Robert Kubica thread

[dimviii]

i think that he deserves his own thread.

Here is an article from worldrallyisfree.
http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/2015/02/01/kubica-patron-de-sa-propre-equipe/

from google translate

Robert Kubica who decided to switch from Citroen to M-Sport's WRC season in 2014 after a year in the WRC-2 eventually ended up walking the end of last year. The season was very difficult, Malcolm Wilson accused the Polish do not listen to his instructions and increase road trips while Robert Kubica M-Sport criticized for not providing a hardware level. Difficult in these conditions to end the year and especially for continued collaboration.

By end of 2014 season, the position of Kubica is to continue in the WRC only if it can do so in a WRC car on top otherwise he could return to the circuit where they speak a good offer in the DTM. Official bucket is already equipped with VW and Hyundai, we think Citroen. While Yves Matton evokes a track of a WRC WTCC + program for the Polish, it is ultimately Mads Ostberg is confirmed in the second DS3 WRC alongside Kris Meeke. After the disappointment with M-Sport, we think a return Kubica PH Sport who was rolling his DS3 RRC in 2013, but the side of the French team announced it stopped negotiations. Meanwhile, Robert Kubica involved in Bettega then he won at Monza with Fiesta WRC for the A-Style Italian team with whom he had worked during the year the Casentino round of the Italian championship. In early December, the Polish found himself walking, nothing. But where are these famous mirobolantes offers to return to circuit? Is it so passionate about the rally and if invested it no longer wishes to return to the track? Then his sponsors is called signifying their desire to continue, Kubica is popular in Poland, his name carries.

Robert Kubica and decided to start his own team at 1 month of the first rally of the season. As recalled by Colin Clark, Polish that comes from the F1 such requirements and expects professionalism he has found neither Citroën in 2013, nor at M-Sport in 2014, his decision to start his own structure meet its own requirements is actually not that far-fetched. Always supported by his agent, Marcin Czachorski, who worked during the holiday season to put everything in place with partners Robert Kubica up of a complete team. Daniele Pelliccioni, Head of Citroën Racing Trophy Italian sporting director Procar, Italian representative of Citroën Racing, so is the team coordinator RK WRT. Polish also recruited men he crossed on the path without necessarily experience the world rally. On this Monte Carlo, his Fiesta WRC was a lease A-Style, but next month the team will move into its own building near Lake Como in northern Italy. He intends to buy as soon as possible Fiesta WRC 2015. From portugal? Although the relationship with M-Sport seems to have relaxed having received a support structure of the English in the preparation at the Monte Carlo, it seems difficult to be able to field the same car as the producer of cars at the same time. Indeed, it is in Portugal that the team of Malcolm Wilson has his new car line 2015. If the big bill is ready to be set, the English businessman can be convinced to leave ... The plan of RK WRT would even rent the current car privately, a new source of income ... Nothing safe because Kubica will not really feel the soul of a businessman ... Besides, he decided not to include his team in the championship . It thus saves the registration fee and does not undergo the constraints of teams such as limiting testing. It also intends to carry out the sleeves WRC and possibly enjoy working sessions with Pirelli.

The Italian manufacturer Pirelli is a partner of the small team. And Robert Kubica will be able to work closely with its supplier. It probably would not have done that with Michelin shoes all plants. Pirelli tire can be competitive in certain conditions on asphalt or snow as stressed Henning Solberg last year. Once the session before Monte Carlo trials, Robert Kubica was able to test the Italian tire and was able to assess its performance. The images of the Fiesta WRC striker bitumen are extra-ordinary, the Polish attack action, which foot to see it! During the rally, it goes still going strong. So yes, it does not always get to the end, which is the first goal of the rally, but what a joy to see a push as pilot, operate as the road and his car! And what perf, when signing this huge scratch in 51km of SS10 putting more 33s in the second, 41s Loeb!

What adventure is launched Robert Kubica? Being driver and team boss in parallel? He's still learning a WRC car and must focus on up to the task. Although for him it is not contradictory, it will be difficult to combine the two. Manage a team is a daunting task, time-consuming and takes an important place in a spirit that should be devoted to the competition. Petter Solberg, an experienced pilot, failed to get a win so sought after riding his own team. Although the two men do not have the same approach and the same character, but it Solberg was exhausted. Kubica just an F1 world where everything is constantly analyzed where everything is modeled to better control needed more levers. But the very nature of the discipline she allows to applying these formulas? The rally is composed by numerous parameters and improvisation is a major component. A new approach? We saw it at work to assistance on this Monte Carlo: he runs the mechanics, the team checks the settings in the car, cleaning the car ... He needs that, s' involved. Wish him the best of success!

*

Robert Kubica: "When you're in F1, you are used to the highest standards. Now my dream is to build a team as good as the teams at the top of the WRC.

As much as the money, it is time we missed. There are a few weeks ago, the team did not exist. Put a team together in such a short period of time, it is also the sport ... We recruited people I know in recent years, but most of the people around me have no concept of the rally at world. They compensate by their enthusiasm and efforts, but nothing replaces experience. And it will be more difficult on distant rallies like Mexico or Argentina. Hopefully we reach our cruising in Portugal. When everything is on rails, this should better go because I would not have to devote myself that piloting. I'm not a businessman, I'm not a team leader, I do not have the mindset for it. But right now, we're still in the process of building the team and I have some experience of different teams I've driven that can be very useful. But I'm the driver. What we have done is the best thing for this year and certainly for the future but it's only for my car.

Until I am to rally before tests or recce where I make my pilot's job, between rallies, I am busy with many other things. For example, this morning I was doing the refueling for Mexico. But I like it, it's a new challenge.

Since this project was launched, I realize that if we want to do well in a private team, it costs at least as expensive than renting a car in a factory team. And above all, the financial risk is far greater, for it is its own capital which is at stake. The two and a half days of testing before the Monte Carlo have, for example, represented a significant investment.

I want to be more consistent but I do not want to lose my top speed to become regular. This is the difference with the best drivers, they will after performing the best time. Everywhere in motor sports is like that. If someone had told me there are 2 or 3 weeks we could show both in Monte- Carlo, I would not have believed it. But when we tested Pirelli tires for the first time I thought that this could be possible. When conditions were good, I knew we could attack. Who knows? Maybe it was the first and last time that we were the best times of the year. We know that in some places we can have an advantage or disadvantage with Pirelli, but do not forget that we are in a private car and we fight with Volkswagen and Citroen. »

[AL14]

He totally deserved a thread since Kubica's talking had been on most of the other ones! :)

Well, you can say that he has a wrong approach (and I agree), that he's too much addicted to crashes (and I agree), but you can't deny he is a very determined person. Rally need this kind of stories and though I criticise his way of drive I really wish him the best. Really hope he can reach some of his goals.

[thuGG]

He sure seems to be workaholic. In F1 he also was known for this and perceived as perfectionist thus many people called him a moaner.

[Negaiss]

Good interviews after 2014 season. Kubica - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fv-j-fTY64, Maciek Szczepaniak - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Opc4KLfSucA

[thuGG]

Interview after Sweden shakedown:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpHUvAiQcs8

[Mariusz]

Autosport.com article by Robert Kubica:
Forcing the WRC learning process (http://plus.autosport.com/premium/feature/6384/kubica-forcing-the-wrc-learning-process/?_ga=1.132782985.667189422.1423758544)

[litifeta]

I for one, am hoping Kubica finds his way in the sport. He is an exciting driver to watch. But some of the onboards I watch shows he lacks the patience he needs to be showing as a newbie. Sometimes he is hard to follow on the onboards simply because he is attacking the stages with pure courage and aggression. I just wish he would try to find a rhythm first before getting into attack mode. He lacks rhythm. The other thing I notice he does quite a bit is to try and cut the lines others have left as a way of seeking an advantage. It works sometimes but gee whiz, it costs him a lot of times as well when he hits things. I don't think anyone could say he does not have the balls for the sport, but he has a few learnings he needs urgently.

[thuGG]

Nice high res photo:
http://kibicrajdowy.pl/files/jump%20%281%29.jpg

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CAN4BGsWsAAhktw.jpg

[janvanvurpa]

He sure seems to be workaholic. In F1 he also was known for this and perceived as perfectionist thus many people called him a moaner.

Perfectionism is a very silly mental disease..Any normally developed adult knows nothing is perfect ever. Thus one pretending/claiming, using as excuse "perfection" is a BSer or a mental case...
F1, which is overflowing with pretenders and poseurs and above all bullsh!tters, likes to talk about "perfection"...

Rally is never about perfection.... 99% maybe but poor Kubica has more than ample evidence in his life---and EVERY rally---to know he is not perfect...and no harm in that---but he should drop the talk and the mistaken belief he IS....because anytime there is a conflict between a belief and reality,,
reality always wins in the end.

[lewalcindor]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CAN4BGsWsAAhktw.jpg

Any train with RK livery is guaranteed to go too fast at a sharp curve and derail at some point, right?

[thuGG]

Perfectionism is a very silly mental disease..Any normally developed adult knows nothing is perfect ever. Thus one pretending/claiming, using as excuse "perfection" is a BSer or a mental case...
F1, which is overflowing with pretenders and poseurs and above all bullsh!tters, likes to talk about "perfection"...

Rally is never about perfection.... 99% maybe but poor Kubica has more than ample evidence in his life---and EVERY rally---to know he is not perfect...and no harm in that---but he should drop the talk and the mistaken belief he IS....because anytime there is a conflict between a belief and reality,,
reality always wins in the end.

How the f**k you concluded that he himself think he is a perfectionist?

[N.O.T]

because none is that stupid to think that someone who crashes all the time and is that ugly is a perfectionist... so probably the only person who thinks that, is himself.

[thuGG]

Well, you gave another example of your idiocy, as usual. Can you do something else from time to time?

[janvanvurpa]

How the f**k you concluded that he himself think he is a perfectionist?

Oh I dunno. Personally I don't pay much attention to rich guys just playing around but some guy with a really obnoxious name wrote this:

2nd February 2015, 16:26 #3 (http://www.motorsportforums.com/showthread.php?35295-Robert-Kubica-thread&p=1038231&viewfull=1#post1038231)

thuGG (http://www.motorsportforums.com/member.php?21169-thuGG)
http://www.motorsportforums.com/images/statusicon/user-online.png
Senior Member Join DateMar 2013Posts225Like0Liked 26 Times in 23 Posts


He sure seems to be workaholic. In F1 he also was known for this and perceived as perfectionist thus many people called him a moaner.





I didn't conclude....I responded to that bolded statement and explained what I have seem when motorsports people and fans talk about perfection and perfectionism in general, then made a qualified statement ---didya notice the word "maybe"?

Are you having problems with the subject/verb thing or just trying to live up to your "screen persona"?

[N.O.T]

Well, you gave another example of your idiocy, as usual. Can you do something else from time to time?

well the fact that he cannot drive a rally car properly is a fact.... and that his face looks like an abomination is also a fact...

usually perfectionists also tend to be perfect at what they do... thus the name "perfect"ionist... i cannot see any perfection in having 4 crashes in 3 events...

[Mariusz]

thuGG, let the dogs bark and just go on...

