[WRC] News & rumours (part III)

[AL14]

Loeb is a contracted PSA driver, what did makinen expect ?

Don't tak that news seriously though. It does not seem too much reliable.

[EstWRC]

Citroen confirmed at Monte and Sweden so far https://translate.google.co.uk/translate?sl=fr&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http://go.zonerouge.fr/nl/puo/1joxw.html&edit-text=

[Eli]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122291 official now

[GigiGalliNo1]

Lefebvre is entered for Monte with Meeke....

[GigiGalliNo1]

Sorry but thought to ask. Al-Qassimi will be in Sweden in the DS3 WRC but Lefebvre not... Wouldn't a Frenchman have better chance than an Arab man on snow?

It would be better for Al-Qassimi to enter on gravel rounds..

But then again Yazzed did win on Snow in WRC2 :D

[mousti]

Situation between Lefebvre and Al-Qassimi is different.

If Al-Qassimi somewhere drives, it's because he wants to start there (nobody cares where he finishes). For Lefebvre it's one of the bosses who decide where he start, although he needs experience on snow, that's a fact.

[TWRC]

Sorry but thought to ask. Al-Qassimi will be in Sweden in the DS3 WRC but Lefebvre not... Wouldn't a Frenchman have better chance than an Arab man on snow?

It would be better for Al-Qassimi to enter on gravel rounds..

But then again Yazzed did win on Snow in WRC2 :D
I think since he pays for the ride, he kind of does the events he wants to. But true, Lefebvre could use snow experience, but he can still enter on his own in a DS3 R5 if he wants to.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

‏KRIS MEEKE, STÉPHANE LEFEBVRE AND CRAIG BREEN WILL COMPETE IN 2016 UNDER THE ABU DHABI TOTAL WORLD RALLY TEAM BANNER WHILE CITROËN RACING TAKES A BACK SEAT TO PREPARE FOR ITS 2017 WRC RETURN.

The trio will join team patron Khalid Al Qassimi at the new squad, which will be run in association with Citroën's customer racing division, PH Sport.

In a statement, the team confirmed its programme would include 'a selection of WRC rallies based in Europe' with between one and three cars at each event. It said the season would serve 'as a transitional stage' before Citroën Racing returns as a works team in 2017.

Lefebvre and team-leader Meeke are confirmed for the season opening Rallye Monte-Carlo (18-24 January), with the former partnered by new co-driver Gabin Moreau in place of Stéphane Prevot.

Three cars will be entered at round two in Sweden (11-14 February) for Meeke, Al Qassimi and new signing Craig Breen, who makes the step up from WRC 2. Accompanied by co-driver Scott Martin, the Irishman will make his debut in the DS 3 WRC.

@Craig_Breen
Honoured to join the Abu Dhabi Total WRT for 2016, and can't wait to start at Rally Sweden ! The first part of our dream has come true !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Meeke:

‘Being able to contest a certain number of rallies in 2016 was important when deciding about my future,’ said Kris. ‘I would therefore like to thank Abu Dhabi, Total and all the partners who have made it possible for us compete in very good conditions at these events.

‘This programme will enable me to keep my hand in as regards racing and continue to learn about the WRC events. From that point of view, it seemed essential to compete at Monte Carlo. It is such an unpredictable rally, where experience counts more than anywhere else. I can’t wait to get back into the car for pre-event testing to prepare for this first race.’

Kris is expected to tackle further WRC rounds in 2016, dovetailing a limited programme with a PH Sport-run DS 3 WRC alongside development testing for Citroen’s all-new challenger for 2017.

[pantealex]

As you can see car is now just DS 3 (there is no word Citroen in those pressreleases when they are referring to car) and no Citroen logo at bottom where sponsor logos are.

[rp]

As you can see car is now just DS 3 (there is no word Citroen in those pressreleases when they are referring to car) and no Citroen logo at bottom where sponsor logos are.

Same as this year, but 2017 Citroën will be back and no more DS.

The car´s only officially homologated name is the Citroën DS3 WRC and not the DS 3 WRC as they want to show...

[Simmi]

Kind of a mess when the press releases about the 'DS3 WRC' are coming from Citroen Racing.

But anyway, despite what stupid branding moves they are trying to make it is undoubtedly great news. I'm not sure the team will look much different to this year to the untrained eye.

