the rally away from Hagfors area for the evening. They'd had just us good spectator stage in Hagfors Sprint, I think.

Friday was all easy at Vargåsen. Both runs with historics and making friends in between. Second run we did at a cut-out area with nice long view of the cars approaching sideways from the corner, then two corners and an exit just in front of us. That whole part of the stage (some 5-7 kms before Colin's Crest) is full of nice corners. As we left I was surprised the number of drunken spectators, some seriously drunk. OK, we definitely have that in Finland too, but that seemed more there. For drunken Swedes and Norwegians you have to credit for being good-spirited and full of humour, so they don't bother that much.

For Saturday it was Sågen 1, the first tighter left at the start of the stage. That made it possible for a fast exit to Rämmen 1. At Rämmen it was almost a close call as we had to park the car just before the village of Gustav Adolf and that meant a walk of - say - 2,5 kms to our desired place and it was 25 minutes to the first car. Gladly in Sweden they are not too strict about walking on stage before the cars, so it's possible to move at late moment too. The nature of spectator control came most apparent in Fredriksberg 2 at the famous jumps straight. On the spectator guide it's the only place I noticed mark with a note "important to obey marshalls' orders". First car had been 2-3 minutes into the stage when a group of drunken fans partied a bit at the middle of the road, group of marshalls just looking over and one even taking it on video having a laugh. But nothing happened :-) Except the place was definitely the best place I stayed at the rally. Breathtaking. You could see the cars a long from the top of the last jump, the intesity builds in and then as the cars approach the jump, they go pass you very high speed and jump some 35-45 metres easily. That is why I love rallying! Was a long drive back from the stage though, first on rather small and narrow forest roads. By the way, what do you think, is 50 SEK (5,8 euros) too much for a roadside parking? It was fixed price everywhere.

Sunday it was a long drive for the first stage, which for us was Finnskogen 1 from the start. We stayed at one of the parts in the beginning of the stage where you have nice view over a selection of flowing corners. Leaving after Ogier without running we made it to Kirkenaer 1 to see top 6. At Kirkenaer you can see and talk with drivers during the regroup, have a meal, whatever. Very nice, compact place to have rallying day. From the bank you can have nice long views of the cars, for about a minute each. We however left the second early before top guys because otherwise we would've gotten stuck in the car park, and even doing it safe we managed to reach our point in near Torsby finish only 15 minutes before first car. On Sunday we had 280 kilometres on the rally route (and drive back to Stockholm in the evening), so it was a long day. I can say we saw the last jumps of the whole rally at Torsby. The part was basically an over crest, but for especially Juho and Jari-Matti, it was a jump over crest. Nice part to end the rally with.

Competion-wise, it's basically all been said. I haven't inspected the stage times that close yet and in the forest you rarely have a signal in your phone for internet results, but it was clear from the start that Ogier and VW will dominate. Polo ran well on JML too, but for Ogier it was so much smoother. On Friday Ogier still had a bit of aggression in his driving, but on the rest of the rally he simply just controlled the situation. In a way it was shame how the leaderboard got stable so early in the rally, and also differences in top 3 we huge for a rally like Rally Sweden. Also a shame for us from Finnish point of view how basically all our drivers underachieved. First time since 1992 with no Finns on the Swedish podium... Latvala did okey, though he was clearly slower than his team mate. Also, I expected much more from Hänninen. Okey, he's still learning the WRC car, and for his limited experience in the car and limited recent experience on snow, he did well coping with Novikov for example, but still, one fastest time would've been a minimum from him. All I hope now is that he'll get a handful of events to prove his speed again. And Tidemand. Surprisingly mature drive from him on Friday, the two passes I saw were much cleaner than on shakedown/QS. He would've deserved more mileage. Also must mention Neuville for keeping it steady and on the road.

Also interesting to read from here how you praise Yazeed's speed. Behind WRCs, Gröndal was definitely the only driver driving his car to the maximum and therefor being nice to watch. Yazeed and partly Solowow were clearly on top 3 of the rest, but not worth a special mention anyhow. It was shame there was no competition in WRC-2 or no hungry young gun on 2WD, for example.

