[WRC] News & rumours (part IV) 2016

[RAS007]

No, there are many talented drivers that are no longer in the WRC and Latvala would share the same fate looooooong time ago but daddy was and is there for him.

Agreed. Delecour in 93-94 comes to mind, especially the road accident in 94 that kept him out fir a few rallies. Who else?

[N.O.T]

Agreed. Delecour in 93-94 comes to mind, especially the road accident in 94 that kept him out fir a few rallies. Who else?

Daniel Carlsson
PG Andersson
Mikko Hirvonen
Daniel Sola
Francois Duval

and many many more, nobody had the chances Latvala had and stayed in a team for as long as Latvala did without delivering results. When you talk about talent is very hard to quantify, what do you mean by talent ? going fast ?

[RAS007]

Daniel Carlsson
PG Andersson
Mikko Hirvonen
Daniel Sola
Francois Duval

and many many more, nobody had the chances Latvala had and stayed in a team for as long as Latvala did without delivering results. When you talk about talent is very hard to quantify, what do you mean by talent ? going fast ?

Good list. Agree talent is hard to define/quantify, but going fast, probably yes, but going fast consistently, on every surface, having the opportunity (like Latvala) and still not winning (the title). Hirvonen has to be the best recent example. Latvala's mental state seems to have been his undoing. Agree about Duval too.

[Grundo Farb]

Daniel Carlsson
PG Andersson
Mikko Hirvonen
Daniel Sola
Francois Duval

and many many more, nobody had the chances Latvala had and stayed in a team for as long as Latvala did without delivering results. When you talk about talent is very hard to quantify, what do you mean by talent ? going fast ?

You must be young to forget how close Markku Allen was and also Michelle Mouton were to winning the championship.

[N.O.T]

You must be young to forget how close Markku Allen was and also Michelle Mouton were to winning the championship.

I do not value rally drivers of an era that a woman could even be competitive, they were nothing.

[Mk2 RS2000]

I do not value rally drivers of an era that a woman could even be competitive, they were nothing.

Obviously you never competed against her, she was definitely something special, a one off special.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Have you read the contracts in detail then?

It's a general consensus of a Contract as they all are.

[Zeakiwi]

Obviously you never competed against her, she was definitely something special, a one off special.
It might be added that Mouton and Pons were a rally driving team. Pons a key factor.

[AL14]

Daniel Carlsson
PG Andersson
Mikko Hirvonen
Daniel Sola
Francois Duval

and many many more, nobody had the chances Latvala had and stayed in a team for as long as Latvala did without delivering results. When you talk about talent is very hard to quantify, what do you mean by talent ? going fast ?

Latvala has had more chances than others, that's undeniable. But please, winning 15 events during the Sebs era is far from "not delivering results" or being a nobody.
Of course daddy paid at the beginning of his career but I'm sure every team principal would have welcomed him until at least last year.

[spyros]

Anyone knows Jari's salary at VW?

[smsgrafica]

Yves Matton on Autosport:


"All I will say is that if Sebastien Ogier gives me a call I will answer and we will have a chat, but there's no question about changing my driver line-up for next season.

"We took the decision to follow this philosophy [of developing young drivers].

"But, when you have a four-time world champion this can be interesting.


Asked if he would take a call from Ogier's team-mates, Matton added: "I would not say I would not take the call from Jari-Matti Latvala or Andreas Mikkelsen, of course I will - I am a polite guy!

"But the story is different for them: they are not French and they don't have the world title."

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126956/citroen-open-to-talking-to-ogier-for-2017

[AL14]

Yves Matton on Autosport:





http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126956/citroen-open-to-talking-to-ogier-for-2017

http://agarioskins.com/img/skin/bait.png

[EstWRC]

Sordo thinks Ogier can go anywhere and that Latvala will go to Toyota

translated link https://translate.google.ee/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=et&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fcadenaser.com%2Fprograma%2F2016%2F1 1%2F02%2Fel_larguero%2F1478117298_689196.html&edit-text=


original link where's a podcast or something like that, maybe some spanish friends can tell us more http://cadenaser.com/programa/2016/11/02/el_larguero/1478117298_689196.html

[Simmi]

Matton/Citroen are going to have to get creative here when it comes to Ogier. The reason they are rotating Breen/Lefebvre until (Portugal I think?) was that they'd conservatively planned to just run two cars next season. So the extra parts now ordered wouldn't come through in time.

So I'm wondering whether the world champion can make these part lead-times a bit shorter? Or whether Breen/Lefebvre might end up in year-old machinery for a bit?

[bassist]

I agree with that, but when you compare two drivers the way the pink scarf guy did, you have to be a bit more careful if you do not want to sound like some inferiority complex nobody.

N.O.T., you are priceless !! Your poor attempts at Humour are lost in the fog of your lack of intelligence. Grow up and try and enter into a thoughtful debate, instead of looking for ill thought out one liners which serve no purpose, other than to make you a laughing stock.

[bassist]

I constitute of 95% common sense and 5% pure awesomeness, everyone knows that.

N.O.T., you are priceless !! Your poor attempts at Humour are lost in the fog of your lack of intelligence. Grow up and try and enter into a thoughtful debate, instead of looking for ill thought out one liners which serve no purpose, other than to make you a laughing stock.

[EstWRC]

write it one more time...are you a bot?

[Allez Andruet]

Interview with Esapekka Lappi (in Finnish):
http://www.iltasanomat.fi/ralli/art-2000001944826.html

Lappi strongly denies signing any kind of contract with Toyota for 2017 and feels that now (after VW announcement) his chances to drive in WRC next season are quite slim.

"It doesn't look good for me. I can't compete against Ogier or Latvala (for the remaining WRC seats)."

:mad:

If I was Tommi, I would much rather take Lappi than Latvala. Latvala clearly (based on 2016) is on his way down, but Lappi has some serious potential.

[bassist]

write it one more time...are you a bot?

Nope. not a bot- just a normal Rally Fan !

[Arwel Davies]

Nope. not a bot- just a normal Rally Fan !

And an useless sheep farmer.

That statement from Mr Matton is interesting. He says he wont change the line up but then would take Ogier back. Meeke and Ogier in the same team would be really interesting but the thought of Ogier and Tanak in a Fiesta is more appealing to me and that's where I think he'll go.

[BigWorm]

Interview with Esapekka Lappi (in Finnish):
http://www.iltasanomat.fi/ralli/art-2000001944826.html

Lappi strongly denies signing any kind of contract with Toyota for 2017 and feels that now (after VW announcement) his chances to drive in WRC next season are quite slim.

"It doesn't look good for me. I can't compete against Ogier or Latvala (for the remaining WRC seats)."

:mad:

If I was Tommi, I would much rather take Lappi than Latvala. Latvala clearly (based on 2016) is on his way down, but Lappi has some serious potential.

A shame if he misses out next season, I think he has got serious talent. Finland's next big thing in my eyes, the next step for him is a WRC car and it would be sad if he won't get the chanve next season. Hopefully Toyota only signs one VW driver and he gets a few outings in Toyota next year.

[Simmi]

Interview with Esapekka Lappi (in Finnish):
http://www.iltasanomat.fi/ralli/art-2000001944826.html

Lappi strongly denies signing any kind of contract with Toyota for 2017 and feels that now (after VW announcement) his chances to drive in WRC next season are quite slim.

"It doesn't look good for me. I can't compete against Ogier or Latvala (for the remaining WRC seats)."

:mad:

If I was Tommi, I would much rather take Lappi than Latvala. Latvala clearly (based on 2016) is on his way down, but Lappi has some serious potential.

Brinkmanship on contracts has now (fortunately for him) put Tommi in a strong situation. I just wonder why he wouldn't have locked up a deal with Lappi by now? I don't believe for one second he knew this was going to happen at VW. Not sure if they were haggling over money, length of the deal or what. But if Lappi hasn't signed with Toyota he has really missed the boat here.

That said there are some tasty options if you are Dmack and can pull the money together for two cars.

[RS]

Interview with Esapekka Lappi (in Finnish):
http://www.iltasanomat.fi/ralli/art-2000001944826.html

Lappi strongly denies signing any kind of contract with Toyota for 2017 and feels that now (after VW announcement) his chances to drive in WRC next season are quite slim.

"It doesn't look good for me. I can't compete against Ogier or Latvala (for the remaining WRC seats)."

:mad:

If I was Tommi, I would much rather take Lappi than Latvala. Latvala clearly (based on 2016) is on his way down, but Lappi has some serious potential.

I clicked 'like' because I agree with your last statement.

Strange how quickly things can change from a drivers market into a teams market.

[Mintexmemory]

Is Latvala the most talented driver never to win the title?
In an objective measure Latvala is the driver with the most WRC wins without ever taking the title - more wins in less rallies contested than Peter S. Only one more win than Hirvonen, however.