[Rallyper]

because none is that stupid to think that someone who crashes all the time and is that ugly is a perfectionist... so probably the only person who thinks that, is himself.

So how do you prove yourself being the master of forums? Being handsome and driving like a god?

[skarderud]

because none is that stupid to think that someone who crashes all the time and is that ugly is a perfectionist... so probably the only person who thinks that, is himself.
If you dont quit calling People ugly, i will get you banned again. Behave like that intelligent guy you trying to call yourself, i'm NOT convinced in that matter, you can say....

[tommeke_B]

well the fact that he cannot drive a rally car properly is a fact....

He can drive almost as good as you can annoy people.

[stefanvv]

Perfectionism is a very silly mental disease..Any normally developed adult knows nothing is perfect ever. Thus one pretending/claiming, using as excuse "perfection" is a BSer or a mental case...
F1, which is overflowing with pretenders and poseurs and above all bullsh!tters, likes to talk about "perfection"...

Rally is never about perfection.... 99% maybe but poor Kubica has more than ample evidence in his life---and EVERY rally---to know he is not perfect...and no harm in that---but he should drop the talk and the mistaken belief he IS....because anytime there is a conflict between a belief and reality,,
reality always wins in the end.

Of course nothing is perfect. To talk about perfectionism though, first You have to have an aspect(s) to aim for a perfectionism. General speaking, in all aspects, there can't be perfectionism and this is probably You call a disease.

But since thread is about Kubica, what I can see he is working hard indeed, I'm just not sure his motivation is right. Serious work also require proper direction(s), and I don't see that in Kubica's "work". It seem just some "random stuff" here and there. Really good stage times at Monte, crazy good, but since then he is just mediocre driver, still prone to crashes, no matter he is not that crazy fast.

[N.O.T]

If you dont quit calling People ugly, i will get you banned again. Behave like that intelligent guy you trying to call yourself, i'm NOT convinced in that matter, you can say....

you do not believe that people are ugly,fat,short ects ects ?

[AL14]

Perfectionism doesn't mean perfect. Kubica is working hard and can be a perfectionist even if he crashes. Bur it's undeniable there's something wrong like for example his approach to the sport and probably his stubborness using that approach (I don't know if he is stubborn since I don't know him personally but it seems so).

[skarderud]

you do not believe that people are ugly,fat,short ects ects ?
I'm an adult guy, i'm NOT on your lowlife level...

[N.O.T]

Perfectionism doesn't mean perfect. Kubica is working hard and can be a perfectionist even if he crashes. Bur it's undeniable there's something wrong like for example his approach to the sport and probably his stubborness using that approach (I don't know if he is stubborn since I don't know him personally but it seems so).

In that sense every person in this world is a perfectionist... we just have different standards what perfect is...

[N.O.T]

I'm an adult guy, i'm NOT on your lowlife level...

so you believe in lowlifes but not ugliness... interesting... both are traits of human nature though, you just pick to accept some and i pick to accept everything...

[N.O.T]

He can drive almost as good as you can annoy people.

the difference is he tries to drive fast and fails... i do not try to annoy, yet i succeed...

[stefanvv]

Perfectionism doesn't mean perfect. Kubica is working hard and can be a perfectionist even if he crashes.

No he can't, because it is not his goal.

[Mariusz]

No he can't, because it is not his goal.
What is his goal, in your opinion?

[stefanvv]

What is his goal, in your opinion?

:) I couldn't know for 100%, but I doubt it is to crash

[AL14]

In that sense every person in this world is a perfectionist... we just have different standards what perfect is...


No he can't, because it is not his goal.

Don't want to transform a rally forum in a semantic forum but...

per·fec·tion·ism (pər-fĕk′shə-nĭz′əm)
n.
1. A propensity for being displeased with anything that is not perfect or does not meet extremely high standards.

So, one can have a propention but not be perfect. Kubica does apparently, other kind of people don't.

[latek]

so you believe in lowlifes but not ugliness... interesting... both are traits of human nature though, you just pick to accept some and i pick to accept everything...

I understand your criticism of the way he drives, but why you actually are so obsessed with his ugliness? Let's be honest, no one likes ugliness in people because that's how our brains work but pointing that out all the time is just in bad taste.

[stefanvv]

Don't want to transform a rally forum in a semantic forum but...

per·fec·tion·ism (pər-fĕk′shə-nĭz′əm)
n.
1. A propensity for being displeased with anything that is not perfect or does not meet extremely high standards.

So, one can have a propention but not be perfect. Kubica does apparently, other kind of people don't.

So, and, therefore.... What of it he has propensity? Does he do something about it, or just stays with it's propensity and doesn't know what to do?
Yes, he is perfectionist by definition, but not by heart.

[AL14]

So, and, therefore.... What of it he has propensity? Does he do something about it, or just stays with it's propensity and doesn't know what to do?
Yes, he is perfectionist by definition, but not by heart.

That's why I wrote he seems stubborn. As I said I think he really work hard but in the wrong direction.

[Ounin]

I think Kubica has a professional approach that is near perfectionism, you have to if you've reached F1, even being a potential future world champion. Due to an accident he was forced to do something else. Now 2015, he has chosen the path of his own team; car , tyres ,etc etc all within available budgets and possibilities. If you see how dedicated he is, how he handles his disability, how he takes the recce with endless discussions with his co driver, his approach is utter professionalism and you could sense he took his perfectionalism to the rally sport. Only thing he lacks is experience and mileage, and maybe after the period he set himself to decide whether he is talented enough to do this job, he can make the next step in his career, as perfectionists tend to do.

[stefanvv]

Ah yeah, the mileage. How the crashes help in that?

[Mariusz]

Of course any moment that doesn't allow to go further causes to miss mileage, why are you even asking this?

[AL14]

Of course any moment that doesn't allow to go further causes to miss mileage, why are you even asking this?

To say that if you need experience the last thing you do is driving like him.

[stefanvv]

Al is right, with every crash he misses the opportunity to do more and learn more. Driving on the limit is not always the thing someone should do, depending on the priority this can vary....

[Mariusz]

To say that if you need experience the last thing you do is driving like him.
I get that, but maybe he doesn't have time to go Evans' route by going slower and to try increase pace by little bit every year. Or if he wants to get to a factory team he knows that they're quite a lot of drivers who can drive just to get 'some' points, but there are not too many who can win a rally? I don't think there are too many people you actually know what he is thinking...

[stefanvv]

Do You really think he can win a rally?

[Jarek Z]

I get that, but maybe he doesn't have time to go Evans' route by going slower and to try increase pace by little bit every year.

Isn't Evans' way the right way?


Or if he wants to get to a factory team he knows that they're quite a lot of drivers who can drive just to get 'some' points, but there are not too many who can win a rally?

The problem is that Kubica is neither of them. He can't drive to get "some" points for the team and he can't win rallies. What factory team would want someone like him?


I don't think there are too many people you actually know what he is thinking...

That is very true.

[N.O.T]

In rallying i cannot recall a champion or a contender that started slow and became champion/fast

No matter the age you either show you have the speed to become somebody in this sport early (Ogier,Loeb,Hirvonen, gronholm ects ects) or you just struggle your whole life and you wait to become fast by gaining experience and you end up being good just to win local village events with hard to pronounce names (Warmbold,Prokop,wilson,ostberg ects ects)

Kubica has winning speed but he is not a rally driver, simply because he does not know his limits and will never learn them... it is a bit sad, because the hard part is the speed and the consistency somehow comes (Ogier in his early days hadd a lot of mistakes with the citroen... i recall 5 crashes/spins in a singlestage in cyprus).

I really liked him in his early days driving the clio in those italian events and then with the skoda because he had the right approach and despite coming from a sport i hate with a passion beyond belief i supported him and wanted to see what he can do...

But facts are facts... behind the wheel of a rallycar he just does not have what it takes to become a rally driver at the very top level, he is simply a danger to himself, his codriver, the fans and the reputation of this sport.

Is he a good driver ?
of course !!! ?
is he a great driver ?
of course !!
is he an amazing driver ??
of course !!!
Is he a rally driver ??
NO !!!!!

His fellow country men can say whatever they want to support him but they will always lose and cry because you cannot fight against the truth, because truth is a 7.0 foot roid raged freak and carries a baseball bat...

you can create as many threads as you want, you may call his doubters as many names as you want, you may find a million excuses for his incompetence as a rally driver and you may wait for a million years for him to improve.... but at the end of the day he is just not good enough...

[Mariusz]

Do You really think he can win a rally?
Yes, I really do. He is fast enough to win a tarmac wrc rally.


Isn't Evans' way the right way?
In the long term it is the right way. You start with lowest car classes, regional championships then you climb through national championships, then you try some European cups and with the progress of skills you become a factory driver. Easy, isn't it?


The problem is that Kubica is neither of them. He can't drive to get "some" points for the team and he can't win rallies. What factory team would want someone like him?
You're mistaken. His 2013 wrc2 season was mostly to drive for points. I disagree about winning too, he can do it.

[stefanvv]

I don't mean Kubica to drive slow, he probably can't do that. To be prudent is another case, to know when to push - when You have the confidence, or not when You don't have enough.
Ogier is very special case, when being at the beginning used to crash a lot, even some really silly crashes, but the difference is that he learns from them and now when he pushes really hard, and I mean really hard on some occasions, he doesn't do mistakes, and if any they are very small, why is that? The answer can be found in his driving style, it seem very fast, and probably for some risky, but it is not - he just knows how to gain the most of it.
As for Evans, he knows very well he can't match the speed of VW drivers ATM and seem to gather just experience for now. I don't think he fights for a podium these 2 years. May be in the future he will, but he has big weakness as it seems - the gravel. So if he doesn't progress there, he will never be a champion. Loeb also hadn't confidence in WRC gravel rallies at the beginning, but he had a chance to learn, and learn he did.

[stefanvv]

Yes, I really do. He is fast enough to win a tarmac wrc rally.

Lets hope You're right, but until he learn to manages the risk, I doubt it.

[Ounin]

I think we are not the ones to judge him. The only one to do that is Kubica himself, is think he has set his own goals and time schedule, so let's wait and see whether there will be a pressconference or some podiums. I think his goal has to be finding the balance between speed and the finish.
Just want to say a thing about winning; at this moment there is only one car you can win with. So the question can Kubica can win is not relevant.
Also it is not relevant to discribe his country men and how they look like. I am sure he has fans all over the world which I can imagine.

[thuGG]

Oh I dunno. Personally I don't pay much attention to rich guys just playing around but some guy with a really obnoxious name wrote this:


I didn't conclude....I responded to that bolded statement and explained what I have seem when motorsports people and fans talk about perfection and perfectionism in general, then made a qualified statement ---didya notice the word "maybe"?

Are you having problems with the subject/verb thing or just trying to live up to your "screen persona"?


Listen man, seems you didn't really understand what you have read.

Here's what I wrote: "he was percieved as perfectionist", it means he was seen by OTHER people and described by OTHER people as that.

Then you wrote: "Thus one pretending/claiming, using as excuse "perfection" is a BSer or a mental case...".
So where is he claiming or pretending to be one? Can you give me some quotes? No, because he never said anything about him being perfectionist, other people called him that. But you called him mental because you imagined something.