As a whole it was very nice experience. I met many friends, had some laughs, saw many nice performances and so on. I'm quite sure I'll return, if not next year then later.

Thanks for everyone that helped me with tips, pointing places from videos and all.

And here's my friend's set of pictures from the rally:

rallirinki.kuvat.fi (http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally+Sweden+2013/)

http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally%20Sweden%202013/_MG_5491.JPG?img=smaller

http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally%20Sweden%202013/_MG_6848.JPG?img=smaller

http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally%20Sweden%202013/_MG_5381.JPG?img=smaller

http://rallirinki.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Rally%20Sweden%202013/_MG_6068.JPG?img=smaller

[danon]

One more...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/559998_10151321547945678_562533989_n.jpg
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/5200/26027310.jpg

[WRC1]

my pictures from rally sweden 2013

day1 (ss karlstad)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.424606357628188.99411.406196369469187&type=1

day2 (ss4/ss6/service)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.425076187581205.99476.406196369469187&type=1

day3 (ss9/ss12/ss15)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.425648564190634.99562.406196369469187&type=1

[dimviii]

my pictures from rally sweden 2013

day1 (ss karlstad)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.424606357628188.99411.406196369469187&type=1

day2 (ss4/ss6/service)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.425076187581205.99476.406196369469187&type=1

day3 (ss9/ss12/ss15)
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.425648564190634.99562.406196369469187&type=1

nice photos,like this one,tenths before crash with blocked wheels
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/307406_425649907523833_169525959_n.jpg

[Fly_Half]

Forgot to say in my original post, we were a bit surprised at being asked to pay 50 SEK to park at every stage when we'd already paid 500 SEK for a Rally Pass! Ridiculous if you ask me.

[Fly_Half]

My photos of this amazing rally are online.http://rally-image.be/foto/0338/images/073.jpg


Tom, sure that's the final corner in Mitandersfors? Were you the guy in a Media vest standing behind us?

[dimviii]

plenty moments!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qyCybw8prq0

[darkstar]

haha, great how they rollover novikovs car to get it out of the ditch :D

[stefanvv]

plenty moments!

Now I understand why Novikov's windscreen is cracked :D

[Sprocket]

plenty moments!


When they said on Rally Radio Novikov 'rolled' his car in the stage, I had no idea he was outside of it at the time!

[rallye-vid]

One of the best videos from Sweden :s mokin:

[A FONDO]

If you are not interested in the historics dont close the clip, WRC starts at 1:20


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxY6sUYPGWo

[stefanvv]

When they said on Rally Radio Novikov 'rolled' his car in the stage, I had no idea he was outside of it at the time!

:D He hadn't steer the wheel, he just gave the order :D I can't stop laughing...

[Kielder]

Being 4th or being 1st...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/604161_10151321342843380_1067844564_n.jpg

[MTA]

A wonderful rally as usual.
Our pictures are now up on ...::: Rallyfoto.se :::... (http://www.rallyfoto.se).
Select "Besökta Tävlingar"

[tommeke_B]

Tom, sure that's the final corner in Mitandersfors? Were you the guy in a Media vest standing behind us?
Yes, I assume you were one of the 3 English speaking guys? You were the one who had that crazy photo of Novikov? Unfortunately I just missed that moment... That photo should be linked on the topic here. ;)

[danon]

Loeb uses Jedi mind tricks to Neuville -> Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=qyCybw8prq0#t=287s)

Great vid... :D

[spiderem]

Loeb uses Jedi mind tricks to Neuville -> Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=qyCybw8prq0#t=287s)

Great vid... :D
lol, that is so funny!

[tommeke_B]

WRC Rally Sweden 2013 The Race - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFYiSOix9Uk&sns=fb) - nice video

[GritPics]

Yes, I assume you were one of the 3 English speaking guys? You were the one who had that crazy photo of Novikov? Unfortunately I just missed that moment... That photo should be linked on the topic here. ;)

Hello Tom,

That is correct we were the 3 English speaking guys, I was at the last corner while the other guys were a couple of corners back. I arrived at the bend to see Hanninen go round, he was flying. Then I went over to the inside of the corner and the next car round was Novikov! WOW, it was the craziest thing I had seen all rally, and I got very lucky with the photo.