[AL14]

Nueville in french:

http://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_neuville-le-championnat-ne-perd-pas-d-interet-avec-le-retrait-de-vw?id=9445895

"The championship doesn't lose interest with the VW withdrawal"

he says that the three VW drivers should not worry because next year all manufacturers are preparing 3 cars and there are some free spots.

Some french please confirm since I don't know the language properly.

[EstWRC]

at the moment i really want to see what Wilson is thinking. we have seen what Makinen's and Matton's thoughts are but what is the old clever fox thinking and planning.

[Danny0405]

Nueville in french:

http://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_neuville-le-championnat-ne-perd-pas-d-interet-avec-le-retrait-de-vw?id=9445895

"The championship doesn't lose interest with the VW withdrawal"

he says that the three VW drivers should not worry because next year all manufacturers are preparing 3 cars and there are some free spots.

Some french please confirm since I don't know the language properly.

Yes, it's a good translation of what he said.
He says also that Toyota is number 1 in sales worldwide, Hyundai number 4 so VW withdrawal is not a nightmare for the WRC.

[A FONDO]

Could Malcolm Sport hit the deal with RedBull on time, or they will go to Citroen again?

[RS]

at the moment i really want to see what Wilson is thinking.

Probably that he regrets signing a two year deal with Camilli.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Probably that he regrets signing a two year deal with Camilli.

It would probably be fairly cheap to pay him off if necessary. Or pass him to DMack with Evans...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Some (translated) quotes from Dani Sordo in @ellarguero:

"I called Hyundai and told them that I would put one car in the team for Ogier. Seb is a guarantee."

"I spoke with Ogier by messages." I told him: 'Come with me to the team' and he did not answer... as prefers Citroen".

[macebig]

Hyundai can't hire Ogier.A team with Ogier/Paddon/Neuville won't make it out of Monte Carlo without someone throwing his toys out of the pram..

[EstWRC]

:p


https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14925701_10154724383709973_9038825704019667592_n.j pg?oh=3b39a927d0634fe4d9eae950e768ab1e&oe=588C1BF0

[Mirek]

It would be nice but I don't see it coming.

[EstWRC]

http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/yves-matton-citroen-va-discuter-avec-ogier-581a0ccecd70958a9d5b8ffe


translation?

[dupanton]

http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/yves-matton-citroen-va-discuter-avec-ogier-581a0ccecd70958a9d5b8ffe


translation?

He says he will talk to Ogier. But it is impossible to have a 4th C3 ready in time, so they would have to find a solution for that.

[macebig]

They are not even sure about a third C3 for Monte Carlo,nonetheless a fourth one.

[Mirek]

I really hope Ogier doesn't end in Hyundai. I am sure that they have enough money to pay him but a team of Ogier, Neuville, Paddon and Sordo would be waaaaaay too strong for the championship.

[EstWRC]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btRIKtt78bk

i doubt Ogier knew it at this moment

[Ralph-Mario]

10th November 2015, 19:57 #3827

Quote Originally Posted by Ralph-Mario View Post

´16, the end of VW ?

CWJ

Only idiots copy from idiots.

[BigWorm]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126956/citroen-open-to-talking-to-ogier-for-2017

In the Autosport article Matton gives no signs of intention of him opening negotiations with Ogier.

[RS]

:p


https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14925701_10154724383709973_9038825704019667592_n.j pg?oh=3b39a927d0634fe4d9eae950e768ab1e&oe=588C1BF0

In theory how difficult would it be to transfer the work VW have done from the Polo to a Fabia chassis? Not very, i'm guessing. Although I suppose they'd still want a year to test it.

When VW are cutting thousands of staff also cutting the competition programme can be justified quite easily. Skoda are not having to do that as far as I'm aware (in fact they are struggling for production capacity)

[smsgrafica]

In the Autosport article Matton gives no signs of intention of him opening negotiations with Ogier.

On the contrary, Matton stops just short of saying it's Ogier's decision. If he wants to drive for Citroen, he'll make sure to let it happen. Not so for JML or Mikkelsen, because they are neither French nor World Champions, although I suspect it's a nice way to say they just aren't good enough to justify the stress that signing one of them would bring.

It would obviously be a big commitment for Citroen, because Matton doesn't want to sacrifice his young drivers by axing one of them just after signing a 2 year contract. So this would leave him with only one solution: running a 4th car.

The problem now is that Citroen already knows they'll only have 2 C3s at the Monte, with Breen and Lefebvre taking turns at the wheel of it and the old DS3 until the third car arrives. Logic would put Ogier in the second C3 and the youngsters in two DS3s for the first rounds, until the other C3s will be ready.

[denkimi]

He says he will talk to Ogier. But it is impossible to have a 4th C3 ready in time, so they would have to find a solution for that.
i smell bullshit here. if they can't build an extra one in 2 months time, what are they gonna do when meeke and breen bin it on monte? not compete for the next 2 rally's?

imo they can have 10 c3's ready if they want too. they might have to hire a few extra staff, but as a full factory team, that shouldn't be a problem.

[smsgrafica]

i smell bullshit here. if they can't build an extra one in 2 months time, what are they gonna do when meeke and breen bin it on monte? not compete for the next 2 rally's?

imo they can have 10 c3's ready if they want too. they might have to hire a few extra staff, but as a full factory team, that shouldn't be a problem.

VW didn't have a car ready for Mikkelsen at the start of 2013, remember?

[BigWorm]

''Every driver is interested in the C3 WRC'' Matton said a few months ago. Time to prove it.

[Simmi]

with Breen and Lefebvre taking turns at the wheel of it and the old DS3 until the third car arrives. Logic would put Ogier in the second C3 and the youngsters in two DS3s for the first rounds, until the other C3s will be ready.

Has this been confirmed anywhere regarding the older DS3s? Seen quite a few people talking about it like it's a done deal. Not sure if I've missed something or it's just people's assumption about what will happen?

[BigWorm]

Has this been confirmed anywhere regarding the older DS3s? Seen quite a few people talking about it like it's a done deal. Not sure if I've missed something or it's just people's assumption about what will happen?

I have not seen that anywhere except for this forum.

[macebig]

From Yves Matton:Si je devais aligner une quatrième DS3 pour le Monte-Carlo cela ne poserait pas de problème, mais je sais déjà que seules deux C3 seront prêtes…"
Translation:To run a 4th DS3 for Monte Carlo won't be a problem,but I say that only 2 C3s will be ready...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

With Breen and Lefebvre under contract they arent going to not drive while waiting for their C3. Driving a DS3 will keep them sharp. They may even pick up points if some new WRC's are unreliable...

[Simmi]

Malcolm throws his hat into the ring! - https://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126966

[EstWRC]

I guess Evans will be left without a seat again, his dmack car going for third car in m-sport

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Malcolm throws his hat into the ring! - https://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126966

Sounds promising ! Its what we all want and what the WRC needs.

[macebig]

Mr Bill Ford,just sign a $5 mil check payed to M-Sport.Taking back No1 on a Ford after 23 years is a huge deal...

[Simmi]

Certainly Malcolm sounding far more positive publicly than Matton. He's got the cars and the desire. It's just going to come down to whether he has the money. Unless Ogier is willing to perhaps take a one-year deal and keep cashing that VW money.

[leighton323]

Quick Malcolm, get Ogier in an M-Sport 2017 test car.

He will be the first person to test two 2017 cars and a definite gauge of the performance M-Sport's 2017 challenger. Ogier will be able to give a direct comparison compared to the VW which undoubtly would have been close to the bencemark. (Nobody doubts VW's ability to build a rally car).


Sent from my SM-G925I using Tapatalk

[macebig]

No way VW allows any of its drivers to test a different machinery until after Rally Australia (and maybe later)

[smsgrafica]

With Ogier possibly going to Ford and Latvala to Toyota, we would have a dream setup for the Championship, with 4 drivers capable of winning consistently on every surface:

1.) Ogier/Ford
2.) Meeke/Citroen
3.) Neuville/Hyundai
4.) Latvala/Toyota

This would make a very interesting battle, with Paddon/Hyundai, Sordo/Hyundai and Tanak/Ford as an added bonus.

I won't count Mikkelsen, because his chances to get a race-winning seat are IMHO very slim as of today.

Yes, Toyota seems to be uncompetitive at the moment, but the other 3 cars should be on level terms, so it will make for a great fight!

On the other hand, if Ogier goes back to Citroen, it would leave Ford a bit exposed and I would suggest Wilson to get Mikkelsen, because he's proven he can be very quick on every surface, too.

So, all in all, I'd prefer an Ogier/Citroen and Mikkelsen/Ford combination. It would spice things up even more...

[smsgrafica]

No way VW allows any of its drivers to test a different machinery until after Rally Australia (and maybe later)

It would be absurd from VW to disallow them the tests. It's their fault they're without a drive for 2017 and they don't have anything to lose if they test another car, since they won't be competing anytime soon.

[smsgrafica]

He will be the first person to test two 2017 cars and a definite gauge of the performance M-Sport's 2017 challenger.

