[WRC] News & rumours (part IV) 2016

[Andre Oliveira]

Colin Clark: Hearing some very interesting news about The Handsome One tonight. When is the Rally Sweden entry list published? ������

[nafpaktos]

edit

[nafpaktos]

http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/makinen-ogier-was-right-to-turn-down-toyota-859532/

zotos was also not convinced who was technical director and left the team

[Myrvold]

Although they are friends again now, back in 2008 that would not have been a alternative. They have some dads with big personalities to say it like that :)

While it's not like it was after the Norwegian Championship thing, I still think it's extremely unlikely.

[tommeke_B]

http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/makinen-ogier-was-right-to-turn-down-toyota-859532/

zotos was also not convinced who was technical director and left the team

And why would Zotos be a good reference to how the team works?

[nafpaktos]

Zotos was tommi's engineer in prodrive and their relationship evolved to frienship.Tommi asked Zotos to join him to the new venture and Zotos left his job in usa having in mind that being techical director to a wrc team is HIGH challenge.He has declared(to an interview that i have posted it in the forum) that this is the biggest challenge of his life and he is FULLY committed to that.He left everything behind him to live to small village in finland.i am sure that tommi assured him that new facilities will be built apart from the existing ones.As i have seen they still work in <barns>and this is not acceptable for a high skilled professional.The lack of facilities is indicative of how tommi thinks.When you say things such as<a winning team can be built without huge amount of money,we will built a family team(like ralliart)and it is something that has worked in the past etc> then your logic-perception is wrong cause you are in the 21st century.If you want to be protagonist in the wrc and not a supportive actor you need state-of-art facilities and MONEY.I am sure that tommi sooner or later will realise it.i hope to realize it before the total disgrace of toyota brand name in the world of rallying.

[Franky]

Maybe the challenge proved to be too much for Zotos?

And why does it matter how the building exterior looks like?

There's never a single path to success. Copying someone else's workflow does not always grant success.

[A FONDO]

WHat do you mean with "he was not convinced who is technical director"?

[nafpaktos]

When a new challenge-venture begins and you ask some people to join you, you give them some guarantees and a plan.Of course in the beginning some things are missing but gradually things should go better and better.Here the things seems that stayed stagnant and that's why Zotos left.About the buildings you ask it is indicative of the way tommi thinks.Facilities are not only to help you with your job it is also your <face> and shows how determined you are to succeed.You want to shine to wrc with <barns>???New facilities add to your status.I also think that the working enviroment helps an empolyee to perform better.Franky where would you perform better,where would you like to work?to tommi's <barns> or to mclaren facilities?a good enviroment also make the empolyee to feel important.Don't you agree?

[Franky]

I don't think that the way how a facility looks on the outside matters. What matters is what happens inside, the co-operation between people. You keep saying that TMG works in a barn, but then M-Sport and Prodrive work in big warehouses. That is no better exterior.

Until you show me cows inside TMG's barns, I can't agree with you.

I'm sure Mirek or someone else who works in the automobile industry can give a better explanation what the interior should be like.

[nafpaktos]

but then M-Sport and Prodrive work in big warehouses. That is no better exterior.



Things have changed,this was acceptable back to 90s.

[Franky]

Things have changed,this was acceptable back to 90s.

Why do you think that the exterior has to look fancy?

[nafpaktos]

i have already answered

[cali]

i have already answered
Not properly

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[Mirek]

The last thing I do bother about is how their buildings look like (actually if I did I would have to give some proper roasting to Škoda as well, lol).

[BigWorm]

The last thing I do bother about is how their buildings look like (actually if I did I would have to give some proper roasting to Škoda as well, lol).

At least those buildings produced a pretty damn fast car

[Toyoda]

Im sorry but this is just rubbish,
Unless you have been inside the building and have a detailed list of equipment that the facility has, you can no way imply that an exterior of a building indicates its interior, (unless you looking at the amount of extractor fans blabla)
Many amazing buildings look like crap on the outside but are amazing technical facilities on the inside, its very common here in NZ and I imagine like wise in Finland, in fact more so with the location, climate and available materials.

[Simmi]

Im sorry but this is just rubbish,
Unless you have been inside the building and have a detailed list of equipment that the facility has, you can no way imply that an exterior of a building indicates its interior, (unless you looking at the amount of extractor fans blabla)
Many amazing buildings look like crap on the outside but are amazing technical facilities on the inside, its very common here in NZ and I imagine like wise in Finland, in fact more so with the location, climate and available materials.

I guess as soon as Toyota decided against Cologne you're either putting money into the car or you are putting money into creating factory facilities/infrastructure. Difficult to do both simultaneously to a high level. I'd much rather the car was good.

[Rally Power]

When a new challenge-venture begins and you ask some people to join you, you give them some guarantees and a plan.Of course in the beginning some things are missing but gradually things should go better and better.Here the things seems that stayed stagnant and that's why Zotos left.About the buildings you ask it is indicative of the way tommi thinks.Facilities are not only to help you with your job it is also your <face> and shows how determined you are to succeed.You want to shine to wrc with <barns>???New facilities add to your status.I also think that the working enviroment helps an empolyee to perform better.Franky where would you perform better,where would you like to work?to tommi's <barns> or to mclaren facilities?a good enviroment also make the empolyee to feel important.Don't you agree?

Still the facilities issue? Come on, we all know that Makinen was Toyota’s WRC B plan, after brave decision to discard TMG. They’ve kept ’17 as debut year, so there was no time to build new premises. Even if people continues calling ‘barns’ to Makinen’s facilities, they’re more than enough to start the program.

[stefanvv]

Even if people continues calling ‘barns’ to Makinen’s facilities

They aren't barns, they're stables, for wrc 'horses'.

[Andre Oliveira]

@Karlip1 8m8 minutes ago

Tänak on @SebOgier "For sure he is a very strong driver. It's good that we get a direct comparison with him, no excuses for us being slower"

Tänak on @SebOgier "He has been happy with the development so far. All the info from him will help us develop a lot further."

Tänak on the 2017 Fiesta "It's a great experience, designing a car as it fits for you. From the steering wheel to the suspension."

"He is a strong guy. The only way to fight him would be with the same resources we have. We will learn a lot from him."

[bluuford]

They aren't barns, they're stables, for wrc 'horses'.
I think the most difficult thing is to live in a place where you can´t see a proper sun for half a year and where they say that last year the summer was on Tuesday. But this needs different people and I am agree that it is difficult for the person from Mediterranian.. It would be difficult for me in there not to have everlasting days in summer and snow in winter and darkness to feel warmth inside rooms:) I know many people who have been working in our University and when they are telling honestly then they say that its very hard for them to get used to our winter and climate.. on the other way around, Japanese people really enjoy our winter.. my boss says that it is really, really cold in Nagoya and Kyoto in winter but here it is always very nice and warm (inside the room I mean ;)). And all the work with Japanese is a bit slower than you might want, so, if you sum it all up then these can cause a person to move away from Finland indeed;)

[SubaruNorway]

I think the most difficult thing is to live in a place where you can´t see a proper sun for half a year and where they say that last year the summer was on Tuesday. But this needs different people and I am agree that it is difficult for the person from Mediterranian.. It would be difficult for me in there not to have everlasting days in summer and snow in winter and darkness to feel warmth inside rooms:) I know many people who have been working in our University and when they are telling honestly then they say that its very hard for them to get used to our winter and climate.. on the other way around, Japanese people really enjoy our winter.. my boss says that it is really, really cold in Nagoya and Kyoto in winter but here it is always very nice and warm (inside the room I mean ;)). And all the work with Japanese is a bit slower than you might want, so, if you sum it all up then these can cause a person to move away from Finland indeed;)

It's not that bad in Jyvaskyla, you have sun for 5 hours a day right now and this is as dark as it gets :)
You need to go at least 10 hours further north for it to be almost no sun.