I will post it up on here once I have uploaded the photos from my camera - still haven't had time yet.
My friend has started to add some of his photos to our Facebook page
facebook.com/gritpicsrally

What a truly amazing event, breathtaking!

[Back-N-Black]

Loeb uses Jedi mind tricks to Neuville -> Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=qyCybw8prq0#t=287s)

Great vid... :D

Haha, I mostly watch the WRC guys, they make the sport look so easy, well most of them do anyway. In this video you can see how truly difficult rally can be.

[Kielder]

Here's one hour of footage. You can watch all the cars, including historics!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8eGPGE5dB8&feature=player_embedded

[Koceens]

Finally got together my video from rally Sweden 2013. Had some problems with camera batteries on 2nd day, but still I think some great footage.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujKp2K_GZKY

[COD]

Being 4th or being 1st...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/604161_10151321342843380_1067844564_n.jpg

I just whish the rules would make the cars such that Latvala style would be faster. Not because I'd like him to win, but because it would make rallying so much more fun and exiting to watch again

[Rallyper]

I just whish the rules would make the cars such that Latvala style would be faster. Not because I'd like him to win, but because it would make rallying so much more fun and exiting to watch again

I would rather say that the driving style, or timing, of the driver is what you see on those two pics. Of course as mentioned above it´s also a matter of settings of car. Rumours says that JML had Ogiers settings at the end of the rally.

Maybe we don´t even have the key of which driver is fastest in that particular corner... It´s hard to tell from a picture though.

[Franky]

Forgot to say in my original post, we were a bit surprised at being asked to pay 50 SEK to park at every stage when we'd already paid 500 SEK for a Rally Pass! Ridiculous if you ask me.

Pretty common practice actually. Just the "parking price" differs.

[COD]

I would rather say that the driving style, or timing, of the driver is what you see on those two pics. Of course as mentioned above it´s also a matter of settings of car. Rumours says that JML had Ogiers settings at the end of the rally.

Maybe we don´t even have the key of which driver is fastest in that particular corner... It´s hard to tell from a picture though.

I have to disagree somewhat. It was unneccesary to introduce big wings for current WRC's. With S2000 size wings. Being sideways would affect downforce less. And they should limit suspension travel, that would bring more sideways action and slow cars on corners thus making the sport safer.

[tommeke_B]

I would rather say that the driving style, or timing, of the driver is what you see on those two pics. Of course as mentioned above it´s also a matter of settings of car. Rumours says that JML had Ogiers settings at the end of the rally.

Maybe we don´t even have the key of which driver is fastest in that particular corner... It´s hard to tell from a picture though.
I was on that particular place from those photos. The fastest in that corner was Hirvonen, but he was too wide and was in the snowbank with the back, then the front went to the snowbank, and he lost a little bit of time there. And Latvala was defenetely faster than Ogier... But after that corner they had to brake for a hairpin immediately. In the exit of the hairpin JML was too much inside the hairpin and lost a lot of traction because he was too much in the snow. In that place it was not needed to push it to the maximum in the fast right corner, because they had to brake immediately after it for the hairpin (Ogier, Loeb and Ostberg took it easy). Rallying is not just about pushing it to the limit everywhere, it's also about being smart and seeing where you can gain a bit of time without risking too much and where to lift because you can not win anything. That's probably the main difference between Loeb, Ogier, Ostberg (I think he is driving smart too), and Latvala and Hirvonen, to give an example. :)

[Bartek]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OzKBD7cHp9w

Very interesting method :)

[dimviii]

I was on that particular place from those photos. The fastest in that corner was Hirvonen, but he was too wide and was in the snowbank with the back, then the front went to the snowbank, and he lost a little bit of time there. And Latvala was defenetely faster than Ogier... But after that corner they had to brake for a hairpin immediately. In the exit of the hairpin JML was too much inside the hairpin and lost a lot of traction because he was too much in the snow. In that place it was not needed to push it to the maximum in the fast right corner, because they had to brake immediately after it for the hairpin (Ogier, Loeb and Ostberg took it easy). Rallying is not just about pushing it to the limit everywhere, it's also about being smart and seeing where you can gain a bit of time without risking too much and where to lift because you can not win anything. That's probably the main difference between Loeb, Ogier, Ostberg (I think he is driving smart too), and Latvala and Hirvonen, to give an example. :)

definetely you can t have conclusions in one corner without knowing the sequence before and after the corner.