So again, try to read and understand what you are reading.


Also, I don't know what is that "screen persona", you are talking about.

[raybak]

A current team manager in the WRC once said to me that he would rather have a quick guy who crashes a bit to mould into a winner than a slow guy who never crashes.

Ray

[AL14]

Yes but Kubica crashes a lot, not a bit, and he doesnt win either

[Ounin]

Yes but Kubica crashes a lot, not a bit, and he doesnt win either

Before even thinking of winning you need to crash al lot; you need to know the limits of yourself, co- driver and car. At every rally, at every class, every year.

[N.O.T]

Before even thinking of winning you need to crash al lot; you need to know the limits of yourself, co- driver and car. At every rally, at every class, every year.

Kubica gives "a lot" a new meaning though...

i cannot remember any driver that crashed that much before winning and did anything in this sport or even won...

[AL14]

Before even thinking of winning you need to crash al lot; you need to know the limits of yourself, co- driver and car. At every rally, at every class, every year.

That's true, it has been said Ogier himself was a crasher in his early years. But Kubica is a "bit" more extreme and he's not really managing to overcome it. His approach is just wrong, he explained it himself, he wants to "force" his learning curve but this is not the way a rally driver learn. 4 crashes in 3 rallys in his second year is something that don't give you hope for a win. He has to change it, learn his limits, have a strategy and other stuff that we've already talked about.
I really really hope you are right but I fear you are not.

[Ounin]

As a reaction to NOT's remark he never remembered a driver crashing so much:

I can only remember drivers who came from lower classes in rallying, not from F1. So there is hardly any other comparison available in this rare situation. Maybe Kimi, Muller, Sarazzin, Hirschi, Ragues etc etc but no one is doing full WRC.

[Mariusz]

4 crashes in 3 rallys in his second year is something that don't give you hope for a win. He has to change it, learn his limits, have a strategy and other stuff that we've already talked about.
I really really hope you are right but I fear you are not.
This 4 crashes in 3 rallies keeps repeating here, but it seems like you are counting car failures in your figures. He was out of the road 2 times and had 1 car failure (which resulted in a crash) in Monte Carlo, Sweden was pretty clean in driving and 1 crash in Mexico. But if you count any moment as a crash, well, then you're also off in your numbers.

[N.O.T]

As a reaction to NOT's remark he never remembered a driver crashing so much:

I can only remember drivers who came from lower classes in rallying, not from F1. So there is hardly any other comparison available in this rare situation. Maybe Kimi, Muller, Sarazzin, Hirschi, Ragues etc etc but no one is doing full WRC.

Kubica has a lot of experience in rallying through village events,erc,wrc2 ects ects... if this was his 1st or even 2nd year in the sport straight from F1 then somehow all these crashes could be justified somehow but still the guy is laughable... he has more crashes than starts...lol

[AL14]

This 4 crashes in 3 rallies keeps repeating here, but it seems like you are counting car failures in your figures. He was out of the road 2 times and had 1 car failure (which resulted in a crash) in Monte Carlo, Sweden was pretty clean in driving and 1 crash in Mexico. But if you count any moment as a crash, well, then you're also off in your numbers.
Ok they are not 4 but does it chance something if they're 3? Last year he had a clear run in Argentina and he was practically having a walk. In all the other rallys he crashed at least once. How can't you say that something is wrong with him?

[thuGG]

Yes, he crashes a lot, he should crash less if he wants to achieve something.
You know it.
I know it.
NOT knows it.
He also knows it.

Do you think he goes to rally with attitude to crash? He wants to improve on that and he made it clear, but he also doesn't want to loose too much speed, because according to him, driving slowly also isn't the way to go. That's because the car behaves and works differently when being pushed, you learn more about the car, setup etc, when you are closer to the limit. That's why he tries to balance this somehow, but it's clear he is not there yet. Time will tell if he find his way or continue to fail.
I just don't get why it's that annoying for some of you, let him be. He is not stealing seat from anybody, so why do you care? And don't say it's about safety, because that's just BS.

[stefanvv]

Driving fast is stretchy term in rallying. There is huge difference between Ogier's "driving fast", and Kubica's one. That is the direction he should work hard upon, not slowing down.

[dimviii]

The rhythms of the WRC are very high, between tests, travel expenses related to promotional events, and the same duration of the race weekend (which are well over a weekend), there is little time available to a pilot. But during breaks I will find the time, readers OmniCorse.it, to tell you the story of my second season in the WRC, an important step for my future racing. Waiting for the next event on the calendar, the Rally of Argentina, take this opportunity to summarize those that have so far been the stages of the World already disputed. Three major races, because for me they represented the beginning of a new adventure, with so many unknowns and things to check. I will give you my point of view, what will happen to my championship race by race, but also on the general affairs of the WRC.

THREE RACES WORLD IN A MONTH AND A HALF
Within a month and a half we played three rally antipodes by types and needs. Monte Carlo is a race unpredictable, because the variable weather is always ready to change all plans. This year we saw underlying conditions including ice, snow, dry, wet and mud all possible variables. Then we moved to Sweden, one of the most difficult races for me. To familiarize yourself with the conditions of this rally is only one way: run it. I could only count on the experience of 2014, compared with a competition on this front is definitely provided me. I fielded what I have seen and worked in 2014, making significant progress. Then it was the turn of Mexico, a race beautiful and difficult, especially for the type of fund. It is very variable, because of a test of 50km you can find five or six different types of conditions.

I CHOSE A TEAM SMALL AND TIRES PIRELLI
After three races so demanding I had a lot of feedback. Start by positive ones, or by a fast acceleration performance that I think it was good, in all conditions. This year I focused on a small team, and the Pirelli tires on the front and "tires" signs have been very good. It is not easy for a driver to change tire supplier, because you have to rebuild the "feeling" that allows you to enjoy hundred center of the material available. But my apprenticeship was immediately very good, especially on the Swedish snow. Even on earth I think Pirelli tires can guarantee good performance, but I have yet to find the right harmony.

I WON THE SPECIAL IN ALL THREE RALLY 2015
This my lack of experience will be one of the fronts on which I will have to work more in the next races on the calendar, but I am optimistic about the possibility of fast growth. For now, the performance was still good, we won the special stages in all three rallies, despite being a year "zero" for the team with which I am disputing the World Cup 2015. We speak of a small and private, is the beginning of a new adventure for all, and with a Ford "customers.

PAGO LACK OF EXPERIENCE
We come to the fronts from which they come for now indications of improvement. At first I put my consistency of performance, or the need to be able to realize a significant speed potential. The experience factor in the World Rally is crucial. When I started this experience, I knew that I would be confronted with opponents who were engaged in this context for more than ten years, and unlike automobile "pistaiole", there is the opportunity to try on the race.

WE MUST IMPROVE WORK IN TEST
A rally the world and acquire know him year after year, so every time I have to deal with this disability who is not indifferent. I think I will have to improve with the team also work in testing, because even if they take place away from the race are still important to develop the technical material. Unfortunately, in this first part of the season was not able to use this opportunity to so many problems, which have ended up influencing my little evidence available. We need a more efficient, and we will have to get to work. But I will keep you updated, race after race in the course of the entire 2015 season after me ...

http://www.omnicorse.it/magazine/50653/dossier-wrc-kubica-vi-racconto-la-mia-esperienza-nel-mondiale

[BDunnell]

Yes, he crashes a lot, he should crash less if he wants to achieve something.
You know it.
I know it.
NOT knows it.
He also knows it.

Do you think he goes to rally with attitude to crash? He wants to improve on that and he made it clear, but he also doesn't want to loose too much speed, because according to him, driving slowly also isn't the way to go. That's because the car behaves and works differently when being pushed, you learn more about the car, setup etc, when you are closer to the limit. That's why he tries to balance this somehow, but it's clear he is not there yet. Time will tell if he find his way or continue to fail.
I just don't get why it's that annoying for some of you, let him be. He is not stealing seat from anybody, so why do you care? And don't say it's about safety, because that's just BS.

I believe it's all but impossible for someone to switch disciplines to the modern 'flat out all the time' WRC and expect either to succeed or not crash a lot. He's merely doing what you have to do to win these days, namely be on the limit constantly with no let-up. It's not surprising that he should, generally, set some blinding stage times and then crash. Twenty-five or so years ago he would probably have been sensational.

[Mariusz]

Yesterday Kubica was driving Lamborghini Huracán and testing Pirelli tires on Autodromo Monza. Some pictures here (https://twitter.com/NascarEuroFans/status/580394661069643777). There are of course already rumors about him taking part in the actual race on April 11-12, but in my opinion it's not going to happen.

[Jarek Z]

Bad news about Kubica. According to Auto Hebdo after his conflict with M-Sport Kubica now has a conflict with A-Style. It is not sure what car and in what team he will be driving. What's wrong with this guy?!
http://www.sport.pl/Rajd/1,131935,17856558,_Auto_Hebdo___Jesli_Kubica_sie_n ie_zmieni__nikt_nie.html#BoxSportImg
(sorry, I don't have time to translate)

[peter_85]

Bad news about Kubica. According to Auto Hebdo after his conflict with M-Sport Kubica now has a conflict with A-Style. It is not sure what car and in what team he will be driving. What's wrong with this guy?!
http://www.sport.pl/Rajd/1,131935,17856558,_Auto_Hebdo___Jesli_Kubica_sie_n ie_zmieni__nikt_nie.html#BoxSportImg
(sorry, I don't have time to translate)
Kubica wasn't satisfied about cooperation with M-Sport but I wouldn't describe it as a conflict.

Generally it's not a problem with Kubica. It's a problem with media today which publishing any stupid unconfirmed rumors to achieve more clicks.

[Jarek Z]

Now in English:
http://www.maxrally.com/2015/05/01/kubica-team-hangs-in-the-balance

[thuGG]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118789

"I can tell you for sure that I really missed not being in Argentina competing and I will be driving again in the Rally of Portugal," he said.

"Like I said, we'll work on the team and the structure and we'll come back for round five."

[Mekola]

It's a shame that Robert didn't drive in Argentina. :(

[N.O.T]

i think the end is near which is a good thing for everyone involved.

[stefanvv]

Kubica is committed to WRC - http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118789

[rallyfun]

i think the end is near which is a good thing for everyone involved.

no one cares what you think

[Rallyper]

Kubica gets his new upgraded Fiesta from M-sport. All is set and confirmed.

[AL14]

Will he run with A-Style or M-Sport?

[WUff1]

Kubica back to M-Sport (also for service), A-Style is history.

http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/wm/2015/Rallye-WM/WRC-Portugal-Rallye-Kubica-im-neuen-M-Sport-Fiesta-196580.html

[stefanvv]

Kubica back to M-Sport (also for service), A-Style is history.

http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/wm/2015/Rallye-WM/WRC-Portugal-Rallye-Kubica-im-neuen-M-Sport-Fiesta-196580.html

That must be the right decision.

[Mariusz]

People from A-Style were just a half of RW WRT. Men who went to Argentina are still with Robert, so it's not a full comeback to M-Sport. I see it more like a cooperation.