[Rallyper]

I think Nafpaktos talks about things he doesn´t know a thing about.

Just rubbish.

Why so negative over something you don´t even have a clue of how it works? Chill man!

[EstWRC]

@Karlip1 8m8 minutes ago

Tänak on @SebOgier "For sure he is a very strong driver. It's good that we get a direct comparison with him, no excuses for us being slower"

Tänak on @SebOgier "He has been happy with the development so far. All the info from him will help us develop a lot further."

Tänak on the 2017 Fiesta "It's a great experience, designing a car as it fits for you. From the steering wheel to the suspension."

"He is a strong guy. The only way to fight him would be with the same resources we have. We will learn a lot from him."

ill add some things/corrections.

About developing the car: "It was a very good experience that i got to develop the car from the start and make things the way like i wanted. I have never had a opportunity like this. The buttons on the steering wheel, suspension, pedals and gear shifters, i got them all like i wanted. For sure this could be the best chance that i have to be strong next year."

How did four time world champion Ogier accepted the car you have developed?

T: "So far the response has been positive. Even the seating position suited him! We are going into right direction, of course the car is still new and the development will continue next year. Overall he has been satisfied with the main work and i think we will all benefit that he is coming with all the knowledge from VW which was the best car so far. All the information helps us to develop even more.

"i really want to see how he works in different situations and how he manages difficulties. I and Martin and all the team have a lot to learn from him."

About Ogier he actually said that: "There is no doubt that he is very strong in his mind."


"Ogier and Ingrassia are very strong competitors but its good that they are in the same team with us with the same car. This time there cant be no excuses about tires, car etc. Now you have to be the man and race, this is the best situation that we have at the moment."

[Grundo Farb]

That's a figure of speech? Fucking ridiculous. Let's chuck in some racism and homophobia for good measure

Do you have tourette's? Is that the reason for the sensitivity?

[Franky]

It's not that bad in Jyvaskyla, you have sun for 5 hours a day right now and this is as dark as it gets :)
You need to go at least 10 hours further north for it to be almost no sun.

Let's not call it sun as most of the time it's just some dim light that shows up in late morning and then disappears some hours later.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I see Toyota say they picked Latvala over Mikkelsen as he 'has a lot more experience'.

[skarderud]

I see Toyota say they picked Latvala over Mikkelsen as he 'has a lot more experience'.
Haha, yeah, or he is finnish.

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[nafpaktos]

I think Nafpaktos talks about things he doesn´t know a thing about.

Just rubbish.

Why so negative over something you don´t even have a clue of how it works? Chill man!

Time will tell if i say rubbish.For sure i will admit it if i am mistaken.One question ,what makes you feel optimistic about yaris wrc?

[liposh]

I see Toyota say they picked Latvala over Mikkelsen as he 'has a lot more experience'.

OK, but why pick Lappi over Mikkelsen? I know there was agreement before VW quit, but as you can see in Lappi´s contract it is officially only "Test driver" job. Lappi can´t say a word if Tommi uses Mikkelsen as third driver. ...but Tommi didn´t pick Mikkelsen.

[Andre Oliveira]

MANUFACTURER ENTRANTS:


CITROËN TOTAL ABU DHABI WRT
(CITROËN C3 WRC)

HYUNDAI MOTORSPORT
(HYUNDAI i20 COUPE WRC)

M-SPORT WORLD RALLY TEAM
(FORD FIESTA WRC)

TOYOTA GAZOO RACING WRC
(TOYOTA YARIS WRC)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

MANUFACTURER ENTRANTS:


CITROËN TOTAL ABU DHABI WRT
(CITROËN C3 WRC)

HYUNDAI MOTORSPORT
(HYUNDAI i20 COUPE WRC)

M-SPORT WORLD RALLY TEAM
(FORD FIESTA WRC)

TOYOTA GAZOO RACING WRC
(TOYOTA YARIS WRC)

Confirming no official Ford entry and no seperate DMack team.

[Andre Oliveira]

Interesting,

Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT should sounds better (World Rally Team)

and Hyundai announced Hyndai Shell Mobis WRT and used again Hyundai Motorsport

[mousti]

Confirming no official Ford entry and no seperate DMack team.

That doesn't confirm anything around DMack, they aren't a manufacture..

[Rallyper]

Time will tell if i say rubbish.For sure i will admit it if i am mistaken.One question ,what makes you feel optimistic about yaris wrc?

I like to be optimistic. But in Toyota case on the contrary I´m not bashing, that´s all.

[skarderud]

Capito going to leave McLaren apparently, already, or other plans?

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[Fast Eddie WRC]

C.Clark: Got to wonder what's going on ! Stand down Elfyn supporters, no announcement now for at least a couple of days. Still very hopeful though..

[Essaj]

Picking Latvala over Mikkelsen is a joke. The only team in WRC who would do this is Toyota. Experience is a good thing but it doesn't help much when your driving is **t in 50% of the rallies..
Was really looking forward to see Toyota back in the game but i can't see how they will succeed if they keep on making this kind of stupid decisions.
Also, having the HQ in the deep forests in Finland instead of Cologne... :rolleyes: Apparently people working with rally is just shaking their heads and wondering whats going on.

Are you by any change, Erik Veiby in disguise with "c" and "living in england" thing?
Well to be fair, I would have also picked Mikkelsen over Latvala anyday of the week.

Distance from the "deep forests of Finland" to most of the rallies is pretty fking insane so hopefully they manage to fly the cars from Finland preferably from Jyvaskyla airport which is like 10km's from their workshop to where ever they are racing. Doing that trip with trucks every time takes like million years.
But aren't they allowed to test freely in Finland since they are located there? Then they happen to have thousands of kilometers of the best rally roads of the world right on their doorstep, which can't be a bad thing.

[rallyfiend]

But aren't they allowed to test freely in Finland since they are located there? Then they happen to have thousands of kilometers of the best rally roads of the world right on their doorstep, which can't be a bad thing.

Which is good for testing for Finland and Poland, and a bit of Sweden.

Not so good for basically every other rally on the calendar!

And all testing is restricted to a number of days...

[Essaj]

Which is good for testing for Finland and Poland, and a bit of Sweden.

Not so good for basically every other rally on the calendar!

And all testing is restricted to a number of days...

If you are fast at Finland, you are fast everywhere =)

[cali]

If you are fast at Finland, you are fast everywhere =)
No.

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[bluuford]

If you are fast at Finland, you are fast everywhere =)
Australia, and Argentina are also mostly very fast. and Helsinki airport is only 250 km away, which has very good connections to all major airports and the best connections with Aisia, Japan and Australia.

[Franky]

I think the location of the team HQ has no relevance unless it's in the middle of Siberia.

[bluuford]

I think the location of the team HQ has no relevance unless it's in the middle of Siberia.
Actually, when all your drivers live in driving distance from HQ and you have free testing on your "home counrty" it might be some advantage ;)

[SubaruNorway]

Are you by any change, Erik Veiby in disguise with "c" and "living in england" thing?
Well to be fair, I would have also picked Mikkelsen over Latvala anyday of the week.

Distance from the "deep forests of Finland" to most of the rallies is pretty fking insane so hopefully they manage to fly the cars from Finland preferably from Jyvaskyla airport which is like 10km's from their workshop to where ever they are racing. Doing that trip with trucks every time takes like million years.
But aren't they allowed to test freely in Finland since they are located there? Then they happen to have thousands of kilometers of the best rally roads of the world right on their doorstep, which can't be a bad thing.

M-Sport has done this for years, not a big problem. Jyvaskyla is closer to more rallies than Cockermouth is.