[stefanvv]

On this corner you see totally different approach between Ogier & Latvala, on other corners I've seen them exactly the same approach. Latvala spent this Rally trying to find his best setup, last day he really used Ogier's settings 1-1 and felt like he has to change his driving style to achieve better results with the Polo.

[Toyoda]

On this corner you see totally different approach between Ogier & Latvala, on other corners I've seen them exactly the same approach. Latvala spent this Rally trying to find his best setup, last day he really used Ogier's settings 1-1 and felt like he has to change his driving style to achieve better results with the Polo.

Its interesting because I always thought Latvala was a similar diver to Ogier but it would seem not if Latvala has to change his style, I would be interested to know who sets the car up more for the corner (Latvala?), and who drivers around it more (Ogier?) im guessing

[Rallyper]

definetely you can t have conclusions in one corner without knowing the sequence before and after the corner.

Yes, Dimitrios, you and Tom understand what I meant above, even though the comment itself (being 1st or 4th) was kind of relevant for the rally, you never can tell out of a picture who´s fastest at that point...

[Kielder]

Yes, Dimitrios, you and Tom understand what I meant above, even though the comment itself (being 1st or 4th) was kind of relevant for the rally, you never can tell out of a picture who´s fastest at that point...

You're right, though the picture sums up what we saw in the streaming and the highlights during the whole weekend. Times don't lie.

[Mirek]

I just whish the rules would make the cars such that Latvala style would be faster. Not because I'd like him to win, but because it would make rallying so much more fun and exiting to watch again

Although Tom already explained situation on the photo I would continue the discussion. Current S2000 based WRC cars are (at least for me) driven much more sideways than the last 2.0 cars with active center diff (for me the last exception was the S12B). Remember when the 1.6T came to Sweden two years a go how even some guys here on forum commented that it's a joke to have the cars driven almost back forward through corners and that it looked like they were RC cars? :) With the ongoing development it slightly changed but still I am sure that current cars without active center diff are sideways more than previous 2.0 cars. Of course I don't speak about old cars like Octavia which You must have driven sideways to make them turn :)

By the way Ogier is one of the most spectacular drivers in fast sections so I don't see any worrying development there ;)

[GritPics]

Yes, Dimitrios, you and Tom understand what I meant above, even though the comment itself (being 1st or 4th) was kind of relevant for the rally, you never can tell out of a picture who´s fastest at that point...

While watching the rally I was convinced that Latvala was quicker than Oiger at almost every location we watched at. However I think it is easy to confuse spectacular driving with speed with the modern cars. Although Latvala looked so much faster he was slower than the smooth controlled style of Oiger during the rally.

[Hartusvuori]

While watching the rally I was convinced that Latvala was quicker than Oiger at almost every location we watched at. However I think it is easy to confuse spectacular driving with speed with the modern cars. Although Latvala looked so much faster he was slower than the smooth controlled style of Oiger during the rally.

I had similar impressions, though while on stage it's impossible to say how one driver is faster than another unless you see over a long view. Especially on Saturday and Sunday, and in places over crests/jumps, Ogier looked like he was just taking it easy, not pushing it compared to his team mate- and then you see the stage time and he was "always" fastest. I think if one of the top cars would have notable louder sound than others, it'd feel faster than others, even if it makes no sense. The show effects just fool you while in forest

[Sprocket]

I was on that particular place from those photos. The fastest in that corner was Hirvonen, but he was too wide and was in the snowbank with the back, then the front went to the snowbank, and he lost a little bit of time there. And Latvala was defenetely faster than Ogier... But after that corner they had to brake for a hairpin immediately. In the exit of the hairpin JML was too much inside the hairpin and lost a lot of traction because he was too much in the snow. In that place it was not needed to push it to the maximum in the fast right corner, because they had to brake immediately after it for the hairpin (Ogier, Loeb and Ostberg took it easy). Rallying is not just about pushing it to the limit everywhere, it's also about being smart and seeing where you can gain a bit of time without risking too much and where to lift because you can not win anything. That's probably the main difference between Loeb, Ogier, Ostberg (I think he is driving smart too), and Latvala and Hirvonen, to give an example. :)

There was talk on Rally Radio of the snow banks being softer this year than usual.