[KiwiWRCfan]

If the Abu Dhabi WRT of DS3 drivers are doing "a selection of WRC rallies based in Europe" will that mean Kris Meeke will not defend his Rally Argentina title ? Surely Argentinian market and history of success are too important for the South American round to be skipped.

[noel157]

I have to wonder how Breen will get on stepping up to WRC, not sure he's ready, especially new car, new team. Previous 2 WRC outings may help but.....

[N.O.T]

If the Abu Dhabi WRT of DS3 drivers are doing "a selection of WRC rallies based in Europe" will that mean Kris Meeke will not defend his Rally Argentina title ? Surely Argentinian market and history of success are too important for the South American round to be skipped.

Rally Argentina title ??? LOL...

[tommeke_B]

I have to wonder how Breen will get on stepping up to WRC, not sure he's ready, especially new car, new team. Previous 2 WRC outings may help but.....
+1, but on the other hand, if he's not ready now, when will he be ready for it? Personally I don't see him as a top WRC driver in the future, let's hope I'm wrong... :)

[Simmi]

Have to agree with N.O.T. It's not a world championship. It's just a rally win - and one handed to him in large part by VW failures.

One year out before a full-time return is a good situation for Citroen, who will still be getting plenty of PR in Argentina from Pechito Lopez in WTCC. No big deal.

[EightGear]

Kind of obvious they're going to MC and Sweden, since the '17 car won't run until April.

Big surprise that somehow Breen managed to get in though. I can't imagine that being a pure Citroen decision, so to speak...

[dimviii]

Big surprise that somehow Breen managed to get in though. I can't imagine that being a pure Citroen decision, so to speak...

probably bought his seat.

[Mintexmemory]

probably bought his seat.
So you don't think he's impressed PSA with his development of the 208 and his performance in testing against the likes of Abbring. When the car held together he proved quicker than his Poiish and Ukranian opposition. Citroen want a No 2 for 2017 and clearly it's between Craig and Seb 3rd. I believe (unless you have absolute proof to the contrary) that the family money for Craig's career ran out some time ago.
Interesting how negative opinion keeps masquerading as fact on this forum.

[noel157]

@Tommeke_B, @EightGear, @noel157 = diplomats
@dimviii = mind reader

Seriously, I think he will find it difficult, not sure he has it all, maybe will become a good top 6 / top 8 points scorer. It would be nice to be proved wrong, the more better pilots we have competing the better.

[EstWRC]

Everyone has their own opinion, in my eyes Breen is even worse than Evans

and this poll makes me laugh https://twitter.com/FIAERC/status/677976176384679936

[noel157]

So you don't think he's impressed PSA with his development of the 208 and his performance in testing against the likes of Abbring. When the car held together he proved quicker than his Poiish and Ukranian opposition. Citroen want a No 2 for 2017 and clearly it's between Craig and Seb 3rd. I believe (unless you have absolute proof to the contrary) that the family money for Craig's career ran out some time ago.
Interesting how negative opinion keeps masquerading as fact on this forum.

To be honest MM if taking the development of the 208 as a positive your argument is flawed. The car was never developed properly, as results (or lack of them proved). Not saying it was Breen's testing and development role totally at fault but with all the testing kms that were done it has proved to be a poor replacement for the 207.
ERC and WRC 2? A long way from being able to compete in WRC. .
I think Abbring was faster but just my opinion.
As for Keltech/family/other money, I think it may well have been a factor in getting the seat, to some extent at least.

[dimviii]

So you don't think he's impressed PSA with his development of the 208 and his performance in testing against the likes of Abbring. When the car held together he proved quicker than his Poiish and Ukranian opposition. Citroen want a No 2 for 2017 and clearly it's between Craig and Seb 3rd. I believe (unless you have absolute proof to the contrary) that the family money for Craig's career ran out some time ago.
Interesting how negative opinion keeps masquerading as fact on this forum.

No he didnt impressed them.Nobody is impressed from him.
Trying to find something impressive from him after some years he competing and cant find.Sorry.
Kajto is a much better and faster driver,as is Abbring.
Abbring was faster from him at almost all events they competed togather.

[Rally Power]

So, instead of running 2 cars in WRC, Citro/PH will have 4! Why complaining?

Ok, it will be a limited effort but it's a good way to keep Citroen/Abu Dhabi brands active in WRC and give some competitive outings to Meeke and Lefebvre, alongside their hard testing program.

Nice to see Breen also involved and Al Qassimi still interested on WRC.