[nafpaktos]

Actually, when all your drivers live in driving distance from HQ and you have free testing on your "home counrty" it might be some advantage ;)

i read in the forum that a team can do as much test as they want to the country that the team is registered.this is the first time i read this.i thought the days of testing were limited.having read the regulations in the past that was my feeling.it is approximately 30 days(if i remember right) and to some particular countries,not outside europe.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Toyota dont seem to have any issues with testing at the moment... Latvala has been everywhere.. everyday a new place ! ;)

[bluuford]

i read in the forum that a team can do as much test as they want to the country that the team is registered.this is the first time i read this.i thought the days of testing were limited.having read the regulations in the past that was my feeling.it is approximately 30 days(if i remember right) and to some particular countries,not outside europe.
66.1 PERMITTED TESTING SITES
For Manufacturers registered in the Championship, testing (as defined in Art. 2.21 ) is permitted:
66.1.1 On a permanent testing site proposed by the Manufacturer before its first rally of the year and
notified to the FIA.

Duration:
66.3.2 In the case of a Manufacturer, a maximum of 55 days in any calendar year. This clause does not
apply to testing as stated in Art. 66.1.1.

So, they can test in Finland as much as they like if they notify which part of finland is their site

[nafpaktos]

i have just downloaded the regulations to my desktop!!!!i should read them more often and more carefully.

[EstWRC]

first video interview with Ogier that i have seen after signing with m-sport http://www.motorsport-magazin.com/wrc/video-7719-ogier-interview-erster-schnee-test-im-ford-fiesta.html

[spark13]

I think the location of the team HQ has no relevance unless it's in the middle of Siberia.
I will not leave such disgraceful and disrespectful comments about Siberia alone!!!! It have proper rally roads whenever you lay down our site, direct flight connections with Japan and unique variable wather conditions mixing from dry hot gravel of Argentina to Sweden snow banks.
Well.... okay it might be quite away from Europe=)

[Walach]

I think you could also test your WRC there every day of the year and nobody would notice :D

[Franky]

I will not leave such disgraceful and disrespectful comments about Siberia alone!!!! It have proper rally roads whenever you lay down our site, direct flight connections with Japan and unique variable wather conditions mixing from dry hot gravel of Argentina to Sweden snow banks.
Well.... okay it might be quite away from Europe=)

If you disrespect Siberia, you do not return from there. Trust me, I've got absolutely nothing against Siberia. It's a stunning place and I'll be heading to the Far East next year. This time going further and longer.

It was an example of remoteness, if you literally take the middle of Siberia.

Walach is right. The middle of Siberia is the perfect testing ground.

[Mirek]

Back in 80' Audi used to test gr.B/gr.S prototypes in secrecy behind the iron courtain in Czechoslovakia so even Siberia wouldn't be anything really new :)

[Mirek]

Capito to leave McLaren?

http://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/capito-set-to-leave-mclaren-f1-team-860356/

[dimviii]

Following the announcement that Ogier would join Ott Tänak to lead the M-Sport team as the WRC enters a new era of more powerful cars, Vatanen spoke to RedBull.com about his joy Watching Ogier's decision and what it means for the championship.
So Ari, are you satisfied with the news?
I was so happy when I learned it. This testifies to the excellent work of Malcolm (Wilson, director of the M-Sport team).
It must be remembered that Ford has very little investment (in M-Sport) and Malcolm has to find the money himself and manage his company well. He took big risks, and I love his entrepreneurial spirit. He started by selling pilot gloves at Carlisle Airport and now he is there, he deserves everything that happens to him. People do not realize it's easy to work for someone, but it's entirely different when you risk everything without knowing what it's going to give you, you take calculated risks and you hope it works. And it worked for Malcolm, he's a real businessman. Have Ogier today, imagine that means to them.
It's really a great moment for M-Sport ...
Absolutely. The arrival of Ogier is going to be a big boost for Malcolm and Ford. Maybe others will get involved. I'm sad that Volkswagen stops, but this combination will give rise to an exciting revival.
Were you in touch with Sébastien during his decision-making?
Of course. I always tease him, because when he won his first world championship, he was older than me by a few months when I won in 1981. So I always said to him: "you are not really talented, otherwise You would have won by being younger than me. " Seriously, I said, "Seb, the most important thing for you is winning, and that's what Ford can bring you." I did not want to exaggerate either, but I really hoped it would. I'm really happy with his decision.

Would you have been a little disappointed that Sébastien signed for another team?
Yes, because it would have been the same again. There, the cards are totally redistributed. It's good for sport this kind of renewal. You have to know how to appreciate those moments.
Do you think Sébastien can conquer a fifth title in 2017?
You'll see next year. I do not exclude his chances of victories, he also said that the car was excellent, but nobody knows so much that the competition did not start. But do you realize that I am the last Ford driver to have won the WRC? Nobody has done it since 1981, so to joke I told Malcolm to hire me! I hope that Seb can succeed me, I do not want to be the last Ford driver to have won forever!

Last question: would you like to test the new cars of 2017?
Of course. Not in competition, of course. But I would love to try. It's like giving a Stradivarius to a violinist!

http://www.redbull.com/fr/fr/motorsports/offroad/stories/1331835366284/ari-vatanen-sebastien-ogier-signature-msport

[RS]

The last thing I do bother about is how their buildings look like (actually if I did I would have to give some proper roasting to Škoda as well, lol).

Skoda Motorsport hq is literally within the old factory walls I think? Quite small but I guess they use the wider facilities of Skoda Auto too.

You can't get closer to a true factory team than that!

[Sulland]

Capito to leave McLaren?

http://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/capito-set-to-leave-mclaren-f1-team-860356/

If Mäkinen had the balls and dared to jump up and take a management role, he hired Capito to run the team in WRC day to day. He knows form current experience what it takes to build a top team. Would save them 2 years, but again I guess entrepeneur Tommi would like to finish what he started.

[raybak]

Capito needs a big budget to achieve what he does. Would there be enough funds from Toyota to keep him happy?

[liposh]

Would save them 2 years, but again I guess entrepeneur Tommi would like to finish what he started.

IMHO Tommi would like to finNish what he started :D

[Ounin]

If Mäkinen had the balls and dared to jump up and take a management role, he hired Capito to run the team in WRC day to day. He knows form current experience what it takes to build a top team. Would save them 2 years, but again I guess entrepeneur Tommi would like to finish what he started.

Mäkinen created an almost completely Finnish speaking team, Capito doesn't speak Finnish... 😏

[GravelBen]

Mäkinen created an almost completely Finnish speaking team, Capito doesn't speak Finnish... ��

Yeah, they only have 10 different nationalities in the team. Almost completely Finnish.

[EstWRC]

ill start a campaign..."Leave Toyota alone" :p

[spark13]

If you disrespect Siberia, you do not return from there. Trust me, I've got absolutely nothing against Siberia. It's a stunning place and I'll be heading to the Far East next year. This time going further and longer.

It was an example of remoteness, if you literally take the middle of Siberia.

Walach is right. The middle of Siberia is the perfect testing ground.

No offence. I just failed with lack of quality of irony in my post....

[Mirek]

If Mäkinen had the balls and dared to jump up and take a management role, he hired Capito to run the team in WRC day to day. He knows form current experience what it takes to build a top team. Would save them 2 years, but again I guess entrepeneur Tommi would like to finish what he started.

Do You suggest that Mäkinen shall fire himself and replace himself with Capito? :)

[Sulland]

Do You suggest that Mäkinen shall fire himself and replace himself with Capito? :)

CEO: Makinen
COO: Capito

;)

[AL14]

Please let that individual far from WRC. We've already pulled our weight.

