Hyundai WRT

[AnttiL]

I think he made a late waiver to Portugal? With $$$ it can be done

[mknight]

Well Mr Loeb is the defending WRC champion from Rally NZ 2012

He also won all stages on Corsica once you know...

[Katvala]

Interesting fact; since Sardinia (including it) Neuville has only scored one more point that Mikkelsen in total (67/66)

For the shared third car, it is 55 points

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[mknight]

You mean including Sardinia. The numbers for others are:

Tanak 100

Ogier 70
Neuville 67
Mikkelsen 66

Hyundai Sordo (45 from 3)/Breen(10 from 2) = 55

Lappi 49
Latvala 46
Meeke 42
Suninen 39

[AnttiL]

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/146715/hyundai-plans-r5-overhaul-set-for-two-new-cars

This explains Mikkelsen and Bouffier testing the i20 R5 lately. They're doing major development work for the car in order to release an update package for the start of 2020, and a completely new car based on the new i20 model in the summer of 2020. Adamo also hopes to find the budget for a factory team entry in WRC2 2020.

[EstWRC]

one announcement out but not about Tänak https://twitter.com/HMSGOfficial/status/1189105091409780736?s=20

[mknight]

one announcement out but not about Tänak https://twitter.com/HMSGOfficial/status/1189105091409780736?s=20
Tarmac testing for Loeb because of the lack of tarmac pace in Spain.
Note that this will be his 4th tarmac rally in the car this year, excluding Monte.

Not sure how much it helps though, cause again in Spain he would come to the stage end thinking it would be a good time only to see he is the last WRC. Same thing happened as early as in Monte on Sunday.

How do you then judge improvements if there is no other WRC to compare with?

[T16]

Tarmac testing for Loeb because of the lack of tarmac pace in Spain.
Note that this will be his 4th tarmac rally in the car this year, excluding Monte.

Not sure how much it helps though, cause again in Spain he would come to the stage end thinking it would be a good time only to see he is the last WRC. Same thing happened as early as in Monte on Sunday.

How do you then judge improvements if there is no other WRC to compare with?

They don’t have other WRC cars when they test and they value testing enough, so not having other cars still allows them to develop.

[mknight]

They don’t have other WRC cars when they test and they value testing enough, so not having other cars still allows them to develop.

Between Corsica and Spain Loeb did 2 tarmac rallies like that. His speed relative to others seemingly didn't change.

[AnttiL]

How do you then judge improvements if there is no other WRC to compare with?

You do first some stages with the old setup and then you change in the new parts.

[T16]

Between Corsica and Spain Loeb did 2 tarmac rallies like that. His speed relative to others seemingly didn't change.

Therefore they need to test more. Simple.

[denkimi]

Tarmac testing for Loeb because of the lack of tarmac pace in Spain.
Note that this will be his 4th tarmac rally in the car this year, excluding Monte.

Not sure how much it helps though, cause again in Spain he would come to the stage end thinking it would be a good time only to see he is the last WRC. Same thing happened as early as in Monte on Sunday.

How do you then judge improvements if there is no other WRC to compare with?
He did 3 scratches in spain, as much as sordo and more than ogier. Only neuville and tanak did better.

So the speed still is in there somewhere, but he just can't seem to get it out on a reliable continuous base.
They have the telemetry data, so they should be able to know perfectly where and why he loses time.

[mknight]

You do first some stages with the old setup and then you change in the new parts.

He "feels" it's fast but the time relative to others doesn't reflect it. When there is nobody to compare with only yourself, then you can only compare first and second passes, which is kind of hard as there is always a difference between them on a normal rally. (if road gets polluted it's slower, otherwise it's faster because of "knowing" the conditions of the stage)

"Feeling" not matching results is something totally new for Loeb on tarmac, just like it was for Mikkelsen last year.

On a test where you run same road multiple times it's easy to measure difference (though obviously it has own issues due to finetuning the setup to that particular section). But obviously the big advantage of "free" test days on rally are important here.

--------------


He did 3 scratches in spain, as much as sordo and more than ogier. Only neuville and tanak did better.

So the speed still is in there somewhere, but he just can't seem to get it out on a reliable continuous base.
They have the telemetry data, so they should be able to know perfectly where and why he loses time.

We are talking about Tarmac, on tarmac he was nowhere near where he should be. With one 3rd time as best, then 5.,6., 2x7., 2x8., 3x9. and 10..

[deephouse]

Will you all consider that he is marketing tool for Hyundai? Maybe he just enjoys driving that thing in various tarmac events

[Tarmop]

He is a great carbyilder nevertheless...

[EstWRC]

Today is the day?

I have a feeling they won’t announce it because of all the fuss around it.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Today is the day?

I have a feeling they won’t announce it because of all the fuss around it.

Today is Halloween

[EstWRC]

even better, i hope to see Adamo in a Halloween costume on the announcement picture.

[tr4m]

even better, i hope to see Adamo in a Halloween costume on the announcement picture.

Dressed as Tommi?

[tr4m]

https://i.imgur.com/IfKxFG1.jpg
There you go! Happy halloween, everyone!

[Allez Andruet]

Dressed as Tommi?

How does one dress like Tommi?

[T16]

I'm guessing today too:

https://twitter.com/HMSGOfficial/status/1189803473178648576?s=20

[sinepikohv]

How does one dress like Tommi?

The secret really isn't in the dressing part. You have to have drinked a lot of alcohol and you face must be as red as a tomato. Sure, wearing TGR clothes will help :)

[tr4m]

How does one dress like Tommi?

https://i.imgur.com/hCmUqHC.jpg
Like that.

[EstWRC]

out now guys https://motorsport.hyundai.com/ott-signs-for-two-years/

[spiderem]

Adamo is on a mission... Makes you wonder what Hyundai would have achieved if he would have replaced the previous French guy (can't remember his name) earlier.

[mknight]

Btw. about the "discussions" with Mikkelsen and Breen.

It looks kind of obvious that they would offer to one (or maybe both of them ) starts at rallies that Loeb and Sordo won't do or are not good at (Sweden, Finland, GB) combined with some R5 development and rallies.

Mikkelsen certainly will try to get something else, while Breen might be more inclined to say yes.

[tommeke_B]

What if Breen moves on to Toyota?

[mknight]

What if Breen moves on to Toyota?

That is off course possible, but imo Breen is definitely behind Ogier, Mikkelsen, Evans and Suninen on the list of drivers that Toyota would want.

[ggg377]

Btw. about the "discussions" with Mikkelsen and Breen.

It looks kind of obvious that they would offer to one (or maybe both of them ) starts at rallies that Loeb and Sordo won't do or are not good at (Sweden, Finland, GB) combined with some R5 development and rallies.

Mikkelsen certainly will try to get something else, while Breen might be more inclined to say yes.

To me it seems like Adamo is trying to prevent them from going to Toyota by stringing them along. This could leave Toyota with Paddon and maybe Ostberg as their only real options besides Latvala and Meeke.

[EstWRC]

so, this team next year...

- 2 world champions
- 10 world titles
- 105 rally victories
- 230 podiums

and counting because Australia is still ahead.

[Crazy J]

What are your speculations, is every HWRT driver allowed to win on 2020? Or if for some reason e.g. Thierry or Ott would need to move forward in results, it is done right from the beginning of 2020?

[wrc2017]

there will be fireworks

[Katvala]

Neither of the two would be willing to move away from the other I'm sure. Unless it comes to the end of the season and either is too far away to be able to win the title. It'll be interesting..

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

im definitely predicting that Neuville will be faster in the first rallies...he has been in the team since day 1 and knows the car. (i guess Ott gets to test it for like 2-3 days before Monte)

However, Ott with his knowledge from M-sport and Toyota and being a very good car developer will sort out the car sooner than later if it doesnt suit him in the beginning.

[Oraamat]

Lets not forget that Ott adapted to Toyota almost instantly and had great pace with it since Monte. I guess that adapting with Hyundai wouldnt be too bad also.

[dimviii]

im definitely predicting that Neuville will be faster in the first rallies...he has been in the team since day 1 and knows the car. (i guess Ott gets to test it for like 2-3 days before Monte)

However, Ott with his knowledge from M-sport and Toyota and being a very good car developer will sort out the car sooner than later if it doesnt suit him in the beginning.

Νeuville has to fix this thing that he is slow at first day/stages while he is still searching his setup/confidence with the car.
Tanak havent got such problems at least with Yaris

[mknight]

Lets not forget that Ott adapted to Toyota almost instantly and had great pace with it since Monte. I guess that adapting with Hyundai wouldnt be too bad also.

Meeke has also adapted to Toyota "instantly" so that's 2 out of 2 drivers.
While at Hyundai neither Loeb nor Mikkelsen could make the car work on tarmac even after 4+ rallies each. So that's 0/2.

Some challenge coming for Tanak on tarmac then. Unless they start fundamentally changing the tarmac car. Which is possible if the WC demands it.

[AnttiL]

I was thinking the same. All drivers have had great pace on Yaris from the first rallies they did with it. In contrast the tarmac pace difference of Mikkelsen and Loeb from C3 to i20 is alarming. And at the same time, Neuville can still win rallies with it.

[Eli]

Meeke has also adapted to Toyota "instantly" so that's 2 out of 2 drivers.
While at Hyundai neither Loeb nor Mikkelsen could make the car work on tarmac even after 4+ rallies each. So that's 0/2.

Some challenge coming for Tanak on tarmac then. Unless they start fundamentally changing the tarmac car. Which is possible if the WC demands it.

Don't forget with the newly (& partially) introduced rotation system, next year will only have 2 pure tarmac events....so won't be as demanding as this year....

[dimviii]

And at the same time, Neuville can still win rallies with it.

at Catalunya the true pace of yaris we saw at power stage.Tanak destroy Neuville,while Neuville was thinking that he will not be faster.

[EstWRC]

I was thinking the same. All drivers have had great pace on Yaris from the first rallies they did with it. In contrast the tarmac pace difference of Mikkelsen and Loeb from C3 to i20 is alarming. And at the same time, Neuville can still win rallies with it.

Yep the tarmac pace is questionable. Only Neuville and Sordo can go fast there with the car.

On gravel it suits more or less for everyone.

And regarding mikkelsen. To be honest it seems to me it’s more him than the car. The guy just isn’t so adaptive IMO.

[mknight]

Yep the tarmac pace is questionable. Only Neuville and Sordo can go fast there with the car.

On gravel it suits more or less for everyone.

And regarding mikkelsen. To be honest it seems to me it’s more him than the car. The guy just isn’t so adaptive IMO.

I don't get how you last part connects with rest. As you say on gravel it suits everyone in a way, though not on every single rally.

Neuville had 2 rallies this year where he was the slowest Hyundai and one of the slowest cars (Sardinia and Finland). Loeb was very slow in Sweden and on the stages he drove in Portugal. Mikkelsen was very slow in Chile.

On tarmac neither Mikkelsen nor Loeb can go fast with it.

Anyway very good point on previous page that there are only 2 tarmac rallies next year. Germany is also kind of special with 90deg corners and hairpins and Panzerplatte with surface that seems to suit Hyundai.

[denkimi]

Adamo is on a mission... Makes you wonder what Hyundai would have achieved if he would have replaced the previous French guy (can't remember his name) earlier.
he would have hired ogier in 2017 and hyundai would by now have 3 constructor titles and 2 driver titles.

[steve.mandzij]

Adamo is on a mission... Makes you wonder what Hyundai would have achieved if he would have replaced the previous French guy (can't remember his name) earlier.Michal/Michel Nandan, who was a disaster but at least considerate of his contracted drivers.

I love Adamo but he's rather ruthless.