Just wondering how much this affected Latvala & Hirvonen as it sounds perhaps they tried to rely too much on snow banks in the conditions. The Ogier clean style paid off big time. Not making any excuses, Ogier drove a perfect rally. I think though some of the reason Latvala & Hirvonen put in disappointing performance on a rally we might expect them to do well on, may have been snow bank conditions not suiting the more aggressive Finnish approach to Sweden. It shows though they should have adjusted, Ostberg seemed to be able to so I agree it comes down to driving smart rather than just relying on techniques that worked in the past.

I noticed too both Loeb & Ogier had moments in the banks which they powered through. I'm not sure if the banks had not been particularly soft they would have got away with it. Usually it would have meant being well and truly stuck or stopping to clear radiators.

Not withstanding though there is some point where trying to drive faster makes for slower times! Loeb & Ogier are the masters of finding the spot where perfect almost relaxed driving results in fastest times. JML doesn't seem to quite understand the concept and when Hirvonen applies it, he goes so slow not to matter much anymore! Spectating I always thought Ken Block looked faster than Loeb, says it all I guess!

[Koceens]

Nice to see my friend's video already linked on here. We had a great event, seen 11 stages, all were great places. Perhaps the most spectacular event I've ever seen... Also the organisation of the event was great, everyone was very friendly etc. :) My photos are to be online this afternoon/evening.
How did you manage to see 11 stages? Maybe you can write a short story about your trip to Sweden? It was very interesting to read story of Hartusvuori. I will try to do that as well. Here is my story from the last year in Latvian news site: TVNET :: Motoru sports - Latvie (http://www.tvnet.lv/auto/motoru_sports/411370-latviesu_piedzivojumi_zviedrijas_rallija)

Not sure how Google Translator will cope with it. :)

[uranium]

Just few words are not translated:

saģērbjamies
nesākoties
paspēsim
sānslīdēm
Panašķojam
noskatījuši
nebļauj un nedzen
nekāpa
novēlies

and dop but not need to be translated :)

[GritPics]

How did you manage to see 11 stages? Maybe you can write a short story about your trip to Sweden? It was very interesting to read story of Hartusvuori. I will try to do that as well. Here is my story from the last year in Latvian news site: TVNET :: Motoru sports - Latvie

Not sure how Google Translator will cope with it. :)

Yes, 11 stages is a very good effort. We managed 7, and that was only because we got lucky seeing an extra one on Sunday.

Interesting what people have been saying about the snow banks being softer this year, I guess if the Finns are used to leaning on them a lot then this probably did hamper them.

[stefanvv]

I noticed too both Loeb & Ogier had moments in the banks which they powered through. I'm not sure if the banks had not been particularly soft they would have got away with it. Usually it would have meant being well and truly stuck or stopping to clear radiators.

Both were very, very lucky there, especially Ogier whose bank was neglitible as he was too much off the road there.

[Rallyper]

Smoth driving with perfect timing in breaking and steering in, has always been rewarded faster times than going sideways all the time. Loeb is the master of thet driving style. Although he was very, I say very lucky coming back on the road on Sunday stage when he drove 105%...

[Koceens]

Just few words are not translated:

saģērbjamies = get dressed
nesākoties = not started
paspēsim = get in time
sānslīdēm = sideways action
Panašķojam = get taste of
noskatījuši = saw earlier
nebļauj un nedzen = don't scream and say to go away from place
nekāpa = didn't step out [of the car]
novēlies = fallen
dop = special stage

and dop but not need to be translated :)
Made translations if someone needs.

[BleAivano]

Something is not right with this picture (https://twitter.com/RamonaRallying/status/302081794155622400/photo/1):


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BDE1ypJCMAAZ6av.jpg:large

[tobbe3]

Rally Sweden!

Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFRF5QWm2SQ)

[makinen_fan]

Nice video by codriver Torstein Eriksen (I think it was not posted here before)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-D2xIQ-9xjA

[Koceens]

Wilson and Al-Quassimi excursions into snow. Starts at 1:45


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dRFRsOaKPA&feature=youtu.be

[bennizw]

Here is my gallery from this weekends event, working as official photographer for Rally Sweden:

Rally Sweden 2013 | Benjamin A. Ward | Fotograf | benjaminward.no (http://www.benjaminward.no/posts/rally-sweden-2013)

[katxal]

My most curious photo of the rally :D

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8468372424_74116ee718_b.jpg

[spiderem]

I don't know what you think, but Ogier winning the power stage shows a lot of the fighting spirit he is on, and what are his real intentions for this season...
VW will not fool us again with fake targets, for me it's the 2 titles this year, or nothing.
See you in GB for a new WC.

[Kielder]

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xxhis5_rallye-de-suede-best-of_sport#.UR1eCGcrHvC

[A.F.F.]

So, Rally Sweden has been driven. A few thoughts of the rally. First of all, like I suspected, VW was/is ready for a title. With that amount of testing, the speed and reliability will anough for them to grab the title this year. All that talk of few podium places at the latter part of the season was just mindgames. Unfortunately Latvala was believing it. Now he saw that with Polo one can win. And that one was Ogier. Latvala is prone to fall in that kind of problems. Now his strategy will be messed. He can't drive Polo with winning pace but he will try and that will lead nothing good :mark: I suspect over-trying and crashes. About other Finns..... Hirvonen.... I can't believe what I saw. Yes, a mistake is acceptable when you try but if you compare Hirvonen to for instance Grönholm or Solberg in the past, when they had an off early on the rally and they had absolutely no chance to points, they drove like hell because they had nothing to loose. They flew over the stages and made the rest top times. What did Hirvonen? Cruised through the rally, made avarage 9th positinion stage times and it seemed that he didn't even try. Or at least I hope he didn't even try because if he did, it's all over for him. With that kind of effort, Hirvonen won't win a single rally this year. Hänninen.... Well, Hänninen was like I suspected. No offense to anyone but it seem that this was the pace he can offer to WRC. :mark: And that is not enough, I think anyone can agree that. Nikara was trying but unfortunately he was trying too much. That can happen when you push. Which leads me to Pontus Tindemand. I want to see that kind of attitude with Finns. It doesn't matter it was his homeland where he drove, he showed he was fast and made some excellent stage times and kept the car on road. Very goosd performance so far it lasted. And Ogier.... I have to tell I was suprised. I knew Ogier can be fast but i didn't expect he was that fast. Now that VW is consistent and Ogier that fast, there wont be anyone to challenge him. I can tell you guys this early that he will be the new champion. No way Latvala, Östberg or Hirvonen will win him. Last time I saw someone was faster than Ogier with similar machinery was NORF last year when Lappi fought against him ;) Bring him on and we'lll have a decent championship :)

[Astro83]

A.F.F:

I can only agree with you!

[Kielder]

http://i6.minus.com/iMhwyWbd08wAl.jpg
http://i2.minus.com/ilWDAbAVbuQuo.jpg
http://i6.minus.com/iwjnMMYzRHX2q.jpg
http://i2.minus.com/iHR0wnm7zmNOB.jpghttp://i2.minus.com/i6Wqlxci8EaVg.jpg

[Kielder]

This video includes some aerial footage from the Drone:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGeLCSGZA1A

[Kielder]

Massive slides, big jumps, Tamrazov's roll, a Norwegian song, Swedish drunk girls...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWQekAlnrqQ

[Fly_Half]

The footage from the drone is superb!