[liposh]

Tommi can name himself something like "head supervisor" above Capito , kind of Cardinal Richelieu of Toyota. Anyway it won´t happen. :)

[jbmarcus21]

Official and sad... Mikkelsen confirmed to drive Monte Carlo with Fabia R5 => http://bit.ly/2i4UuNU

[rallyfiend]

English:

https://www.andreasmikkelsen.no/news/andreas-mikkelsen-to-drive-at-rally-monte-carlo/

[AL14]

Skoda official page talks of "a guest appearance". Good for them of course but a pity he is not driving in the top league.

[N.O.T]

Official and sad... Mikkelsen confirmed to drive Monte Carlo with Fabia R5 => http://bit.ly/2i4UuNU

A travesty thanks to finnish politics that turned a colossus manufacturer into a small village short minded amateur pile of garbage.

well done.

[Allez Andruet]

Never been a big fan of Mikkelsen, but kudos to him for taking an R5 seat for 2017 (atleast for Monte). I'm not sure if all WRC drivers would've been willing to do that.

[jonkka]

Never been a big fan of Mikkelsen, but kudos to him for taking an R5 seat for 2017 (atleast for Monte). I'm not sure if all WRC drivers would've been willing to do that.

It's essential for him to keep in touch with competitive driving and WRC events where all the decision makers are. So smart move from him.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rumour he is still hoping for a 2017 Polo for Sweden...

[Doon]

Rumour he is still hoping for a 2017 Polo for Sweden...

Will someone else be using the Polo in Monte Carlo?

[macebig]

The Polo is RIP.Don't get your hopes up.Mikkelsen does the right thing.There is no point in spending money on a 16 Fiesta for MC when you can get a paid R5 seat.Have a good showing and if stars align try to get a 17 car for Portugal and onwards.

[Viking]

Andreas to Norwegian media

I hope that Monte Carlo in a Skoda is a one off and and that I already in Rally Sweden can get on with a VW Polo.
It depends on the 2017 model of the VW Polo is homologated. If that goes through, it would be very good.
But then it's obviously also about bringing in sponsorship money to operate it.

[Mintexmemory]

There is no point in spending money on a 16 Fiesta for MC when you can get a paid R5 seat.Have a good showing and if stars align try to get a 17 for Portugal and onwards.
On the other hand, if he gets his rear end handed to him on a plate then drumming up the future support may be problematic

[macebig]

There is always a risk,but a paid R5 Fabia is always a better option than shelling out money for an uncompetitive 16 WRC.

[Andre Oliveira]

Closer you are the top, better.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I dont think AM has much to prove. The (R5) drive on Monte is just to keep him sharp.

[dimviii]

AbuDhabiRacing ‏@AbuDhabiRacing1 57m
57 minutes ago

The countdown has begun!
The official reveal of the @CitroenRacing #C3WRC in #AbuDhabi is getting closer with 24hrs to go
#C3WRCReveal

[Mintexmemory]

Closer you are the top, better.

Thank you, Yoda!

[EstWRC]

Never been a big fan of Mikkelsen, but kudos to him for taking an R5 seat for 2017 (atleast for Monte). I'm not sure if all WRC drivers would've been willing to do that.

different circumstances but i know a driver who had to sit out whole year doing only his home rallies, then came back and did a season with R5 and now this driver will be a teammate to 4-time world champion.

what i want to say is that Mikkelsen is doing totally right by taking all the chances that he has at the moment. He just needs to keep himself in shape for 2018, although i think all the Citroen and Hyundai drivers have 2 year deals? M-sport (not confirmed) and Toyota drivers have one year deals.


it is still unbelievable that he didnt get a drive for 2017

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Citroën Racing ‏@CitroenRacing
Join us tomorrow live at 4.00pm CET for the C3WRC launch: http://www.facebook.com/citroenracing

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0Ji3k0XgAAFrJh.jpg

[COD]

66.1 PERMITTED TESTING SITES
For Manufacturers registered in the Championship, testing (as defined in Art. 2.21 ) is permitted:
66.1.1 On a permanent testing site proposed by the Manufacturer before its first rally of the year and
notified to the FIA.

Duration:
66.3.2 In the case of a Manufacturer, a maximum of 55 days in any calendar year. This clause does not
apply to testing as stated in Art. 66.1.1.

So, they can test in Finland as much as they like if they notify which part of finland is their site

But it talks about a permanent site, not a whole country. Totally different thing. Permanent site means basically one road or a testing facility with many roads, but still doesn't allow testing on any road in one country in my interpretation

[bluuford]

But it talks about a permanent site, not a whole country. Totally different thing. Permanent site means basically one road or a testing facility with many roads, but still doesn't allow testing on any road in one country in my interpretation
Yes, it is actually very open terminology. There is no lenght or something else. So, basically, you can use pretty large region for that. For example, we have on testing track that is partly privately owned and partly public road that is closed during larger tests;)

[itix]

Yeah, they only have 10 different nationalities in the team. Almost completely Finnish.
This pisses me off too. It is clearly everything but...
I know the driver line up is entirely Finnish and it is based in Finland but there are definitely experienced people from other nations there.

Toyota Gazoo is a strange venture I agree but in their willingness to criticize it people buy NOTs crap totally.

Some nuance in the Toyota debate from both opponents and proponents please!

[Vahula]

Agree with you itix
Like they say "if it works it's not stupid"

We will see in MC

[andyone]

This pisses me off too. It is clearly everything but...
I know the driver line up is entirely Finnish and it is based in Finland but there are definitely experienced people from other nations there.

Toyota Gazoo is a strange venture I agree but in their willingness to criticize it people buy NOTs crap totally.

Some nuance in the Toyota debate from both opponents and proponents please!
Sometime it's easier to speak one language when developing a car you all understand each other well. I don't see what is bad about it. U less there is a rule that says that.

Sent from my 6039S using Tapatalk

[dimviii]

Citroen's Technical Director talks about the new 2017 C3 WRC
Written by Martin Holmes on 21 December 2016.
Laurent Frégosi is Citroen*Racing’s Technical Director and is in charge of their WRC programme, and spoke to RallySport Magazine’s Martin Holmes about the new 2017 Citroen C3 WRC.
He oversaw the technical side of the final year of Citroen in the WTCC in 2016 and has considerable experience from working on projects such as the Xsara WRC, the C4 WRC, the DS3 WRC*and the C-Elysee WTCC.*
He explained that work started on the 2017 World Rally Car around April 2015. *