[mknight]

Michal/Michel Nandan, who was a disaster but at least considerate of his contracted drivers.

I love Adamo but he's rather ruthless.
It was Nandan who dropped Paddon and Sordo each for one rally at end of 2017 for Mikkelsen an ran both for half season in 2018. Similarly ut was him who kicked Paddon and hired Loeb at end of 2018.

Even bigger problem with Nandan was his attitude to car(engineer) vs driver wishes. Engineers made a car and drivers should just get used to it. First after Adamo came they actually started to change the car to what different drivers wanted. Remember that Nandan was also responsible for 307WRC.

[EstWRC]

I don't get how you last part connects with rest. As you say on gravel it suits everyone in a way, though not on every single rally.

Neuville had 2 rallies this year where he was the slowest Hyundai and one of the slowest cars (Sardinia and Finland). Loeb was very slow in Sweden and on the stages he drove in Portugal. Mikkelsen was very slow in Chile.

On tarmac neither Mikkelsen nor Loeb can go fast with it.

Anyway very good point on previous page that there are only 2 tarmac rallies next year. Germany is also kind of special with 90deg corners and hairpins and Panzerplatte with surface that seems to suit Hyundai.

what i meant was that on gravel the drivers do better than on tarmac.

Like you say that Mikkelsen and Loeb arent fast with it on tarmac but have been fast on certain gravel events, Loeb recently in Spain just a week ago.

Are Sordos and Neuvilles driving styles similar? Because Sordo is also fast with it in on both surfaces. But he has been also with the team since day1 so it can be that they both just understand better the car.

[AnttiL]

Neuville had 2 rallies this year where he was the slowest Hyundai and one of the slowest cars (Sardinia and Finland).

Starting position. Also, in Sardegna he made mistakes.

[rallyfiend]

Mikkelsen out

Breen in

For Australia

[AnttiL]

Mikkelsen out

Breen in

For Australia

fact or guess?

[mknight]

Are Sordos and Neuvilles driving styles similar? Because Sordo is also fast with it in on both surfaces. But he has been also with the team since day1 so it can be that they both just understand better the car.

Sordo just doesn't drive the rallies where he isn't fast. In Argentina and Turkey this year it was him that was the slowest Hyundai still.


Mikkelsen out

Breen in

For Australia

If true it's interesting decision making as Breen was slower than Mikkelsen in both outings this year and in GB crashed from behind Mikkelsen... and as a reward he gets to drive a rally where he crashed the last two years.

Could also be an indicator that Mikkelsen already signed elsewhere.

[AnttiL]

Are Sordos and Neuvilles driving styles similar? Because Sordo is also fast with it in on both surfaces. But he has been also with the team since day1 so it can be that they both just understand better the car.
On technical gravel rallies, everyone is fast with Hyundai. Neuville, Sordo, Paddon, Mikkelsen, Loeb, all have made stage wins and been in the lead. On fast gravel, they have issues, and on tarmac, for a reason or another, Neuville and Sordo can be quick, others not. I know that Neuville used to have a style where he pulls the handbrake a lot to get the car turned in. Not sure if Sordo would do the same, maybe he's just learned the car throughout the years?

[Andre Oliveira]

fact or guess?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIRWn-aXYAAEq7e?format=jpg&name=large

[AnttiL]

So, Breen drives now with #18 because #42 was taken by a WRC2 car.

Mikkelsen would have been fourth on the road. Now, they make Latvala and Meeke road positions one step worse and instead get 8th and 10th.

[mknight]

So, Breen drives now with #18 because #42 was taken by a WRC2 car.

Mikkelsen would have been fourth on the road. Now, they make Latvala and Meeke road positions one step worse and instead get the last and third-last starting positions.

Even so it's hard to believe that Adamo seriously thinks that Breen is likely to deliver a better result. In Finland he had better road position.. and was slower ("2nd" rally though). In GB he was slower and crashed. Last year Breen also had good road position in Australia and went off road.

So imo there are other reasons, for example:
- he wants to keep Breen for those 3-4 rallies next year and this is to also let him get used to the car or test him
- Mikkelsen is already engaged somewhere else

[AL14]

Adamo is on a mission... Makes you wonder what Hyundai would have achieved if he would have replaced the previous French guy (can't remember his name) earlier.

Taking Tanak and not caring about "team balance" will give them a very high chance to win WDC next year.
Adamo is not making Nandan mistake when he didn't took Ogier after VW dropped out.
I've always thought since the beginning that he made a big mistake gifting Ogier to M-Sport back then.

[er88]

Could be about road position or just another sign Adamo doesnt have faith in Mikkelsen to do a certain job - he likely figures knowing Andreas is without a drive he will push hard for the win to prove himself. Whereas Breen is maybe more easy to control - with the promise of a campaign in R5 + a few wrc events next year.

Iirc Meeke has been running 4th on the road a lot this season and i dont think it has helped vs the two Hyundai running further back. Jari hasn't been able to fight well against the two Hyundais with good road position even when he had started in similar position on the road. So maybe it is just Adama thinking Mikkelsen at 4th won't to do better than Breen starting 11th...

[skarderud]

I think Mikkelsen has signed for another team.
He is a top-contender in Australia, 4th best driver in the championship, can win the damn race.
Breen, crashed last time, going to crash again.
Sad to say, but if Mikkelsen dont have signed for another team, adamo and Hyundai has shit theire legs, manu-champ wise.

Its the only explaination, he is going somewhere else.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[ggg377]

I think Mikkelsen has signed for another team.
He is a top-contender in Australia, 4th best driver in the championship, can win the damn race.
Breen, crashed last time, going to crash again.
Sad to say, but if Mikkelsen dont have signed for another team, adamo and Hyundai has shit theire legs, manu-champ wise.

Its the only explaination, he is going somewhere else.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

Sordo hasn't done Australia since 2016, ended up in the 5th place as the slowest Hyundai. Breen is promising, but no way he's better than Mikkelsen. I would say swapping out Mikkelsen gives Toyota a much better chance.

[Katvala]

But as said, swapping Mikkelsen with Breen is a better investment for next year as Mikkelsen is likely out and Breen will do the remaining events next year.
Maybe Hyundai already believes that Toyota is not capable of taking the title from them and therefore willing to make this risk

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[mknight]

Could be about road position or just another sign Adamo doesnt have faith in Mikkelsen

I would say faith in general. As he said in interview with Colin he either trusts a driver or doesn't. But it also seems that once he has decided on trusting or not it's set in stone.
No matter how bad Loeb does on a rally he is trusted, seems the same happened with Breen. Both in Finland and GB in just about every media zone Adamo would talk with Breenand basically ignore Mikkelsen even when Mikkelsen was fighting with Ogier (Finland) and Evans (GB) while Breen was not in a fight or in superrally.

[Eli]

what i meant was that on gravel the drivers do better than on tarmac.

Like you say that Mikkelsen and Loeb aren't fast with it on tarmac but have been fast on certain gravel events, Loeb recently in Spain just a week ago.

Are Sordo's and Neuville's driving styles similar? Because Sordo is also fast with it in on both surfaces. But he has been also with the team since day1 so it can be that they both just understand better the car.

True, but it's not the same car it was back in 2014 (different regulations) and, Mikkelsen has been there for 2 years now so....yes they have an advantage over him, but I recall him being very fast at the end of 2017 and then just not being able to match his own pace the following year. Anyhow, it's all history now, as Mikkelsen won't be competing for Hyundai in Australia, guess he's looking at other teams (ahm, maybe Toyota imho) for a drive next year.

[wia5958]

Sordo just doesn't drive the rallies where he isn't fast. In Argentina and Turkey this year it was him that was the slowest Hyundai still.



If true it's interesting decision making as Breen was slower than Mikkelsen in both outings this year and in GB crashed from behind Mikkelsen... and as a reward he gets to drive a rally where he crashed the last two years.

Could also be an indicator that Mikkelsen already signed elsewhere.

He was on mikklesens heels the whole of Finland and only slower than him on Sunday and was faster than him on Friday he was never gonna be allowed to push on Sunday so as to let neuville past him so don't paint it as a rosy picture where mikklesens was faster the whole weekend cause he really wasnt

[deephouse]

I look at this perspective: They would send Mikkelsen to the Oz, but recently he is in talks with other teams. He probbaly refuse or lose motivation for driving for them knowing he won't be there for a whole year or at least most of it, so he says goodbye already. They would immediately call Paddon who is eager to drive there and could deliver great results but he is entering with M-Sport already so that option is not available. Who is there? Breen ofcourse. Bad history with that rally but remember he had been driving C3 and back then it was as bad as much. Now he will drive i20 and who knows maybe he could deliver decent result.

And Hyundai maybe thinking long time. If Toyota will win the manu title this year they will certainly not winning next year and they know that. So what they could lose with sending Breen there.

[Eli]

I look at this perspective: They would send Mikkelsen to the Oz, but recently he is in talks with other teams. He probably refuse or lose motivation for driving for them knowing he won't be there for a whole year or at least most of it, so he says goodbye already. They would immediately call Paddon who is eager to drive there and could deliver great results but he is entering with M-Sport already so that option is not available. Who is there? Breen of course. Bad history with that rally but remember he had been driving C3 and back then it was as bad as much. Now he will drive i20 and who knows maybe he could deliver decent result.

And Hyundai maybe thinking long term. If Toyota will win the manu title this year they will certainly not winning next year and they know that. So what they could lose with sending Breen there.

Even if Mikkelsen goes to Toyota/M-Sport/whatever I don't think this rally would have harmed him, he usually brings in a good result (mind you he has won it 3 years ago), and for Hyundai it's still a risk, I get that both sides are already thinking about next season, but even for Mikkelsen as a rally driver, if you have an opportunity to drive, you drive, even if you won't be in that team next year. If not for the team, then at least to keep 'fit' until next year...I mean, to not drive from the start of October until the end of January is a lot of time without staying at the top of your game, and you may never know how things will eventually pan out....that is unless, Mikkelsen has already signed for next year.

[mknight]

He was on mikklesens heels the whole of Finland and only slower than him on Sunday and was faster than him on Friday he was never gonna be allowed to push on Sunday so as to let neuville past him so don't paint it as a rosy picture where mikklesens was faster the whole weekend cause he really wasnt
Breen was 0,4s faster after Friday with better road position. Since then he has been slower and ended Saturday 2 positions behind.
He totally was allowed to push on Sunday morning since he started 6s behind Ogier and if he crashed Neuville would just get his spot anyway. He even said so after first stage that he needs to push. First after 2nd he gave up.
So yes Mikkelsen was faster. Just like for example Tänak was faster than Neuville in GB even though the difference was small.

Breens contribution to teampoins from two starts was 0. So speed and likely results alone aren't the only reason.

Btw. Adamo was asked who will drive in Australia in Catalunya press conference and confirmed Mikkelsen. So either he lied or something changed.

[er88]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191101/aae74d96df7f377adc84e3dec584213c.jpg

[wia5958]

Breen was 0,4s faster after Friday with better road position. Since then he has been slower and ended Saturday 2 positions behind.
He totally was allowed to push on Sunday morning since he started 6s behind Ogier and if he crashed Neuville would just get his spot anyway. He even said so after first stage that he needs to push. First after 2nd he gave up.
So yes Mikkelsen was faster. Just like for example Tänak was faster than Neuville in GB even though the difference was small.

Breens contribution to teampoins from two starts was 0. So speed and likely results alone aren't the only reason.

Btw. Adamo was asked who will drive in Australia in Catalunya press conference and confirmed Mikkelsen. So either he lied or something changed.