With all the other good news coming down the road, '16 season can become the perfect appetizer for '17 WRC big meal!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Abu Dhabi contract finishes when? Seems like Al-Qassimi will keep the contract with Citroen maybe until 2018!

[WUff1]

At least I´d rate Breen faster than Lefebvre, if Lefebvre doesn´t improve in 2016.

[jbmarcus21]

#WRC Then... Which Team ? Which Driver in 2016 .. Here the full staff of new season ==> http://planetemarcus.com/les-forces-en-presence-de-la-saison-wrc-2016/

[RS]

remember that in WRC2 they can drive 7 events out of 14. Skoda must skip some

so it´s 50/50

i can only imagine Skoda will do more than 7 events but split them accross 3 drivers. Otherwise I don't know what they will do with Kopecky.

[liposh]

i can only imagine Skoda will do more than 7 events but split them accross 3 drivers. Otherwise I don't know what they will do with Kopecky.

Maybe CODASUR ? :D

[noel157]

Tommi seems a bit lost.....

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122311?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

A shortage of good drivers?

[EstWRC]

Most of the current drivers have only one year deal for next year, so i dont it get why he is complaining. There will be plenty of drivers available next year but i guess he wants a driver right now and of course he wants a driver like Ogier.

[AL14]

Tommi seems a bit lost.....

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122311?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

A shortage of good drivers?

no mention to Latvala. Are they taking it very carefully? Latvala's contract will end up in 2016. So it's not true only Neuville and Ostberg will be without an agreement.
btw If I were VW I would not get rid of Jari-Matti and of course viceversa.

[Quad]

I don't know what Makkinen is waiting for. I would be already standing at Kubica's door even with Meeke available. The guy is by far the best option to develop the car. He can drive the car to it absolute limit, he has big technical knowledge, and he can drive this thing 24/7 :D

[N.O.T]

I don't know what Makkinen is waiting for. I would be already standing at Kubica's door even with Meeke available. The guy is by far the best option to develop the car. He can drive the car to it absolute limit, he has big technical knowledge, and he can drive this thing 24/7 :D

too ugly... did he enter monte ?

[thuGG]

too ugly... did he enter monte ?

Nothing official, but various rumors say that he did.

[Simmi]

Bizarre story and comments from Makinen. Is he saying that Ogier and Latvala in fact do have contracts for 2017 already? Perhaps VW have locked them up to deals behind the scenes but just not announced yet? That's the only thing I can think of. Okay maybe you'd want to do it for Ogier - but I don't see a reason to do it for both him and Latvala. Certainly not right now.

Talking about those young dev drivers is also ridiculous. If that proposed Super License comes in neither of them will even be able to drive the car.

[dimviii]

Tommi seems a bit lost.....


not only with drivers,also lost about the rest of Toyota programm.
He said that they will be able for testing at March April 2016,while the car hasnt be designed so far?

[N.O.T]

Makinen is a nobody and his project also, he is just going to be a bit richer along with his finish friends and that is all,

the finish rally industry is a joke since manufacturers started to realise that it is better to trust driving talent than manager lies and money.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Re: Breen - his WRC2 outings were in a 208T16 with his family firm 'Kel-tec' sponsorship, not Peugeot-Sport.

I think they must be providing some money to get the WRC drive in the DS3.

Only one rally confirmed yet though..

[Jack4688`]

Not sure this the right place for it, but I think it qualifies as WRC Rumour:

http://www.pistonheads.com/news/ph-eurocars/abarth-to-take-124-spider-rallying/33329

My initial thought was it would be an R3 car to rival the GT86, unless it's power-to-weight ratio could be at a competitive level for use in RGT. However the story states:

"The car will compete in what's said be a new sports car category"

Seems unlikely, or that they haven't heard RGT is well and truly underway...

It's all just rhetoric until we see the start of a test program but now Abarth boss Paolo Gagliardo has been quoted on the subject of an entry into the WRC:

"Gagliardo also confirmed that the Fiat brand wants to make a return to rallying, and while it was initially suggested that the Abarth 124 Spider would be the favoured choice to enter the World Rally Championship, a performance-inspired 500X would be another option."

http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/fiat-abarth-500x-offer-170bhp

It all seemed a bit odd that the 124 Spider would be used "for a return to the WRC" - which to me suggested a works effort - but with a car that would most likely have been an R3 to rival the Toyota GT 86 CS-R3. A 500X-based Abarth seems more likely as that would be the most logical of their current lineup from which to make a World Rally Car.