Citroen Racing’s Technical Director, Laurent Fregosi.
“When we began work there were very few people in the design department, originally only two people, then three.* We didn’t begin with the full potential! *
“We progressively increased the workforce from September 2015, with everybody working on this project. The car is completely new compared to the DS3 WRC.* We have kept some philosophies, and even if a lot of parts are completely new, we have retained a lot of ideas on the DS3, though at the end we redesigned all the parts.”
MH: How many test cars have been built?
LF: We began with one test car in April this year (2016), then in July we introduced a second test car.* Since this date we have done each test session with one car. *
Since July 2016 we have two test cars.* We do one test with one and the test afterwards with the other.
MH: Has aerodynamic work been the biggest challenge in this project?
LF: It is difficult to say the biggest challenge, it is one of the challenges, one of the main differences, so we have done a lot of work in aero.* What has been quite difficult is to define the good shape from the aero point of view, which we would be able to maintain all through the rally.*
I am talking about damage to the car, especially losing some part of the front bumper.* It has been difficult to find a good compromise between the effect of damage and the aerodynamics of the car.
MH: How much benefit has the experience in Touring Car racing in aerodynamic work been to the rally car?
LF: The work we have done in Touring Car is not the same because the basic shapes of the cars are different. *With aero you cannot transfer something from one car to the other because it’s very dependent on the shape of the standard car, and on the freedom you have with the regulation, which are quite different between the WTCC and the WRC. *
The*basic objective of the aero work in both cases is the same, getting more downforce without creating too much drag.
MH: Moving on to transmission and the re-introduction of a central differential system, have you been using experience from the old Citroen days when they also had central differentials?
LF: The philosophy of how the central diff is working is quite similar between the new C3 compared with the old C4 on the mechanical way.* We have a quite different torque split than what we had with the C4, but the response is the same.*
Why we have more difference is because we now have the software to drive the pressure on the central diff.* We began with the same strategy for the C3 as with the C4, but we also have a new idea we have implemented in the software to gain more actuation in the way we are increasing the pressure on the central diff. *
We have developed the gearbox and the rear diff with Sadev.* We have worked with them at the beginning on all the design of the gearbox.* Then we work with them to define the design of all the parts, but it was a very close collaboration with Sadev
MH: You had many different test sessions.* What was the priority in the test work, was it gravel, was it endurance, was it asphalt?* What was the first priority for testing?
LF: The priority was on gravel surface because there are more gravel rallies than asphalt rallies, so it is more important to be able to run with gravel configuration.*
The other reason is that for reliability gravel is harder than tarmac, so to be sure to discover problems of reliability, it was more important to start off on the gravel.
MH: What is the history behind the engine?
LF: Because of the WRC regulation change we had to change a lot of parts on the engine, but using the experience we have had on the WTCC engine, which had very similar regulations as the WRC for 2017.*
We take experience from both WRC and WTCC.* We also improve with some new ideas that we have had and which we have experienced on the dyno, then we redesign parts of the engine for the new car.*
The 2017 rally engine is not exactly the same as what we had in WTCC.*
MH: Engine work with the new regulations has presented another challenge, because you are now using engines with a bigger restrictor in rallies, so has your experience on the racetrack with bigger restrictors helped with the development of the engine?
LF: It has helped especially because we have made a new engine.* In making a new engine we have taken experience that we have been able to improve and implement in the engine of the WRC car.*
The pressure of the turbocharger is the same as we had on the old DS3 WRC car, the only difference is because we increase the diameter of the restrictor.* So our aim with the engine management is to have good response on the exit of a corner, but having more power doesn’t change the WRC car a lot.*
The consequence of having more power with the same torque, maximum torque, is that we are using the engine at the higher revs than the older car.
MH: Has the suspension work been entirely done by Citroen or with outside help?
LF: In the beginning the work was only Citroen design.* We defined both gravel and tarmac suspension shock absorbers for the moment, but we plan to work with some specialist supplier of shock absorber, but not for the moment.* For the moment it is Citroen design.* *
MH: What unexpected problems have come in the development of this car, something you didn’t expect would be a difficulty?
LF: One of the problems was how not to damage the front and rear bumper.* We had also some problems of transmission with*the driveshaft.* That was something we had not expected, but they were not big problems, but problems we have been able to solve.*
I have to say that we have never had the big problems that we have to stop a test session.* We have always been able to run because we never had a big problem with reliability.*
It was a good thing to be able to make a lot of kilometres for each test session, no big problems.* We have had to modify the shape of the car several times, because we were also doing some simulation work until very late, not helped that some elements of design in the regulation were defined very late. *
The aim was to ensure that whatever problems we have will not stop the car, and every time we changed the shape we had to be 100% sure we would not increase the risk of damage to the bumpers, the front bumper especially.*
MH: How many rally cars will be built this season?
LF: We will have two cars built for each driver, two cars for each of the official drivers and one car for Khalid (Al Qassimi), so a total of seven.* We are also expecting sometimes to run four cars.

http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/wrc/11060-citroen-s-technical-director-talks-about-the-new-2017-c3-wrc

[dimviii]

Citroën Racing ‏@CitroenRacing
It's coming soon! #C3WRClaunch will be live on our Facebook page at 4:00pm CET

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0NMQ97WEAEOUXO.jpg

[dimviii]

find this photo,but don't know if its real and leaked.

https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/15585312_741165222698553_5274231334731568020_o.jpg ?oh=34403284e1d7d0dd0dd89bae0d68fcf5&oe=58DEAAE5

[dimviii]

live now
https://www.facebook.com/citroenracing/videos/vb.34740377056/10154225685467057/?type=3&theater

[EstWRC]

very poor live feed...Simmi motorsport news please?

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0Newi8XUAAx1hL.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0Nep1GXgAERs_o.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0NeuNMXUAAOk1U.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0NevTmWIAAKHeW.jpg
http://planetemarcus.com/wordpress/wp-content/gallery/presentation-citroen-c3wrc-2017/C3Wrc2017_officiel_3.jpg
https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15542404_811743478957826_4140952750552285247_n.jpg ?oh=0ab16d1da1f508ab485938a8e4205954&oe=58FCF03D
https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15542465_811743485624492_4929936931183166635_n.jpg ?oh=b4e7a7fa416a48d0b124c3ce1f43f34f&oe=58DB965F

[Simmi]

very poor live feed...Simmi motorsport news please?

No fresh issue this week due to Christmas so nothing to report :(

[A FONDO]

Nothing special but much better than the white-golden arabian crap.

[focus206]

Not amazing but it's okay, I expected worse from looking at the road car and test car... Don't like the green details though.

[dimviii]

Not amazing but it's okay, I expected worse from looking at the road car and test car... Don't like the green details though.

+1 I was waiting worse,but its better.

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0NkaqeWIAAy2_W.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0NjVeZXUAMBYzq.jpg

[chris_bakelas]

At the last photos it's looking better

Στλθηκε απ το LG-D802 μου χρησιμοποιντας Tapatalk

[sete]

to be honest, i dont like it
Looking forward to see M-sport livery

[Thousandlakes]

http://yle.fi/urheilu/3-9364834

Latvalas finnish (yle) interview after snow test. Feels happy and says that yaris is allready very good on snow. Easy to drive and handling well in braking. J-M says, that they need to get better in asphalt. He talk about losing motivation in 2016 etc. Now he is waiting every day like crazy to test that car. Imo Yaris looks pretty fast already in those new snow test videos. I assume that we saw pretty fast Yaris in Sweden :)

[dimviii]

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/december-2016/citroen-revealed-/page/4144--12-12-.html

[dimviii]

a letter from Kris Meeke

Hi everyone,
For sure, 2016 has been an interesting year. I remember this time last year, when I was deciding my future, I had to opt to not do the full championship this season, even when I knew there were certain rallies where I need more experience.
But it has turned out to be a fantastic year; we only did seven rallies, I know, but we had some fantastic speed and some great results. And all the time, we’ve been working really hard behind the scenes on the new car, and I think that approach will pay dividends in 2017. Of course, at times in 2016 the limited programme was frustrating – but I just had to look at the bigger picture, and putting all that effort into the 2017 car was very important. Hopefully we’ll reap the rewards of that next year and beyond.
It’s been fantastic to be part of Citroen Racing when they’re coming back as a full factory team. We all know their focus has been on WTCC for a while, so now the full energy is behind the WRC programme and it feels different – proper. I feel I’m ready for the challenge.
I’m writing this from the launch in Abu Dhabi and the car looks really good here. I can’t wait to get to Monte Carlo. We’re excited by the challenge and we want to get to the stages and just enjoy it, to be honest. We’ve shown, in fact, that when we do that – just enjoy it – the speed and results can come, so we’re aiming for that.
Hopefully we can get off to a good start in Monte and then see what 2017 can brings. I tend not to set targets; we all know my ultimate ambition is to be the World Champion, naturally, but I’m not setting myself specific goals beyond that. We just want to be at the sharp end – that’s the clear ambition.
Thanks again for all your support during 2016 – and to so many of you for liking my Facebook page, which is an increasingly important part of what drivers like me do these days. We’ll try to keep it interesting for you in 2017 – and some good results would be the best way of doing that, of course!
Wishing you all a great holiday season, and looking forward to an exciting 2017 ahead,
Kris

http://www.krismeeke.com/news/2016-12-21-a-letter-from-kris

[HaCo]

I Really like the C3!