[Xsara Fan]

Kubica back to M-Sport (also for service), A-Style is history.

http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/wm/2015/Rallye-WM/WRC-Portugal-Rallye-Kubica-im-neuen-M-Sport-Fiesta-196580.html

Kubica will work with M-Sport only in Portugal. After that - nobody knows yet. Info from Malcolm Wilson.

[Vaggelis27]

https://scontent-mxp.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/11218074_794626110586744_47972002481954747_n.png?o h=9665040365347e447b27a15950149a74&oe=55C34502 nice!

[Rallyper]

Let´s hope he´ll bring her back in one peace! That said i deep respect of course.

[AL14]

http://www.omnicorse.it/magazine/55537/dossier-wrc-kubica-ho-costruito-un-team-fatto-di-appassionati an article written by Kubica for an italian magazine. Hope google translate will do a good job.
If not, he basically says that he has a new team that will work together with m-sport in a first phase but the goal is to become a fully indipendent team as soon as possible.

He has choosen only people really passionate to the sport because if you want to do well the passion is very important.

He had not the time to test the new car, it means that he will test it during the race.

He cant wait for portugal.

[GigiGalliNo1]

So, new plan is to get the new Fiesta to the end of each rally intact and earn points? Continue to learn to drive or push until off-road?

[AL14]

I think he just tested the car in Portugal since he could not do it before. We will see him push like the old times in Sardinia. It is an event he enjoyed last year.

[Mariusz]

No changes in plans, so to continue to learn to drive fast and without mistakes.
In Italy his team will be again partially M-sport (3 people) together with RK WRT (4 people).

[Muchonen]

Kubica is planning to start in a small rally in Poland before Rally Poland. Probably in Rajd Warminski. Maybe it will become a polish version of Fafe? :D

[thuGG]

Also he plans to do some tarmac rally before Germany.

[Ucci]

Also he plans to do some tarmac rally before Germany.

Casentino-Italy (he won last year).

[Mariusz]

I'd be happy if he takes part in Rally de Casentino again, but I think he's looking for a rally with a tarmac type similar to the one in Rally Germany.

[marcosg]

https://www.facebook.com/kubicaonboa...0609583543540/

nice interview before Rally Poland

[marcosg]

http://eurosport.onet.pl/motorowe/rajdy-samochodowe/robert-kubica-moglbym-wybrac-latwiejszy-sposob-na-zycie/zcq3vm

kubica interview after germany

i thought he was loosing interest, but interestingly he seems commited...

[N.O.T]

I think it would be reasonable for him to miss Corsica as well and not only Oz.

[Sulland]

He might be very interesting to see in RallyCross. Might be the perfect combo for him, if he want go back to racing.

Would his arm work in Touring car or GT racing?

[N.O.T]

He might be very interesting to see in RallyCross. Might be the perfect combo for him, if he want go back to racing.

Would his arm work in Touring car or GT racing?

are car controls different in Touring cars/GT than a rally car ??

[marcosg]

driving with one hand is a challenge in any type of car...

[peter_85]

Rallycross is too boring for Kubica. Driving GT car is much easier for him, because there are no hairpins on circuits (except GP Monte Carlo) and you don't need to use handbrake.

[latek]

Kubica is not going to leave WRC for antother 5-10 years. He can stay a privater as long as he wants basically because his sponsors will never drop him. However, his goal is to be a works driver asap. In his polish interviews he is clear about what his goals are and that's not racing/rallycross/whatever other than WRC.

[thuGG]

I think you're very wrong. To me it looks like it'll be over after this season.
It doesn't look like there is enough money from sponsors (absence in Australia), and I can't see some other big sponsors for him.
He said that next year he don't want to continue like this and he won't be a works driver. So I think he'll go racing next year.

[Ucci]

I like Robert very much, I support him, I'm big fan of him, have respect....but with his limitation it is more than obviousley, that he is not capable to drive three days event on maximum....he proved to be on some stages in the top-five (which is remarkable compare to the experience he has against drivers like Sordo, Neuville, Ostberg....not to mention Prokop), but on a long term he can not hold the rythem for 300-350 km.
If a reason for this is his right arm or he still does not listen his codriver or he makes bad notes; those are questions on which we will never get the answers.
If he likes this sport so much, there are still possibilities to drive a WRC car (Czech republic, Italy) on one day events.....I know he is very popular in Italy...
On the other hand-if he insists on WRC events, than I'm afraid this is his last season (finger cross that I'm wrong).

[Simmi]

I hope Robert continues but I wouldn't blame him if he stepped away.

Every round just seems to be like a hard luck story. Even when he's not crashing or making errors there are issues with the car (driveshaft - Sweden, alternator - Finland, engine - Germany). That has to be demoralising.

[Rallyper]

Is he still in learning mode? My answer is he probably is.

[Mariusz]

Schedule of Australia is kind of unfortunate for private teams because with only one car if something goes wrong then they wouldn't be able to take part in Corsica. This may be also the same reason why Martin Prokop is skipping Australia.

[Andre Oliveira]

Dmack points system should added to WRC too. For each event non starter -> -25pts

A disgrace such kind of entry list

[Mariusz]

RK WRT is not registered as team for 2015 so it wouldn't matter, but that kind of system wouldn't help to attract more WRC private teams. Is there actually a rule now that a WRC team can skip one event without consequences?

[pantealex]

MT teams can skip, but M teams not

MT = VW2, HyundaiN, Jipocar and Fuckmatie
M = VW, Hyundai, Citroen and M-sport

[Simmi]

"Maybe one day I will become more rally driver than racing driver..."

I'm not sure these are particularly new quotes but it's interesting to hear Kubica say that. It doesn't sound like a guy who is ready to walk away from rallying.

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/august/kubica-passion/page/2752--12-12-.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

[Jarek Z]

Kubica is not going to leave WRC for antother 5-10 years. He can stay a privater as long as he wants basically because his sponsors will never drop him.

Do you really think there are sponsors who are willing to pay for another 5-10 years to see Kubica's endless crashes? Especially in such a poor country as Poland?

[Gregor-y]

Do you really think there are sponsors who are willing to pay for another 5-10 years to see Kubica's endless crashes? Especially in such a poor country as Poland?
Yes.

[Ucci]

Especially in such a poor country as Poland?

Poor ? Poland?? You are kidding us, Jarek, don't you ?? Compare to Slovenia, Croatia, not to mention Greece your conutry is Dubai.....I'm working on a regulary basis with Poland and it is unbelivable, how much mony is in your country, how strong is your economy....

Speaking for rally : compare entry list from your national rally with one of above mentioned. Everything clear?? So, don't tell me you are poor....

[N.O.T]

Kubica is more of a laughing stock than a WRC driver... i do not know if he wants or can stay for another 10-20-30 years but with so many accidents his career will end by either hurting himself again, hurst his co-driver or hurt spectators...

there is a saying "Any man can make mistakes, but only an idiot persists in his error."

Plus his physical appearance doesn't help him much to stay in the sport.

[JUF]

The GPD per capita is significantly higher in Slovenia than in Poland. Of course the GPD for the whole country is higher in Poland which is clear because of it´s bigger country size. A national championship in a small country like Slovenia can´t be more attractive than in countries like Poland, there aren´t as many possible sponsors. But back to topic: I´m sure that LOTOS will sponsor Robert as long as he wants to compete in the World Championship.

[AL14]

I´m sure that LOTOS will sponsor Robert as long as he wants to compete in the World Championship.

I'm not. I think the reason why Kubica have his sponsor is due to his popularity because he was a former F1 driver. This was very good latest years and is still working but it can last forever. Last two years you could see more article and attention towards him. Now it is slowly fading away due to his lack of results and all the accidents.

[stefanvv]

This year Monte must count for something.... crazy stuff....

[Hartusvuori]

Plus his physical appearance doesn't help him much to stay in the sport.

This here is the key factor. Every time I see him, he looks more and more of a one-armed man. It was such a tragedy that the accident happened. In full fit he could be really a winning driver in WRC, had he pursued this career. It's nice that he has the persistence and guts to continue still, in many ways he is encouraging example and there must be some passion involved as well, but - I'm not his doctor, yet I think the physical restriction is and will be his biggest obstacle forever.

[AL14]

This here is the key factor. Every time I see him, he looks more and more of a one-armed man. It was such a tragedy that the accident happened. In full fit he could be really a winning driver in WRC, had he pursued this career. It's nice that he has the persistence and guts to continue still, in many ways he is encouraging example and there must be some passion involved as well, but - I'm not his doctor, yet I think the physical restriction is and will be his biggest obstacle forever.

I think he was referring to his aesthetics. You know, the fact he is not handsome with turtle on his belly and blond flowing hairs.

[AndyRAC]

This here is the key factor. Every time I see him, he looks more and more of a one-armed man. It was such a tragedy that the accident happened. In full fit he could be really a winning driver in WRC, had he pursued this career. It's nice that he has the persistence and guts to continue still, in many ways he is encouraging example and there must be some passion involved as well, but - I'm not his doctor, yet I think the physical restriction is and will be his biggest obstacle forever.

If he hadn't had his accident, he'd still be in F1. And with very probably more wins....

[denkimi]

This here is the key factor. Every time I see him, he looks more and more of a one-armed man. It was such a tragedy that the accident happened. In full fit he could be really a winning driver in WRC, had he pursued this career. It's nice that he has the persistence and guts to continue still, in many ways he is encouraging example and there must be some passion involved as well, but - I'm not his doctor, yet I think the physical restriction is and will be his biggest obstacle forever.
almost none of his crashes have something to do with his disability. he mostly just brakes too late or goes too fast.

[itix]

I think he was referring to his aesthetics. You know, the fact he is not handsome with turtle on his belly and blond flowing hairs.

Which is really low, but at least he doesn't do it only with women involved in the sport like a lot of other people do, so at least he is consistent.

[AL14]

Which is really low, but at least he doesn't do it only with women involved in the sport like a lot of other people do, so at least he is consistent.

Equality of the sexes ;)

[Jarek Z]

Poor ? Poland?? You are kidding us, Jarek, don't you ?? Compare to Slovenia, Croatia, not to mention Greece your conutry is Dubai.....I'm working on a regulary basis with Poland and it is unbelivable, how much mony is in your country, how strong is your economy....

I'm sorry Ucci, but you must have drunk too much over the weekend :)

I'm not kidding anyone here. Poland a rich country? Where have you read such thing? Just take a look at some numbers:

Average monthly net wage 2014 values for single person, according to Eurostat:
1. Switzerland 5 130,92 € monthly
2. Norway 3 850,41 €
3. Luxembourg 3 187,82 €
(...)
United-Kingdom 2 810,26 €
(...)
Germany 2 315,20 €
(...)
France 2 223,89 €
(...)
SPAIN 1 679,21 € (this country is supposed to be in an economical crisis, right?)
(...)
GREECE 1 262,05 € (this country is supposed to be in an economical crisis, right?)
(...)
Portugal 1 056,92 €
SLOVENIA 993,80 €
Estonia 832,57 €
Croatia 775,21 €
Czech R. 725,92 €
Slovakia 664,77 €
POLAND 634,49 €
Turkey 590,35 €
Hungary 532,08 €
Lithuania 496,23 €
Latvia 379,22 €
Romania 345,56 €
Bulgaria 324,89 €

My country is Dubai? Where did you learn economy and geography? ;)

There are not many rich rally sponsors in Poland and it is very sad, that Kubica wastes the huge money from Lotos on every single rally.