Potentially he could test 4 out of 5: VW, Citroen, Ford and Toyota (there doesn't seem to be any mutual interest between Ogier & Hyundai), although I'm not sure Matton would let him drive one of his cars before signing the contract.

[Arwel Davies]

Malcolm is the first team principal to come out and saying that 100% yes he wants Ogier. But since M-sport doesn't have a confirmed driver line up for 2017 at the moment its no real surprise. I think it would be an excellent partnership and would lead to a 5th title for Ogier and could land Ford/M-sport a first manufacturers title in what? 10 years?
It's also looking like Mikkelsen is in serious danger of being without a seat for next year as his options seem to be very limited. Could we see him in a Dmack car? or a second Adapta car with Mads?

[AL14]

I really want Ogier to go to M-Sport and Malcom Wilson to finally win a driver championship cause he deserves it.

[EightGear]

I really want Ogier to go to M-Sport and Malcom Wilson to finally win a driver championship cause he deserves it.

I think I can swallow one more French Seb title next year when he's in a Ford.

Would be very cool.

[sete]

I really want Ogier to go to M-Sport and Malcom Wilson to finally win a driver championship cause he deserves it.

Yes I am also big fan of Ford\M-Sport so I really want this present for Christmas.
Please Malcolm,get Ogier for us.
:-)

[Jack4688`]

Certainly Malcolm sounding far more positive publicly than Matton. He's got the cars and the desire. It's just going to come down to whether he has the money. Unless Ogier is willing to perhaps take a one-year deal and keep cashing that VW money.

You never know he might be sensible and say you can have me for 2017 but get Ford on board for 2018 or I will walk at the end of the year. He doesn't NEED the money and if I were him I'd go both where there is a seat still available and quite possibly a very quick car and give Wilson a year's grace to get back to a full factory works effort.

[macebig]

Wilson's biggest advantage is undisputed number 1 in the team for Ogier,which no other team can offer at the moment.

[N.O.T]

no other team can offer at the moment.

Why ?

[macebig]

Because they have their No1s.Hyundai has Paddon and Citroen has Meeke.

[spiderem]

the solution is simple to please everyone (except few grumpy old rally fan from this forum), ogier to drive a C3 in DMack team! (pure fantaisie).
- Malcom get a piece of the cake as i understand he owns DMack (partly?) and can manage ogier
- Matton get ogier to drive his car
- Championship remains very open and interesting (dmack "lower" performance offset ogier's incredible pace)
- DMack gets a huge opportunity to work with the world champion and get good publicity

[EstWRC]

lol

[dupanton]

the solution is simple to please everyone (except few grumpy old rally fan from this forum), ogier to drive a C3 in DMack team! (pure fantaisie).
- Malcom get a piece of the cake as i understand he owns DMack (partly?) and can manage ogier
- Matton get ogier to drive his car
- Championship remains very open and interesting (dmack "lower" performance offset ogier's incredible pace)
- DMack gets a huge opportunity to work with the world champion and get good publicity

I don't know what will happen, but that will never happen. Just no way. No!

[EightGear]

Because they have their No1s.Hyundai has Paddon and Citroen has Meeke.

Paddon is not Hyundai's #1.

[AMSS]

Because they have their No1s.Hyundai has Paddon and Citroen has Meeke.

Wherever Ogier will go he will be nr.1 it`s that simple. And every team wanting to be world champion should be interested in him.

[macebig]

Yes he is.He is the one who guided the development of the 2017 i20,the team is gathering around him,marketing focus has shifted from Thierry to Paddon.In my book,that's No 1.

[N.O.T]

Because they have their No1s.Hyundai has Paddon and Citroen has Meeke.

Says who ?

[N.O.T]

In my book,that's No 1.

I think your book is not taken seriously by the teams though, sorry for the disappointment.

[Marcco]

the solution is simple to please everyone (except few grumpy old rally fan from this forum), ogier to drive a C3 in DMack team! (pure fantaisie).
- Malcom get a piece of the cake as i understand he owns DMack (partly?) and can manage ogier
- Matton get ogier to drive his car
- Championship remains very open and interesting (dmack "lower" performance offset ogier's incredible pace)
- DMack gets a huge opportunity to work with the world champion and get good publicity

And everybody is happy, except... Ogier :)))

[macebig]

And you are?The janitor or the president?Paddon is Hyundai's No1 driver and who doesn't see it is totally oblivious to how teams work...

[Simmi]

And you are?The janitor or the president?Paddon is Hyundai's No1 driver and who doesn't see it is totally oblivious to how teams work...

Unless you can see the contracts there is no way to know that. Why is Paddon still in the #20 for half the events if he is the defacto number one guy? I'd say certainly Hayden had the chance to wrestle that mantle of #1 away from Neuville this year but look at the results and look at the championship. Hyundai still have that leadership issue next year, but at least now the FIA has saved them the trouble of nominating drivers.

[Mirek]

Neuville is No.1 Hyundai guy not Paddon. At least for now.

[AL14]

the solution is simple to please everyone (except few grumpy old rally fan from this forum), ogier to drive a C3 in DMack team! (pure fantaisie).
- Malcom get a piece of the cake as i understand he owns DMack (partly?) and can manage ogier
- Matton get ogier to drive his car
- Championship remains very open and interesting (dmack "lower" performance offset ogier's incredible pace)
- DMack gets a huge opportunity to work with the world champion and get good publicity

Is this a bait? :)

[BigWorm]

And you are?The janitor or the president?Paddon is Hyundai's No1 driver and who doesn't see it is totally oblivious to how teams work...

The driver who has done most of his events this year in their support team? I struggle to see how he is their main man if they don't let him score most of their manufacturer points.

[stefanvv]

Is this a bait? :)

Seems like good joke to me.

[Rally Power]

the solution is simple to please everyone (except few grumpy old rally fan from this forum), ogier to drive a C3 in DMack team! (pure fantaisie).
- Malcom get a piece of the cake as i understand he owns DMack (partly?) and can manage ogier
- Matton get ogier to drive his car
- Championship remains very open and interesting (dmack "lower" performance offset ogier's incredible pace)
- DMack gets a huge opportunity to work with the world champion and get good publicity

As one of those grumpy old rally fans, I must say that your solution really looks fantastic!-)

Seriously, it's great to realize that WRC will probably get more exciting without VW!

Like many said, MSport's approach to Ogier can be the perfect spark to get Ford back to WRC, while Makinen is now having the perfect chance to boost Toyota's program with real top drivers (I see not only Latvala but also Mikkelsen on Toy's seats).

If DMack announces a 2 car program for Evans and a young guy (Lappi or Suninen) then it'll be Christmas all year long!

[Simmi]

Anyone with better French able to say what Lefebvre is saying here - specifically about Meeke and Ogier at the end of the interview. Don't quite trust Google.

http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/stephane-lefebvre-je-la-veux-cette-victoire-belge-581b844fcd70fb896a6494ac

[dupanton]

Anyone with better French able to say what Lefebvre is saying here - specifically about Meeke and Ogier at the end of the interview. Don't quite trust Google.

http://www.dhnet.be/sports/moteurs/stephane-lefebvre-je-la-veux-cette-victoire-belge-581b844fcd70fb896a6494ac

Not much really.
That he has a 2 year contract and presumes he will still start the Monte Carlo Rally in the 2nd C3 WRC. He doesn't want to think about the possibility of Ogier coming to Citroën.
Meeke sent him a few text messages, and he has the impression Meeke is quite agitated by the possibility of Ogier coming to Citroën.
Then the reporter asks if Ogier could stop, Lefebvre says he doesn't think so, but he might take a sabatical year.

[AL14]

Not much really.
That he has a 2 year contract and presumes he will still start the Monte Carlo Rally in the 2nd C3 WRC. He doesn't want to think about the possibility of Ogier coming to Citroën.
Meeke sent him a few text messages, and he has the impression Meeke is quite agitated by the possibility of Ogier coming to Citroën.
Then the reporter asks if Ogier could stop, Lefebvre says he doesn't think so, but he might take a sabatical year.

How about this question?

Quelle image a le quadruple champion du monde en France ?

"Pas aussi bonne que celle de Loeb. Un prétentieux pleurnichard."

What does it mean "pleurnichard"? to whom of the two is it referred? Couldn't understand it

[MartijnS]

I believe it's not very positive haha. Something like crybaby orso I think.

[Rally Power]

He uses a lot of slang and he's not being shy...I believe he said that Meeke can 'have a stroke' if Ogier ends at Citroen because Meeke is already stressed just to think about it! He agrees that Ogier could take a WRC free year and go to WRX and ends by saying that Ogier is less popular than Loeb in France because he's looked as a 'pretencious moaner'.

PS: Lefebvre words can be a bit polemic, but it's great to have someone speaking freely, for a change.

[AL14]

He uses a lot of slang and he's not being shy...I believe he said that Meeke can 'have a stroke' if Ogier ends at Citroen because he's already stressed just to think about it! He agrees that Ogier could take a WRC free year and go to WRX and ends by saying that Ogier is less popular than Loeb in France because he's looked as a 'pretencious moaner'...