[SubaruNorway]

The last video of the Swedish Rally by Motorsportfilmer.net is finished, hope will have a look :)
https://vimeo.com/59774105
(Music ends at 1:30 for you who hate that :) )

Everything i post is on youtube too http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QJAeELiSbMhttp://www.raceinfo.no/temp/tn_Skjermbilde%202013-02-16%20kl.%2002.02.24.jpg

[Juha_Koo]

Some pics from Sweden (not mine, I just focused on spectating and taking home video/pictures :D ): MM-ralli: Ruotsi 2013 kuvat (http://www.rallisport.net/mm-ralli-ruotsi-2013/)

I've been super busy after the rally because of studying, but just a short comment about the rally - it was awesome, nice atmosphere, great to see Volkswagen's great speed, everything went smoothly for our group. FM rally radio nearly not as good as in NORF, same goes with signs to stages/parking but it didn't affect us too much because of good knowledge, maps and media sticker. Overall, really nice and special rally for me, I only realised in Hagfors that it was my 20th WRC rally live - I had a good pepper steak in Karlstad to celebrate it. :D I hope this wasn't my last visit to Rally Sweden.

[Camelopard]

Forgot to say in my original post, we were a bit surprised at being asked to pay 50 SEK to park at every stage when we'd already paid 500 SEK for a Rally Pass! Ridiculous if you ask me.


Pretty common practice actually. Just the "parking price" differs.

Don't quote me(!), but I believe the parking fees go to the local car clubs that help organise the various stages, certainly this is how it works at the Midnight Sun Rally.

I do believe however, that in Finland some of the land owners get quite a lot of money for people parking in their fields, supply and demand I guess!

Anyway back on topic, I'm really envious of some of the photos shown here, wish mine were as good!

[jbmarcus21]

One of my friend was in Sweden, and give his video to make the footage by myself.

Here the video
Rallye Wrc Suède 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97Kh8_2-QzM&feature=youtu.be)

[Sladden]

Anyone still in doubt about the exellence of Sebs 1+2?
In 2011 some said its because of the car they were in the front... bla bla bla you know?
Now even in Sweden they cushed the opposition... simply Amazing drivers.
I know the finns had some problems. Still early in the season... excuses are running out fast thou.

[GritPics]

Yes, I assume you were one of the 3 English speaking guys? You were the one who had that crazy photo of Novikov? Unfortunately I just missed that moment... That photo should be linked on the topic here. ;)

It's a week on from doing the event now, and what a fantastic rally it is! Breathtaking.
Some of the best WRC commitment, action and excitement I have ever seen.


I haven't had a chance to go through all my photo's yet, but have uploaded a few to our facebook page so far:
facebook.com/gritpicsrally (I can't post links yet unfortunately)


This is probably my moment of the rally, (and what tommeke_B is talking about):
flickr.com/photos/eddcope/8482235232/in/photostream/lightbox/

If someone could post the proper link (or the photo) for me that would be ace.

[Mirek]

Full-stage HD onboard of Martin Prokop with very nice camera angle!

V?e o Rally CZ, AutoCrossu, RallyCrossu, Kartingu ? MediaSport.cz (http://www.mediasport.cz/wrc/onboardy/4360.html)

Onboards of Prokop from WRC events shall be regularly available on mediasport.cz through the whole season.

[dimviii]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/482537_434576479945362_412972541_n.jpg

[Salist]

My photos about Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.wr-x.com/#/wrc-img/2013-62/rally-sweden-2013-hagfors-87/)

[Kielder]

Deep in the forest, away from the spectator areas.

http://www.forum-rallye.com/index.php?app=core&module=attach&section=attach&attach_rel_module=post&attach_id=251

[GritPics]

Nice find! :D
Did you plan that spot or just happen to find it by chance?

[pino]

Yes nice spot, but there plenty of them as long as you can/want to walk into stages ;)

[pino]

Btw here's my best photo :http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/02/18/a6e5a7u5.jpg

[Kielder]

Nice find! :D
Did you plan that spot or just happen to find it by chance?

It just happened by chance to find it... in another forum :D . IMO, the rally pics where there is a ton of people on the road are amazing, but those where you see only the car, the road and the forest are even better. Pure rallying. Dust of snow or dust from gravel are the best extra.

http://www.forum-rallye.com/index.php?app=core&module=attach&section=attach&attach_rel_module=post&attach_id=252

[GritPics]

I completely agree with you.
That's the reason why I walk to find my own spots as much as I can. Although it's also good to have the atmosphere occasionally at a spectator point, depending on what the view is like.