[N.O.T]

Spains crisis is different than Greece, plus Spain is inhabited by humans.

[Jarek Z]

Spains crisis is different than Greece, plus Spain is inhabited by humans.

My post was based on the official EU statistics, I don't have the insider info from Greece and Spain, only first hand experience from Poland.

[Ucci]

I'm sorry Ucci, but you must have drunk too much over the weekend :)

I'm not kidding anyone here. Poland a rich country? Where have you read such thing? Just take a look at some numbers:

Average monthly net wage 2014 values for single person, according to Eurostat:
1. Switzerland 5 130,92 € monthly
2. Norway 3 850,41 €
3. Luxembourg 3 187,82 €
(...)
United-Kingdom 2 810,26 €
(...)
Germany 2 315,20 €
(...)
France 2 223,89 €
(...)
SPAIN 1 679,21 € (this country is supposed to be in an economical crisis, right?)
(...)
GREECE 1 262,05 € (this country is supposed to be in an economical crisis, right?)
(...)
Portugal 1 056,92 €
SLOVENIA 993,80 €
Estonia 832,57 €
Croatia 775,21 €
Czech R. 725,92 €
Slovakia 664,77 €
POLAND 634,49 €
Turkey 590,35 €
Hungary 532,08 €
Lithuania 496,23 €
Latvia 379,22 €
Romania 345,56 €
Bulgaria 324,89 €

My country is Dubai? Where did you learn economy and geography? ;)

There are not many rich rally sponsors in Poland and it is very sad, that Kubica wastes the huge money from Lotos on every single rally.
No, I don't drink. If you are asking what I did today-I competed on 21 km run. How much did you run today?..
Now you provocted me-I will give you concrete answer, why are you x-times richer than us (it is from my busines-selling Porsce cars).
Poland selles each year more than 400 units, on the other hand we sell 50 units. Same with MB, Audi, BMW....Tomorrow I can give you info abot numers for Tequipment.
And your country has a regular entries on Paris Dakar, in WRC, europan rally championship....do you want to hera our story???
So, who has mony and who not?

[Mirek]

What? Do You really believe in what You write? Do You think somebody can take You seriously with this crap? There is 2 million people in Slovenia and 38 million people in Poland. That is 19x more. I don't want to comment the rest. It's waste of time...

[Jarek Z]

No, I don't drink. If you are asking what I did today-I competed on 21 km run. How much did you run today?

Exactly 0 km. I hate running :)


So, who has mony and who not?

Rich countries have money. Definitely not Poland.

[Jarek Z]

What? Do You really believe in what You write? Do You think somebody can take You seriously with this crap? There is 2 million people in Slovenia and 38 million people in Poland. That is 19x more. I don't want to comment the rest. It's waste of time...

This wasn't addressed at me, was it?

[Mirek]

No, that was on Ucci and his comparing countries by some Porsche sales numbers instead of net wages, GDP per capita or other somewhat realistic economic tools...

[Ucci]

Guys, live statistics about GDP for kids....until Greece is so high, it is crap...and you are running away from the fact about the entries in WRC, EU champ.....valid also for Czech.....you have mony and PERIOD.
Look our championship and compare it with yours? Again you will give me some blablalba answers.
We can end with this comparison. Be happy where you live....

[Jarek Z]

Guys, live statistics about GDP for kids....until Greece is so high, it is crap...

Maybe it is crap, but it is still better than quoting Porsche sales, isn't it? :)


and you are running away from the fact about the entries in WRC, EU champ.....valid also for Czech.....you have mony and PERIOD.

Maybe we have more money than Slovenia, but you cannot say we are Dubai ;) And if you don't agree, have a look at the salary statistics on the previous stage once again. Slovenia is a very small and very young country. I'm not sure if it makes sense to campare it with Poland.


Look our championship and compare it with yours? Again you will give me some blablalba answers.
We can end with this comparison. Be happy where you live....

You are right. For such a poor country our national championship doesn't look bad.

[stefanvv]

There are not many rich rally sponsors in Poland and it is very sad, that Kubica wastes the huge money from Lotos on every single rally.

Seems to me that is only because of F1, it is all about marketing after all. I agree it is somewhat waste, these money could be used much better probably.... probably. But let's wish Kubica some progress next year as he is so determined to continue the learning process....

[AL14]

This is way offtopic but still an interesting argument.
For what I know you're right Poland is not a rich country but the atmosphere in your country is good because of recent growth, the ability to attract investments and a very determined young generation. At least this is what I feel in the industry I operate (web & communication), where I've had the possibility to collaborate with several polish guys.

I'm not saying there is an economic boom but this kind of situations help investments and attractiveness. This means that in an economic point of view Poland is a very good place to invest money. I would say better than a rich country that has no more the courage and the will to do great things.

Of course this doesn't mean Lotos will keep paying Kubica for decades. His F1 days start to be too much in the past and popularity without results is becoming to go down slowly.

[Simmi]

I wonder whether the future progression of Kajetanowicz will have any effect on Kubica - positive or negative? If Katjo looked to move up to WRC if he wins ERC this year (which seems likely). Obviously they have the same backer. Could that allow expansion, or only room for one?

[N.O.T]

i wonder whether the future progression of kajetanowicz will have any effect on kubica - positive or negative? If katjo looked to move up to wrc if he wins erc this year (which seems likely). Obviously they have the same backer. Could that allow expansion, or only room for one?

lol.

[itix]

1) A lot of polish people (and I mean A LOT) work abroad... as Poland don't tax these, they don't show up in statistics. Poland is probably higher up in the rank than those statistics show. Sure, it's not Scandinavia (or the nordic countries, sorry mr Warmbold) or Germany but it is still better off than a lot of the other countries on that list.

2) I think we are being unfair with Kubica. He has won a couple of stages this and last year. Sure, lately he has lost pace which is a shame. I hope he has the ability to regain it. His ultimate lack of experience is hampering him but I don't think he can blame that forever.

[Mariusz]

There are not many rich rally sponsors in Poland and it is very sad, that Kubica wastes the huge money from Lotos on every single rally.
Rallying is not waste of money and we need to keep repeating this to gain more sponsors.

[marcosg]

http://cdn-autosprint.corrieredellosport.it/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Hyundai.jpg

[pantealex]

http://cdn-autosprint.corrieredellosport.it/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Hyundai.jpg

nothing to do with Kubica!!!

[marcosg]

nothing to do with Kubica!!!
yeah... it's fake...

[Simmi]

Some quotes in Motorsport News from Kubica about next year.

He says that something needs to change as right now he has no way to be competitive in his current set up and lack of resources.

He could potentially switch sport, do less rallies/more testing, OR potentially go back to WRC2.

[Brynmor Pierce]

https://www.facebook.com/MSLMotorVehiclePreparations/videos/730857883712380/

[Mariusz]

Do you know what was he doing over there?

[Quad]

Do you know what was he doing over there?

testing :P?


if he wants to do wrc2 I would like to see him in Fabia R5

[Simmi]

Do you know what was he doing over there?

Not really sure. Some work alongside racing drivers. I know Matteo Bobbi was one of the guys there. Not sure about the other driver?

https://twitter.com/matteobobbi/status/652013673033134080?lang=en

[Simmi]

These are the Kubica quotes about next year and maybe WRC2:

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/121231?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

[rallyace]

WRC2 for Kubica next year actually sounds like a very reasonable (and clever) decision on his part (in case that is what he eventually decides upon, of course).

It's no wonder that Robert is unable to consistently compete with the biggest stars the WRC has to offer, but it seems that while he tries to stay realistic regarding his targets, deep down it seems like he expects more of himself than top 10 finishes. His own ambition might have led to his demise. Like he says: "I am too competitive just to drive around." And this is where the WRC2 comes into the picture.

Get in that car Robert, do WRC2, challenge for rally wins and develop your feeling with the car. In comparison, some Finnish drivers do dirt-biking from the age of 3 and get their first car and do amateur rallies at 12. Here we're talking about someone who used to be a circuit driver his entire life, and suddenly, in his late 20s is thrown into the world of rallying without as much as having ever been in a rally car before. And as if that wasn't enough, he has his limitations as well which would make most drivers, regardless of their level, completely unable to drive in the first place... and yet he is able to occassionally challenge the big boys until minor mistakes cost him in the end. If this man doesn't deserve one's respect within the rallying world... does anyone?

I hope he stays in professional rallying - regardless of the level. The sport in general needs people like him; people who are humble, professional and passionate about their sport. Being so underrated also means that he gives spectators a run for their money when he sets fastest stage times on stages that (seemingly) only him and Sebastién Ogier seem to excel on. He has a local following bigger than most of the biggest stars the sport has seen.

Please stay, Robert. The sport of rallying needs you.

[N.O.T]

He should go ERC first...

[RS]

He should go ERC first...

Yes, he's already won one WRC2 title. The same year he failed to finish one ERC event IIRC.

[peter_85]

Yes, he's already won one WRC2 title. The same year he failed to finish one ERC event IIRC.
And that's why he should go back to ERC? I don't think he care about winning in ERC because mostly there are not enough strong competitors.

[Quad]

in my opinion it would be better to mix for example DTM+selected WRC rounds. Earn some good money in racing and spend them on well prepared WRC car in less events

[RS]

And that's why he should go back to ERC? I don't think he care about winning in ERC because mostly there are not enough strong competitors.

But he's interested in WRC2?

[Andre Oliveira]

Maybe a WRC2 team next year :) K&K Lotos Rally Team

[Simmi]

Maybe a WRC2 team next year :) K&K Lotos Rally Team

That would be awesome! I would be interested to see where Katjo stacks up in WRC2.

[AL14]

I think that if he would not have wasted these two years with his approach, and used them to learn, he could have been ready for a competitive 2016. Maybe he could have gained a manufacturer seat too. What a pity...

[Jarek Z]

And that's why he should go back to ERC? I don't think he care about winning in ERC because mostly there are not enough strong competitors.

Really? All those competitors were better than Kubica back in 2013 when he was competing in the ERC. He couldn't even win one single rally.

[N.O.T]

The positive thing is that he came to terms with the fact he is not WRC material, so the peak of the sport will have one less danger to worry about. I think Kubica will be a nice addition to the ERC and it will be a nice opportunity for him to win events and even the championship.

[Quad]

Really? All those competitors were better than Kubica back in 2013 when he was competing in the ERC. He couldn't even win one single rally.


That was his first proper season in rallying and he was straight out faster than all of them so please... .

[peter_85]

I think that if he would not have wasted these two years with his approach, and used them to learn, he could have been ready for a competitive 2016. Maybe he could have gained a manufacturer seat too. What a pity...

I don't think these two years were completely wasted. Last Tour The Course proved that he learn something. If he would agree to do less rallies with more testing it could open chances to gain manufacturer seat.

[AL14]

I don't think these two years were completely wasted. Last Tour The Course proved that he learn something. If he would agree to do less rallies with more testing it could open chances to gain manufacturer seat.