Than I understood right from google translate. Just couldn't believe Lefebvre could said it.
I think this interview clearly says a lot of things...

[EightGear]

That's great, lol.

If this was F1, 20 threads would be created just because of this interview.

[N.O.T]

ends by saying that Ogier is less popular than Loeb in France because he's looked as a 'pretencious moaner'...


http://i.imgur.com/0pKC4JV.gif

[dupanton]

How about this question?

Quelle image a le quadruple champion du monde en France ?

"Pas aussi bonne que celle de Loeb. Un prétentieux pleurnichard."

What does it mean "pleurnichard"? to whom of the two is it referred? Couldn't understand it

I don't know the word neither, but as "pleurer" means crying, I think we can imagine what he means :p

[AL14]

That is not what I would call a warm welcome :)

[N.O.T]

That's great, lol.

If this was F1, 20 threads would be created just because of this interview.

yes, but we are men in here.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Good to hear Meeke isnt at all happy at the thought of Ogier coming... the more things against this happening the better.

And I wonder if Ogier would actually get more pleasure from beating Citroen with M-Sport, than winning rallies back with them ...

[smsgrafica]

Lefebvre isn't doing himself any favors by trash-talking like he did. He's a nobody for now and should be more humble and not tell everyone what Meeke thinks about the situation. I'm pretty sure Matton won't be happy to read that interview.

That is, if the interview wasn't made up by the press, like it always loves to do. I mean, how stupid do you have to be to speak out like that?

You'd be enemy to Meeke, Matton and Ogier who could land in his very same team. Not a great way to start your 2 year contract...

[N.O.T]

Lefebvre isn't doing himself any favors by trash-talking like he did. He's a nobody for now and should be more humble and not tell everyone what Meeke thinks about the situation. I'm pretty sure Matton won't be happy to read that interview.

That is, if the interview wasn't made up by the press, like it always loves to do. I mean, how stupid do you have to be to speak out like that?

You'd be enemy to Meeke, Matton and Ogier who could land in his very same team...

Lefebre knows he has no fututre in the sport so he does not afraid to speak his mind.

[smsgrafica]

Lefebre knows he has no fututre in the sport so he does not afraid to speak his mind.

For sure he's no WC in the making, but he could have a future in the sport like many good-but-not-great drivers. I'm thinking of Sordo, Hirvonen or Ostberg for example.

I think with that interview he could've easily paved the way to making room for Ogier...

[dimviii]

That's great, lol.

If this was F1, 20 threads would be created just because of this interview.

as I ve said,just imagine stage end reports with Meeke and Ogier both at Citroen.

Majestic.

[N.O.T]

For sure he's no WC in the making, but he could have a future in the sport like many good-but-not-great drivers. I'm thinking of Sordo, Hirvonen or Ostberg for example

the aforementioned are WRC event winners, Lefebre is nothing and will remain to be nothing.

[Mirek]

Lefebvre isn't doing himself any favors by trash-talking like he did. He's a nobody for now and should be more humble and not tell everyone what Meeke thinks about the situation. I'm pretty sure Matton won't be happy to read that interview.

That is, if the interview wasn't made up by the press, like it always loves to do. I mean, how stupid do you have to be to speak out like that?

You'd be enemy to Meeke, Matton and Ogier who could land in his very same team. Not a great way to start your 2 year contract...

There is too much fake politeness around.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I don't know the word neither, but as "pleurer" means crying, I think we can imagine what he means :p

pleurnichard
(plœʀniʃaʀ, aʀd )
Word forms: pleurnicharde
Translations

adjective
[personne, ton] whining

[AL14]

There is too much fake politeness around.

For sure but I think Lefebvre has been more strategic than "honest". :)

[Rally Power]

I think with that interview he could've easily paved the way to making room for Ogier...

Maybe he's reflecting Citroen's team general feeling. Probably many still remember that it was Ogier who slam their door. If he had a little more patience he'd probably get 1st driver status one year later and would not helped VW's dominance...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Lefebvre already has enough seat competition with Meeke & Breen, he doesnt need Ogier coming in and knocking him even further down the pecking order.

[smsgrafica]

There is too much fake politeness around.

This isn't a case of being polite or not. He's being plain stupid with his comments (if they are true). How would you react to them if you were Meeke or Matton?

[smsgrafica]

Un prétentieux pleurnichard

= arrogant crybaby

[smsgrafica]

the aforementioned are WRC event winners, Lefebre is nothing and will remain to be nothing.

C'mon, Ostberg was gifted his lone win and Sordo only got his because Ogier & Latvala crashed while in the lead...

[N.O.T]

C'mon, Ostberg was gifted his lone win and Sordo only got his because Ogier & Latvala crashed while in the lead...

Of course, but they were there to grab the opportunity, Lefebre would be nowhere near the leader to even be gifted a win or a podium or even a piece of spoiled cheese that even a street rat would pass by, he is nothing.

[Mariusz]

Maybe he's reflecting Citroen's team general feeling. Probably many still remember that it was Ogier who slam their door. If he had a little more patience he'd probably get 1st driver status one year later and would not helped VW's dominance...

I just hope Ogier won't drive Citroen. It would be the old story again; the best team with the best driver. As the result FIA would have to figure out again a way to artificially slow down Ogier.

[cali]

I just hope Ogier won't drive Citroen. It would be the old story again; the best team with the best driver. As the result FIA would have to figure out again a way to artificially slow down Ogier.
Again?

Sent from my ONE E1003 using Tapatalk

[smsgrafica]

Again?

Never heard of the "starting order debate"?

[smsgrafica]

From a PR point of view I don't think it would be very good for Citroen to have Ogier back. If they win, it would be because of him. If they lose (and Meeke doesn't win, obviously), it's their fault. What do they have to gain?

For M-Sport, on the other hand, it doesn't matter if they win because of Ogier. They would just win.

[traxx]

Not sure it was the exact words from Lefebvre, this journalist (ODW) is known for this kind of paper...

[René]

pleurnichard
(plœʀniʃaʀ, aʀd )
Word forms: pleurnicharde
Translations

adjective
[personne, ton] whining


it could be also "sniveling" pleurnicheur

[Fast Eddie WRC]

All these words to describe our 4-time Champion... and no-one disagrees ! :D

But have we thought it through.. what if he goes to M-Sport and doesnt win, what will he be like then !?

[cali]

Never heard of the "starting order debate"?
Yeah, quite useless debate. We are talking about rallying, not F1. Starting order advantage/disadvantage is inevitable.

Sent from my ONE E1003 using Tapatalk

[danon]

https://i.imgsafe.org/cd1a051ba1.jpg

[seb_sh]

https://i.imgsafe.org/cd1a051ba1.jpg

Wow they sure moved fast, Ogier at Citroen with Red Bull sponsorship confirmed! :P

[JUF]

Of course, but they were there to grab the opportunity, Lefebre would be nowhere near the leader to even be gifted a win or a podium or even a piece of spoiled cheese that even a street rat would pass by, he is nothing.What has Lefebvre ever done to make you treat him so disrespectfully? I know that you´re N.O.T and you will never stop making inappropriate comments, but I want to know why...

[Franky]

What has Lefebvre ever done to make you treat him so disrespectfully? I know that you´re N.O.T and you will never stop making inappropriate comments, but I want to know why...

Because he is THE God.

[maciotacio]

But frankly what has Lefebvre shown to deserve a WRC drive and 2 year contract? And to make this question more tricky I'm not talking about nationality.

[Rallyper]

However Lefebvre and erlier on Breen are coming men whom have come longest on their career to be top WRC drivers. A few more waiting behind the curtain.

[GravelBen]

I know that you´re N.O.T and you will never stop making inappropriate comments, but I want to know why...

Just a sad sack attention-seeker, I'm afraid you only encourage him by responding.

[N.O.T]

What has Lefebvre ever done to make you treat him so disrespectfully?

Exactly the same thing he did for the sport

Nothing.

[wia5958]

Just a thought but who will be running cars number 1,2&3 next year will it by hyundai as runners up this season as vw have gone?

[N.O.T]

Just a thought but who will be running cars number 1,2&3 next year will it by hyundai as runners up this season as vw have gone?

Numbers 1-3 are allocated according to Drivers championship not teams, Ogier will have No1 and the team that will go to will get numbers 02-03.

[wia5958]

Cheers for clearing that up

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CwVbjwmXEAAL8cQ?format=jpg&name=large

[EstWRC]

for me this Ogier-Msport deal is basically done.

i mean, he wont go to Toyota, Hyundai is full and not interested, Matton will pick up his call and have a chat IF Ogier calls but according to him they dont have the resources to make a fourth car and he wont fire/rotate the young ones, plus the fact that Meeke doesnt want him there.