9 seconds behind in Finland after 2days in his first rally in a new car with little testing. Says much more about breen than it does for mikklesen. Everyone knows u have a hard on for him it's cute to see your reaction when someone criticizes him though

[wia5958]

Breen was 0,4s faster after Friday with better road position. Since then he has been slower and ended Saturday 2 positions behind.
He totally was allowed to push on Sunday morning since he started 6s behind Ogier and if he crashed Neuville would just get his spot anyway. He even said so after first stage that he needs to push. First after 2nd he gave up.
So yes Mikkelsen was faster. Just like for example Tänak was faster than Neuville in GB even though the difference was small.

Breens contribution to teampoins from two starts was 0. So speed and likely results alone aren't the only reason.

Btw. Adamo was asked who will drive in Australia in Catalunya press conference and confirmed Mikkelsen. So either he lied or something changed.

And breen was never going to be allowed to take points of neuville on sunday with him a position behind so was no point to push. His reason for 0 points for team out of 2 Rally's is he stepped aside and gave his points to neuville in Finland. And y are comparing tanak and neuville. We are comparing breen and mikklesen. Totally of subject as usual u try to spin something to make it look better than facts state

[mknight]

9 seconds behind in Finland after 2days in his first rally in a new car with little testing. Says much more about breen than it does for mikklesen.

So being ahead of someone means you are worse now?

Btw. Neuville was 20s behind Breen on Saturday evening, so let's kick Neuville and hire Breen?


And breen was never going to be allowed to take points of neuville on sunday with him a position behind so was no point to push.

He was 6 seconds behind Ogier at that point, even if he crashed Neuville would still get same points, while overtaking Ogier would help Hyundai in manu champ. But hey I wrote that already and you ignored it while talking about facts.....ok.

Breens comment after first stage on Sunday:

Breen Craig - Nagle Paul
"I need to push more than that definitely. You need to stick your neck out sometimes in this game and it's time to do it.

---
Btw. Mikkelsen was in same situation on Sardinia on sunday. He was allowed to push and try to overtake Evans, if he failed he would drop behind Neuville just like Breen did in Finland.

[wia5958]

So being ahead of someone means you are worse now?

Btw. Neuville was 20s behind Breen on Saturday evening, so let's kick Neuville and hire Breen?



He was 6 seconds behind Ogier at that point, even if he crashed Neuville would still get same points, while overtaking Ogier would help Hyundai in manu champ. But hey I wrote that already and you ignored it while talking about facts.....ok.

Breens comment after first stage on Sunday:

Breen Craig - Nagle Paul
"I need to push more than that definitely. You need to stick your neck out sometimes in this game and it's time to do it.

---
Btw. Mikkelsen was in same situation on Sardinia on sunday. He was allowed to push and try to overtake Evans, if he failed he would drop behind Neuville just like Breen did in Finland.

Neuville was after a massive accident in Chile did you expect him to go to the fastest rally and be committed after that. Again my point was little or no test time and to be fastest Hyundai on Fri quite an achievement

"Breens contribution to teampoins from two starts was 0. So speed and likely results alone aren't the only reason."

Again why is his contribution 0? And what should it have been. Don't paint a picture of something that doesn't entirely reflect the truth of his performance in Finland.

[dimviii]

Revo Rästa
@revo1992
·
12h
Hyundai has some devil inside @DaniSordo
's car. Without those car most reliable in WRC. Maybe i missed something but it looks pretty good to me.Most of them were start of the year also. #WRC #WRCLive @HMSGOfficial
@PushingPace

*it wasnt affect time very much


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIZJD15XsAkgIF7?format=png&name=small

[cali]

Revo Rästa
@revo1992
·
12h
Hyundai has some devil inside @DaniSordo
's car. Without those car most reliable in WRC. Maybe i missed something but it looks pretty good to me.Most of them were start of the year also. #WRC #WRCLive @HMSGOfficial
@PushingPace

*it wasnt affect time very much


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIZJD15XsAkgIF7?format=png&name=smallWe drove through SS9 in RACC. No way you could do such time without brakes. He would have had massive off on that stage without brakes. Problably the brakes lost some feel but I doubt it was a serious problem.

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[SubaruNorway]

The reason Mikkelsen is not starting Australia is just because Evans or Meeke didn't get past him on the points in Catalunya according to Adamo.
https://parcferme.no/rally/derfor-kjorer-ikke-andreas-i-australia-det-er-kjipt-a-sta-over-favorittlopet-mitt/?fbclid=IwAR1QlxzpjyQWCvhlSlNJ_ad0qVHg33OGzQIsLOXw 7VVLdOV8VjawFMwvBy0

[mknight]

The reason Mikkelsen is not starting Australia is just because Evans or Meeke didn't get past him on the points in Catalunya according to Adamo.
https://parcferme.no/rally/derfor-kjorer-ikke-andreas-i-australia-det-er-kjipt-a-sta-over-favorittlopet-mitt/?fbclid=IwAR1QlxzpjyQWCvhlSlNJ_ad0qVHg33OGzQIsLOXw 7VVLdOV8VjawFMwvBy0

There are two aspects here:

1. 6 places later starting order does not mean Breen will be faster over the rally. In Finland he started 4 places behind and was slower on a rally where he has one of his 2 podiums and Mikkelsen has never been on a podium. Though off course it was Breens second rally with Hyundai WRC and first championship one.

2. In case some rain comes (as it did the last 2 years) the whole starting position "planning" will be nonsense or even counter-productive. Spreading the starting positions seems like a better idea than to have 2/3 of all cars at the back.

=> It basically sounds like a big excuse and the real reason is more that he doesn't trust him for some reason.

Also I dunno if they did it in the (paid) article but the obvious first question to Adamo should be why did he say otherwise on the post even press conference in Catalunya.

[reff92]

We drove through SS9 in RACC. No way you could do such time without brakes. He would have had massive off on that stage without brakes. Problably the brakes lost some feel but I doubt it was a serious problem.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

Probably just glaced(is that right word) brake bads or something like that. That list was meant for those finns who are still so sure that Toyota is most reliable car in whole world. Even with those other teams "little" problems are Toyota issues count 10 more.


Now to the topic - Does anyone know where and when the test was for Ott&Martin?

[skarderud]

There are two aspects here:

1. 6 places later starting order does not mean Breen will be faster over the rally. In Finland he started 4 places behind and was slower on a rally where he has one of his 2 podiums and Mikkelsen has never been on a podium. Though off course it was Breens second rally with Hyundai WRC and first championship one.

2. In case some rain comes (as it did the last 2 years) the whole starting position "planning" will be nonsense or even counter-productive. Spreading the starting positions seems like a better idea than to have 2/3 of all cars at the back.

=> It basically sounds like a big excuse and the real reason is more that he doesn't trust him for some reason.

Also I dunno if they did it in the (paid) article but the obvious first question to Adamo should be why did he say otherwise on the post even press conference in Catalunya.Mikkelsen has always been fast in Australia, if he is 4th or 8th on the road it dosen't matter, he would be faster than Breen in the Hyundai at this rally anyway.
Only resonable explantation is Mikkelsen don't drive Hyundai next year, and Breen does.
Mikkelsen to Toyota or M-sport, depends on Evans, Breen will do the leftover events in the WRC, and do development, testing and racing the R5, both of them.

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[T16]

Mikkelsen has always been fast in Australia, if he is 4th or 8th on the road it dosen't matter, he would be faster than Breen in the Hyundai at this rally anyway.
Only resonable explantation is Mikkelsen don't drive Hyundai next year, and Breen does.
Mikkelsen to Toyota or M-sport, depends on Evans, Breen will do the leftover events in the WRC, and do development, testing and racing the R5, both of them.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

I’m pretty sure that Mikkelsen will have done some irreparable damage at the start of the year with all that contract business.
Probably why he’s not with the management company who allowed his water tight contract to leak.

[Myrvold]

I’m pretty sure that Mikkelsen will have done some irreparable damage at the start of the year with all that contract business.
Probably why he’s not with the management company who allowed his water tight contract to leak.

My guess would be that Mikkelsen wants to be able to pay for a drive. It was pretty clear that EVEN does not pay for a WRC drive. Once a paydriver, always a paydriver. Tidemand also left shortly before he started paying for M-Sport drives.

[rallyfiend]

My guess would be that Mikkelsen wants to be able to pay for a drive. It was pretty clear that EVEN does not pay for a WRC drive. Once a paydriver, always a paydriver. Tidemand also left shortly before he started paying for M-Sport drives.

I’m sure Mikkelsen does NOT want to pay for a drive, and split from EVEN because he would not want to split what income he can with a manager.

If there are only a very small number of seats available, perhaps even at one team, why do you need a manager....?

He knows the phone numbers of the people involved. It’s not a big service park.

And Tidemand split for the same reason. Why pay a manager a split of your income if you’re paying for the drives with your own sponsors and can do the deals yourself?

[SubaruNorway]

Sordo, Loeb, Ogier and Meeke also do their own deals, so It's not so uncommon
https://parcferme.no/rally/derfor-velger-mikkelsen-og-even-a-skille-lag/

[EstWRC]

now in the same team these two, will be interesting

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eycSaPRb5CU

[EstWRC]

they got it finally

https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/75481657_2828498430549355_375778718930436096_n.jpg ?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQkLjYlMR3_c0dPYNQG7r92konOCqorcAL0LGamgPtl RWyvdIE2TE4BiVlXagBF6KGs&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=65875f7df5215def62f437543539e012&oe=5E8ADDC8

[Katvala]

And Mikkelsen remains 4th in the championship

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[doubled1978]

I’m pleased for Hyundai that they won the title.
They have put a huge effort and budget in and especially over the last 3 years have been right in the fight, so to come away with nothing over those 3 years would be rough.
Of course would have been good for them to win it on the stages, but the fires aren’t down to them.

[AnttiL]

I’m pleased for Hyundai that they won the title.
They have put a huge effort and budget in and especially over the last 3 years have been right in the fight, so to come away with nothing over those 3 years would be rough.
Of course would have been good for them to win it on the stages, but the fires aren’t down to them.

They won it on the stages. Others had 13 rallies time to get more points.

Deserved title after many years of trying, congratulations!

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EJPJJW2XUAA1j0e?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[EstWRC]

this guy is satisfied :D....and rightly so, first year in the team and delivered right away.

https://s.err.ee/photo/crop/2019/11/13/709225h7be9t27.jpg
https://s.err.ee/photo/crop/2019/11/13/709232hd723t27.jpg
https://s.err.ee/photo/crop/2019/11/13/709219h6c6at27.jpg

[ferrial]

https://sport.err.ee/1002349/hyundai-tiimipealik-tanaku-uleminekust-jutud-miljonitest-on-linnalegendid

Adamo explains in the video about negotiations with Tänak (there was not as big money involved nor private jets etc as media tried to show) and how he will manage Tänak and Neuville in the same team.

[EstWRC]

google translate the text, the main things are there, the video is just a short part of it.


When asked how many mechanics Tänak is going to bring from Toyota to Hyundai, Adamo said that Tänak was coming to Hyundai with Martin Järveoja. What about the weather forecaster, for example? "I don't know. If it's a beautiful woman on TV, maybe," laughed Adamo. "But we haven't talked about it. We had difficult enough negotiations to get him, so we haven't talked about the others."


Bluuuford it seems you will have hard time getting into the team then :D

[mknight]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EJPJJW2XUAA1j0e?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

Somehow funny that the car on the left has brought 0 manu points.

[GigiGalliNo1]

There were four Hyundai WRCs at the service park this week!

[mknight]

Obviously Hyundai has to celebrate with the cars and team people that are there. So it's not like they did anything wrong on that part.

Doesn't make it less funny though.

[meh]

This Neuville and (or vs) Tänak still feels weird.