Yes but what I meant is that he learned this two year later. Maybe if he had this kind of approach from the very first year it would have been better for him now. Let's see how it goes and hope that he will make more step forward in rally sport.

[Jarek Z]

Maybe a WRC2 team next year :) K&K Lotos Rally Team

That's a crazy idea, but I like it! :)
A combination of talented, consistent and successful driver plus a rally celebrity, that has no results, but creates much noise for the media - that could work! :D

[Jarek Z]

That was his first proper season in rallying and he was straight out faster than all of them so please... .

I know what you mean, but speed is not everything. Let's be honest. He was competing in 4 ERC rounds in 2013 and won nothing. He has never managed to beat neither Kopecky nor Breen, so how can you say he was faster then them?

1. Rally Islas Canarias El Corte Inglés

Kopecky - 1st overal
Breen - 2nd
Kubica - crashed!

2. SATA Rallye Açores

Kopecky - 1st
Breen - 2nd
Kubica - 6th

3. Tour de Corse

Kopecky - 2nd
Breen - 4th
Kubica - out of the rally after mechanical problem with fuel system

4. Rally Poland

Kopecky - 3rd
Breen - 7th
Kubica - crashed!

[thuGG]

That's a crazy idea, but I like it! :)


There are rumors here and there that Lotos will pull out from motorsport sponsorship next year.

[WUff1]

There are rumors here and there that Lotos will pull out from motorsport sponsorship next year.

So that would be bad for Kajto, too ...

[thuGG]

Yep, but TBH it may be bullshit.

[Jarek Z]

How do you like it, guys? :D

https://scontent-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-0/p600x600/10473563_972711372788737_5987970095811928946_o.jpg

[Quad]

How do you like it, guys? :D

https://scontent-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-0/p600x600/10473563_972711372788737_5987970095811928946_o.jpg


There will be no Lotos in motorsport in 2016 at all propably so I don't think so. And I think it's too early for Kajto to drive in WRC. WRC2 yes, but he must pick up much more pace if he wants to go to WRC

[Mariusz]

That's a crazy idea, but I like it! :)
A combination of talented, consistent and successful driver plus a rally celebrity, that has no results, but creates much noise for the media - that could work! :D
No results you say? His first rally season in life:
1. Vodafone Rally de Portugal - 6th
2. Acropolis Rally - 1st
3. Rally Italia Sardegna - 1st
4. Neste Oil Rally Finland - 2nd
5. ADAC Rallye Deutschland - 1st
6. Rallye de France - Alsace - 1st
7. RallyRACC Catalunya - Costa Daurada - 1st

[Jarek Z]

No results you say? His first rally season in life:
1. Vodafone Rally de Portugal - 6th
2. Acropolis Rally - 1st
3. Rally Italia Sardegna - 1st
4. Neste Oil Rally Finland - 2nd
5. ADAC Rallye Deutschland - 1st
6. Rallye de France - Alsace - 1st
7. RallyRACC Catalunya - Costa Daurada - 1st

Yes, you are right. It was his first season in WRC2 and his results were good indeed. But it wasn't his first season in life. He has been competing in rallies for nearly 10 years. And the last good result was 2 years ago :)

[dodge33cymru]

Personal opinion, he should try ERC for a year in a team with Kajto. He's always done really well at that level and it could give him victories, sponsor exposure and even a championship shot.

[Andre Oliveira]

Kajto should move to WRC2

[Mariusz]

Yes, you are right. It was his first season in WRC2 and his results were good indeed. But it wasn't his first season in life. He has been competing in rallies for nearly 10 years. And the last good result was 2 years ago :)
It was his first full rally season in his life, that was what I meant. Before that he drove mostly Renault Clio in some Italian/French tarmac rallies for fun and additional racing practice. This is not the same as driving a full rally season, really.
In my opinion being in the same team with Kajto doesn't make sense from sponsor perspective as they would be fighting each other and this is not what a sponsor wants to see the most. I think their main sponsor/partner Lotos has played it really well for the last 2 seasons as Robert and Kajto were positioned on different markets so Lotos was quite often visible to people who follow international rallies. I'm sure they are working on another good plan for the next year.

[French_Paulo]

There will be no Lotos in motorsport in 2016 at all propably so I don't think so. And I think it's too early for Kajto to drive in WRC. WRC2 yes, but he must pick up much more pace if he wants to go to WRC

No Lotos in Motorsport in 2016 ? Where did you read that ? Very bad news :(

[br21]

Nothing sure yet about Lotos decisions for 2016.

[Jarek Z]

No Lotos in Motorsport in 2016 ? Where did you read that ? Very bad news :(

There are such rumours circulating in Poland in the recent days, but nothing is confirmed. Lotos is also main sponsor of our national football team (see commercial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFQt-3oKeHI). Polish team has been playing very well in the recent months (they even managed to beat Germany 2-0) and some people are afraid that Lotos will leave motorsport and concentrate on other sport.

If you see these numbers:
- last match Poland vs Ireland 2-1 - 50 000 viewers on he stadium, 10 000 000 (!) viewers in front of TV screens
- last rally won by Kajto (Acropolis) - 1609 viewers of Kajto's YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/KajtoPl)
then the interest in rallying looks miserable.

[Jarek Z]

I'm sure they are working on another good plan for the next year.

Let's hope for the best!

[AL14]

If you see these numbers:
- last match Poland vs Ireland 2-1 - 50 000 viewers on he stadium, 10 000 000 (!) viewers in front of TV screens
- last rally won by Kajto (Acropolis) - 1609 viewers of Kajto's YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/KajtoPl)
then the interest in rallying looks miserable.

Although I fully understand what you mean and I agree with your concern I would not quantify an investment in this way. I'm pretty sure they also are not doing it.
They do not compare sports audience quantity but the outcomes in relation with investment (otherwise everyone would be putting their money only on football leaving all the other sports alone). In motorsport they have a more little audience but it is not broad like the football one. It is a completely different investment because the public in motorsport is a bit more "near" the purchase action, it is already a "selected" public while in football it is not.

Let's hope they will remain though, they sponsor rally Poland and two polish driver. It's important to have your country so committed in rally world.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I hope Kubica and LOTOS stay in the WRC ...

If only because its the only current WRC skin I have for DiRT !!

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

[pantealex]

I hope Kubica and LOTOS stay in the WRC ...

If only because its the only current WRC skin I have for DiRT !!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/EddieFocus/00f58829-48fe-4696-a2b1-932dc8666b6f_zps7phxryvt.jpg
Old fiesta!
or is that only for beginning of season?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Old fiesta!
or is that only for beginning of season?

Yes its the Monte Carlo 2015 car ...

I've also found this skin - Prokop:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/EddieFocus/eb261e20-4138-43e9-b79c-5e3ce57a3c92_zps0nrnxhvk.jpg

Great the eastern European fans creating these Fiesta liveries for DiRT ... pity there's none for the M-Sport team ! :(

[thuGG]

Some quotes from inteview in Polish (fast translation by me, so sorry for all mistakes):



I just said, there is a strong chance I won't do full season (next year). I preciselly said that I'd be surprised if I do full season next year. There is nothing strange about it. I don't know how many rallies I'll do and how my program will look like. I want to change few things though.
My program will strongly depend on budget. I'm a private driver for small private team and rallying is expensive sport. Everyone, including me, would like to see me fighting at the top, but to do that we need all the tools. OK, I learned a lot last few years and I improved a lot as a driver, but there is need for the whole package.
It's not like I'm blaming the budget and what we have for it. However, it would be easier if this engagement (sponsor?) was bigger. On the other hand, I understood that for a private team it's better to do less rallies, but be better prepared for them, not rushing and chasing time all the time trying to do all the rounds. Better to concentrate on quality than quantity. You can't fight if for example last time you drove on gravel was 3 months ago, and that's the situation now (before Spain). How can you fight with the best in that situation?
I have very good partners. Many people like seeing me in WRC, but they have to thank my sponsors. Without them I wouldn't be here. Without them, in 2013, I wouldn't start my rallying, let's call it career in WRC. The reality is that we compete against factory teams having way smaller potential. That's motorsport. You can come closer, but not enough. And these last steps demand not only bigger budget but also more attention and care about small details and perfection. That's why I'm saying that if I stay in WRC, it's going to be better to do less rallies, but prepare for them properly.
Thanfully rallies are not the only option for next year. We will see...



To me it looks like he will stay as privateer, he will probably drop all overseas rallies in favor to more testing. Maybe he will mix some racing with all this.
Definetly looks like he won't leave rallying.

[maciotacio]

This weekend brings us two really good intervierws about Bobby. First one is with David Evand, and the second one with Colin Clark. It's really worth to take some time and read it, but unfortunately it's only in Polish. Don't know whether google translate can handle this.

http://sportowefakty.wp.pl/rajdy-samochodowe/555663/david-evans-kubica-zasluguje-na-prawdziwa-szanse
http://www.sport.pl/moto/1,64997,19083978,colin-clark-to-bylby-wstyd-dla-cyklu-wrc-gdyby-roberta-kubicy.html

[Simmi]

Seeing him again this weekend in Spain just reinforced what I think about Kubica.

Every time you see him come through a stage he is either extremely quick or he is very spectacular. Often both at the same time.

It's easy to sit in a darkened room and criticize - but I think for anyone who has witnessed him in a rally car there is no way you'd want a guy like that to leave the WRC.

[Quad]

Kubica trough chicane
https://www.facebook.com/BPSRacingOfficiel/videos/1141461075881352/

His braking skill is insane

[denkimi]

Kubica trough chicane
https://www.facebook.com/BPSRacingOfficiel/videos/1141461075881352/

His braking skill is insane

no, he just brakes too late as usual. only this time he just destroyed part of his tyres and not the rest of the car.

[Quad]

no, he just brakes too late as usual. only this time he just destroyed part of his tyres and not the rest of the car.

go away

[N.O.T]

no, he just brakes too late as usual. only this time he just destroyed part of his tyres and not the rest of the car.

Lol... naughty boy.

[Sulland]

I hope RK combines a Fabia wrc2 and RX supercar campaign in 16.
He can win races in both, and has a fair chance on the wrc2 trophy imo!

[itix]

I believe he already have a WRC2 cup sitting at home somewhere.

Some people may say he didn't earn it... Maybe yes, maybe no. I won't dwell on that, but I really hope he doesn't go to rally cross... That would be a massive shame.

[Lord_Shaitan]

Kubica trough chicane
https://www.facebook.com/BPSRacingOfficiel/videos/1141461075881352/

His braking skill is insane
Even in F1 his ability to be very late on the brakes was exceptional. Still remember well Australian GP `10 when M.Brundle was shocked by Rob braking so much later than Hamilton numerous times.

[Bartek]

I hope RK combines a Fabia wrc2 and RX supercar campaign in 16.
He can win races in both, and has a fair chance on the wrc2 trophy imo!

AFAIK RX is not possible with his hand.