This then leaves M-sport for Ogier. Wilson has stated that they are already negotiating(while Matton is waiting the call) and he will do anything to get him and it seems to me that Ogier himself is very interested to work with him. The question now is will anyone suffer? Tänak was promised nr.1 status but that is gone now but it isnt a big suffer if at all. Will Camilli be devoted to Dmack or Evans will lose his Dmack seat because the Dmack car is going for a third car in the main team?

Time will tell and i dont rule out that in the end he will go to Citroen.

[Danny0405]

for me this Ogier-Msport deal is basically done.

Matton will pick up his call and have a chat IF Ogier calls.
This then leaves M-sport for Ogier. Wilson has stated that they are already negotiating(while Matton is waiting the call).

I totally agree with you on that point.
Citroen is acting as if we were talking about Duval whereas Wilson is proactive on the subject.
Citroen's behavior looks like: "he Will come to us with our conditions because we have the best car". The issue is that Ogier is provint this year that he can beat easily someone with an almost equal car (Hyundai) and he has been better than Latvala and Mikkelsen in the past 4 years.

[HaCo]

I think it would be best for the sport that Ogier teams up with M sport or Toyota, since they seem to be the weakest teams for now. I really hope Red Bull stays in the WRC, hopefully with M-sport.

But then there is Mikkelsen and Latvala...

Interesting times! It's a pitty VW has quit, but it has opened the competition a lot! If not Hyundai nor Citroen gets Ogier, I'm really looking forward to the next season!

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-T560 met Tapatalk

[Morte66]

I think it would be best for the sport that Ogier teams up with M sport or Toyota, since they seem to be the weakest teams for now. I really hope Red Bull stays in the WRC, hopefully with M-sport.

That would be ideal. More than anything, I want Ogier to not be the-best-driver-in-the-best-car-dominating-everything again.

[Mirek]

for me this Ogier-Msport deal is basically done.

i mean, he wont go to Toyota, Hyundai is full and not interested, Matton will pick up his call and have a chat IF Ogier calls but according to him they dont have the resources to make a fourth car and he wont fire/rotate the young ones, plus the fact that Meeke doesnt want him there.

This then leaves M-sport for Ogier. Wilson has stated that they are already negotiating(while Matton is waiting the call) and he will do anything to get him and it seems to me that Ogier himself is very interested to work with him. The question now is will anyone suffer? Tänak was promised nr.1 status but that is gone now but it isnt a big suffer if at all. Will Camilli be devoted to Dmack or Evans will lose his Dmack seat because the Dmack car is going for a third car in the main team?

Time will tell and i dont rule out that in the end he will go to Citroen.

If M-Sport somehow manages to find the money.

[smsgrafica]

If M-Sport somehow manages to find the money.

I don't think it would be a money issue, because for sure he'll get paid by VW for stepping away from the sport and leaving him without a seat so late in the season.

Apart from that, I'd bet Red Bull would take on the bills if he's going to drive for M-Sport.

[Mirek]

He isn't going to drive for free just because he likes Wilson. Let's see but I am quite sure that money is what Wilson is now trying to sort out.

[smsgrafica]

He isn't going to drive for free just because he likes Wilson. Let's see but I am quite sure that money is what Wilson is now trying to sort out.

I didn't say he'd drive for free. But, if for example he wants 6 Millions a year and VW gives him 3 as contract buyout, M-Sport would only have to find 3 Millions. And don't you think Red Bull won't pay that sum to place its stickers on the Fiesta?

[MikeD]

I don't think it would be a money issue, because for sure he'll get paid by VW for stepping away from the sport and leaving him without a seat so late in the season.

Apart from that, I'd bet Red Bull would take on the bills if he's going to drive for M-Sport.

I think Mirek means, the money for developing the car and team through the season at the same level as Citroën and Hyundai.

But I personally think the Ogier/M-Sport deal will happen and I also - like you - think it's gonna be in Red Bull colours. Red Bull will see this in the same way Marlboro saw the Schumacher deal with Ferrari in 1996 and switched their sponsorship from McLaren to Ferrari. And this is because of what the fans will follow, and they will follow that combi.

Apart from that, I hope nobody believes Matton when he's saying he hasn't got the car for Ogier. That's not Mattons call, that's Linda Jackson's call. If Ogier signs for Citroën you can bet he will have whatever he's asking for, no matter what Matton says. He can have the C3 as team leader from the word "Go" in Monte...

On a personal note, I have never been a fan of M-Sport or Ford or Malcom Wilson. And after 2011 I was done being an Ogier fan. But yet I would absolutely love and cheer for the combi of Ford+Ogier+M-Sport because it simply would be an amazing challenge that would spice up the championship like not seen in many many years. It would also change my view on Ogier from being arrogant, to being a real man taking a seriously difficult challenge.

[AndyRAC]

I think Mirek means, the money for developing the car and team through the season at the same level as Citroën and Hyundai.


Exactly! This is were M-Sport have fallen down in the last few years; money - not enough of it to develop, and pay for a top driver!! To get Ogier, and stay competitive, they're going to need a large budget - something they've not had for years. There doesn't seem to be any noise regarding the return of Ford...I suspect WorldRX is enough for them to promote the RS brand.

[MikeD]

Exactly! This is were M-Sport have fallen down in the last few years; money - not enough of it to develop, and pay for a top driver!! To get Ogier, and stay competitive, they're going to need a large budget - something they've not had for years. There doesn't seem to be any noise regarding the return of Ford...I suspect WorldRX is enough for them to promote the RS brand.

I personally think there is a lot happening behind the curtains - and also at Ford. An opportunity like this is very rare. There is proper marketing value here ... and it might even be cheap compared to how it would normally be.

I think Malcom Wilsons phone is ringing non-stop right now. There are 3 challenges for him.

- Can he get the budget via sponsors
- Can he get Ford involved
- Can he get Ogier

Hyundai and Toyota are not in this game. It's either Citroën or M-Sport that's gonna sign Ogier ... unless he walks away from the WRC all together.

And one last thing. I bet you that Ogier is trying to get the feel of how the press and the fans react to him possibly signing for M-Sport Ford. If there is a buzz about the idea in the whole rally community and among the fans, then that might be the decisive factor. There is a HUGE difference between being and champion .... and a LEGEND! He's a champion with VW. He will be a legend if he becomes champion with M-Sport Ford.

[itix]

I do not value rally drivers of an era that a woman could even be competitive, they were nothing.

...and that's where I lost the last ounce of respect I had for you. Doesn't matter how right you are about something anymore, all of my respect for you is gone.

[HaCo]

He's a champion with VW. He will be a legend if he becomes champion with M-Sport Ford.

I agree, but also with any other brand.

[seb_sh]

Think about Ogier for a bit, his personality, he wants to win and he is no doubt always comparing himself to Loeb. His goal has been from the start to beat Loeb's records because let's face it, except for Loeb, until now he has had no true rival. I think Ogier will pick the best car available, all other things like his respect for Wilson and bad relationship with Meeke or Citroen are secondary, even money is secondary. All that matters is where is his best chance to win more championships.

I too, as many othes have said here, would like to see an Ogier-MSport combination, as it would be a mix between an underdog team and a 4 time WDC so it would be in itself interesting but also if the team has fewer resources than the others it could be a more level playing field. It sounds nice and the chances of it happening seem to be increasing.

There's just one thing that's bothering me. What if those reports that the Fiesta has the best aero are true and it starts the year with a significant advantage? What if we get to the middle of the season and Ogier once again has a huge lead. Sure he will be in a different car but it will be the same thing again. I think the WRC needs a real fight for the championship and I'm not entirely sure we're going to get it even if Ogier goes to MSport.

[MikeD]

I agree, but also with any other brand.

No. Winning it in a Ford would be more speciel since they haven't won the drivers' title since Ari Vatanens 1981 title. Furthermore a lot of long-term rally fans have a special place in their heart for Ford, because they have been in the championship in almost the whole of the championships history. Most other Manufacturers' come and go depending on their marketing plans.

[AL14]

And one last thing. I bet you that Ogier is trying to get the feel of how the press and the fans react to him possibly signing for M-Sport Ford. If there is a buzz about the idea in the whole rally community and among the fans, then that might be the decisive factor. There is a HUGE difference between being and champion .... and a LEGEND! He's a champion with VW. He will be a legend if he becomes champion with M-Sport Ford.

Ogier is already a legend. Winning 4 times the championship with such domination can't just make you a champion. Of course he will do something special if wins at m-sport. Let's hope there will be enough money and garantees to convince him.

[Rally Power]

Apart from that, I hope nobody believes Matton when he's saying he hasn't got the car for Ogier. That's not Mattons call, that's Linda Jackson's call. If Ogier signs for Citroën you can bet he will have whatever he's asking for, no matter what Matton says. He can have the C3 as team leader from the word "Go" in Monte...

Most likely not even Linda’s call…this one will certainly go up to Carlos Tavares, PSA’s CEO. Tavares is a notorious Petrolhead (being a Portuguese he was infected by rally virus on an early age) and he was at Renault when the Ogier/Citroen split occurred. So, he has no regrets and motorsport runs on his veins; another one that 'will do everything to make sure Ogier gets in'?