[seb_sh]

Isn't this rumor about FIAT coming back to rally every year? I'll believe it when I see it.

[tommeke_B]

Isn't this rumor about FIAT coming back to rally every year? I'll believe it when I see it.

No. Next year it's Lancia's turn again.

[Mariusz]

Any news about Kubica at the link?
http://sokolimokiem.com/sekrety-projektow-rajdowek-kubicy
The article is about two brothers who work as designers and their work on creating Robert's liveries. There are some interesting stories like that they got the contract to work on the 2013 Citroen livery 6 months before Robert's first ERC start, but there is nothing about Robert's future in it.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kubica & Bouffier confirmed for Monte Carlo - both in Fiesta WRC's. :)

[jbmarcus21]

Great news for Kubica with Fiesta Wrc Monte-Carlo 2016 :)
http://planetemarcus.com/robert-kubica-au-rallye-wrc-monte-carlo-2016/

[Rally Power]

"Gagliardo also confirmed that the Fiat brand wants to make a return to rallying, and while it was initially suggested that the Abarth 124 Spider would be the favoured choice to enter the World Rally Championship, a performance-inspired 500X would be another option."[/url]

Probably the 124 suggestion was misleaded from the US model presentation. These Gagliardo remarks are much more credible and it'd be awesome to see FIAT back in WRC!

[dimviii]

Mads Østberg ‏@MadsOstberg 5 λεπτάΠριν από 5 λεπτά

Pacenote training for #RallyMonteCarlo with new co-driver #OlaFloene today! #DreamTeam in the making! @OfficialWRC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CW2ScT9W4AAlS8O.jpg

[EstWRC]

ROFL #dreamteam in the making

[stefanvv]

ROFL #dreamteam in the making

What is Yours one?

[RAS007]

What is Yours one?

I'm going to take a wild guess and say his answer will involve the letters O, T and T.

[SubaruNorway]

ROFL #dreamteam in the making

Your negativety is getting tiresome

[EstWRC]

I'm going to take a wild guess and say his answer will involve the letters O, T and T.

you're wrong. i don't have any dream team and Tänak still has a huge amount to prove to be the man to be in any dream team.

Sorry if i offended some people here but somehow im not suprised that the two people who responded are from norway. i dont have anything against Mads but that dreamteam hashtag is funny.

[EstWRC]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122326

Kubica and Evans in Monte, Evans in an R5 Fiesta.

[stefanvv]

Sorry if i offended some people here but somehow im not suprised that the two people who responded are from norway. i dont have anything against Mads but that dreamteam hashtag is funny.

Presuming I'm the one of the 2, no I'm not from Norway, nor a fan of Ostberg, nor offended in any way. Just found it somewhat strange laughing at someone else's dream team work just before the holidays, cause it can be also subjective goal, don't You think?

[Simmi]

Who cares - move on.

David Evans has clearly seen the entry list for the Monte. Can't be too long before it gets released?

[EstWRC]

Should be released 29th december.

[Simmi]

Cool. There is a provisional list here. Will be interesting to see if there are any last-minute surprises.

http://www.rallye-sport.fr/liste-des-engages-monte-carlo-2016/

[Rallyper]

Quote from Micke_VOC on European CH section:

"Yesterday in a radioshow about rally in Sweden, they told a rumor that Emil Bergkvist have secured a big deal from both Pirelli and Eurosport for 2016-season. Looks that there are something going on...."

ERC then if rumours are true. Not bad. Let´s hope there will be some perfomances in WRC as well.

[dimviii]

http://www.rally.it/breaking-news-al-monte-kubica-con-la-ds3-wrc/

Despite the announcement of even 48 hours ago right now we learn, directly from mr. Bernard Piallat Boss PH-Sport, that Robert Kubica will be the Monte Carlo Rally with them on a DS3 WRC official and the notes back his old Baran European Champion in charge with Kajetan Kajetanowicz.

[RICARDO75]

http://www.rally.it/breaking-news-al-monte-kubica-con-la-ds3-wrc/

Despite the announcement of even 48 hours ago right now we learn, directly from mr. Bernard Piallat Boss PH-Sport, that Robert Kubica will be the Monte Carlo Rally with them on a DS3 WRC official and the notes back his old Baran European Champion in charge with Kajetan Kajetanowicz.