[SubaruNorway]

Deep in the forest, away from the spectator areas.



200 m before finish of Lesjöfors at a spectator area ;)

[Kielder]

200 m before finish of Lesjöfors at a spectator area ;)

"Se non è vero, è ben trovato" ;) .

[Salist]

My HD resolution photos:
https://picasaweb.google.com/istvan.salgovari/WRC2013RallySwedenHD

[DoN_cz]

http://www.rallyphotos.cz/photos/wrc-rally-sweden-2013/41-jari-matti-latvala-vw-polo-r-wrc.jpg

More photos @ WRC Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.rallyphotos.cz/photos/wrc-rally-sweden-2013/)

[Rallyper]

I doubt very much that the poll on WRC.COM of who´s the driver of the rally in Sweden is what the result tells...

Should Yazeed be our vote of two-thirds of the poll? How on earth did they do to make him lead the poll?? I´d say they can lay it down. Bull....!!!

[Kielder]

http://vimeo.com/59930252#

[stefanvv]

I doubt very much that the poll on WRC.COM of who´s the driver of the rally in Sweden is what the result tells...

Should Yazeed be our vote of two-thirds of the poll? How on earth did they do to make him lead the poll?? I´d say they can lay it down. Bull....!!!

Yeeees, we know some poll can be manipulated quite hard. But Ogier to take 9% as achieving the first win with VW in only the second Rally, beating no else but 9 times world champion, this is just ridiculously pathetic.

[Leon]

wrc.com is pathetic

[GritPics]

Stunning Photo DoN_cz!
Where is that jump located?

[Kielder]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRslTv9FpZE

P.S. I miss what onboard used to mean :rolleyes: .

[Coach 2]

wrc.com is pathetic

wrc.com is pathetic because how people vote?

I probably don't now what pathetic means.

[Barreis]

Now with full video coverages wrc.com is not bad at all.

[Coach 2]

As others have mentioned before me, this was a phenomenal rally.
But to clarify something that not everyone knows. The tires they use in Rally Sweden are very different from those usually used in winter in Scandinavia. The factory drivers are those who know and tests with these type of tires the most.
I do not know how much for example Hanninen, Neuville, Tideman and others tested with this type of tire before the rally started, but this must be taken into consideration when considering whether either disappointed or run well.
For anyone who attended the rally, it came clear that all of the first four in the result list, trying to win at any cost. Those of the others who tried to follow this pace, yes we saw what happened with them.
I have attended many RS but do not think I have seen such attempts by top drivers ever. In any case, not by so many.
I guess I have not seen Loeb make so many mistakes ever either. So for those who thought he was / is immortal, under pressure, he makes mistakes like everyone else. The difference is that now he is under pressure, instead of squeeze others.

[Hartusvuori]

Stunning Photo DoN_cz!
Where is that jump located?

Not exactly sure, but I'm quite sure it's the small jump near shakedown finish.

[Jordib]

My video from Rally Sweden, it's recorded with a compact foto camera, so don't expect too much. At least the video includes images of other cars apart from top ones and also the historic class, all in original sound.


http://youtu.be/2jQQpUnBdbE

[Fomchenkov Andrey]

Photos with rally Sweden from me and from Romain Thuillier:

Romain Thuillier:
Rally Sweden 2013 #2 (http://www.rallysport.ru/gallery.php?album=275)

Fomchenkov Andrey:
Rally Sweden 2013 (http://www.worldrally.ru/gallery.php?album=274) #1

http://www.worldrally.ru/newwr/uploads/albums/big/_DSC7580439471.jpg

[Koceens]

Small onboard from Vargasen stage by T. Neuville:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enSxuOQNxUY

[logic]

WRC Rally Sweden 2013 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5Y3grd886I)

Rally sweden video.

[Salist]

Our video about Rally Sweden 2013
23 min. pure sound

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB3CjG9t8BI&feature=youtu.be

[leighton323]

Rally Sweden 2013 - Slow Motion, courtesy of WRC Youtube Channel. Not bad stuff, specially Thierry ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-cTDxcSVJU