[itix]

Most likely not even Linda’s call…this one will certainly go up to Carlos Tavares, PSA’s CEO. Tavares is a notorious Petrolhead (being a Portuguese he was infected by rally virus on an early age) and he was at Renault when the Ogier/Citroen split occurred. So, he has no regrets and motorsport runs on his veins; another one that 'will do everything to make sure Ogier gets in'?

I am pretty sure that Matton and possibly other key members in the team have a say. I doubt these things are dictatorial decisions by one person. The fact that there is was bad blood between Citroen and Ogier in 2011 and that lots of staff still remain from those times probably play into this. Lefebvre's comments probably reflect the team's view on having Ogier back pretty well.

I think we can rule Hyundai out, the rest are maybes with M-sport seemingly the most likely right now, provided Wilson can get the structures in place.

EDIT; This was my 555th post so here's a pic of a Subaru
http://i1.8000vueltas.com/2010/04/1993_Subaru_Impreza5553.jpg

[AL14]

EDIT; This was my 555th post so here's a pic of a Subaru

haha this was nice ;)

[Rally Power]

I am pretty sure that Matton and possibly other key members in the team have a say. I doubt these things are dictatorial decisions by one person.

You're right. Matton and the team will be heard, but the decision will certainly be taken on a higher level. Having Mr. Tavares profile in mind, it looks likely that he’s already involved.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

New Road Order rules and Power Stage points proposed for 2017:

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126982/controversial-wrc-running-order-rules-changed

Also WRC Trophy for private drivers of 2016 cars...

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent-mad1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14938242_1509105445785544_123496283435317518_n.jpg ?oh=3f483bcc1bd5d3bca21c89b48ea685e6&oe=5887549C

[AL14]

New Road Order rules and Power Stage points proposed for 2017:

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126982/controversial-wrc-running-order-rules-changed

Also WRC Trophy for private drivers of 2016 cars...

go back to 2014 rules is a reasonable decision. Also th WRC Trophy for Prokop. Now he will finally stop retiring from WRC so many times. Let's hope the promoter will not waste time on it and give more proper coverage to WRC2.

New point system at power stage is very stupid. the third qualified could take more point than the second and they are also too many points that a rally2 driver can take. I really don't like it. 3-2-1 was perfect. But is ok. I was afraid changes could have been worse.

[smsgrafica]

go back to 2014 rules is a reasonable decision.

They've gone with the 2nd best option.

I would've preferred WC order on 1st day, reverse WC order on the 2nd and reversed rally order on the last day. But still, way better than during the last two seasons.

[itix]

go back to 2014 rules is a reasonable decision. Also th WRC Trophy for Prokop. Now he will finally stop retiring from WRC so many times. Let's hope the promoter will not waste time on it and give more proper coverage to WRC2.

New point system at power stage is very stupid. the third qualified could take more point than the second and they are also too many points that a rally2 driver can take. I really don't like it. 3-2-1 was perfect. But is ok. I was afraid changes could have been worse.

I'm not a fan of either. That points system and going back to -14 rules is the worst desicion we could have. Either we keep the system we have or we go back to a qualifying stage that dictates road order for first two days, alternatively whole rally. Cars stopping tactically on friday evening to get a better road position on saturday and sunday is not in cherished bank of rally memories.

[dimviii]

nothing official.

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

[smsgrafica]

Cars stopping tactically on friday evening to get a better road position on saturday and sunday is not in cherished bank of rally memories.

It won't work without split times in the car. Besides, I can't remember anything like that in 2014, but maybe I'm wrong.

[itix]

It won't work without split times in the car. Besides, I can't remember anything like that in 2014, but maybe I'm wrong.
My memory might fail me but I think they did. They did for sure in 2012 before they moved to the qualifying stage.

[seb_sh]

I'm not a fan of either. That points system and going back to -14 rules is the worst desicion we could have. Either we keep the system we have or we go back to a qualifying stage that dictates road order for first two days, alternatively whole rally. Cars stopping tactically on friday evening to get a better road position on saturday and sunday is not in cherished bank of rally memories.

There won't be any tactical stopping, Saturday and Sunday will run in reverse rally position so you want to be in front after day 1 to get a better position. Maybe if it rains it could happen but that doesn't happen often and is a gamble on the weather forecast being correct.

[AL14]

My memory might fail me but I think they did. They did for sure in 2012 before they moved to the qualifying stage.

No I'm 100% in 2014 they didn't because it would have been useless. From the second day the leading driver started as the last one.

[GigiGalliNo1]

nothing official.

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

Needs more Abu Dhabi

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent-mad1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14907697_10154272523213952_939279968037064254_n.jp g?oh=4597481b6b8dd146c83e52f7920d3936&oe=5897002F

[EstWRC]

I guess this photoshop madness doesn't end before Monte Carlo, lol

[dimviii]

RallyingUK �� ‏@RallyingUK · 14s15 seconds ago

SAFARI RALLY: Kenya Motorsport Federation steers Safari Rally fast towards WRC return ���� #WRC �� @dailynation

http://www.nation.co.ke/sports/TalkUp/Phineas-Kimathi-steers-Safari-Rally-fast-towards-WRC-return/441392-3442220-12ohhypz/index.html

[itix]

Aight thanks, I stand corrected!

[GravelBen]

They've gone with the 2nd best option.

I would've preferred WC order on 1st day, reverse WC order on the 2nd and reversed rally order on the last day. But still, way better than during the last two seasons.

I would prefer them to throw away the contrived reverse order messing around and just run day 1 championship order then straight rally order after that.

[N.O.T]

I would prefer them to throw away the contrived reverse order messing around and just run day 1 championship order then straight rally order after that.

why ? so you could see 2 days of cruising and tactics ?

[GigiGalliNo1]

I cannot believe that Kenya could possibly come back into the WRC.

It would be fantastic!

[Rally Hokkaido]

I cannot believe that Kenya could possibly come back into the WRC.

It would be fantastic!

While I also think it would be great for the WRC to have the Safari Rally back in due to its famous historical link and because it will add a visit to another continent to the WORLD Rally Championship, we have to remember that any event will not be like Safari Rallies of the past. For example, even this Pro-Safari article acknowledges that it will be held over a 'closed' course.

[TWRC]

While I also think it would be great for the WRC to have the Safari Rally back in due to its famous historical link and because it will add a visit to another continent to the WORLD Rally Championship, we have to remember that any event will not be like Safari Rallies of the past. For example, even this Pro-Safari article acknowledges that it will be held over a 'closed' course.
I think having a closed course is good news, I mean it was always a problem on the Safari that the locals, donkeys, chickens etc have been running all over the road, while the competitors were going with 200 km/h... I fear more that it would have the same, generic format every rally has in the calendar.

[MM WRC]

I have thought an African WRC rally would come back as there is a growing market in Africa. But it came sooner than I thought.

[Simmi]

If they try and force the Safari through the same template as the existing events then for me there's very little point in having it. If it did ever return, hopefully its presence might remind people that you can actually change the format of events.

[FAlonso]

Wild rumor indeed. But who knows.

http://ltmsport.com/red-bull-might-volkswagens-wrc-department/

[bassist]

Wild rumor indeed. But who knows.

http://ltmsport.com/red-bull-might-volkswagens-wrc-department/

Yes, `very wild` !!!

[AndyRAC]

If they try and force the Safari through the same template as the existing events then for me there's very little point in having it. If it did ever return, hopefully its presence might remind people that you can actually change the format of events.

Exactly! No point in it returning if its just another 'identikit' WRC event. It HAS to be different!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wild rumor indeed. But who knows.

http://ltmsport.com/red-bull-might-volkswagens-wrc-department/

Given the damage to VW's reputation with the dieselgate scandal I dont see Red Bull wanting to be associated with them any longer.

[smsgrafica]

Given the damage to VW's reputation with the dieselgate scandal I dont see Red Bull wanting to be associated with them any longer.

They have been with VW all of last season, so I don't see any problem with that.

It would be kind like M-Sport, which runs private Fiestas, only with a factory developed Polo. Hmm... Not likely, but very appealing!

[MikeD]

They have been with VW all of last season, so I don't see any problem with that.

It would be kind like M-Sport, which runs private Fiestas, only with a factory developed Polo. Hmm... Not likely, but very appealing!

Anyone who knows what the VW scandal is about, knows two things:

- The scandal is the reason VW is pulling out of the WRC. And VW is totally out, and they cannot risk the bad press if they try and run the VW Polo under Red Bull, like Skoda did letting BBR running them in Red Bull colours after Skoda pulled out.

- So it's 100% NOT gonna happen.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

And there are at least two other WRC Teams who Red Bull can switch their sponsorship to..