The link doesn' t work

[EstWRC]

Autosport hasnt been wrong about WRC the last months so i think we can be sure that Kubica will be in monaco but the question is which car he will use?

[dimviii]

The link doesn' t work

tried it again and it works.My post is from google translate from this link.

[maciotacio]

Does any Italian friend could translate last part about Kajto and Baran?

[Mariusz]

Looks like the news has been deleted from rally.it

[Simmi]

Does any Italian friend could translate last part about Kajto and Baran?

I think it was saying Kubica would be back with Baran on co-driver duties. But yeah, it was there a couple of minutes ago, and now the story is gone.

You'd think the head of PH Sport would know whether Kubica is doing the rally with them or not. But then again nothing surprises me with these late deals. The big question is - is the article truthful?

[omer yetis]

if this is his personal account on Facebook.... then he also changed his wallpaper....

https://www.facebook.com/bernard.piallat?ref=ts&fref=ts

[thuGG]

if this is his personal account on Facebook.... then he also changed his wallpaper....

https://www.facebook.com/bernard.piallat?ref=ts&fref=ts

This wallpaper changing was the sole reason for this "news".

[Simmi]

This wallpaper changing was the sole reason for this "news".

Seems so. Welcome to 2015.

[omer yetis]

This wallpaper changing was the sole reason for this "news".

if thats the case there is also Lotos on that Photo....

[dimviii]

Looks like the news has been deleted from rally.it
link works for me.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Seems strange for PH to run another car for Kubica when they only just got the job of running the DS3s for Citroen-Sport...

[itix]

It would be symptomatic with what Kubica himself has said regarding his Rally plans (maybe I should do select rounds and prepare properly etc etc).

If I am not mistaken it was PH sport that ran him in WRC 2...

[dimviii]

Seems strange for PH to run another car for Kubica when they only just got the job of running the DS3s for Citroen-Sport...

how do you know that they will run, ONLY the ds3s of Citroen racing?

[Lord_Shaitan]

And to get it straight so nobody is confused, Kajto's co-driver is Jarosław Baran. Maciej Baran, who was Kubica's co-driver in WRC 2 is his brother.

[AL14]

Sorry guys I'm too late for the translation. If the article is no more there it must been for sure a misunderstanding by the author.
If some of you still see the article is because he has it saved in the cache of the browser.

Case closed.

[Mariusz]

Seems strange for PH to run another car for Kubica when they only just got the job of running the DS3s for Citroen-Sport...
I'm just wondering why would Mr. Piallat put a 2 year old photo on his cover page. And correct me if I'm wrong, but Citroen confirmed 2 cars for Monte and 3 cars for Sweden, so there could be one DS3 WRC left for Monte. The facebook update could be a hint of something especially there was no confirmation from Kubica about anything. The previous news about Kubica driving Ford at Monte could also be some assumptions because it looks like it was based on entry list, but the entry list may not have a car yet, it happened so many times before. To add more to the rumors, Robert's team coordinator updated his cover photo with picture of Monte Carlo sticker on... a DS3 ;) Rafal Cebula facebook (https://www.facebook.com/rafal.cebula.3) On the other hand Maciek Szczepaniak cover photo was updated with a picture of Fiesta Maciek Szczepaniak facebook (https://www.facebook.com/maciek.szczepaniak) To sum it up... does it all mean that Kubica will be driving VW in 2016? ;) News and rumors in full glory...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Maybe Kubica sent his entry with the Fiesta originally just to get his entry in on time, but then arranged the drive with the DS3... hence the confusion. :confused:

Shame if he is now back in the Citroen, I enjoy driving his Fiesta on the Monte ! ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/EddieFocus/00f58829-48fe-4696-a2b1-932dc8666b6f_zps7phxryvt.jpg

[Rally Hokkaido]

Does anyone know for sure what car Franky Delecourt will run? I read somewhere that it will be the Porsche again, though the unofficial rallye-sport list has him in a 207 S2000??

[PLuto]

Does anyone know for sure what car Franky Delecourt will run? I read somewhere that it will be the Porsche again, though the unofficial rallye-sport list has him in a 207 S2000??

Peugeot 207 S2000 from Munaretto

[dimviii]

at French forum they said with 207 s2000 from Munaretto

[PLuto]

According to his codriver too ;)

[noel157]

A rare interview with Paul Nagle. Picture caption wrong and not sure the journalist is clued in but good to see all the same:

http://www.the42.ie/paul-nagle-meeke-interview-2511919-Dec2015/?utm_source=twitter_self

[mousti]

Tuthill program with Delecour is done then..

