2018 news and results

[tc10a]

Are there already any rumours, news for the 2018 ERC Calendar?

[EstWRC]

Rally Estonia should be back again

[Oliverk]

Rally Estonia should be back again

But why?

[liposh]

Does it mean Liepaja will come back to winter time or does it mean Liepaja will be out?

[Jarek Z]

Does it mean Liepaja will come back to winter time or does it mean Liepaja will be out?

According to this piece of news Liepaja is going to stay in the ERC until 2019:
https://www.fiaerc.com/rally-liepaja-gets-three-year-erc-contract-extension/

[Reis Eduardo]

There was intention of the organizers of the Ireland Circuit, return in 2018. will there be more news?
https://www.fiaerc.com/new-event-signals-circuit-of-irelands-erc-comeback-push/

Azores and Canaries are also confirmed until 2019. I think Greece and Cyprus prevailed as well as Barum.

And from Belgium will there be news this year?

[Mirek]

I don't expect Ypres to come back.

[Reis Eduardo]

I don't expect Ypres to come back.

I was not thinking about Ypres but Rallye du Condroz-Huy ?

I think Eurosports-Events will do everything to get back ten rallies, but I can be wrong

[sindroms]

Does it mean Liepaja will come back to winter time or does it mean Liepaja will be out?

None of this. Liepāja has signed agreement with Eurosport Events until 2019 and exactly as gravel rally.

[sindroms]

Rally Estonia should be back again

No doubt Rally Estonia deserves it!
But still... what was the reason why Rally Estonia organizers decided to pull out from ERC a year ago?

[Jarek Z]

I think Eurosports-Events will do everything to get back ten rallies, but I can be wrong

Let's hope you are wrong!

[Oliverk]

No doubt Rally Estonia deserves it!
But still... what was the reason why Rally Estonia organizers decided to pull out from ERC a year ago?

Lack of competition and too boring and slow drivers for Estonian rally audience.Only 2 fast drivers and handful of estonians. Every local "village event" is more intreeging to watch.

[tommeke_B]

I was not thinking about Ypres but Rallye du Condroz-Huy ?

I think Eurosports-Events will do everything to get back ten rallies, but I can be wrong

All respect, but the organization of Rallye du Condroz-Huy isn't capable of hosting an ERC event in a way the FIA would accept it. Usually there are spectator issues and a lot of delays.

[tc10a]

Around Barum Rally there was some rumours that former WRC Rally Poland is going to be the polish ERC round after it has been dropped from the WRC calendar.

[Eli]

Around Barum Rally there was some rumors that former WRC Rally Poland is going to be the polish ERC round after it has been dropped from the WRC calendar.

Rally Poland used to be in the ERC before it switched with Greece in the WRC back in 2014, so maybe.

[Mad Max]

Do not forget that the Rzeszow Rally is the ERC round, unfortunately due to the throwing of Rally Poland from the WRC calendar, the Polish round will move from the asphalt to the gravel and Rally Poland will be an ERC round in 2018 - the director of the Rally Poland Jarosław Noworól spoke about it.

[Mirek]

Is it unfortunate? What is general opinion in Poland? For me both events have their advantages.

[Mad Max]

Is it unfortunate?
Yes unfortunately (niestety) , because we had WRC and ERC, and next year we will have only ERC


What is general opinion in Poland?
about what?? what exactly do you ask ??


For me both events have their advantages.
yes of course, you're right, both rallies are the best in Poland

[Mirek]

about what?? what exactly do you ask ??

I meant if people in Poland prefer the ERC round to be in Mikolajki or in Rzeszów.

[Mad Max]

I meant if people in Poland prefer the ERC round to be in Mikolajki or in Rzeszów.
I think a lot of polish fans has a problem with answering this question.
Myself is hard to answer this question. On the one hand Rzeszow Rally is the best asphalt rally in Poland, on the other hand Rally Poland is gravel and the essence of driving the car.

[Mirek]

Dziekuje ;)

[Reis Eduardo]

https://www.facebook.com/czechrally/photos/a.320261988021603.70639.157801727600964/1476623389052118/?type=3&theater

Barum Czech Rally Zlín in 24-26 August. Does anyone know more dates?