[Jack4688`]

Plus what would be the point in Red Bull running cars which will no longer be developed during the upcommig season? The only way that would work if the 2017 Polo ended up being the equivalent of the Brawn BGP 001 - despite manufacturer backing being pulled the advantage at the beginning of the season was enough to hang on to the title lead until the end - but then how can anyone KNOW that? Too much of a risk for Red Bull and even then it'd only be good for a single season.

[smsgrafica]

Well, the article said Red Bull wanted to buy VW Motorsport, so I think it'll be complete with all the people and infrastructure. If so, then there would well be development for many seasons.

That said, I don't think it'll happen.

[Danny0405]

if VW is logical, it will not happen.
Their withdrawal does not seem to be an issue of money but a matter of brand image: they want to associate their competitition image with electric engine.
If they let the team to Red Bull, it would be a non-sense with this strategy.

Moreover, i think the hypothesis of a Red Bull team has yet been studied before the withdrawal.

[andyone]

RallyingUK ‏@RallyingUK · 14s15 seconds ago

SAFARI RALLY: Kenya Motorsport Federation steers Safari Rally fast towards WRC return #WRC @dailynation

http://www.nation.co.ke/sports/TalkUp/Phineas-Kimathi-steers-Safari-Rally-fast-towards-WRC-return/441392-3442220-12ohhypz/index.html
Interesting info ,I will be there if it happens just next door to me

Sent from my R1 HD using Tapatalk

[smsgrafica]

BILLIOT Jérémie ‏@planetemarcus
#WRC Yes VW denied this fact..but rumour grow up about Red Bull will work Polo Wrc 2017 #WaitAndSee

[focus206]

BILLIOT Jérémie ‏@planetemarcus
#WRC Yes VW denied this fact..but rumour grow up about Red Bull will work Polo Wrc 2017 #WaitAndSee

Fingers crossed...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

BILLIOT Jérémie ‏@planetemarcus
#WRC Yes VW denied this fact..but rumour grow up about Red Bull will work Polo Wrc 2017 #WaitAndSee

Same rumour... nothing new.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

JariMattiWRC deal for #WRC2017 could be sorted before @RallyAustralia his manager tells
@voiceofrally @Becsywecsy. IMO its Toyota or M-Sport https://t.co/FEWCEKNNWU

[EightGear]

JariMattiWRC deal for #WRC2017 could be sorted before @RallyAustralia his manager tells
@voiceofrally @Becsywecsy. IMO its Toyota or M-Sport https://t.co/FEWCEKNNWU
That 'IMO' is not 'your' opinion...

Source of that tweet: @SaariJarno

[Allez Andruet]

This is the original story:
http://www.mtv.fi/sport/ralli/uutinen/artikkeli/latvalalla-yhteys-kaikkiin-talleihin-sopimus-ratkeamassa-nopealla-aikataululla/6156614

Latvala's manager Timo Jouhki says that he's been in contact with all the teams and says that it's possible that everything will be sorted out before Australia.

Jouhki also believes that the VW/Red Bull rumour is just a rumour, no truth in it. Jouhki thinks that VW will not homologate the 2017 model at all.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

That 'IMO' is not 'your' opinion...

Source of that tweet: @SaariJarno

It's my opinion as well. ;)

[Simmi]

Jouhki also believes that the VW/Red Bull rumour is just a rumour, no truth in it. Jouhki thinks that VW will not homologate the 2017 model at all.

This is quite telling for me. Surely if Red Bull were trying to mount some kind of private operation with the car then guys like Jouhki would know. The team would need drivers after all!

[smsgrafica]

This is quite telling for me. Surely if Red Bull were trying to mount some kind of private operation with the car then guys like Jouhki would know. The team would need drivers after all!

They would only need one. And as far as we know, he's still on the market... ;) The rest could be Lappi, Tidemand, Suninen, etc.

[dupanton]

That 'IMO' is not 'your' opinion...

Source of that tweet: @SaariJarno

It is everybody's opinion... I don't see any other option for him than Toyota or M Sport.

[smsgrafica]

I don't even think it's an opinion. Citroen officially told us they don't want him. Hyundai also is set with their drivers. That leaves only Toyota or M-Sport, if we don't count possible private teams running the Fiesta.

[AL14]

I don't even think it's an opinion. Citroen officially told us they don't want him. Hyundai also is set with their drivers. That leaves only Toyota or M-Sport, if we don't count possible private teams running the Fiesta.

He will go to Adapta with Mads Ostberg and will form N.O.T's favourite team for next year :)

[EightGear]

It is everybody's opinion... I don't see any other option for him than Toyota or M Sport.
Yes I understand, I was just adding a source of the quote since Eddie didn't do that (again). :)

[Rallyper]

Ostberg testing 2017 Fiesta today. Giving that he stays at Ford next year.

[smsgrafica]

Ostberg testing 2017 Fiesta today. Giving that he stays at Ford next year.

Main M-Sport, Dmack or Adapta?

If he remains at Main M-Sport, it could mean Ogier to Citroen?

[Andre Oliveira]

All 4 tested. But i guess, Adapta or DMACK to Østberg and Evans

[MM WRC]

D-Mack and Adapta teams? Of course I knew about the D-Mack but I don't realise how can these teams enter as earlier it was claimed that only manufacturer entries will be able to compete in 2017 WRCs.

[EstWRC]

i will eat my hat if Ostberg stays in the main team...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Yes I understand, I was just adding a source of the quote since Eddie didn't do that (again). :)

It was a retweet of a quote of a tweet if you want to be pedantic, which you do (again).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ostberg testing 2017 Fiesta today. Giving that he stays at Ford next year.

Not 'at Ford', but 'driving a Ford'...

See, we can all be as petty as EightGear ! ;)

[EightGear]

Not 'at Ford', but 'driving a Ford'...

See, we can all be as petty as EightGear ! ;)
I'm just going to assume Per meant M-Sport instead of Ford.

[EstWRC]

suddenly, Red Bull is having Fiesta on their site :p http://www.redbull.com/uk/en/motorsports/offroad/stories/1331827956646/msport-2017-ford-fiesta-wrc-elfyn-evans-test?linkId=30882380


i know i know, they are Evans sponsor

[GravelBen]

i will eat my hat if Ostberg stays in the main team...

If you do end up having to eat your hat please post a video on here, it would be very funny.

[Franky]

If you do end up having to eat your hat please post a video on here, it would be very funny.

It has to be done in front of a live crowd to make sure it really happened.

[SubaruNorway]

suddenly, Red Bull is having Fiesta on their site :p http://www.redbull.com/uk/en/motorsports/offroad/stories/1331827956646/msport-2017-ford-fiesta-wrc-elfyn-evans-test?linkId=30882380


i know i know, they are Evans sponsor

They are also a promotor of WRC believe it or not... :)

[stefanvv]

They are also a promotor of WRC believe it or not... :)

I don't believe it.

[Munkvy]

Ostberg testing 2017 Fiesta today. Giving that he stays at Ford next year.

Or it could be M-Sport like the idea of testing with someone who continually complains and breaks cars, even though he isn't competitive. As that would be good for testing reliability...

And that maybe they aren't worried about him going somewhere else and telling them about the car...? Because he has nowhere else to go?

[Andre Oliveira]

According infos of local guys who talked with Mads, Fiesta 2016 in MC, 2017 from Sweden...

[EightGear]

According infos of local guys who talked with Mads, Fiesta 2016 in MC, 2017 from Sweden...
That would rule out the main team then I guess.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Meeke states he's happy to work with Ogier if he returns to Citroen

[N.O.T]

Meeke states he's happy to work with Ogier if he returns to Citroen

I doubt anyone cares, either in here or at Citroen.

[EstWRC]

Motorsport news out today. Simmi I'm waiting for news :)

[Simmi]

Motorsport news out today. Simmi I'm waiting for news :)

Haha okay buddy here is some news:

- Hyundai confirmed to MN they will make no approach for Ogier.
- Tommi confirmed Juho Hanninen will drive all 14 rounds. Reiterates third Yaris will be available by Corsica.
- MN speculating a car share between Breen/Lefebvre could be made to accommodate Ogier. Nothing we haven't heard before.
- Sources in M-Sport remain confident a deal can be found for Elfyn Evans.
- Marcus Gronholm says an R5 Polo was already on the agenda prior to the pull out. He also says there may be a final sign-off test with the '17 WRC car. Before the three chassis are laid to rest. No plans to sell or rebadge them.
- Red Bull have confirmed they will continue with their personal sponsorship for all three VW drivers next year. They also say there is no immediate decision ("nothing planned") on redirecting that VW team sponsorship.

As Gigi again said without citing the source - Meeke said he's happy to work with Ogier. "I would have no problem if Sebastien came back to Citroen. I haven't discussed this with the team, but from a personal perspective I'd maybe prefer to have him in the same team rather than in a car which might be perceived to be better. It would be a more level playing field, if you like."

"I had some issues over a couple of potential drivers for this year - I was a bit worried they could be disruptive in the team - but that's not the case with Ogier, Latvala or Mikkelsen. For me, those guys are all ready to roll their sleeves up and get stuck in and that's all I want to do."