[itix]

Someone wisely mentioned that Kubica has his own thread and as a friend of order, I shall deliver my answer here:

then why does he only has 8 points in 12 rally's?
perhaps he doesn't always bins it completely, but he makes serious mistakes everytime.

the only rally that can be called good for him, was poland. when he only lost 2 minutes to ogier.


raikkonen did a lot better than kubica. he didn't win stages, but he managed to get results.
kubica had done 39 rally's before he shifted to a full wrc season, raikkonen had done 4.

raikkonen: 59 points in 21 wrc rally's
kubica: 22 points in 24 wrc rally's
http://www.ewrc-results.com/profile.php?p=6450&sct=1
http://www.ewrc-results.com/profile.php?p=8567&sct=1

yet kubica scored 18 points in 7 rally's in wrc2, so it seems he knows how to drive fast.

Do I need to remind you that Prokop currently has 39 points this season? And absolutely no one... not even die hard Czech fans, would call Prokop a world class driver. I can accept that Kresta in his days was a good driver, but not Prokop. If you call Raikkonen good for collecting 59 points in two seasons, then Prokop must be like god to you.

...and by the same logic, Khalid Al Qassimi must also be a better driver since he has more points (9 vs 8)... c'mon, no one falls for that, a guy that regularly gets beaten by half the WRC2 field is not better.

[N.O.T]

Kimi was just a hamburger boy and a disgrace... a laughing stock... maybe he was bullied at school as a boy and became like that, i do not know, i hope he wasn't because that will make me sad.

What Kubica tries to do is hard and of course he gets respect for that... the speed is there but he cannot combine it with consistency... it is a bit sad because the hard part is to get the speed right usually.

Rallying at the top level is not a sport for Kubica... he does not have the complete package to succeed so it is better for him to accept that and move on to lesser championships or lesser sports...

[liposh]

Do I need to remind you that Prokop currently has 39 points this season? And absolutely no one... not even die hard Czech fans, would call Prokop a world class driver. I can accept that Kresta in his days was a good driver, but not Prokop.

Approved by me as Czech fan ;-) In my opinion Prokop would be star in ERC or even in WRC2 (with strategy of collecting points, because nobody can be so insanely quick as Lappi, but Lappi also crash) , but WRC itself is top level. And Prokop and his strategy of collecting points is OK, but not something that would blow your mind. BUT Prokop did his job well this season and that was the target.

BTW. Sometimes I wonder why Prokop even after 9 (or more) seasons in top class is not able to remember some special stage and push just because of fun. Like for example : "Hey, I have done here 17 racing passes thru this special stage and I know it and I like it here, I can push without any risk."

[AL14]

Prokop is a true rally driver, always looking at the big picture and not focusing on the moment. he could aim trophies in lowest levels but since he has the possibility he stays with the top guys. Of course he misses the talent and speed to match factory drivers times but among the privateers he can be called the best.

[b3637853]

Prokop is a true rally driver, always looking at the big picture and not focusing on the moment. he could aim trophies in lowest levels but since he has the possibility he stays with the top guys. Of course he misses the talent and speed to match factory drivers times but among the privateers he can be called the best.

It's good that Prokop knows his limitations and settles for finishing events to gain places by other drivers crashes. But like liposh wrote, why couldn't he just push in his favourite rallies? I mean he might get his podium in Argentina or something but it will be pure luck. His way is ok for him, but not for Kubica.
We will see how he will do on next year's Dakar as he should good in this type of events.

[AL14]

It's good that Prokop knows his limitations and settles for finishing events to gain places by other drivers crashes. But like liposh wrote, why couldn't he just push in his favourite rallies? I mean he might get his podium in Argentina or something but it will be pure luck. His way is ok for him, but not for Kubica.
We will see how he will do on next year's Dakar as he should good in this type of events.

Yes, pheraps he could dare sometimes, maybe he does it but we do not notice it :)

[PLuto]

It's good that Prokop knows his limitations and settles for finishing events to gain places by other drivers crashes. But like liposh wrote, why couldn't he just push in his favourite rallies? I mean he might get his podium in Argentina or something but it will be pure luck. His way is ok for him, but not for Kubica.
We will see how he will do on next year's Dakar as he should good in this type of events.

For me this is really pity. I was at the beginning of his international career, in first years in JWRC I liked his motivation, style when he was always trying to fight, to improve yourself, to be faster. But later in JWRC and SWRC, he lost this "drive" and focused on reliability. And I think that this is his problem - he can go lets say on 95% of his speed constantly without mistakes. But he is not abel to switch to another level and go to his limits...

[N.O.T]

Prokop lost it somewhere between the special stage and the local Mcdonalds...

I really believe that if he suddenly stops from rallying maybe 1 or 2 guys who are autistic with counting WRC cars on each entry list will notice... he does not offer anything.

[PLuto]

Prokop lost it somewhere between the special stage and the local Mcdonalds...

I really believe that if he suddenly stops from rallying maybe 1 or 2 guys who are autistic with counting WRC cars on each entry list will notice... he does not offer anything.

But we need to have drivers like Prokop - rallysport is not only about winner, but also about "the others". And only from this "the others" we can have new champions in future. Martin will never be champion, but at least he is good benchmark for newcomers or young drivers.

[thuGG]

he does not offer anything.

He doesn't have to. If he has passion and likes to just drive WRC car and have the possibility, then let him be.

[WUff1]

Compared to Bertelli he´s a top driver.

[N.O.T]

But we need to have drivers like Prokop - rallysport is not only about winner, but also about "the others". And only from this "the others" we can have new champions in future. Martin will never be champion, but at least he is good benchmark for newcomers or young drivers.

In rallysport yes in the WRC no... at least not after so many years.

[Andre Oliveira]

Prokop is smart. The money must be save and is regular without crashes and other issues. The car is reliable. I expected more from him but FIA don't support privateers to give him other objectives.

We have same history with Armindo Araújo, he was much more faster than we saw on PWRC years but losted in save car, save money,....

[AL14]

In rallysport yes in the WRC no...

Why?

[raybak]

We have to have privateers, without them there isn't a rally. Who want's to see 4 factory cars competing and no one else. This is what has made the sport at all levels.

I have been a novice, a club level, a state level, a national and finally an international competitor. We need all these levels and have people who are novice's dream about the day they can do a State round, then a National round and maybe one day compete at WRC. They are not there to win, but to live a dream and make up the numbers. We have to have them or there is no sport.

And if you tell me I don't know anything then you don't know the sport that I live and love.

Ray

[N.O.T]

Why?

because you lower the value of the product by allowing every dog to take part... they should be allowed to try but not continue after some years of useless driving.

[wia5958]

because you lower the value of the product by allowing every dog to take part... they should be allowed to try but not continue after some years of useless driving.

Thats probably the most ridiculous statement ive heard. How has kubica and prokop lowered the value? If anything he has increased it. Im sure there are people who tune into check how kubica has done probably check out his crashes on youtube that raises the profile of the sport. Look at how vatanen and mcrae raised it in the 80s and 90s with their flat out driving and frequent crashes. Im not saying kubicas capable of being a world champ but kubica has every right to be a competitor on the stages theres only one type of person lowers the value of the product and thats biggots like you who run down a competitor who entertains and gives it his all yes prokop isnt a flat out flamboyant driver. But i dont see the czech team knocking on your door to drive their fiesta you really do let the rallying community down as far as i can remember rallying has always been about supporting each other

[thuGG]

because you lower the value of the product by allowing every dog to take part... they should be allowed to try but not continue after some years of useless driving.

Why not leave Ogier only in the championship? You would have the highest average value.

[AndyRAC]

The sport and events can't survive with only works teams. Allowing Joe Bloggs on the same stages as the World Champion was always the sports unique selling point.

I'm sure it was DR who was keen on cutting entry lists, so that the sport became more like F1 - another move which hasn't worked.

[PLuto]

because you lower the value of the product by allowing every dog to take part... they should be allowed to try but not continue after some years of useless driving.

It is same situation like we should say to allow you to try to write into this forum and not continue after some years of useless writing.

[N.O.T]

It is same situation like we should say to allow you to try to write into this forum and not continue after some years of useless writing.

the problem is in the WRC you have a standard to compare, in a forum you do not.

[PLuto]

the problem is in the WRC you have a standard to compare, in a forum you do not.

What is "standard"? And who is the person to decide what is standard and what isnt?

[N.O.T]

What is "standard"? And who is the person to decide what is standard and what isnt?

In Rallying the standard is easy to be determined using the timer in most cases.

[thuGG]

In Rallying the standard is easy to be determined using the timer in most cases.

Ok, so where is the cut off ? Who sets the cut off?

[Jarek Z]

Ok, so where is the cut off ? Who sets the cut off?

The public. If the public sees more drivers like Prokop, they will not watch rallying anymore.

N.O.T put it in a (too) brutal way, but he is right. People want to see competition on a good level. If everybody drives like Prokop then the public will turn away from rallying and watch Champions League instead.

[N.O.T]

Ok, so where is the cut off ? Who sets the cut off?

the winner of the event most of the times, and just to be ahead of you with some answers the sky is blue and the sun rises from the east....

[thuGG]

the winner of the event most of the times, and just to be ahead of you with some answers the sky is blue and the sun rises from the east....

Would you be happy with only Ogier in WRC?

[N.O.T]

The public.

you cannot trust the public too much... most of them prefer to count WRCs, clapping like dicks with ears around hairpins and taking pictures of lakes.... you have to trust the selected few like myself.

[N.O.T]

Would you be happy with only Ogier in WRC?

again you missed the point... the standard is always the winner and the best player from then on you lower the standard nomatter how good the 2nd 3rd and so on is... That is why i said we should allow people to try first for 2-3 years, if they cannot challenge the best (winning stages, apply pressure) then you just throw them in the garbage bin.. for example Hirvonen was far better than Prokop the last few years but people were happy to see him go (at least those with standards)

[Jarek Z]

you cannot trust the public too much... most of them prefer to count WRCs, clapping like dicks with ears around hairpins and taking pictures of lakes....

Maybe you are right. But even this kind of public that you described will not come to the stages if they find the show boring. And the more gentleman drivers like Prokop, the worse show in the WRC.

[DoubleD]

I don't know why everyone is getting all bent out of shape over this quite honestly, in 2011 there were 7 true Factory cars on WRGB, this year we have 12...then we have the privateer guys with WRC cars as an addition..and then a pretty competitive group of WRC2 cars and drivers. So long as those guys are an addition to the show, and not the show then I can't see why anyone has any issue with....idiots clearly.
Quite often the guys who aren't the very best with WRC cars are a bit of entertainment as they aren't always on the prefect line.
It is a million times better than watching hordes of amateur guys driving round in Group N Evo's and Subarus a few years ago, because that was truly awful as a spectacle, no noise, no commitment, no sideways....just efficient boredom.

[AL14]

Lol, are you saying that there are former enthusiastic fan that went into the stages and then one day remained suddenly shocked by Prokop's pass and thought: "oh god, no more this, this is too much I will not see any WRC event anymore"? Really?

In my opinion Prokop could be a slow driver and not a flamboyant one, but it doesn't reduce the level of competition. He is, as said pluto, a benchmark for newcomers and a protagonist too sometimes, he knows what is rally about and a is a serious and professional driver, he is also better than the ones who prefer doing the same events for years in lower competitions, in roads they can drive blind, just to bring a trophy at home. I think this does not low the level at all.