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[RAS007]

Tuthill program with Delecour is done then..

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

Looks that way, would be interested to know the reasons why.

[dimviii]

because nobody cares to see a 911 to loose from a fiesta with 1,6 litres engine,or from a ds3 at rally conditions.

[noel157]

Tuthill program with Delecour is done then..

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

"Done" as in finished/finito/end I assume?

[Simmi]

It was interesting to hear Richard Tuthill on Absolute Rally the other week. Talking about all their projects for 2016 and not mentioning the WRC/RGT once. Shame :(

[AndyRAC]

There hasn't been the take up from competitors of the R-GT Cup. Too much hassle & too many hoops to jump through, from the FiA- which isn't really a surprise. Have the FiA really done enough for this class? Not really......Can't really blame Tuthill for not bothering.

It surely beats endless Fiesta R5's trundling through the stages.

[Andre Oliveira]

Toyota GT86 CS-R3 is very much good to see that Porsches

[Ucci]

Toyota GT86 CS-R3 is very much good to see that Porsches

Are you serious??

[Andre Oliveira]

Yes :) At least have international and clear homologation. See Snijers with him, much more spetacular.

[dupanton]

Sebastien Loeb Racing will run a car in JWRC. Driver will be announced soon. It probably will be a French guy, maybe Dubert, Rossel, Margaillan...

[noel157]

Saw that:

http://motorsport.nextgen-auto.com/Sebastien-Loeb-Racing-opens-a-new-chapter-with-rally-programme,99013.html

[Simmi]

Nice bit of Boxing Day news. It will be interesting to see how the team develops (if at all) over the next few seasons.

Another French driver getting a great chance I'd imagine. First name that came into my head was Rossel.

[JUF]

Emil Bergkvist would be nice :D, but it will be a French guy...

[dimviii]

Perry and Folb are the names mostly discussed at French forums

[dimviii]

I'm still Hyundai's lead WRC driver, Thierry Neuville insists

http://beta.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122341/neuville-im-still-hyundai-number-one

[Fly]

Perry and Folb are the names mostly discussed at French forums

Yes, Perry was supported by Loeb in 2015 and Folb is Alsace's up and coming driver.
Should be one of these two.

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

Toyota GT86 CS-R3 is very much good to see that Porsches
And we'll drive that in SLREvo..

[Mirek]

Toyota GT86 CS-R3 is very much good to see that Porsches

For me the GT86 is way too underpowered to be spectacular (of course with spectacular driver anything can be spectacular).

[mousti]

For me the GT86 is way too underpowered to be spectacular (of course with spectacular driver anything can be spectacular).

Like we saw with Snijers in Condroz

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[Mirek]

I saw it only on dry asphalt and I wasn't impressed with it. In my opinion the engine is weak. I can't imagine this car could regularly fight with DS3 or Clio R3T.

[dodge33cymru]

Tony Simpson on Twitter hinting that the co-driver merry-go-round hasn't finished spinning yet. Any ideas what he's on about?

[EstWRC]

Maybe Kubica? there was something about him and his co-driver.

[skarderud]

Veiby's New co-driver is stig rune skjærmoen. He was the first co-driver Ole Christian veiby had, when he did youth rally!

[AMSS]

Can some of our French speaking friends please translate this..
http://oi65.tinypic.com/2ir6l45.jpg

[AL14]

I'm not french but can understand something.

He says that WRC is very spectacular sport but it suffers of too few exposition on media.
Then he says that the 2017 cars will look more spectacular and will be more fast, which is good but they are faster on straights, not in acceleration and in techincal parts. This is not good because it is the world championship and also those parts should be spectacular. He says tough that the teams are working to find a way throug more "couple" and more turbo pressure, to improve acceleration.

At the end he says something very interesting:
"There must be a way to improve videos, camera's angles, maybe using different cameras or different video editing."
And then he makes a comparison between his onboards and Ken Block's videos results. I don't understand if he says that it is not normal that they have the same number of viewers (assuming that he is the world champion and should have more), but I would wait a french to translate this last part.

[SubaruNorway]

I'm not french but can understand something.

He says that WRC is very spectacular sport but it suffers of too few exposition on media.
Then he says that the 2017 cars will look more spectacular and will be more fast, which is good but they are faster on straights, not in acceleration and in techincal parts. This is not good because it is the world championship and also those parts should be spectacular. He says tough that the teams are working to find a way throug more "couple" and more turbo pressure, to improve acceleration.