[smsgrafica]

"I had some issues over a couple of potential drivers for this year - I was a bit worried they could be disruptive in the team - but that's not the case with Ogier, Latvala or Mikkelsen. For me, those guys are all ready to roll their sleeves up and get stuck in and that's all I want to do."

Let me guess... Neuville? :D

[macebig]

Kronos bad blood?After so many years?Hold a grudge found a meaning here...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm just going to assume Per meant M-Sport instead of Ford.

Never assume... that just makes an 'ass of u & me'.

I think its safe to say he"ll be driving a Ford, but not what team he"ll be in.

[EstWRC]

Let me guess... Neuville? :D

yeah, very interesting who is he referring to?

thanks for the news Simmi!

[COD]

Let me guess... Neuville? :D

Not a difficult one really

[AL14]

Why Neuville would have been diruptive while Ogier not?

[Grundo Farb]

Why Neuville would have been diruptive while Ogier not?

Because Neuville is a Princess. Ogier is a King.

Look at some of Paddons responses in the past about who he'd like to have as a team mate or who is a nice person out of the car or who makes jokes, or who helps who with their driving. The answers were always, Sordo or Meeke, or Tanak or.... but never Neuville.

[AL14]

Because Neuville is a Princess. Ogier is a King.

Look at some of Paddons responses in the past about who he'd like to have as a team mate or who is a nice person out of the car or who makes jokes, or who helps who with their driving. The answers were always, Sordo or Meeke, or Tanak or.... but never Neuville.

Thanks.

[WUff1]

Because Neuville is a Princess. Ogier is a King.

Look at some of Paddons responses in the past about who he'd like to have as a team mate or who is a nice person out of the car or who makes jokes, or who helps who with their driving. The answers were always, Sordo or Meeke, or Tanak or.... but never Neuville.

It´s the same in the other way, too. Paddon is an arrogant bunch, who thought he could win everything. He was set back on his own feet in the meantime.

[Grundo Farb]

It´s the same in the other way, too. Paddon is an arrogant bunch, who thought he could win everything. He was set back on his own feet in the meantime.

Seriously? Where has he said anything to justify that??? At no point has he said he could win anything. Show me that.

He has always said he didn't expect to win anything this year and was targeting next year for a win and to challenge for the championship in 2018.

Are you a Trump supporter who doesn't believe a fact should get in the way of a good rant?

[liposh]

Wuff1 is right. No matter how good driver Paddon is, he has "very big mouth". I have noticed it many times during last 3 or 4 years. Not only in case of talks about Neuville. It is his first attribute which characterize him best.

[Jasper]

It´s the same in the other way, too. Paddon is an arrogant bunch, who thought he could win everything. He was set back on his own feet in the meantime.


I agree, sometimes this season his mouth was too big. I didn't see Neuville criticizing his teammate in public (or i missed something).

[Franky]

"a big mouth" can be a way of manipulation as well.

[kirungi okwogera]

Wuff1 is right. No matter how good driver Paddon is, he has "very big mouth". I have noticed it many times during last 3 or 4 years. Not only in case of talks about Neuville. It is his first attribute which characterize him best.

Wuff1 is wrong and so are you. Paddon talks directly without much of a public-relations filter, true, but he has NEVER said anything arrogant about how he could win everything or anything.

Even in lower series and such he never talked like that - in the NZRC he avoided talking about his leads, championship chances etc. almost to a point where it was humorous he didn't because he was winning so big. It is a cultural thing in New Zealand - "tall poppies" get cut down first - bragging is just not done, especially not when it's not justified by actual achievement.

That's not to say he hasn't said some brutally honest stuff about other drivers that nobody else would have said, and got in that public argument with Ogier that one time, but that's not the same as arrogantly thinking or saying you are better, and I'd argue that having some honest characters is good for the sport.

[Simmi]

Yeah I think some people confuse talking/having an opinion with arrogance.

At the end of the day we want our rally drivers to say what they are thinking. The sport isn't exactly bursting with personality so in that sense it's great to have the likes of Ogier, Meeke, Paddon etc.

[RallyTyger]

I always liked rally drivers for being straight forward and speaking frankly, as opposed to the 'nice boys' of f1. I miss having more characters in the field, like Gronholm,who was never afriad of saying exactly what he thought, unfiltered...

[liposh]

I am not here to judge who is arrogant and who is only very talkative. I just want to say every coin has two sides, so Wuff1 is (at least a little bit) right at his point. You can´t say Neuville is the bad guy and Paddon is the good one. It depends on the angle of view.

[raybak]

One thing I would like to say on this, who here has met Paddon or Neuville or even Ogier. My conversations with each of them hasn't shown arrogance. They are each striving to be the best they can be and are at the top of their game. I remember a chat with Ogier before he went to VW, he was sitting at the bar at the after party at Rally Australia, no one wanted to know him. I had a chat with him for about half an hour and there was no arrogance just another rally driver wanting to achieve his dream. I have great respect for Ogier, Paddon and Neuville they manage to achieve their dreams and put up with all the social media crap that is around. They are drivers with abilities way beyond what we mere mortals can do, respect them for what they can do and what they will do in the future.

Ray

[kirungi okwogera]

One thing I would like to say on this, who here has met Paddon or Neuville or even Ogier. My conversations with each of them hasn't shown arrogance. They are each striving to be the best they can be and are at the top of their game. I remember a chat with Ogier before he went to VW, he was sitting at the bar at the after party at Rally Australia, no one wanted to know him. I had a chat with him for about half an hour and there was no arrogance just another rally driver wanting to achieve his dream. I have great respect for Ogier, Paddon and Neuville they manage to achieve their dreams and put up with all the social media crap that is around. They are drivers with abilities way beyond what we mere mortals can do, respect them for what they can do and what they will do in the future.

Ray

Exactly - there is no bad guy and good guy, it's just competitive people. You have to be that way to get to the top level.

[WUff1]

Well for sure it was clear from the very beginning that Paddon obviously couldn´t smell Neuville. It was starting from Paddon, Neuville always stayed calm about this.
It reminds me of big personal rivalry in Formula One, like Senna vs. Prost - or now Rosberg vs. Hamilton, who were even friends before, now hardly talk to each other at all. Can´t see this in WRC anywhere else except for Paddon and Neuville.

[Grundo Farb]

Well for sure it was clear from the very beginning that Paddon obviously couldn´t smell Neuville. It was starting from Paddon, Neuville always stayed calm about this.
It reminds me of big personal rivalry in Formula One, like Senna vs. Prost - or now Rosberg vs. Hamilton, who were even friends before, now hardly talk to each other at all. Can´t see this in WRC anywhere else except for Paddon and Neuville.
Yes Loeb and Ogier and sainz and macrae, were all great friends...

[Rally Power]

They are drivers with abilities way beyond what we mere mortals can do, respect them for what they can do and what they will do in the future.

Amen. That’s way Paddon’s hardcore fans shouldn’t be permanently undermining Neuville. In order to praise our favorite driver there’s no need to criticize his competitors.

[Rally Power]

Btw, Polo ’17 WRC homologation is going to happen, or not? This guys says it’ll…

http://www.revistascratch.com/wrc/noticia/volkswagen-homologa-el-polo-2017-a-finales-de-noviembre-35208

[focus206]

Btw, Polo ’17 WRC homologation is going to happen, or not? This guys says it’ll…

http://www.revistascratch.com/wrc/noticia/volkswagen-homologa-el-polo-2017-a-finales-de-noviembre-35208

Knowing VW, no. Hope is the last one to die, though.

[BigWorm]

I bet Paddon doesn't sleep well at night nowadays given Neuville's recent form.

[tommeke_B]

I bet Paddon doesn't sleep well at night nowadays given Neuville's recent form.

Given his contract, I bet he sleeps better than most... ;)

[Barreis]

http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/127029

[EstWRC]

too late for Kris according to these guys: Ogier would be confirmed on Monday as MSport pilot for a season... Note in http://www.rallynoticias.com


https://twitter.com/rallynoticias/status/796795092287819777

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.rallynoticias.com/nivel2.php?lang=es&id_noticia=11906

"Ogier sería confirmado el lunes como piloto de MSport por una temporada..."

Ogier will be confirmed in monday as M-Sport driver for one season

[Simmi]

What is the reputation of this website? Reliable?

[dimviii]

nice news,if they confirmed.
Ogier at citroen would make citroen and himself almost champion from 1st rally.If he go to Ford it will be better for the championship imho.

[EstWRC]

What is the reputation of this website? Reliable?

im also questioning it, anyone knows?

Dunno what to think of it, some part of me wants it but some not.

[Mirek]

I only know that it's my wish to be true.

[smsgrafica]

Ogier will be confirmed in monday as M-Sport driver for one season

If true, it would be a bit sad to have him at M-Sport for only one season. I'd understand if he wouldn't want to take the risk of binning more than one year if the car is not good, but I'd like to see a 2 year contract, as a minimum.