[RS]

I hope the 2018 season starts earlier than this year otherwise we have a six month off-season.

[Reis Eduardo]

http://www.rallyislascanarias.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=286:la-repercusion-del-rally-islas-canarias-al-alza&catid=84&Itemid=472&lang=es

Rally Islas Canarias 2-5 of May is the first advanced date.

[Reis Eduardo]

https://www.autosport.pt/ralis/azores-airlines-rallye-abre-erc-2018-marco/

Basically the news says that the 2018 calender will be same as 2017, begins in Portugal (Azores) and ends in Latvia. There will be eight events and Poland will be in Mikolajki. The calendar will be announced on the next Monday during the ERC 2017 awards

[Antreas]

Azores
Islas Canarias
Acropolis
Cyprus
Poland
Rzerzow
Ralli di Roma
Liepaja

[Jarek Z]

Azores
Islas Canarias
Acropolis
Cyprus
Poland
Rzerzow
Ralli di Roma
Liepaja

That's wrong for sure. I know that Kajto is three-times European Champion, but it doesn't mean that Poland will get two ERC rounds as an award (Rally Rzeszow and Rally Poland) :D

[Antreas]

You're right

[WRC1]

Azores
Islas Canarias
Acropolis
Cyprus
Poland
Rzerzow
Ralli di Roma
Liepaja

....and why BARUM is out of ERC?? ;)

[WUff1]

ERC calendar is bullshit. Now 7 months without an ERC rally, and hopefully no time collision again like this weekend - what FIA was thinking about this is not understandable.

[PLuto]

ERC calendar is bullshit. Now 7 months without an ERC rally, and hopefully no time collision again like this weekend - what FIA was thinking about this is not understandable.

Collision between Catalunya and Liepaja was made by FIA on very last moment before rally commission last year, when they changed date for Catalunya...

[RS]

Could a moderator please rename this thread "2018 news and results" or something similar.

I thought 2018 calendar was to be announced Monday?

[Archie Gillaine]

Eurosport need to do something about promoting the ERC better - 7 months without an event is pretty poor.

[RS]

Eurosport need to do something about promoting the ERC better - 7 months without an event is pretty poor.

Finishing early October is fine, but we need an event in January or February I think.. yes, 7 months is too long.

[Reis Eduardo]

A local radio and newspaper said this week end that the Azores Rally would open the ERC in 2018, March 22-24, but he knew that these dates are not yet confirmed.
I also agree that the ERC season is too short. It should start in February and end in late October.

[tommeke_B]

Perfect would be to kick out the rally of Rome-Capitale, move Liepaja (or Rally Poland in Mikolajki) to mid-september, and bring back Valais at the end of October...

[rallyfiend]

Will Eurosport be around next year?

Interesting that their WTCC calendar hasn't been released yet, either....

[AndyRAC]

Perfect would be to kick out the rally of Rome-Capitale, move Liepaja (or Rally Poland in Mikolajki) to mid-september, and bring back Valais at the end of October...

Valais is a stunning event; it should always be in the ERC - and as the final round.

[PLuto]

Could a moderator please rename this thread "2018 news and results" or something similar.

Done

[PLuto]

I thought 2018 calendar was to be announced Monday?

That was never in plan. I think it should be published 2 weeks later.

[PLuto]

Perfect would be to kick out the rally of Rome-Capitale, move Liepaja (or Rally Poland in Mikolajki) to mid-september, and bring back Valais at the end of October...

I think that Rome will stay, I think they had 2 years agreement. There was idea to move Liepaja to July, but as far as I know it was refused by government (as it is in high season).

[PLuto]

Valais is a stunning event; it should always be in the ERC - and as the final round.

Valais didnt wanted to be part of ERC, they wanted to fight for WRC event. Now leaders of Rallye du Valais has changed, so maybe in future...

[PLuto]

Will Eurosport be around next year?

Yes

[PLuto]

I also agree that the ERC season is too short. It should start in February and end in late October.