Neuville is too happy to have Tänak in the team. Or we should take it as "Tänak is removed from competition for drivers title"?

Why so - Hyundai seems (for me) to be complicated car to adopt. Tänak can be however master and fast, but this car is built around Neuville and to adapt that by someone else takes time. During that time, Neuville may (or must) have some solid points lead on drivers scoreboard. At the same time it does not make sense to let them compete with each other because it give points to Ogier (or whoever is able to step up to this fight).

So far I can not really imagine none of them to swallow team orders with sentence "he is faster than you". It seems explosive.

[mknight]

I agree, but for Adamo, having them both is clearly the best option. If anything it keeps them from driving for others.

[denkimi]

This Neuville and (or vs) Tänak still feels weird.

Neuville is too happy to have Tänak in the team. Or we should take it as "Tänak is removed from competition for drivers title"?

That means that Neuville is convinced that he has a better chance against tanak in the same car than against tanak in the toyota.
Which means he believes the toyota is the better car.

[dimviii]

That means that Neuville is convinced that he has a better chance against tanak in the same car than against tanak in the toyota.
Which means he believes the toyota is the better car.

he couldnt said something else.Of course he had to welcome Tanak at hyundai,and that he havent got problem.

First 2-3 rallies will be very critical for the next of championship among these 2.
Example...Neuville faster,but with one retirement maybe 25 points behind Tanak after 3 rallies.
At this point Adamo will give the orders,specially if Ogier is between these two at point table.

[SubaruNorway]

There were four Hyundai WRCs at the service park this week!

One for Monday VIP drive probably

[Fast Eddie WRC]

One of the journos or commentators was saying that Neuville sincerely believes he is the best driver in WRC.

This is why he's happy that Tanak has come to Hyundai, as with the same equipment Neuville is sure he will be the fastest.

[Tarmop]

We know how reliable they all are...

[er88]

I don't think you can really give team orders after 2/3 events to two drivers like Neuville and Tanak.

They have had numerous close battles over the last few years, and both now know how to drive very fast and stay on the road. They both know with the championship battles being so close, going off the road is a mini disaster and clearly not in eithers interest. If you start telling Neuville to drive like a bitch and not push, you've lost him. If come the 2nd part of the season one driver is clearly ahead of the other, then you will get team orders, but don't expect any team orders early on if both drivers are running at the front at the time and in a close fight.

Also, Hyundai shouldn't even need team orders because they have 2 of the top 3 drivers - so they should walk the manufacturers championship - and that's without mentioning the great insurance of having Sordo and Loeb with generally great road position in most events as backup.

Hyundai wanted two top drivers in their team to fight for the title back in 2017 when they hired Mikkelsen for 18/19, but Hyundai, Mikkelsen and a lot of people on here didnt expect him to fail so badly and offer no challenge to Neuville whatsoever.

[mknight]

Hyundai wanted two top drivers in their team to fight for the title back in 2017 when they hired Mikkelsen for 18/19

This example actually demonstrates the problem.
As you said Hyundai were (based on the 3 2017 outings in I20) expecting that Mikkelsen would fight for championship. So he was allowed to push on start of the season and this resulted in him taking points off Neuville in Sweden Power Stage. (and both him and Sordo took points off Neuville in Mexico right after)

Sure it was just one point in Sweden, but by the end of the season Neuville was very vocal that Hyundai needs to use teamorders immediately from the start. Ogier got teamorders that helped him move ahead of Evans already early in Sweden (and then a few times later on).

So based on Neuvilles and Tanaks results so far it is entirely likely that they will get free reign at the start... and potentially take points off each other that will help Ogier get a title.

EDIT: Btw. Neuville did get a lot of team order help this year already starting from Sweden, with basically no Hyundai being allowed to push on any PS unless there were special circumstances and also given a position multiple times.

[er88]

This example actually demonstrates the problem.
As you said Hyundai were (based on the 3 2017 outings in I20) expecting that Mikkelsen would fight for championship. So he was allowed to push on start of the season and this resulted in him taking points off Neuville in Sweden Power Stage. (and both him and Sordo took points off Neuville in Mexico right after)

Sure it was just one point in Sweden, but by the end of the season Neuville was very vocal that Hyundai needs to use teamorders immediately from the start. Ogier got teamorders that helped him move ahead of Evans already early in Sweden (and then a few times later on).

So based on Neuvilles and Tanaks results so far it is entirely likely that they will get free reign at the start... and potentially take points off each other that will help Ogier get a title.In 2017 a measly point or two in a power stage wasn't the reason Neuville lost the title though. He chucked away over 50pts when in commanding leads in Monte and Sweden. The only person to blame for losing that title was Neuville himself - not the car and not his team mates taking one or two points from him in the power stages.

I envisage some tension at points between Tanak/Neuville and Adamo, but it should be irrelevant in the grand scheme of things because the manufacturers title is already won in all likelihood. Look at the difference in points between the top 3 drivers and then the next batch of drivers....., if you have Tanak and Neuville in the same team they could win the manufacturers title even with Sheikh Khalid in the 3rd car (no offence to him). But they have the GOAT and an in form Sordo as backup...

The only hope for any other team is if Lappi steps up massively + Ostberg does a few events and the C3s upgrades work brilliantly. Or if Toyotas drivers suddenly make a huge step up to become genuine championship challengers (which I cant see happening next year with Evans, Meeke or Latvala if he stays. Certainly Kalle won't in his 1st season).

As for the drivers title, I agree Tanak and Neuville could maybe work against eachother vs Ogier, but that's the risk Adamo has to manage. It certainly is an easier risk to live with when one title should already be in the bag

[dimviii]

I don't think you can really give team orders after 2/3 events to two drivers like Neuville and Tanak.

.

depents from the situation,if Adamo see that he has to give orders to protect his manufacture chances,he will do it.
Thats why they pay him.

[mknight]

In 2017 a measly point or two in a power stage wasn't the reason Neuville lost the title though. He chucked away over 50pts when in commanding leads in Monte and Sweden. The only person to blame for losing that title was Neuville himself - not the car and not his team mates taking one or two points from him in the power stages.

This was in 2018 a few points actually mattered a lit cause it meant Neuville had to finish ahead of Ogier in Australia.

But sure rest is spot on. It can mean Adamo has maybe a little bit higher risk of loosing driver title to Ogier but it should mean manu title is decided...
But you never know for sure. Hyundai did look like by far the biggest favourites for 2017 manu title as well and actually did have the fastest car most of the year, yet MSport won it with rallies to spare.

[er88]

This was in 2018 a few points actually mattered a lit cause it meant Neuville had to finish ahead of Ogier in Australia.

But sure rest is spot on. It can mean Adamo has maybe a little bit higher risk of loosing driver title to Ogier but it should mean manu title is decided...
But you never know for sure. Hyundai did look like by far the biggest favourites for 2017 manu title as well and actually did have the fastest car most of the year, yet MSport won it with rallies to spare.

Oh yeah you're right, got the seasons mixed up there. Will be interesting to see how it pans out, I think the biggest issue Adamo might have is managing the one out of Neuville/Tanak who is getting beaten by his team mate and/or has poor results (for their high standards).

Both can be stroppy and very demanding, both will believe before the season starts they are the best driver in the world, both aren't great losers and both will want to try and make themselves #1 in the team. Now they have no hiding place when it comes to direct comparison.

Adamo has to ensure both remain mentally strong and focused, and prevent any wars from blowing up. I maybe wrong but I don't think Neuville and Tanak particularly like eachother on top of all that, in fact there's been rumours/hints for years that Neuville isn't the most popular among other drivers or easy to get along with (not a criticism, I'm sure he doesn't give a shit what his competitors think).

[Tarmop]

There have been also talks, that after the rallies, chilling and drinking bear, Neuville is a really nice chap...go figure.

[Oliverk]

There have been also talks, that after the rallies, chilling and drinking bear, Neuville is a really nice chap...go figure.
Yes he is. Seen that twice in Sardinia, so is Sordo and Meeke.

[EstWRC]

How can you chill if you are drinking a bear at the same time ? :p

[pantealex]

YLE is suggesting that:

Jari-Matti Latvala would drive 3rd Hyundai in Sweden and Finland.

Have to say that: He would be the BEST choice for those 2 rallies.

[Tarmop]

So next speculation topic is about TGR former lineup ending in Hyundai one way or the other?

:D

[pantealex]

So next speculation topic is about TGR former lineup ending in Hyundai one way or the other?

:D

could be ;)

[mknight]

YLE is suggesting that:

Jari-Matti Latvala would drive 3rd Hyundai in Sweden and Finland.

Have to say that: He would be the BEST choice for those 2 rallies.

Adamo and JML psychology... that could indeed only work with 6 months between the rallies.

[ggg377]

YLE is suggesting that:

Jari-Matti Latvala would drive 3rd Hyundai in Sweden and Finland.

Have to say that: He would be the BEST choice for those 2 rallies.

This is not so far from my suggestion of Lappi. Lappi actually has better results to show from these rallies than Latvala in the last season and in my opinion he would be capable of taking on a full-time car and fighting for rally wins in the foreseeable future.

[deephouse]

What about this. Qassimi in a third car and "steal" a seat for those 4 rallies just to troll. I mean he have the most powerful CV in his hands.

[er88]

Congratulations on 2 consecutive manufacturer titles

[EstWRC]

sometimes i wish there would be "unlike" button as well

[skarderud]

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/147561/hyundai-could-run-second-wrc-team-for-exiles?fbclid=IwAR0uxRcaSl294c7pvDUW3mncyd1NDjeqUk NFueBXoQjU18zUm1zwClZbQbU

Seems like a "B" team for Breen and Mikkelsen.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/147561/hyundai-could-run-second-wrc-team-for-exiles?fbclid=IwAR0uxRcaSl294c7pvDUW3mncyd1NDjeqUk NFueBXoQjU18zUm1zwClZbQbU

Seems like a "B" team for Breen and Mikkelsen.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

But don't get your hopes up, it could still be a one car rotating team. Remember, the new rule with manufacturer "second" entries mentioned one car teams.

[racerx1979]

But don't get your hopes up, it could still be a one car rotating team. Remember, the new rule with manufacturer "second" entries mentioned one car teams.

I hear it will be more like Latvala where Hyundai will bring in Breen and or Mikkelsen for specific events. I hope so....

[Eli]

https://www.fiaerc.com/hyundai-reveals-updated-rally2-challenger-for-erc/

'New'(ish) R5 contender for Hyundai.

[Rally Power]

No idea if already mentioned; Hyundai launched a bunch of cool backstage videos (only saw ep.1) celebrating their 2019 WMC title. Can be seen on YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/Hyundaii20WRC

Btw, where’s Hyundai WRC testing site?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

2020 New look and first impressions...

https://motorsport.hyundai.com/new-year-new-look/

[EstWRC]

and a short clip of the test on their instagram page https://www.instagram.com/p/B60RcbOpW5v/

[skarderud]

I'm afraid Tänak will destroy Neuville's psycic, i dont think he can handle that Tänak takes his nr1 status and beat him on most rallies.
He will start to crash, and be more frustrated.
I belive Mikkelsen will drive 7 rallies and still be 2nd best pointscorer in Hyundai, Tänak will make the Hyundai fits Mikkelsen like a glove, and he is atleast on Neuville's level and not nearly that fragile.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm afraid Tänak will destroy Neuville's psycic, i dont think he can handle that Tänak takes his nr1 status and beat him on most rallies.
He will start to crash, and be more frustrated.
I belive Mikkelsen will drive 7 rallies and still be 2nd best pointscorer in Hyundai, Tänak will make the Hyundai fits Mikkelsen like a glove, and he is atleast on Neuville's level and not nearly that fragile.