[Mariusz]

again you missed the point... the standard is always the winner and the best player from then on you lower the standard nomatter how good the 2nd 3rd and so on is... That is why i said we should allow people to try first for 2-3 years, if they cannot challenge the best (winning stages, apply pressure) then you just throw them in the garbage bin.. for example Hirvonen was far better than Prokop the last few years but people were happy to see him go (at least those with standards)
Using this criteria all current privateers are staying then. Prokop and Kubica have been winning stages, Bertelli has been in WRC for one year so far.

[b3637853]

Using this criteria all current privateers are staying then. Prokop and Kubica have been winning stages, Bertelli has been in WRC for one year so far.

Prokop won 3 stages and 2 of them where probably mikey-mouse like where he had advantage of Pirelli tyres. Bertelli is just a rich boy having fun crashing million euro car on every rally. Maybe there should be license for driving WR car on decent level?

[manthey]

http://www.omnicorse.it/magazine/69059/wrc-rally-di-spagna-robert-kubica-fa-chiarezza-sul-suo-futuro-nel-motorsport-per-il-2016

"At the moment I don't know if I will compete in 3 or 5 or 7 wrc races"

[dimviii]

http://www.omnicorse.it/magazine/69059/wrc-rally-di-spagna-robert-kubica-fa-chiarezza-sul-suo-futuro-nel-motorsport-per-il-2016

"At the moment I don't know if I will compete in 3 or 5 or 7 wrc races"

from google translate
Before telling my Spanish Rally, a race in which I have lived a good time, I would like to take this opportunity to clarify the statements that I made on the eve of the race Iberian about my future. Actually, I did not say anything new, but some wanted to embroider a bit 'above. Exactly one year ago it described more or less the same situation, perhaps in the latter occasion I was more determined, because I have improved a lot over the course of this season.

I DO CLARITY ON MY FUTURE
The present state of things, in 2016 I do not think we can play a lot of evidence of the World, both for reasons of structure and budget, two aspects that are actually connected. This season, I knew from the beginning that it would not be possible to make a full WRC program, then half year I had to structure a team from scratch, complicating even more the problem of the budget. And in 2016, at the time, I see nothing that makes me hope for a leap forward.

WITH A TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL 'HARD
To fight for important goals, the life of a private team is very tough. It always depends on someone, you do not have control over all technical aspects, and this makes the road very uphill against a team official. Obviously without considering the means available. At present I do not know if I can play, three, five or seven games. Something can always change, but right now this is the state of things, and I have said this on the eve of the Rally of Spain. Then there was talk of my return to the track, but on this front there is nothing new. I often get the offers to return to race at a racetrack, but now there is nothing concrete, and I repeat.

IN SPAIN WITH SOME QUESTIONS
That said, I come to the harvest of my weekend "Spanish". After the problems we had in the Rally of Germany, due to the machine was not in the specific right, in Corsica, things went much better, although a great opportunity for many reasons it was not materialized. In Spain I got convinced that he can do well, because already last year (in spite of the problems that slowed me down in the dirt) I did well. Doubts on the eve of the Spanish were related to different aspects: the three months since the last time I had run on the ground (the Rally Finland in late July), the new specification tires introduced by Pirelli (a new product all by discover in the race), and finally decide on the setting of the new differential.

I WAS AHEAD, THEN HERE'S THE FIRST PROBLEM ...
In short, so many irons in the fire, but once we started very well, and we were in the lead after three special. Then, unfortunately, the first cold shower: I found myself stuck in third gear change. We still had 25 km special to do, and we decided to withdraw. But eventually it prevailed the desire however to get to the end, knowing that the general classification was compromised. We managed to get down to the special, and also for the mechanics was good news because the rally of Spain for them is a particular challenge. In this race, about half of the program, you switch on the side of the floor to the asphalt, and when there is a change the mechanics have only 75 minutes to completely change the specification of the machine: in a practice run in the race.

ASPHALT WAS CLOSE TO VOLKSWAGEN!
We left on asphalt and we went very well, remaining always been close to the Volkswagen and succeeding in some special also keep up front. Then I suffered a brake problem, and I paid a hit against a wall with a broken circle. We have not given up, and the third day we were still waiting at the start of the final power stage, groped for an exploit. Unfortunately I made a mistake of inexperience: a very special winding I have not heard a note talking about because I superimposed on the navigator, and I have not seen a slow corner. I managed to brake, but I touched even if not the guardrail, reporting of damage to the vehicle. We still managed to get to the bottom, overcoming many difficulties including a final gearbox problem.

THREE SPECIAL WON, BUT TOO MANY PROBLEMS AND SOME MISTAKE
On the one hand I am happy because we won the special on earth, we had the pace. But unfortunately it happened to all, including my mistakes, punctures, the gearbox problem (a fork that actuates the gears) and again we came home without having finished off a result, as often happens lately. If we turn to find the downsides associated with this trip there are many, but there are also positive ones. For the second race in succession a private car at one point was in front of everyone, but I know that people unfortunately see only the negative aspects. I also have to say that considering the reality of our private team that has to face against the factory teams, I would have expected to be fighting for eighth place, and instead we are increasingly close to the front big. And for me it is not a trivial matter.

[Mariusz]

...
That said, I come to the harvest of my weekend "Spanish". After the problems we had in the Rally of Germany, due to the machine was not in the specific right

Some explanation about the Rally Germany. As far as I know they were driving with front gravel diff the whole rally, they discovered it during preparations for Corsica.

[br21]

Yes, they had gravel diff settings in Germany, they do all rebuilds in MSport and are not checking anything after receiving parts.

[Mariusz]

I think in this case they had the car rebuilt in Finland.

[br21]

They do rebuilds in different parts of the world, sometimes Italy, sometimes Poland or Finland, but main parts they always send to MSport.

[N.O.T]

It is good that he abandoned the full program as expected after that complete failure of a season... he learned something at least.

[paba]

Happy b-day Robert :)

[janvanvurpa]

It is good that he abandoned the full program as expected after that complete failure of a season... he learned something at least.

See? There's hope...that's should be inspiring for all of us.. epsecially those who think they know something about motorsport and think they are involved but are NOT.

Keep trying! Another 20 years maybe you can learn something about competition, maybe enter a village event somewhere..

Maybe.
But probably maybe NOT.

[French_Paulo]

DTM and some WRC events for Robert in 2016 ? : https://twitter.com/Traxx_WiF/status/673842504647708672

[Ucci]

DTM and some WRC events for Robert in 2016 ? : https://twitter.com/Traxx_WiF/status/673842504647708672

Why not??

[Bartek]

Interesting because there are rumors that Mercedes will keep their squad from last season in DTM, only Wehrlein is 50/50 and if he will go to F1 or GP2 Ocon from GP3 will replace him, so if this is true who will give a car for Robert?

I feel in bones that Robert will finish with Citroen :)

[Simmi]

Wouldn't read too much into that tweet. Wilson said Kubica was still weighing up all the options. Said there's a possibility of DTM and some WRC drives but nothing confirmed. I know he's been in one before, but I still would have thought that if Kubica was in line for a DTM drive then he'd have been in the car testing.

Lots of drivers have been put through the cars recently and (at least not publicly) Kubica hasn't been one of them.

[Quad]

There is a lot time until DTM season start. If he will be in DTM he will be with Mercedes

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sounded to me like he was more likely to continue in WRC than not ...

"This would be the worst time to stop," he told Autosport.

"The last five or six events I feel more like a rally driver, more mature.

"Many of the things which were scaring me in the past are feeling more normal now because I went through them more than once, so you are more comfortable and able to drive better and quicker.

"I feel more like a rally driver than ever. Last year's experience paid a lot in Wales [this time around].

Despite the December 18 deadline for Monte Carlo Rally entries closing fast, Kubica insists he will not be rushed.

"I'm not in a hurry," he said. "I've been in a hurry before - running to get the season ready.

"But when you are running and you are behind then you are always running behind.

"If I am ready to send the entry then I will send the entry."

Kubica has always stated his desire to return to a factory WRC team - he contested Rally GB with Citroen Racing in 2013 - but now admits continuing with his private RK World Rally Team operation is not out of the question.

[Jarek Z]

Nice good quality video from Kubica's test session before Monte Carlo Rally. Enjoy!
http://www.sport.pl/Rajd/1,131932,19498100,jak-robert-kubica-prowadzi-jedna-reka-auto-wrc-wideo.html#MTstream

[marcosg]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-EKx0J5N40

any news?

[Mariusz]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-EKx0J5N40
any news?
Not really. Robert was trying hard not to say anything about his future. But he actually never says about his plans unless they are 100% sure and as it stands now he still doesn't know if he will be doing any more rallies this year. Also, there is a lot talking about MC and the last accident.

[marcosg]

Not really. Robert was trying hard not to say anything about his future. But he actually never says about his plans unless they are 100% sure and as it stands now he still doesn't know if he will be doing any more rallies this year. Also, there is a lot talking about MC and the last accident.
thank you ;)

[marcosg]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67j1B4jMTSs

colin clark post monte

[N.O.T]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67j1B4jMTSs

colin clark post monte

typical mainstream media blabbering bullshit... sucking on every nobody with a fan base. I must say the brits are becoming experts at that.

Kubica was a danger to everyone from himself to the sport itself, good luck to whatever he does as long is as far away from rallying as possible.

[marcosg]

typical mainstream media blabbering bullshit... sucking on every nobody with a fan base. I must say the brits are becoming experts at that.

Kubica was a danger to everyone from himself to the sport itself, good luck to whatever he does as long is as far away from rallying as possible.
thank you for your ever remarkable opinions...

[Toyoda]

Gosh NOT you don't half talk some rubbish, Kubica will be a big loss, simply its one less fast rally car to watch, and there is no question he is fast to watch when he's on the road he's ON IT.

[Mariusz]

I'm suspecting a few years ago there was an unfortunate accident where a car killed his beloved dog and the driver ran away without stopping. This would explain so many comments about dogs. He also has been looking for a revenge for so many years and now Robert probably just looks like that driver and thus the negativity all the time ;)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No entry for Rally Sweden confirmed by RK...

I think it's now unlikely to see him in the WRC again.

[tfp]

No entry for Rally Sweden confirmed by RK...

I think it's now unlikely to see him in the WRC again.

I wonder what the future holds for him....

[Jack4688`]

You can't argue with the publicity he has drawn to rallying, regardless of people's opinion of him, so I think a national championship or ERC would do well to convince him to compete at that level. That's if competing 'for fun', which does not interest him, includes not being in the WRC at all. Let's not forget his track record in rallying pre-WRC - winning WRC2 and being highly competitive in ERC that same year proves he was at one time able to finish events and string good results together, rather than crashing in every leg of a rally.

[RS]

Let's not forget his track record in rallying pre-WRC - winning WRC2 and being highly competitive in ERC that same year proves he was at one time able to finish events and string good results together, rather than crashing in every leg of a rally.

Only in WRC2 endurance championship..

I would like to see him come and have another go at ERC now that he has more experience, and besides the ERC events are shorter (less time to crash)

[kolin]

I hope that Robert still fighting on.

[Bartek]

I hope that Robert still fighting on.

I heard something about money from Lotos for a 8 rally but it can be kind of rumor from other planet...