At the end he says something very interesting:
"There must be a way to improve videos, camera's angles, maybe using different cameras or different video editing."
And then he makes a comparison between his onboards and Ken Block's videos results. I don't understand if he says that it is not normal that they have the same number of viewers (assuming that he is the world champion and should have more), but I would wait a french to translate this last part.

I wonder if they take into account all the video's in social media, maybe they should be better at sharing them as well?
Only me alone managed 1.3 mill views on the two events i did this year, all in all it counts up to a lot of views.

[dupanton]

Correction to the translation by AL14

It is more or less what he translated.

In the first part, he doesn't say the team is working to find more couple and turbo pressure, but that they asked the FIA to have rules which allow more couple and power.

At the end, he says it looks like he is driving to the shop if you compare his videos with Ken Block videos... (which I don't agree at all, KB videos is playing, WRC is a sport)

[GigiGalliNo1]

Nasser out of WRC

[AL14]

Correction to the translation by AL14

It is more or less what he translated.

In the first part, he doesn't say the team is working to find more couple and turbo pressure, but that they asked the FIA to have rules which allow more couple and power.

At the end, he says it looks like he is driving to the shop if you compare his videos with Ken Block videos... (which I don't agree at all, KB videos is playing, WRC is a sport)

Ok, thanks for the correction Dupanton. Let's hope the FIA will listen to them regarding couple and turbo.
As for videos, I agree with you that KB videos are not a benchmark but it is true that at the moment they are not that exciting and could be improved somehow.
I've seen some onboard videos from village events with slower cars and worse drivers and they seemed much more "scary" and with more adrenaline than the official ones.
The same goes with a lot of spectactors videos, some of them also shared by member of this forum and their highlights. I think videos does not solve any problem alone but are a very important asset.

[noel157]

I've just realised I've never read the 2017 regs, anybody got a quick link or wish to summarise?

[SubaruNorway]

Correction to the translation by AL14

It is more or less what he translated.

In the first part, he doesn't say the team is working to find more couple and turbo pressure, but that they asked the FIA to have rules which allow more couple and power.

At the end, he says it looks like he is driving to the shop if you compare his videos with Ken Block videos... (which I don't agree at all, KB videos is playing, WRC is a sport)

Ogier probably gave me the most exiting moment ever in Finland, so don't agree with that haha! Doubt a Gr.B would be better to watch there.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R93n0vIV3AY

[dodge33cymru]

I've just realised I've never read the 2017 regs, anybody got a quick link or wish to summarise?
Bit wider, bit more power, active diffs

Executive summary

[noel157]

Bit wider, bit more power, active diffs

Executive summary

Many thanks, nice and succinct.

[Mirek]

Plus more effective aero package. In all in all the cars will be closer to circuit ones, more efficient, less spectacular.

[traxx]

Ok, thanks for the correction Dupanton. Let's hope the FIA will listen to them regarding couple and turbo.


The FIA didn't listen them :( The teams would like more turbo pressure and the FIA give more power.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just read this info from 'Motorsport Island':

Translation:

"Robert Kubica will be at the start of the Monte Carlo Rally, the opening round of the WRC Championship 2016, aboard a Ford Fiesta WRC run by M-Sport. Days ago circulated a rumour according to which the Pole would run with a Citroen, but unfortunately it was not possible because of the many changes that should have been made to the car and that should have been approved by the FIA. Recall that Robert because of his handicap uses the handbrake lever, pushing instead of pulling and changes gear to the left instead of the right of the steering wheel."

[tommeke_B]

So what did he do when he was driving the DS3 RRC? Shifting with his nose?

[GigiGalliNo1]

DS3 RRC available for Monte in WRC spec?

[Mirek]

So what did he do when he was driving the DS3 RRC? Shifting with his nose?

Most likely linked to the 2015 homologation. In the time when Kubica was using DS3 RRC the normal WRC car had no hydraulic gearbox. This was changed in 2015 and I guess the modifications done on Kubica's car in that time are not compatible with the later WRC spec.


DS3 RRC available for Monte in WRC spec?