Neuville isnt so fragile. He has massive self-belief that he is the best and fastest driver. This, plus his experience in the i20, will take a lot to be broken.

Hopefully Tanak wont dominate as the battle with Neuville in the same machinery should be the best we can see in 2020.

[cali]

Neuville is a tough nut so I cant see him crack so easily. Will be interesting...

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Allez Andruet]

Neuville was in quite deep waters during 2015/2016 but survived and came back stronger. I don't see him losing his grip anytime soon.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville's completely unaffected return after that massive crash in Chile also shows his mental strength...

[dupanton]

I belive Mikkelsen will drive 7 rallies and still be 2nd best pointscorer in Hyundai,



You are joking right? I'm not sure Neuville will beat Tanak, but Mikkelsen with double the rounds competed...

[rallyfiend]

You are joking right? I'm not sure Neuville will beat Tanak, but Mikkelsen with double the rounds competed...

EVeryone seems to be overblowing MIKK at the expense of Sordo.

Sordo did 2 less rallies than Andreas and was only 13 points behind.

[EstWRC]

and a short clip of the test on their instagram page https://www.instagram.com/p/B60RcbOpW5v/

and a short onboard today added https://www.instagram.com/p/B62TVvHpaJV/

[Barreis]

EVeryone seems to be overblowing MIKK at the expense of Sordo.

Sordo did 2 less rallies than Andreas and was only 13 points behind.

also with some tech problems

[skarderud]

You are joking right? I'm not sure Neuville will beat Tanak, but Mikkelsen with double the rounds competed...No, i'm not.

He has been in the fight every year before the last rallies, then f..ked it up every time.
Who can forget his % speaches, he was confident he should be WDC....

Now with Tänak in the same team that will be faster ?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[mknight]

EVeryone seems to be overblowing MIKK at the expense of Sordo.

Sordo did 2 less rallies than Andreas and was only 13 points behind.

Sordo did great, maybe even his best season ever for the events he ran...but with 5 rallies with big road position advantage (ARG as neutral) and two tarmac ones it hardly shows how he would do in Sweden, GB, or Finland. Historically and as late as 2017 he was really bad at those. So while being great choice for those rallies he does his potential from other ones is very limited.

[er88]

I'm afraid Tänak will destroy Neuville's psycic, i dont think he can handle that Tänak takes his nr1 status and beat him on most rallies.
He will start to crash, and be more frustrated.
I belive Mikkelsen will drive 7 rallies and still be 2nd best pointscorer in Hyundai, Tänak will make the Hyundai fits Mikkelsen like a glove, and he is atleast on Neuville's level and not nearly that fragile.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via TapatalkYou've had too much to drink I reckon

[skarderud]

You've had too much to drink I reckonNo.

Any better argument?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[tommeke_B]

Arguments?

Which arguments do you have to put Mikkelsen "at least" on the level of Neuville? He's been driving for longer than both Neuville and Tänak, and what has he achieved? Won 3 times with Polo WRC. Once very lucky when Ogier crashed on powerstage, once very lucky when Tänak punctured on the penultimate stage, and one well-deserved win in Australia. 3 wins during 7 seasons competing with the very best cars available. Neuville has won a lot more events, beating his rivals by actually being faster... Maybe he hasn't been as consistent as Tänak last year, or as Ogier before, but in all last 3 seasons he scored nearly as much (or even more) than all his teammates combined...

No need to promote Mikkelsen, he's nowhere near the level of the current top 3. And after so many years, I don't see any reason why that could suddenly change.

[skarderud]

Arguments?

Which arguments do you have to put Mikkelsen "at least" on the level of Neuville? He's been driving for longer than both Neuville and Tänak, and what has he achieved? Won 3 times with Polo WRC. Once very lucky when Ogier crashed on powerstage, once very lucky when Tänak punctured on the penultimate stage, and one well-deserved win in Australia. 3 wins during 7 seasons competing with the very best cars available. Neuville has won a lot more events, beating his rivals by actually being faster... Maybe he hasn't been as consistent as Tänak last year, or as Ogier before, but in all last 3 seasons he scored nearly as much (or even more) than all his teammates combined...

No need to promote Mikkelsen, he's nowhere near the level of the current top 3. And after so many years, I don't see any reason why that could suddenly change.Read my post one more time.

Tänak going to beat Neuville, Neuville starts to crash to catch Tänak.

Mikkelsen, as now is without a regular seat, maybe half season, who knows, going to get maximum out of his possibilities to save his career, the same with breen, they both scoring safe points, and be around the second best pointscorer in Hyundai, because i think Neuville going to crash to much.
Mikkelsen was 4th last year, best of the rest, in a car that dosent suit him with every reason to be afraid for his seat, with less rallies than most of his competitors.


Its not like i said greensmith or Tiedemann going to be WDC.....

Time will show.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[mknight]

(MIkkelsen) He's been driving for longer than both Neuville and Tänak

First full WRC season:

Neuville 2012 (hasn't missed anything since)
Tanak 2012 (missed 2013 and almost all of 2014
Mikkelsen 2014 (missed more than half of 2017 + 3 in 2019)

Only ranking where you could count Mikkelsen as driving longer would be first start with WRC, since in 2006-2008 he was driving multiple WRC rallies as paydriver as his first rallies. But that balances out with him driving cup Subaru and Fiesta on Hankook the next two years.

In number of WRC starts it's like this:
Neuville and Mikkelsen 110
Tanak 105

When counting starts in any rally (listed on ewrc-results) you get:
Tanak 222
Mikkelsen 203
Neuville 183


So what you wrote isn't really true. By all means those 3 have about same amount of seat time and experience. In terms of age Tanak is the oldest of them 1 year older than Neuville and 2 year older than Mikkelsen.

----------


No need to promote Mikkelsen, he's nowhere near the level of the current top 3. And after so many years, I don't see any reason why that could suddenly change.

Mikkelsen has not been close to top 3 the last 2 years that is true, he was there in 2016. I do see how it could change back to that, but imo it would need him to leave Hyundai, which for some reason he is not trying (hard) to do. Similarly Tanak didn't show that he could fight for championship at the end of 2016, so things can change.

When it comes to opinions for this year I don't think Neuville will suddenly collapse. But I also doubt that Neuville-Tanak in one team will work well for both of them in the longer term. Seeing how Adamo treated Mikkelsen in 2019 I doubt there will be any significant chance for him to score many points this year.

[er88]

What car does suit Mikkelsen? An ultra dominant VW with no competition? And still, Mikkelsen only won 3 events with that car after multiple years (one on pace alone).

He couldn't drive the C3 on gravel, but was happy with it on tarmac and finished 2nd (while it was the best tarmac car). Meeke led Corsica and won Spain that year proving the car was capable on that surface back then.

At Hyundai, Neuville has fought for 3 championships in a row with the car. He has shown he is on the same sort of level as Ogier and Tanak in terms of speed across all surfaces. The only question mark left for Neuville is if he can get over the line - that's all that's been missing and it's really fine margins. As mentioned above, combine championship pts for the last 3yrs and you can see Neuville is there or thereabouts in the top 3 undoubtedly. Mikkelsen isn't in that class atm.

And if he needs an ultra perfect car or great road position to fight with the front runners on events, that proves he isn't in on the same level as the top 3. Give some drivers a tractor or a dog of a car, and they can still wring the best out of it. That's something I don't believe Mikkelsen has shown he can do yet considering Neuville's performances vs Mikkelsen at Hyundai.

FWIW, I still think Mikkelsen deserves a place in the WRC and wish Msport would've taken him, but that's Tommi, Malcolm and Adamo who seem to see differently about Mikkelsen.

[mknight]

What car does suit Mikkelsen? An ultra dominant VW with no competition? And still, Mikkelsen only won 3 events with that car after multiple years (one on pace alone).

He couldn't drive the C3 on gravel, but was happy with it on tarmac and finished 2nd (while it was the best tarmac car). Meeke led Corsica and won Spain that year proving the was capable on that surface back then.


VW worked much better for him than for Latvala in 2016, at a time where he spend just about all gravel rallies as 2nd on the road for 2 days, which certainly did affect the results. Fabia in any version (S2000/R5) worked well. For C3 on gravel he scored the first ever PS points in it (Meeke never got it to PS finish in one piece) and outpaced Meeke in the mentioned Germany tarmac outing and scored first ever tarmac podium for it. So in the end it's more like the only car that has not worked for multiple rounds is i20.



And if he needs an ultra perfect car or great road position to fight with the front runners on events, that proves he isn't in on the same level as the top 3. Give some drivers a tractor or a dog of a car, and they can still wring the best out of it. That's something I don't believe Mikkelsen has shown he can do yet considering Neuville's performances vs Mikkelsen at Hyundai.


Imo the only one who has really shown to get results with imperfect car is mr. Ogier in 2017 at MSport and in 2019 with C3. Mikkelsen has not shown he can consistently drive with I20 yes. Even Neuville has real issues with the car at times (Sardinia this year and Finland any of last 5 years). Sordo just doesn't start the rounds where he struggles since 2017.

That said Neuville (and Sordo) has been developing and driving a Hyundai since they started in WRC and Loebs performance drop in C3 in 2018 vs i20 in 2019 is as big or bigger as Mikkelsen's. So will be interesting to see Tanak. Though since Nandan got fired there seems to be genuine will at Hyundai to make the car suit the drivers better, just didn't work for Loeb and Mikkelsen on tarmac yet.



FWIW, I still think Mikkelsen deserves a place in the WRC and wish Msport would've taken him, but that's Tommi, Malcolm and Adamo who seem to see differently about Mikkelsen.

There are rather special circumstances in each case:

Adamo - off course he prefers world champions 1 and 2 for fulltime seats, and likes the 3rd car rotation due to road position. It is also little likely Loeb will get dropped completely even if he keeps underperforming, simply because of the PR value.
Tommi - again 7 times WDC is a no question pick, so is Rovanpera with the hype and Jouhki relations. According to rumors Evans was picked by Ogier, likely cause he is used to supporting Ogier from MSport and never proved a real threat to him while Mikkelsen stole lot of points from Ogier in 2019 and also beat him a few times in VW
Malcolm - is all about money/business. Lappi was interested in paying, Mikkelsen wasn't (which I think is a mistake).

[trykmann]

I'm very interested about the situation in Hyundai. Right now Neuville thinks he is the fastest driver in WRC and the title has not been achieved, because the car is not fast enough. Right now this can go two different ways.
1. Neuville is the fastest driver and Tänak won't have the speed to compete with him. Or the car doesn't suit him, like it has happened with some other drivers.
2. Tänak will be equal or faster than Neuville and with consistent driving, he will have better overall results. This might push Neuville to drive over his limits and crashes are going to happen. Also it will be interesting to see, if the car is bad in Finland or not :).

Anyway the dynamics in the Hyundai team will be interesting to watch. As an estonian I hope for the second solution :D

[doubled1978]

I'm very interested about the situation in Hyundai. Right now Neuville thinks he is the fastest driver in WRC and the title has not been achieved, because the car is not fast enough. Right now this can go two different ways.
1. Neuville is the fastest driver and Tänak won't have the speed to compete with him. Or the car doesn't suit him, like it has happened with some other drivers.
2. Tänak will be equal or faster than Neuville and with consistent driving, he will have better overall results. This might push Neuville to drive over his limits and crashes are going to happen. Also it will be interesting to see, if the car is bad in Finland or not :).