Problem is that organisers are not so interested to organise the event later in the season. Same problem with January / February - not so many organisers interested to organise an ERC round. But I can promise that next year it will be little bit better with the dates like this year.

[Reis Eduardo]

Interview with Lukyanuk in English

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/radio16valvulas/episodes/2017-10-16T13_10_11-07_00

[Sub_Skoda]

Problem is that organisers are not so interested to organise the event later in the season. Same problem with January / February - not so many organisers interested to organise an ERC round. But I can promise that next year it will be little bit better with the dates like this year.

What about Artic Rally?

[Mirek]

Arctic Rally is not interested in ERC.

[pantealex]

Arctic Rally is not interested in ERC.

They are not willing and able to pay for ERC status.

[PLuto]

They are not willing and able to pay for ERC status.

It is not only about money...

[AndyRAC]

When events aren't interested in joining the ERC - that tells you there is a problem....

[Jarek Z]

When events aren't interested in joining the ERC - that tells you there is a problem....

Nobody wants to go bankrupt!

[Sulland]

How does the TER calendar for 18 look?
Are organizers signing up there instead?

[pantealex]

When events aren't interested in joining the ERC - that tells you there is a problem....

No, there are many rallies that don´t need ERC status, they gather good drivers and enough entries without it.

[dupanton]

No, there are many rallies that don´t need ERC status, they gather good drivers and enough entries without it.

Yes, there were rumours last year that Condroz Rally in Belgium would enter ERC. The rally runs in a bit over 2 weeks and we expect at least 20 R5 cars + some WRCs and Porsches that can't start in ERC. They don't need ERC.

[Mirek]

With all respect I think that the level of organization in Condroz is not good enough for ERC (at least it used to be like that). IMO one chaotic Rome is enough in the calendar.

[AndyRAC]

No, there are many rallies that don´t need ERC status, they gather good drivers and enough entries without it.

Well yes - they don't need the ERC; which means the ERC isn't really doing what it should be doing; I;E Running a top championship one level below the WRC. If it was a decent series, well promoted and televised, I'm sure successful events would be interested.

As it is, it's none of those things and many events run without needing ERC status.

[PLuto]

When events aren't interested in joining the ERC - that tells you there is a problem....

There is lot of events interested in joining ERC. But nobody wants to do it in winter time...

[tommeke_B]

There is lot of events interested in joining ERC. But nobody wants to do it in winter time...

Isn't it always summer in Cyprus, problem solved?

[PLuto]

Isn't it always summer in Cyprus, problem solved?

Yes, but we are talking about winter event witn snow conditions :)

[RS]

It's a shame snowy Liepaja didn't work out. It would have been nicer than the muddy event we had this year and it could have been a good season opener.

[PLuto]

It's a shame snowy Liepaja didn't work out. It would have been nicer than the muddy event we had this year and it could have been a good season opener.

Yes, but problem with weather is too serious. They are not able to run a rally in February without snow and ice. They were trying every year and every year they were fighting to organise/not organise the event due to the weather. Once they were forced to cancel the event week before rally and it almost killed them. Thats why they dont want to go to the same risk again...

[RS]

Yes, but problem with weather is too serious. They are not able to run a rally in February without snow and ice. They were trying every year and every year they were fighting to organise/not organise the event due to the weather. Once they were forced to cancel the event week before rally and it almost killed them. Thats why they dont want to go to the same risk again...

And there is not a time of year when they can either (almost) guarantee snow or when they may get snow but it would be ok to run it as a gravel event if not?

[electroliquid]

And there is not a time of year when they can either (almost) guarantee snow or when they may get snow but it would be ok to run it as a gravel event if not?

From which part of the World are you? For snow event must be snow/ice + frozen ground; for gravel event - no snow+no frozen ground. This year some of Liepaja's stages parts was canceled due bad road conditions, if there be snow+no frozen ground it would be even worse. In this region there is no time of year, with real possibility to run snow or gravel event at same month. That's why in Nordic countries rally season starts in middle of January with snow events, run until late February (maybe March in northern Finland), then break until May, start gravel season and up to October.
IMHO Liepaja is wrong place geographically for snow rally, because located near sea, even in winters with many snow, there is way less snow than in other parts of country. Other Latvia's winter rally events (Sarma and Alūksne) is located in eastern part of Latvia (as far to sea as possible)

[Mirek]

Plus the event has to be declared as either snow or gravel in supplementary regulations. Not both in the same time.