What are You asking about? RRC and WRC is same car.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Marc Marti has just tweeted "Dani Sordo is the nominate driver for 10 rallies" in 2016
Seems changes are occurring at Hyundai

Caution this may be connected to Día de los Santos Inocentes - December 28th is Spanish equivalent of April Fools Day

[dupanton]

Sebastien Loeb Racing will run a car in JWRC. Driver will be announced soon. It probably will be a French guy, maybe Dubert, Rossel, Margaillan...

The SLR driver will be Thierry Folb, he will do the full JWRC.

[Simmi]

Marc Marti has just tweeted "Dani Sordo is the nominate driver for 10 rallies" in 2016
Seems changes are occurring at Hyundai

Caution this may be connected to Día de los Santos Inocentes - December 28th is Spanish equivalent of April Fools Day

The plot thickens. Looks like he was responding to reports last night that the numbers for the season were going to be (3 - Neuville), (4 - Sordo) and (8 - Paddon). Wouldn't make sense to do a joke two days after the day itself.

Is he saying Sordo will be lead driver, or simply nominated as a manufacturer points scorer for 10 rounds?

[seb_sh]

The plot thickens. Looks like he was responding to reports last night that the numbers for the season were going to be (3 - Neuville), (4 - Sordo) and (8 - Paddon). Wouldn't make sense to do a joke two days after the day itself.

Is he saying Sordo will be lead driver, or simply nominated as a manufacturer points scorer for 10 rounds?

Manufacturers must nominate a driver at the start of the season who will score points on at least 10 rounds. I think he is only saying Sordo is that driver, it's due to the rules of entering a Manufacturer Team.

If it's true, why choose Sordo? I think it means is they see Sordo as a safe driver who finishes rallies, so they are more confident he can consistently bring points in. The other two are unknown quantities for next year. If Neuville gets his brain back on track and stops overdriving and crashing, which I think may happen if the new car is fast, then they will keep him nominated. If he continues like he ended last year and Paddon finishes rallies then they can switch them. I think they are looking at these two scenarios as most likely. They only have a problem in scenarios where Sordo scores less points than the other two but even then they have some flexibility.

[Hartusvuori]

Yazeed will start Arctic Rally with Fiesta WRC, most likely as a preparation for Rally Sweden.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

how do you know that PH Sport will run ONLY the DS3s of Citroen racing?

Just a good guess ! ;)

Plus Kubica had already been talking about testing in his Fiesta.

[denkimi]

Just read this info from 'Motorsport Island':

Translation:

"Robert Kubica will be at the start of the Monte Carlo Rally, the opening round of the WRC Championship 2016, aboard a Ford Fiesta WRC run by M-Sport. Days ago circulated a rumour according to which the Pole would run with a Citroen, but unfortunately it was not possible because of the many changes that should have been made to the car and that should have been approved by the FIA. Recall that Robert because of his handicap uses the handbrake lever, pushing instead of pulling and changes gear to the left instead of the right of the steering wheel."
that's just bullshit. reversing the handbrake and moving the paddle switch from the right to the left is hardly a few hours work. if the fia approved it for the fiesta, there's no reason they wouldn't approve it for the ds3.

there must be a different, more realistic reason.

[GigiGalliNo1]

What are You asking about? RRC and WRC is same car.

What I mean is is that car available to be converted in time to compete? Is it available?

[Simmi]

Yazeed will start Arctic Rally with Fiesta WRC, most likely as a preparation for Rally Sweden.

This article seems to say he will do 7 rounds this year - I'm assuming in a WRC car. Someone on the forum did mention this during the last month so nice scoop by them if it's true.

http://www.rallye-sport.fr/premiere-en-wrc-pour-al-rajhi/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

that's just bullshit. reversing the handbrake and moving the paddle switch from the right to the left is hardly a few hours work. if the fia approved it for the fiesta, there's no reason they wouldn't approve it for the ds3.

there must be a different, more realistic reason.

Makes sense to me, plus PH will probably have enough to do running the Citroen-Sport cars.

[Quad]

we will find out soon
it seems Lotos is still in this because they wrote about Kubica start and their FB page

[itix]

On the official entry list he is with a Fiesta so I think we can drop the speculation unfortunately.

It would be nice but I think not unfortunately!

[noel157]

On the official entry list he is with a Fiesta so I think we can drop the speculation unfortunately.

It would be nice but I think not unfortunately!

A change of car is still possible, maybe not probable, as the the rules allow so there's plenty of reason to discuss the issue.
This place would be very dull without speculation, opinion and discussion.

[paba]

they might have had contract valid till 31.12, so Lotos could make such a news