Anyway the dynamics in the Hyundai team will be interesting to watch. As an estonian I hope for the second solution :D

Should be fun to watch....
My question is, do the small mistakes from Neuville come from having to push a lesser car too hard to keep up, or from Neuville himself?
Tanak made almost no errors last season, but he mostly had the fastest car, so it’s easier to drive within yourself.
I think both of them will be praying Ogier doesn’t have a totally reliable Toyota...

[denkimi]

mikkelsen is one of those examples of how you can only buy your way up to a certain level. latvala, ostberg, greensmith, ... are all the same.

with a little talent you can pay for a drive and get so much experience that people start to believe you are very talented. but every now and then someone really talented comes along and suddenly it shows you are only a B-class driver.


I'm very interested about the situation in Hyundai. Right now Neuville thinks he is the fastest driver in WRC and the title has not been achieved, because the car is not fast enough. Right now this can go two different ways.
1. Neuville is the fastest driver and Tänak won't have the speed to compete with him. Or the car doesn't suit him, like it has happened with some other drivers.
2. Tänak will be equal or faster than Neuville and with consistent driving, he will have better overall results. This might push Neuville to drive over his limits and crashes are going to happen. Also it will be interesting to see, if the car is bad in Finland or not :).

Anyway the dynamics in the Hyundai team will be interesting to watch. As an estonian I hope for the second solution :D
it will indeed be very interesting. we will for the first time in many years actually be able to tell how much of the performance comes from the car, and how much from the driver.

[AnttiL]

latvala, ostberg, greensmith, ... are all the same.



You forgot Serderidis.

[denkimi]

You forgot Serderidis.
nobody ever thought he had any talent, not even himself. :p

[cali]

Should be fun to watch....
My question is, do the small mistakes from Neuville come from having to push a lesser car too hard to keep up, or from Neuville himself?
Tanak made almost no errors last season, but he mostly had the fastest car, so it’s easier to drive within yourself.
I think both of them will be praying Ogier doesn’t have a totally reliable Toyota...Hold on here mate... Where's this "fastest car" thing comes from?? If you look at Toyota drivers in general you seriously cannot make that conclusion and starting from midseason Hyundai was clearly the best package overall.
Only Tänak was fast in a Toyota! Few years back VW was clearly the best car, but Toyota hasn't dominated like this so this "fastest car" claim is based on fiction.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Allez Andruet]

mikkelsen is one of those examples of how you can only buy your way up to a certain level. latvala, ostberg, greensmith, ... are all the same.

with a little talent you can pay for a drive and get so much experience that people start to believe you are very talented. but every now and then someone really talented comes along and suddenly it shows you are only a B-class driver.

This is something I just can't stand, the sort of black and white vision where only Tänak, Neuville and Ogier are "really talented" and others are "B-class drivers".

[skarderud]

mikkelsen is one of those examples of how you can only buy your way up to a certain level. latvala, ostberg, greensmith, ... are all the same.

with a little talent you can pay for a drive and get so much experience that people start to believe you are very talented. but every now and then someone really talented comes along and suddenly it shows you are only a B-class driver.

Well, he hasn't have own money to pay for a drive since 2009, and a manager that never paid for a drive, so i really don't get where he has paid his way up from?



Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[doubled1978]

Hold on here mate... Where's this "fastest car" thing comes from?? If you look at Toyota drivers in general you seriously cannot make that conclusion and starting from midseason Hyundai was clearly the best package overall.
Only Tänak was fast in a Toyota! Few years back VW was clearly the best car, but Toyota hasn't dominated like this so this "fastest car" claim is based on fiction.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

Steady now, I can make that conclusion and I have sources that know...
It is generally accepted within the sport that the Toyota is the quickest car, not always but more often than not..more so before the illegal rear wing was removed.
But I also have eyes, and I can see myself the Toyota is the best package.

Tanak won the WDC this year at pretty much at will, personally I think he had more speed available a lot of the time if he had needed it and I don’t believe we saw his ‘true’ pace very often. He would have won the Championship by miles if the car had been more reliable and without the puncture issues. Apart from Turkey and maybe Monte Carlo, on natural car/driver speed he could have won every event including Catalunya (where he was driving for the championship) even with road position disadvantage a lot of the time. If you think that is solely because Tanak has just suddenly become super human, your dreaming. Its because he is fantastic, and he had the best car.
Meeke was very fast when he didn’t crash or have issues either mental or technical, and Latvala was in the middle of a personal meltdown through 2019, so neither offer a consistent representation of the cars speed throughout the year because they themselves were so up and down.

I think both Tanak and Neuville will have it all on to beat Ogier next year, but let’s see, maybe Tanak is a once in a generation talent who can win in anything and now he has the Championship his confidence will be sky high.

It’s not difficult to understand, Ogier in VW made very few mistakes, Ogier in C3 made plenty....Tanak in Fiesta made mistakes, Tanak in Toyota made almost none...its a simple premise that the guy in the fastest car doesn’t have to push so hard and makes less mistakes, and you don’t have to just look at rallying to see this trend in Motorsport.

[Crazy J]

This topic starts to be more about Mikkelsen than HWRT, but it is good since in generally it is very worrying development that 4th placed driver (without full season) does not seem to have future in WRC. How should we then position all those other drivers who say or either believe that teams will invest to them as future profit machines? If only Tanak and Neuville are seen in 2021 worth of paying salary, what will be the normal time window for other drivers to beat these two to get their seats?

[deephouse]

It's like this. B segment drivers need to step up from their game to the higher level. Only one who can show that now is Evans I think. I just hope that crying frenchie will not ruin everything again. Toyota will not be tolerate like M-Sport is. Evans needs to play his own game and still be there for nr. 1 guy but not risking his own future of driving slow just to please Ogier, which in case he did the whole 2017-2018.

Then there is Lappi. I believe he doesn't have that much pressure on him because M-Sport knows they can't fight for any title, just for occasional podium or even win. He have a time for develop further and maybe fight for it later in season or even next year if he will still be in this team.

In case of Mikkelsen, Breen, Ostberg, Paddon, Meeke. They have much worse situation now without a drive. But when opportunity comes I would not look at others just to myself if I was in their shoes. All along it's going all abput their future not others.

I think Latvala's time is over in WRC. He needs to realize that soon. Even if Ogier will go out which was case for most of his not-winning the titles ''problem'' he now have 2 more guys who are absolutely much better than him and have greater chances of titles than him.

All of teams want one guy who can fight for WDC. One consistent guy who can be there to support nr. 1 car. And one guy who can be there in case one of those two hit the trouble. Problem of most of B segment drivers is that they have high expectations of winning WDC even if their future is at risk or even don't have a contract. The Only ones who knows his places are Sordo and Loeb. They bot know that they will not win anymore and that pressure out of their shoulders show then in better results than most of others.

[AnttiL]

risking his own future of driving slow just to please Ogier, which in case he did the whole 2017-2018.



Many times in 2018, but I don’t remember any from 2017.

Also, it’s said Ogier wanted Evans as a teammate. Maybe it was his way to thank Evans for his 2018 efforts?

[cali]

Steady now, I can make that conclusion and I have sources that know...
It is generally accepted within the sport that the Toyota is the quickest car, not always but more often than not..more so before the illegal rear wing was removed.
But I also have eyes, and I can see myself the Toyota is the best package.

Tanak won the WDC this year at pretty much at will, personally I think he had more speed available a lot of the time if he had needed it and I don’t believe we saw his ‘true’ pace very often. He would have won the Championship by miles if the car had been more reliable and without the puncture issues. Apart from Turkey and maybe Monte Carlo, on natural car/driver speed he could have won every event including Catalunya (where he was driving for the championship) even with road position disadvantage a lot of the time. If you think that is solely because Tanak has just suddenly become super human, your dreaming. Its because he is fantastic, and he had the best car.
Meeke was very fast when he didn’t crash or have issues either mental or technical, and Latvala was in the middle of a personal meltdown through 2019, so neither offer a consistent representation of the cars speed throughout the year because they themselves were so up and down.

I think both Tanak and Neuville will have it all on to beat Ogier next year, but let’s see, maybe Tanak is a once in a generation talent who can win in anything and now he has the Championship his confidence will be sky high.

It’s not difficult to understand, Ogier in VW made very few mistakes, Ogier in C3 made plenty....Tanak in Fiesta made mistakes, Tanak in Toyota made almost none...its a simple premise that the guy in the fastest car doesn’t have to push so hard and makes less mistakes, and you don’t have to just look at rallying to see this trend in Motorsport.It's more down to how you make or develop the car to yourself not that the Toyota was the best car or Tänak a superhuman.

Surely Ogier will be very fast in Toyota, I have no doubt about it. If he dominates 2020 we have the answer, if not it's the driver not the car.

From midseason and onwards and specially after wing modifications Hyundai was clearly the best package. JML and Meeke were always fast on 1st day due to their road position, rarely were they carrying top pace from Saturday and onwards.

I can't really see how you can come up with that conclusion and I know some people also inside the rallying circle and while they agree that Toyota is a good and fast car nobody has told me that it was the best package.

I think we agree to disagree here and as thing is debatable this theory of yours is not widely accepted at all.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[deephouse]

Why don't we compromise all and let's say that C3 is best car/package. Shame just that they will not be aroumd anymore. 😂

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Insta post re Mikkelsen saying he has no drive for 2020 just hoping for some 4th car with Hyundai.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B68kv2AKtqy/?igshid=1kvkp3x5lgsu4

[denkimi]

It's more down to how you make or develop the car to yourself not that the Toyota was the best car or Tänak a superhuman.

Surely Ogier will be very fast in Toyota, I have no doubt about it. If he dominates 2020 we have the answer, if not it's the driver not the car.

From midseason and onwards and specially after wing modifications Hyundai was clearly the best package. JML and Meeke were always fast on 1st day due to their road position, rarely were they carrying top pace from Saturday and onwards.

I can't really see how you can come up with that conclusion and I know some people also inside the rallying circle and while they agree that Toyota is a good and fast car nobody has told me that it was the best package.

I think we agree to disagree here and as thing is debatable this theory of yours is not widely accepted at all.

Both ogier and neuville seem convinced that the toyota was the fastest car. And i assume if anyone should be able to tell, it should be ogier.

In a few weeks we'll know for sure.

[er88]

Insta post re Mikkelsen saying he has no drive for 2020 just hoping for some 4th car with Hyundai.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B68kv2AKtqy/?igshid=1kvkp3x5lgsu4Let's hope he at least can get some outings in a 4th car. Another driver who is more than good enough to have a full campaign.

Really gutting to have Mikkelsen, Meeke, Latvala, Breen, Paddon, Ostberg etc all without full seasons. We ideally needed one more manufacturer, and that was before Citroen pulled out! :(

[doubled1978]

Both ogier and neuville seem convinced that the toyota was the fastest car. And i assume if anyone should be able to tell, it should be ogier.

In a few weeks we'll know for sure.

I think it will be a few events before the natural order shows itself. I genuinely hope that we see a great 3 way battle again between these guys over the course of the season.
Last season the battle was kept alive by the unreliability/punctures of the Toyota, otherwise Tanak would have been long gone by mid season.
Regardless of anything else the Neuville/Tanak battle will be probably the most interesting part of the season as putting two top guns in the same team is usually a reputation breaker for someone.

[jparker]

Hold on here mate... Where's this "fastest car" thing comes from?? If you look at Toyota drivers in general you seriously cannot make that conclusion and starting from midseason Hyundai was clearly the best package overall.
Only Tänak was fast in a Toyota! Few years back VW was clearly the best car, but Toyota hasn't dominated like this so this "fastest car" claim is based on fiction.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using TapatalkSo, what you are saying Tanak is the best driver, and now he has the best car. That's great mate. Second title will be a breeze soon.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Pointless discussion - the cars are under development and jokers being applied.