[tc10a]

find this photo,but don't know if its real and leaked.
https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/15585312_741165222698553_5274231334731568020_o.jpg ?oh=34403284e1d7d0dd0dd89bae0d68fcf5&oe=58DEAAE5

Not only no. 1 on the test videos speedwise, also looking really good

[dimviii]

Meeke was speaking at the launch of the French manufacturer's new C3 WRC challenger in Abu Dhabi today. The car has been built to the FIA's new and exciting technical regulations that allow greater aerodynamic freedom, more engine power and the re-introduction of active centre differentials.

The cars are expected to be more spectacular on the stages than their predecessors and Meeke believes the most successful driver at the end of the season will be the person that has been able to tame their car the most.

"The 2017 car is an exciting machine, it’s quite a big step from 2016," the three-time world rally winner said. "We know the regulation changes but when you drive them in anger, they’re a different beast; you really have to be on your game, every metre, to keep on top of them.

"For me, the human element will come to the front even more in 2017, because in places it’s going to be difficult to extract the potential of these cars. At times they are so, so fast."

http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/december-2016/meeke-on-new-citroen/page/4145--12-12-.html

[Fast Eddie WRC]

That Citroen C3 is such a dumpy shape to start with that nothing will make it look exciting, no matter how big the aero attachments.

The C3 WRC livery is about as boring as it gets but at least its simple and doesnt make the shape look even worse...

I think the M-Sport Fiesta will look by far the best when its all liveried-up.

[dimviii]

best side looks the rear one

https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15665591_1197755823637804_8659512204555493123_n.jp g?oh=bc20f43633e5cced2814cf1d755c426f&oe=58E32A13
https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15622394_1197755820304471_7413201454236579972_n.jp g?oh=345cc6ade67f2999502998111a2eb22b&oe=58F39FB5
https://scontent-bru2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15622424_1197755826971137_6923348567645232408_n.jp g?oh=b0fca420986dd7b33c30c6784d7e6355&oe=58FCA4E2

[Andre Oliveira]

MC, S, MX -> 2 C3 WRC
TdC -> 3 C3 WRC
ARG -> 2 C3 WRC
PT -> 4 C3 WRC
IT -> 3 C3 WRC
PL, FIN -> 4 C3 WRC
GER -> 3 C3 WRC
SP, UK and AUS -> 4 C3 WRC

according autosport.pt

[BigWorm]

I think it looks like an alien, something you wouldn't see anywhere. I like that.

[COD]

I find it funny, how people judge the cars t videos. Different cars on different roads with different tyres etc. The only way to make any comparioson would be that the cars would be filmed on same road, same road conditions and same tyres. So lets wait for first three or four rallies to judge which cars work and which not. Of course, drivers make a difference too

[Toyoda]

I find it funny, how people judge the cars t videos. Different cars on different roads with different tyres etc. The only way to make any comparioson would be that the cars would be filmed on same road, same road conditions and same tyres. So lets wait for first three or four rallies to judge which cars work and which not. Of course, drivers make a difference too

I agree, BUT, what else are we going to do as WRC fans, part of the fun in speculating what car is better, and then potentially finding out it was all a load of crap. I find it fun trying to read far to much into a video haha

[BigWorm]

I find it funny, how people judge the cars t videos. Different cars on different roads with different tyres etc. The only way to make any comparioson would be that the cars would be filmed on same road, same road conditions and same tyres. So lets wait for first three or four rallies to judge which cars work and which not. Of course, drivers make a difference too

That's the way the game is between rallies. A rally is the only time we can compare the cars and see how they fare against eachother. Nothing else we can do other than speculate right now, perhaps switch off but I think that's hard for most rally fans in here where rally is a major part of life.

[N.O.T]

I find it funny, how people judge the cars t videos. Different cars on different roads with different tyres etc. The only way to make any comparioson would be that the cars would be filmed on same road, same road conditions and same tyres. So lets wait for first three or four rallies to judge which cars work and which not. Of course, drivers make a difference too

Another funny thing is that somehow (probably magic star trek stuff) the testing videos are quite accurate since i cannot remember a car looking slow on testing videos and was fast when the rallies started and visa versa.

[stefanvv]

I agree, BUT, what else are we going to do as WRC fans, part of the fun in speculating what car is better, and then potentially finding out it was all a load of crap.

Nothing better to do with the avalanche of testing videos and nobody knows what particular test is for.

[Mirek]

I find it funny, how people judge the cars t videos. Different cars on different roads with different tyres etc. The only way to make any comparioson would be that the cars would be filmed on same road, same road conditions and same tyres. So lets wait for first three or four rallies to judge which cars work and which not. Of course, drivers make a difference too

Even without direct comparison You can get plenty of information about the cars. You can see oversteering/understeering, body roll, rebound, nose diving etc. Of course You can never be sure why You see that but if the same symptoms persist from video to video it's normally a clear indication that it's the particular car's feature and not only an anomaly.

[shaitan]

Did anyone notice yaris's front break disc(alcon) too small compared c3's?
In 2.0 period focus have more greater of rear break disc than c4's and with more horse power to come I cannot understand why yaris carry a small break.

[markpcym]

because its probably in gravel set up.

[shaitan]

because its probably in gravel set up.

Their press conference is a tarmac one.

[GravelBen]

Their press conference is a tarmac one.

Maybe they left the small brakes on from the last test (snow?) and just put the tarmac wheels on for the press conference.

[rogef]

Did anyone notice yaris's front break disc(alcon) too small compared c3's?
In 2.0 period focus have more greater of rear break disc than c4's and with more horse power to come I cannot understand why yaris carry a small break.

The diameters used in gravel or tarmac are not the same as you can see in the table below released by Toyota Gazoo Racing. At Citroen I do not know what the diameters are.

1152

[N.O.T]

Maybe they left the small brakes on from the last test (snow?) and just put the tarmac wheels on for the press conference.

they do not use test cars in presentations.

[GravelBen]

they do not use test cars in presentations.

Maybe the presentation car is just thrown together from whatever spare parts they had lying around then. Whatever, I don't think it means very much what brakes were on it.

[Mirek]

Quite often the showcars aren't real cars at all. There is no need to worry about brake size on them :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

VW was 'more conservative but tougher...'

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/127554/vw-was-more-conservative-for-2017-than-rivals

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0Rt1zeXAAA9Ojq.jpg

[jbmarcus21]

#WRC **SPECIAL POLL MONTE CARLO 2017** Click and vote for your winner favorite in Monte ➡ http://bit.ly/2cknVEI

[pucky54]

#WRC **SPECIAL POLL MONTE CARLO 2017** Click and vote for your winner favorite in Monte ➡ http://bit.ly/2cknVEI

Winner is not listed?!?!?

[EstWRC]

right link here http://planetemarcus.com/vainqueur-du-monte-carlo-2017-a-vous-de-voter/


who do you mean by winner?

[tomhlord]

right link here http://planetemarcus.com/vainqueur-du-monte-carlo-2017-a-vous-de-voter/


who do you mean by winner?

Close poll, cheers JB. Seems Ogier, Meeke and TN are favourites.

[EstWRC]

Nice! Posted by Gerard Quinn https://twitter.com/WRCgerardquinn/status/811949426939985920

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0SemPiWQAADn6d.png

[N.O.T]

Nice! Posted by Gerard Quinn https://twitter.com/WRCgerardquinn/status/811949426939985920

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0SemPiWQAADn6d.png

photoshoped crap.

[EstWRC]

well it doesnt look that much different from the actual car thats why i posted it.

[Bartek]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgR6ops4Hhs > Polo presentation.