[Nelly]

The Ulster Rally have announced that they will be a round of the ERC next year. It will be in a similar area to the last Circuit of ireland rally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The Ulster Rally have announced that they will be a round of the ERC next year. It will be in a similar area to the last Circuit of ireland rally.

Happy to hear this... great roads and an area with a big history and support for rallying.

[PLuto]

I am not sure if this is correct info. I think that the main target of this information is that rally will be done in Antrim town. Other informations are only "added". And they used bad words for European Rally Trophy...

[Nelly]

http://www.rallynews.net/pattersonpacenotes/wordpress/?p=3979

[Reis Eduardo]

I also find the news strange for two reasons no reference is made to the promoter Eurosport Events, and I do not see the ERC not saying anything on your page.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@JackBenyon
News about @UlsterRally becoming a round of the @FIAERC are reportedly false. Has someone mixed up Celtic Trophy and ERC?!

[Mirek]

PLuto wrote already few weeks a go that the 2018 ERC calendar is basically same with 2017.

[liposh]

...But as announced Polish ERC round will switch from tarmac Rzeszow to gravel Mikolajki , right?

[PLuto]

...But as announced Polish ERC round will switch from tarmac Rzeszow to gravel Mikolajki , right?

Yes, that should be only major change (in terms of events, not dates).

[harriswrc]

Date for Rally Roma di Capitale: 22 July 2018

[electroliquid]

Lukyanuk's plans for next year - full ERC, maybe few WRC events, considering about participation in Czech Republic championship. Article in russian: https://ru.motorsport.com/erc/news/planiruem-proekhat-neskolko-etapov-s-wrc-intervyu-s-alekseem-lukyanyukom-974410/

[RS]

Lukyanuk's plans for next year - full ERC, maybe few WRC events, considering about participation in Czech Republic championship. Article in russian: https://ru.motorsport.com/erc/news/planiruem-proekhat-neskolko-etapov-s-wrc-intervyu-s-alekseem-lukyanyukom-974410/

Plans or hopes?

Would be great, has he come into some money?

[electroliquid]

I'm not very good understand russian, but it's more like plans about ERC; WRC and some winter rallies in Baltics with EvoX is like hopes, if there will be more money/sponsors. Google translate doing OK job on this from russian to english.

[sindroms]

I'm not very good understand russian, but it's more like plans about ERC; WRC and some winter rallies in Baltics with EvoX is like hopes, if there will be more money/sponsors. Google translate doing OK job on this from russian to english.

About WRC plans - just a journalists trick. He is going to do some WRC rounds recce only.

[Sulland]

ERC is also one of the options Østberg looks at for 2018.

[Munkvy]

ERC is also one of the options Østberg looks at for 2018.

That would probably be a good idea, see if he can win an ERC event if he commits to the series. Although I think he could win an event or two, he is competing against a bunch of guys with lots of experience of the events, so think he would struggle to match the top 2-3 for the ERC championship based on his previous lack of ability to get results in ERC?

[RS]

Mads is not on the top level in WRC but he could definitely win some events in ERC. He might not find it easy though, and in the IRC ‘olden days’ I think he would have been out of his depth.

[Munkvy]

Mads is not on the top level in WRC but he could definitely win some events in ERC. He might not find it easy though, and in the IRC ‘olden days’ I think he would have been out of his depth.
Completely agree. Good way to get more practice on a much more even footing rather than as a privateer attempting to run a very complex WRC car. Realistically I think he is wasting money to be doing the WRC as a true privateer.

[Mirek]

IMHO if he doesn't crash he is able to win the ERC unless the competition level grows miraculously compared to this year (or if he doesn't complain about technical problems in every event as usually).

[Jarek Z]

Polish champion Filip Nivette wants to try his luck in the ERC:
https://www.fiaerc.com/nivette-to-follow-fellow-polish-aces-to-erc/

[RS]

IMHO if he doesn't crash he is able to win the ERC unless the competition level grows miraculously compared to this year (or if he doesn't complain about technical problems in every event as usually).