The 'fastest car' in 2020 is yet to be seen.

[AndyRAC]

Let's hope he at least can get some outings in a 4th car. Another driver who is more than good enough to have a full campaign.

Really gutting to have Mikkelsen, Meeke, Latvala, Breen, Paddon, Ostberg etc all without full seasons. We ideally needed one more manufacturer, and that was before Citroen pulled out! :(

One has to be optimistic before the start of the season; but, with the number of talented drivers (however flawed) sitting on the sidelines, or with a small programme - it's never good.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So it seems the mooted Hyundai B-Team is not happening. Shame.

[Tarmop]

Where did this come from? Yesterday (or a few days back), Hyundai was in talks with sponsors, to get that 4th car out there occasionally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Where did this come from? Yesterday (or a few days back), Hyundai was in talks with sponsors, to get that 4th car out there occasionally.

An occaisional 4th car isnt the same as the proposed B-team (with Mikkelsen & Breen).

[Tarmop]

The B-team rule was about running one car (and also not on every event?) if i remember correctly.

[AnttiL]

The B-team rule was about running one car (and also not on every event?) if i remember correctly.

Yes. The principles were:
- The same drivers cannot drive in the main team and the B team
- One car team can collect manufacturer points for itself, not for the main team (but take points off from other main teams)
- Must run in 7 events, one outside Europe
- Can ony score points when the main team is participating

[dimviii]

Planetemarcus
@planetemarcus
·
1h
#WRC According to @nicolasgilsoul
on Facebook that new Hyundai i20WRC 2020 will be revealed on tomorrow monday
��

[EstWRC]

Well I wouldn’t bet on it. He had “coming soon” on his story.

That could mean today or later this week.

[T16]

Today:

https://twitter.com/hartusvuoriwrc/status/1216647750244237312?s=21

[eib1]

https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/82191237_644125176395295_3807126051318923264_n.png ?_nc_cat=105&_nc_ohc=Ck7MHFGIa9IAQlzlD-nyXGXh05yOP5eZy_0uO-XPCkCw0V1Etaf8hJl1w&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg2-1.xx&oh=e6d519e987696763e48dbeacbbb5b676&oe=5E98D4AB

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EOJnd0OXUAE21h3?format=jpg&name=medium
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EOJnh3hX0AEmSgi?format=jpg&name=medium
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EOJnj12XsAEtOBo?format=jpg&name=medium

[eib1]

new sponsor for Ott

https://scontent-cdg2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/82498396_2588426197923100_8249260444666036224_o.jp g?_nc_cat=101&_nc_ohc=GMZHkSzeqgoAQn-oIdlGhEWxURDh9ruQTQSVH4-uSNXqQx7a1b0mhbHUg&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg2-1.xx&oh=972e4fc30a378b5525f5f14ad0c65220&oe=5EA822AE

[TypeR]

and still no RedBull for Tänak.. basically the only WRC driver not linked with RB(even now being the WDC). I guess somebody doesn't like him in the RedBull hq :D

[EstWRC]

Meh. Exactly the same, on Instagram story Hyundai claims new front aero too but I guess it’s compare to January 2019

[Yugo_para_siempre]

I can hardly identify any differences from last season's livery.

Very disappointing, along with Toyota they did not even try to present something fresh to all of us.

Fortunately M-Sport is still trying...

[TypeR]

so there is hope to get a WRC round in the States in the future..?
https://www.dirtfish.com/blog/dirtfish-and-world-rally-champion-ott-tanak-join-forces-for-2020/

any thoughts about the ,,RACE 3/20'' at the back of the helmet..
3rd helmet of 20 made for 2020 season?

[GigiGalliNo1]

All four drivers to compete in all rounds?

[EstWRC]

so there is hope to get a WRC round in the States in the future..?
https://www.dirtfish.com/blog/dirtfish-and-world-rally-champion-ott-tanak-join-forces-for-2020/

any thoughts about the ,,RACE 3/20'' at the back of the helmet..
3rd helmet of 20 made for 2020 season?

Very interesting indeed this cooperation

We have to be clear here: this is much more than a straight commercial agreement. DirtFish has some very big plans related to the World Rally Championship and you’ll be seeing more on those in the coming weeks.”

“The intention is to raise awareness of this incredible sport and championship in the United States. There is a strong rallying community here in America and DirtFish plays a large, fundamental role in the sport. However, we want to see that continue to grow and grow. Historically, rallying hasn’t been at its most prominent in America – but we shouldn’t forget this country has run five WRC rounds with the Press on Regardless and Olympus Rallies – and we want to change that.”

“We’re looking to work very closely with WRC Promoter to provide a platform through which we can introduce Ott and the WRC to North America.

[EstWRC]

I can hardly identify any differences from last season's livery.

Very disappointing, along with Toyota they did not even try to present something fresh to all of us.

Fortunately M-Sport is still trying...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EOJsqPBW4AA4Aqh.jpg

[TypeR]

there is a change tho.. they put orange wheel in the back :D

[Eli]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EOJsqPBW4AA4Aqh.jpg

find the differences as they say, the only constant change is the name of the 4th driver during the years...

[Kaps]

yeah, extremely disappointing, the lack of effort on the part of Hyundai and Toyota.

Kudos to M-Sport, the only ones who try.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

With those liveries I'm glad now that Toyota & Hyundai didnt turn up for the launch at Autosport Int'l.

M-Sport deserved all the attention they got.

[AnttiL]

Toyota and Hyundai are parts of bigger brands (Toyota Gazoo Racing and Hyundai Motorsport) so it's not so easy to make them over?

[T16]

Toyota and Hyundai are parts of bigger brands (Toyota Gazoo Racing and Hyundai Motorsport) so it's not so easy to make them over?

Yeah, I think it’s fair enough.. nothing wrong with holding brand identity.
And for what it’s worth, the Ford looks like the privateer team, if you had to judge on graphics alone.

[KiwiWRCfan]

2019 versus 2020 comparisons http://motorboxradio.com.ar/2020/01/13/hyundai-tambien-aposto-al-diseno-continuista-la-carroceria-con-grandes-cambios/?fbclid=IwAR3arXBTQ1ZToR1oO1EWRavzXnK7dbBCHB8KsLbv-8krbFVdhchDdymDI_o

[BigWorm]

Not sure the wing is new, just looks like the 2017 wing. They are testing with the 2019 wing so the press pictures might have the wrong one, much like the headlights.

[EstWRC]

that link wont open for me, but the differences i see compared to last year (first pics are 2020 car)

- mirrors (E: actually at 2019 Monte they had different mirrors than on press picture)
- rear wing
- scoop
- diffuser
- exhaust in the middle now
- those air outlets/intakes on bonnet
- front lights
- front aero (introduced in Finland already)

https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/82739855_2970548613011002_2660423221270020096_o.jp g?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQnMwrv9_Ei72FKwTnkygHAjisI1fOWMnozHhvC2Yga NkTmwopXLvMISo2EKqq9ztSM&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=18f81a4c429913beb8df2a3a5612553b&oe=5E959818
https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/50234192_2281639861901884_4706450627817897984_o.jp g?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQnVU79b6r9F3HzH4_uC1Ur6YH2vvHykgBiFnMcDv8n 3yctSaniidCk1M8V8n3X1BPM&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=fb25f680f1291d16b3c7fc30270ee6a2&oe=5ED91608
https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/81969183_2970549019677628_1585748470243786752_o.jp g?_nc_cat=107&_nc_oc=AQkxJene98sClD_EuU2NMJn_hEVsW8OMT74v7pTknPM 3uuBzm_NHDXwBFu3H0BGYAG4&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=626b268d950944d0fa659914026a2e94&oe=5EA5A9FF
https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/50184516_2281640038568533_1448884909245464576_o.jp g?_nc_cat=106&_nc_oc=AQkvporZoHl1RiKUm5RIwGXOdyM4kleF6u41tQK74Fs ujUFShL_eHjh2ZA5YAPYONyM&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=38e8bbd851e6d362f1752ce809aded12&oe=5E909F1C

[mknight]

Well at least they fixed the red horizontal line on the wheelarch ahead of the rear wheel. Looks better from the side now.

[EstWRC]

Lol https://www.facebook.com/HMSGOfficial/videos/494846621168418/

[Kalm]

Lol https://www.facebook.com/HMSGOfficial/videos/494846621168418/

Thats a video with a potential of looking back in the future and say : that didnt age well... :D

[AnttiL]

Ahhhaha that's golden :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Thierry Neuville: "I feel that it's my time"

https://www.autohebdo.fr/wrc/actualites/thierry-neuville-je-sens-que-c-est-mon-heure-208274.html

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The best change they made - a centre-exit exhaust:

https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/81969183_2970549019677628_1585748470243786752_o.jp g?_nc_cat=107&_nc_oc=AQkxJene98sClD_EuU2NMJn_hEVsW8OMT74v7pTknPM 3uuBzm_NHDXwBFu3H0BGYAG4&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=626b268d950944d0fa659914026a2e94&oe=5EA5A9FF

[doubled1978]

The best change they made - a centre-exit exhaust:

https://scontent.fhen1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/81969183_2970549019677628_1585748470243786752_o.jp g?_nc_cat=107&_nc_oc=AQkxJene98sClD_EuU2NMJn_hEVsW8OMT74v7pTknPM 3uuBzm_NHDXwBFu3H0BGYAG4&_nc_ht=scontent.fhen1-1.fna&oh=626b268d950944d0fa659914026a2e94&oe=5EA5A9FF

Looks way better, and I’m sure the aero benefit must be significant as I would imagine it’s required a large amount of work underneath the car to actually implement it when the car wasn’t designed that way.

[racerx1979]

The work itself is easy peasy, but the development time to make sure the aero is on point is a different story :). Rumor has it they tested several diffusers before finding the "right" design.

[GravelBen]

Thierry Neuville: "I feel that it's my time"

Just like last year, and the year before, and the year before... ?

[racerx1979]

Just like last year, and the year before, and the year before... ?

He's been second best, which is pretty damn good either way. It's the mindset of every gifted individual. They all believe they can win....

What is he supposed to feel like?? It's Ogiers time this year?

[tomhlord]

Another funny video from Hyundai: 'Hunting down the World Rally Championship Trophy'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh9bsFqusBs

[EstWRC]

Lmao I love these funny clips and Elena jumping into the car through the window. I bet it was his idea. :D

[dupanton]

Just like last year, and the year before, and the year before... ?

If you have been a vice world champion for 4 years, what else can you do? If you don't believe you can win it next season, you better stop...

[Kefdude]

You guys seriously find these Hyundai clips funny?

[GigiGalliNo1]

Cheesy to say the least

[EstWRC]

Cheesy to say the least

Compared to the humor you make here time to time of course it’s cheesy.

People have different sense of humor. It’s still better than nothing or just those super boring regular promotional videos.

We need more humor in WRC.

[BigWorm]

You guys seriously find these Hyundai clips funny?

Not necessarily funny but goofy at least, and memorable. I smile when I view them.

And I think they're doing something right with this. People will remember this more than say Toyota's unveiling, I bet it will lead to more clicks and views for Hyundai.

[AnttiL]

Think about the same videos with Nandan...it wouldn't have worked.

[denkimi]

Lmao I love these funny clips and Elena jumping into the car through the window. I bet it was his idea. :D
Elena made me smile too.

[gorganl2000]

You guys seriously find these Hyundai clips funny?

i like them, they add light humor and a little flare to the whole thing
i'm sure they won't be to everyone's taste, but that's life anyways

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The work itself is easy peasy, but the development time to make sure the aero is on point is a different story :). Rumor has it they tested several diffusers before finding the "right" design.