They won't participate in 2017 season but they are making clip like this. I hope it's something with a VW private team.

[pucky54]

who do you mean by winner?

The driver I would pick to win Monte is not listed!!

[giu canbera]

hahah WTF, VW???
https://twitter.com/vwrallytheworld/status/811966866008801281

The redbull + qatar colors on the first second of the video were pretty great, eh?

[EstWRC]

just saw it and very weird indeed...especially stay tuned in the end

[dimviii]

hahah WTF, VW???
https://twitter.com/vwrallytheworld/status/811966866008801281

The redbull + qatar colors on the first second of the video were pretty great, eh?


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0S9XXLXEAAK0kH.jpg

[stefanvv]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0S9XXLXEAAK0kH.jpg

Have we seen such rollcage before?

[Mirek]

Yes, all 2017 cars have the double X if You mean that.

[stefanvv]

Yes, all 2017 cars have the double X if You mean that.

Thanks, haven't noticed.

[CWJ]

2017 Marketing car with livery was ready during Wales GB rally already for pictures and presentations...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgR6ops4Hhs > Polo presentation.

They won't participate in 2017 season but they are making clip like this. I hope it's something with a VW private team.

Livery colours suggesting Qatar & Norwegian flag...

[Andre Oliveira]

Double X rollcage

https://scontent-mad1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15492282_1358312674199038_8879093195364113357_n.jp g?oh=1599b5379414b605f57f19ef959acf5a&oe=58E382D4

[BigWorm]

Close poll, cheers JB. Seems Ogier, Meeke and TN are favourites.

Pretty expected but I would throw in Sordo as well

[stefanvv]

Pretty expected but I would throw in Sordo as well

Would You? Why?

[skarderud]

Its some ifs and buts, but i am quite sure we will see some norwegians in a polo WRC next year.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

[BigWorm]

Would You? Why?

He usually does well in Monte. Seems to have a habit of having mechanical difficulties there but if his car stays clean I reckon he will be among the leading times.

[Andre Oliveira]

About VW and possibly M-Sport livery

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C0UXBkxXcAAyvJF.jpg

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/wrc/11066-feature-malcolm-wilson-explains-2017-fiesta-wrc-development

MH: How many cars are you planning to build, which then leads to another question, what is the latest situation about privateers being able to use 2017 cars?

MW: Obviously I want to, and I need to try and build as many 2017 WRC cars as we possibly can. Privateers with approval from the FIA can drive them, but I can tell you that current people in WRC, people like Lorenzo Bertelli, Martin Prokop, Henning Solberg, all these sort of people, then there is no issue from the FIA’s side of having these sort of people in the car.

...

MH: How many 2017 cars will you run at Monte Carlo?

MW: Three, but that is not guaranteed for every event, but I hope to. If you don’t run three 2017 cars and you have to run a 2016 car, as far as I understand it, the driver of the 2016 cars will not be eligible to score Manufacturers points

[quick]

Have we seen such rollcage before?

2017 cars use the same old T45 type rollcage, which has been used for many years. 2 tube connected strut mounts to center x and it looks like double x

[dimviii]

Feature: Malcolm Wilson explains 2017 Fiesta WRC development

http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/wrc/11066-feature-malcolm-wilson-explains-2017-fiesta-wrc-development

[tomhlord]

The driver I would pick to win Monte is not listed!!

Who would that be?

[pucky54]

Who would that be?

Craig Breen

[EstWRC]

you know that he is listed with a 16WRC car there?

[Mirek]

2017 cars use the same old T45 type rollcage, which has been used for many years. 2 tube connected strut mounts to center x and it looks like double x

You are right. It's optical illusion.

[Duvel]

Livery colours suggesting Qatar & Norwegian flag...

How knows? maybe Nasser has said first i'll do Dakar (contracts are signed already) and strarting from Sweden i'll go rallying a 2017 Polo WRC.

Andreas is welcome in the team, but let's first give him one round in a Skoda (sister team) R5 for Monte. If he finishes and wins his clas doesnt he score point for the general clasiffication also?
Whit the monte not having rally2 would not be a bad idea.

If Ostberg's Adapta funds are ok he can maybe gat a ride to?

Just dreaming, but would be so cool!

[Andre Oliveira]

Rally2 only in section 1,2 or 3. So Saturday retirements are out of sunday day

[Simmi]

Rally2 only in section 1,2 or 3. So Saturday retirements are out of sunday day

I guess with the stupid new power stage rules there are a lot of points up for grabs on the Sunday now.

[rallyfiend]

How knows? maybe Nasser has said first i'll do Dakar (contracts are signed already) and strarting from Sweden i'll go rallying a 2017 Polo WRC.

Andreas is welcome in the team, but let's first give him one round in a Skoda (sister team) R5 for Monte. If he finishes and wins his clas doesnt he score point for the general clasiffication also?
Whit the monte not having rally2 would not be a bad idea.

If Ostberg's Adapta funds are ok he can maybe gat a ride to?

Just dreaming, but would be so cool!

With the 2017 VW Polo missing Monte, will it be allowed to compete in the future?

Isn't a manufacturer obligated to enter each WRC event in order to achieve homologation? Why would the other manufacturers allow them a dispensation?

[pucky54]

you know that he is listed with a 16WRC car there?

yepp, thats the reason why he will be winning this ;)

[AL14]

yepp, thats the reason why he will be winning this ;)

http://i.imgur.com/HoYp1cA.gif

[liposh]

With the 2017 VW Polo missing Monte, will it be allowed to compete in the future?

Isn't a manufacturer obligated to enter each WRC event in order to achieve homologation? Why would the other manufacturers allow them a dispensation?
Theoretically You are right, but in the world of big money nothing is impossible so nobody knows ;)

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.m-sport.co.uk/m-sport-news/fiesta-r2/m-sport-returns-to-fia-junior-world-rally-championship-in-association-with-dmack

The competitor who has amassed the most points over a combination of both the Tour de Corse and Rally Italia Sardegna will secure two prize drives. The same is on offer for the winner of Rally Poland and Rally Finland combined, and also for Rallye Deutschland and RACC Rally España combined. A seventh prize drive will then be awarded to the overall championship victor.

[Andre Oliveira]

True that FIA allow now 55 days of testing instead 42 of 2016?

[bluuford]

True that FIA allow now 55 days of testing instead 42 of 2016?
66.1 PERMITTED TESTING SITES
For Manufacturers registered in the Championship, testing (as defined in Art. 2.21 ) is permitted:
66.1.1 On a permanent testing site proposed by the Manufacturer before its first rally of the year and
notified to the FIA.

Duration:
66.3.2 In the case of a Manufacturer, a maximum of 55 days in any calendar year. This clause does not
apply to testing as stated in Art. 66.1.1.

[seb_sh]

MSport has just revealed some partial liveries (see MSport Ford thread). Ogier has big Red Bull backing, Tanak will have a different sponsor. What does this mean for the private VW team, is it another nail in the coffin?

Red Bull could choose to just sponsor one car in each team like they do in DTM with BMW and Audi. So the VW team could be a joint Red Bull/Norwegian/Adapta/Qatar effort with the Red Bull car being for Andreas Mikkelsen. But this is just me speculating...

[MikeD]

MSport has just revealed some partial liveries (see MSport Ford thread). Ogier has big Red Bull backing, Tanak will have a different sponsor. What does this mean for the private VW team, is it another nail in the coffin?

Red Bull could choose to just sponsor one car in each team like they do in DTM with BMW and Audi. So the VW team could be a joint Red Bull/Norwegian/Adapta/Qatar effort with the Red Bull car being for Andreas Mikkelsen. But this is just me speculating...

The VW private team with Qatar backing is dead, according to Colin Clark. It was only a remote possibility if Qatar (as a sponsor) would a back a team with Nasser and Ogier.

[Simmi]

Sounds like VW were playing hardball with what the 2017 car/staff were worth as a package deal over the season.

Now faced with just R5 dev next year you have to wonder whether they'd consider lowering the costs a touch? I'd guess not but people still seem to be linking drivers with a Polo from Sweden.

[the sniper]

Red Bull could choose to just sponsor one car in each team like they do in DTM with BMW and Audi.

They do the same in World Rallycross, MotoGP and have done the same in single-seaters too. Surely it's entirely plausible that they'd do the same in the WRC.


The VW private team with Qatar backing is dead, according to Colin Clark. It was only a remote possibility if Qatar (as a sponsor) would a back a team with Nasser and Ogier.

Colin says many things... More recently he's tweeted "Hearing some very interesting news about The Handsome One [Mikkelsen] tonight. When is the Rally Sweden entry list published?". Since this tweet we've had an official teaser video from VW finishing with a "Stay tuned" message: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgR6ops4Hhs .

Unless VW have embarked on a PR nightmare trolling exercise, I can't see how a 2017 VW team isn't a done deal now. I'll be amazed if it doesn't happen.

[Andre Oliveira]

Petter Solberg will do Sweden in WRC car. Maybe the Handsome One is other :)

[Andre Oliveira]

just saw it and very weird indeed...especially stay tuned in the end

It's rally week! On Thursday, we'll have two cars doing Romjulsrally 2016 with both Henning Solberg and Oscar Solberg behind the steering wheels :) Stay tuned! #TeamAdapta

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Matton re Ogier return...

http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-leaves-door-open-to-future-ogier-reunion-861255/

[stefanvv]

Matton re Ogier return...

http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-leaves-door-open-to-future-ogier-reunion-861255/

If Ford comes back 2018 it might be very difficult to get him. We'll see.

[tolx]

Even I don't like to say it, hyundai looks most beautiful to me.

[Barreis]

I don't understand why are these photo liveries in news and rumours?! Put it in a bar talk...

[KiwiWRCfan]

I don't understand why are these photo liveries in news and rumours?! Put it in a bar talk... A new livery is news, particularly when it reveals new sponsors

[Barreis]

Well, if you didn't see those liveries, then you don't follow WRC regularly. Also he asked what livery do we like the best. So it's for bar talk and this is for news and rumours...

[Vaggelis27]

Petter Solberg will do Sweden in WRC car. Maybe the Handsome One is other :)


What???

[KiwiWRCfan]

Well, if you didn't see those liveries, then you don't follow WRC regularly. Also he asked what livery do we like the best. So it's for bar talk and this is for news and rumours...
If you check my twitter timeline you will see results of some polls on fan reactions to each of the liveries https://twitter.com/KiwiWRCfan/media

[Andre Oliveira]

Stupidest rumour ever?

"¡¡¡ SABIA QUE ALGO PASABA... DANI SORDO VUELVE A CITROEN !!!
Dani Sordo ha cancelado su contrato con Hyundai y regresa a Citroen... Dani ha interrumpido los test con Hyundai, sin dar explicaciones y despues de varias horas de reunion con Matton, acaba de anunciar que regresa al equipo oficial Citroen... Mañana mismo saldra el comunicado y sera presentado antes del comienzo 2 dias de test en Alpe D'Huez... sSuerte Dani."

[KKS]

looks like weird fan dream, after watching a test videos with C3

[marcusmx]

Stupidest rumour ever?

"¡¡¡ SABIA QUE ALGO PASABA... DANI SORDO VUELVE A CITROEN !!!
Dani Sordo ha cancelado su contrato con Hyundai y regresa a Citroen... Dani ha interrumpido los test con Hyundai, sin dar explicaciones y despues de varias horas de reunion con Matton, acaba de anunciar que regresa al equipo oficial Citroen... Mañana mismo saldra el comunicado y sera presentado antes del comienzo 2 dias de test en Alpe D'Huez... sSuerte Dani."

April Fool's Day (december 28th in Spain, día de los santos inocentes")

[EstWRC]

interview with Breen http://www.the42.ie/craig-breen-2017-plans-3136443-Dec2016/

[rayh_mx]

April Fool's Day (december 28th in Spain, día de los santos inocentes")

Same in Mexico. Day of not lending money :p

[EstWRC]

Motorsport News ‏@MNRally 2h2 hours ago
Also included in today's issue: @dakar preview, @SebOgier @MSportLtd test, @SindreFuruseth's new car, @CombiliftRally plans and more


Simmi my friend?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Watched the S4C (Wales TV) programme tonight - 2016 season review of Elfyn Evans. Any Welsh-speakers here that can tell if anything was revealed for him next year ?

I noticed he was interviewed wearing a D-Mack shirt, not M-Sport...

Watch http://www.s4c.cymru/clic/e_level2.shtml?programme_id=532426314 - (Interview re 2017 & new Fiesta testing at 45 mins)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Mads Ostberg on Romjuls Rally in the R5 today.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C01SjqBWgAEpYed.jpg

Practice for Sweden, maybe not doing Monte ?

[PLuto]

Practice for Sweden, maybe not doing Monte ?

Ostberg will not start in Monte.

[pantealex]

Mads Ostberg on Romjuls Rally in the R5 today.


Practice for Sweden, maybe not doing Monte ?

Practice foe Sweden, yes. But I don´t see any connection to Monte thing, snow is only available material to drive in Finland/Norway/Sweden... Henning, Brynildsen, Gröndal, O.Solberg etc. also driving there.

[dimviii]

at ss 2 boost problem forMads

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C01z_h_WgAA_PcT.jpg

[Simmi]

Motorsport News ‏@MNRally 2h2 hours ago
Also included in today's issue: @dakar preview, @SebOgier @MSportLtd test, @SindreFuruseth's new car, @CombiliftRally plans and more


Simmi my friend?

No new information, just a small piece based on this article - http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/127505/ogier-completes-first-full-msport-test


It is surprising to me Ogier isn't going testing again until the week before the Monte. Quite a contrast to Latvala's pre-Xmas approach of testing almost every day to familiarize himself with the Yaris.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Mads Østberg ‏@MadsOstberg
Fun day at Romjulsrally! Weren't able to fight for the o/a win because of turbo failure and lost 12 sec. But we won our class and 2nd o/a.

[rallyfiend]

No new information, just a small piece based on this article - http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/127505/ogier-completes-first-full-msport-test


It is surprising to me Ogier isn't going testing again until the week before the Monte. Quite a contrast to Latvala's pre-Xmas approach of testing almost every day to familiarize himself with the Yaris.

Toyota has no limits on the amount if can test.

M-Sport does.

[dimviii]

Mads Østberg ‏@MadsOstberg
Fun day at Romjulsrally! Weren't able to fight for the o/a win because of turbo failure and lost 12 sec. But we won our class and 2nd o/a.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C02xLmTWQAAtZKq.jpg

[TWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C02xLmTWQAAtZKq.jpg
Hope Henning won't bin one of the last genuine ex-works Evo 6.5 :D

[Myrvold]

I see that Henning Solberg have said that either he'll get a 2017-car for Sweden, or he won't drive. So I guess no Henning this year.

[pantealex]

I see that Henning Solberg have said that either he'll get a 2017-car for Sweden, or he won't drive. So I guess no Henning this year.

My bet is for R5 machinery

[Lundefaret]

My bet is for R5 machinery

Henning always says a lot of things in the start of the season, but its impossible to know what will happen, dont think he knows either. Henning is Henning.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

You sure Eddie? I think Toyota numbers will be before Citroen next year due to Latvala finishing higher than Meeke in the championship. Neither were entered as a manufacturer last year. But it's not clear in the regulations.

Yes, team numbers in the order I gave... MSport, Hyundai, Citroen, Toyota.