The central-exit exhaust also makes it work better as a 'blown' diffuser, improving rear grip.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just like last year, and the year before, and the year before... ?

Neuville hasnt said it like this before. Plus Ogier and Tanak BOTH swapping cars in 2020 is surely to his advantage.

[T16]

The central-exit exhaust also makes it work better as a 'blown' diffuser, improving rear grip.

Excuse my ignorance, but how does an exhaust blow a diffuser if the exhaust exit point is at the same point the diffuser stops? Didn’t know this was a thing.
Also, are the other teams using the same concept?
Interesting.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Excuse my ignorance, but how does an exhaust blow a diffuser if the exhaust exit point is at the same point the diffuser stops? Didn’t know this was a thing.
Also, are the other teams using the same concept?
Interesting.

https://www.wrcwings.tech/2019/12/03/hyundai-opens-pre2020-season-tests-with-aero-modifications-for-the-i20-coupe-wrc/

[T16]

https://www.wrcwings.tech/2019/12/03/hyundai-opens-pre2020-season-tests-with-aero-modifications-for-the-i20-coupe-wrc/

Heard the term in F1 for years, but this article

https://www.wrcwings.tech/2018/05/04/exhaust-blown-diffusers-in-wrc/

makes it really easy to understand. Not sure if it's just the photos, but the 'positive' angle (referred to in the article) on the Hyundai looks much more exaggerated than the others.
Very interesting to see what impact it has.

[TypeR]

I wouldn't say, that Neuville has really more advantage than Ogier or Tänak..
Yes, he is familiar with the car, BUT he is the only one in TOP3 without the WDC, which makes him to push the hardest(not that others won't, but still) + he has only driven Hyundai for many years, while Ogier and Tänak will start the season in a 3rd different last gen WRC car.
They have a lot more experience how things work with different (last gen) cars and their settings..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

For sure any advantage Neuville does have wont last long and he'll need to cash in on the first few rallies of the season.

[tr4m]

Thierry vs Ott continues https://www.instagram.com/p/B7iaNCRoxu1/

[Rallyper]

Thierry vs Ott continues https://www.instagram.com/p/B7iaNCRoxu1/

Good one! Strong team.

[EstWRC]

close look of the helmets https://www.instagram.com/p/B7lV-bioZtE/

[AnttiL]

So, will Adamo now bench Loeb and put Mikkelsen in? :D

[deephouse]

Why? He delivered the valuable manufacturer points.. They are first on the leaderboard currently. He said that he was hired to do the job not to drive his own rallies.

[mknight]

So, will Adamo now bench Loeb and put Mikkelsen in? :D

Don't think so. For two reasons:

a) rules about 2nd teams, if he puts Mikkelsen in he won't be able to run him as 4th car that takes manu points from others rest of the season

b) (main one) he doesn't trust him, while he trusts Loeb, no matter what he does, same like with Breen. He said himself that he either trusts a driver or he doesn't. That seems to matter no matter how the driver actually drives.

[Eli]

Does anyone remember which rounds Sebastien Loeb was supposed to do besides MC & Sweden? 'cause I can't find it anywhere, thanks.

[AnttiL]

Does anyone remember which rounds Sebastien Loeb was supposed to do besides MC & Sweden? 'cause I can't find it anywhere, thanks.

We only know that Sordo's program is Mexico, Argentina, Portugal, Sardegna, Turkey, Germany and Japan.

That would have left Chile, as well as Kenya, New Zealand, Finland and Wales.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

"Although an exact division of events between Loeb and Sordo hadn't been announced, Hyundai's statement indicates that Loeb had been previously slated to pilot the i20 WRC in Sweden, and that Breen's arrival represents a change of plans."

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/breen-loeb-hyundai-sweden/4677279

[deephouse]

Does anyone remember which rounds Sebastien Loeb was supposed to do besides MC & Sweden? 'cause I can't find it anywhere, thanks.

Hyundai said that Loeb is doing Monte and Sweden, Sordo's programme start in Mexico, then it should be decided on rally by rally basis. Now they bring Breen again, and I is quite logical, because of starting order. Mikkelsen still could be in satellite team but every day passes I have more doubts of that. He himself said that he is ready when opportunity cames he will grabs it so that tells everything.

[AnttiL]

I believe Breen will do at least Finland and Wales, of course depending on how well he does in Sweden.

[mknight]

I believe Breen will do at least Finland and Wales, of course depending on how well he does in Sweden.

Looking how he got nominated for Australia after crashing out as last Hyundai in GB it doesn't look like it matters much how he does ;)

[Kaps]

I really hope this is not the end of Loeb's WRC career, even though it pretty much looks that way.

Despite poor showing in Monte, it's definitely not the way he should go out!

[mknight]

I won't say it's end of Loeb's career at all. Sweden was the least likely start for him in the first place. It was rather a huge surprise that they nominated him there in the first place. We will surely see him on multiple gravel rallies, but probably not in Germany and likely not in Japan.

[Eli]

I won't say it's end of Loeb's career at all. Sweden was the least likely start for him in the first place. It was rather a huge surprise that they nominated him there in the first place. We will surely see him on multiple gravel rallies, but probably not in Germany and likely not in Japan.

Probably Kenya & NZ, as he does have some experience on the first and won the second the last time (OK 8 years ago but still) they were there.

[gorganl2000]

As a long time Loeb fan, i too am a bit taken back by Loeb's performance over the last 2 days, especially the tire issue on the last day. However, in the grand scheme of things, he probably achieved the team's goal for the most part. The way i see it, he was always going to be looking to place 4th, 5th or 6th, which would give him/team 12, 10, 8 points accordingly. I say this because i expected Neuville, Tanak and Ogier to be in the top three once they finished the rally; Evans was a much welcomed addition to the top tier party, especially after Tanak's unfortunate accident. I believed this helped to keep things lively up front until the end and i hope he would battle more with the main three throughout the year; it would be nice if Lappi could fight in there sometimes as well. I'd suspect Hyundai were expecting both Neuville and Tanak to finish to give them maximum points vs Ogier/Evans, and that was a reasonable assumption before the rally started; however, given Evans impressive performance, I'm not sure how Tanak would have compared to Evans even if Tanak hadn't crash as he's still learning the car as well (but that's all hindsight/assumptions now). With Loeb's mistakes and Lappi upping the pace and securing 4th, Rovanpera's 5th place made little difference to the manufacturer's point from Loeb's perspective as 5th or 6th place netted the same 10 points for the Hyundai team. Loeb only suffered personally from the driver's standings at 8 points, but then that's not essential to a man running a partial program and who was hired mainly to support the manufacturer's title. Overall Hyundai is leading in both categories as they wanted, mission accomplished (more or less); yes the 2 extra points for 4th would be nice, but its early days and one rally at a time, things could be worse.

i'm awaiting Loeb's gravel performance, i do think this will be his last year in WRC, but i'm not writing him off from being competitive on some of the upcoming rallies just yet.

big congratulations to Neuville for a brilliant performance and handling the pressure over the weekend. Excellent job from Ogier and Evans. i hope Tanak bounces back soon, i'm really happy he and his co-driver came out the accident unhurt.

2020 is looking exciting

[dimviii]

especially the tire issue on the last day.

to be fair we have to mention that tyre choice was in conjuction with team.They had informations for rain that didnt come.
Loeb as i know dont have a meteorogist for him.
Bluuford maybe can help us here( even via pm https://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/oldforum/redface.gif)



edit

Sébastien Loeb
@SebastienLoeb
·
26 Jan
We made a choice with the team this morning by betting on the rain ... It did not come
��
So, we killed our tires from the first ... Our goal is clearly to reach the finish now and to score points for @HMSGOfficial

[gorganl2000]

to be fair we have to mention that tyre choice was in conjuction with team.They had informations for rain that didnt come.
Loeb as i know dont have a meteorogist for him.
Bluuford maybe can help us here( even via pm https://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/oldforum/redface.gif)



edit

Sébastien Loeb
@SebastienLoeb
·
26 Jan
We made a choice with the team this morning by betting on the rain ... It did not come
��
So, we killed our tires from the first ... Our goal is clearly to reach the finish now and to score points for @HMSGOfficial

yeah, i saw that Dimvii, so you do have a point, it was a team decision and maybe a little bit of a gamble to get back 4th if it worked?! who knows?!

[drive]

Thry 'made a bet', eg gambled, and it didnt worked out. End of story. Gamble works that way, eather you win or loose, this time loads of talks that maestro lost his 'mojo', but otherwise could be loads of talk of how great the old maestro is...

[T16]

From Loeb’s Twitter:

As you may have read since yesterday, we will not be putting in the nails this year. After discussions with the team, we decided not to go to @RallySweden . Thanks to them for understanding me. I tell you more in my column very quickly


Looks like he’s claiming it wasn’t the team who made the decision? Loosely worded, so open to interpretation I guess.

[AnttiL]

yeah, i saw that Dimvii, so you do have a point, it was a team decision and maybe a little bit of a gamble to get back 4th if it worked?! who knows?!

Loeb was in 4th position at the end of Saturday. After the first Sunday stage Lappi could only take 1.7 seconds from the 14.1 second gap and it looked like he wouldn't overtake Loeb by driving only. It wasn't until the next stage where Loeb went off road that Lappi got past him. And after that he started cruising to secure finishing because no manu points scoring cars could overtake him anymore.

[mknight]

Loeb was in 4th position at the end of Saturday. After the first Sunday stage Lappi could only take 1.7 seconds from the 14.1 second gap and it looked like he wouldn't overtake Loeb by driving only. It wasn't until the next stage where Loeb went off road that Lappi got past him. And after that he started cruising to secure finishing because no manu points scoring cars could overtake him anymore.

Loeb lost 21s to Lappi over the last two stages on Saturday, so it certainly did look like Lappi can overtake him by driving only.

[AnttiL]

Loeb lost 21s to Lappi over the last two stages on Saturday, so it certainly did look like Lappi can overtake him by driving only.

Like I said, not judging from the result of the first stage.

[Karbonyl]

P.L. Loubet confirmed for 9 rounds with i20 WRC starting from Portugal.

[mknight]

Like I said, not judging from the result of the first stage.
Ok, didn't check properly what you wrote my bad.

[doubled1978]

P.L. Loubet confirmed for 9 rounds with i20 WRC starting from Portugal.

Cool. If it’s from Portugal, that’s all the rounds from Portugal onwards. Hope he does well.

[AnttiL]

Could be a bit of throwaway to go to Kenya since it's an expensive event, you might not get to show your talent so much there. And then there are the long hauls of NZ and Japan, but otherwise it's the perfect privateer program (I would have added Sweden as well).

[bassist]

See on FB, Mikkleson doing some Karting!

[dimviii]

P.L. Loubet confirmed for 9 rounds with i20 WRC starting from Portugal.

car will be serviced from official hyundai team?

[dimviii]

car will be serviced from official hyundai team?

will be RED/GREY that they will sevice the i20 wrc of Loubet?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EPcdDR3X4AA0AiD?format=jpg&name=small

[Got Mail]

car will be serviced from official hyundai team?

He ran with the Italian BRC team last time he was driving a Hyundai.

[skarderud]

I really dont understand Adamo, why the h.ll he put in loubet in a WRC?
Breen is "proven", but he has loeb, sordo, paddon and Mikkelsen, all 4 9f them is a better choice than this.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[Eli]

I really dont understand Adamo, why the h.ll he put in loubet in a WRC?
Breen is "proven", but he has loeb, sordo, paddon and Mikkelsen, all 4 9f them is a better choice than this.

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

Money Money Money, but in all seriousness, isn't Loubet part of the customer program of Hyundai?