Agree, also unless Lukyanuk improves his own reliability.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Has Kajto retired ?

[RS]

Has Kajto retired ?

Have you heard something to that effect? It crossed my mind that he might 'do a Rosberg' after his triple crown.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Have you heard something to that effect? It crossed my mind that he might 'do a Rosberg' after his triple crown.

No, just with people saying Lukyanuk can win the title in 2018 and Østberg could have a chance to win some rounds...

[Mirek]

No, just with people saying Lukyanuk can win the title in 2018 and Østberg could have a chance to win some rounds...

How is stating the reality, i.e. that both Lukyanuk and Ostberg can win rallies or even the title, suggesting that Kajto is about to retire?

For Your information Kajto won only one rally this year and while it was enough for the title it doesn't mean that he is invincible.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

How is stating the reality, i.e. that both Lukyanuk and Ostberg can win rallies or even the title, suggesting that Kajto is about to retire?

For Your information Kajto won only one rally this year and while it was enough for the title it doesn't mean that he is invincible.

Thanks, You prove my point... Kajto won the title with one rally win.

The rest are so crash-prone, inexperienced on some events or dont have the finance for a full season or have the best quality car.

If Kajto drives next season will you put your money on Lukyanuk or another for the title ?
Exactly.

[Mirek]

If Kajto drives next season will you put your money on Lukyanuk or another for the title ?
Exactly.

The word "can" means that they are "able of" not that they "must". Ostberg or Lukyanuk certainly are able of winning rallies or even the title in ERC.

[Jarek Z]

Kajto hasn't retired :) He's currently enjoying his success, makes interviews, appears on TV and promotes his first book:
https://www.facebook.com/KajetanKajetanowicz/photos/pcb.1812408802125713/1812406245459302/?type=3&theater

But I don't think he is going to compete in ERC next year. He proved everything he could in this championship. But, of course, everything depends on the money.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

The word "can" means that they are "able of" not that they "must". Ostberg or Lukyanuk certainly are able of winning rallies or even the title in ERC.

Can - it's 'able to' not 'able of'.

Of course Lukyanuk "can" win the ERC, anything "can" happen. But with Kajto there its a lot less likely..

And even if Kajto doesnt drive I think there could still be others more likey to win the title than Luky...

[RS]

But I don't think he is going to compete in ERC next year. He proved everything he could in this championship. But, of course, everything depends on the money.

I don’t want to take anything away from him because he is a lovely guy and a good driver, but I would like to see him stay in ERC but be pushed harder for the title.

He has shown an intelligent approach with a perfect combination of reliability and speed to win the title three times already, but he did get a bit of an easy ride this year because of the testing accident of Lukyanuk.

Of course Lukyanuk needs to improve his reliability, but I think he has progressed as a driver over the last couple of years nonetheless. Last piece of the puzzle is to cut out the mistakes, and then could Kajto still beat him? I’m not sure..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Colin Clark saying DMACK rumoured to be targeting the ERC in 2018, possibly with a 2-car liveried team...

[electroliquid]

Colin Clark saying DMACK rumoured to be targeting the ERC in 2018, possibly with a 2-car liveried team...

ERC has few unique tarmac rounds for good "testing" their product in real conditions, and few rough gravel events to show pace, it could be wise move, also with less money and more publicity.

[pantealex]

ERC has few unique tarmac rounds for good "testing" their product in real conditions, and few rough gravel events to show pace, it could be wise move, also with less money and more publicity.

More publicity?

From ERC than from WRC?

I don´t think so.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

More publicity?

From ERC than from WRC?

I don´t think so.

ERC will be extra publicity as its a different championship with different rallies to show their products on.

Plus they still intend to supply on the WRC to a WRT on a 3rd car.

[electroliquid]

More publicity?

From ERC than from WRC?

I don´t think so.

It's better for PR to get podium on ERC overall, than podium on WRC2 class and 12th overall.

[Mirek]

The advantage of ERC is that the events are also often part of national championships, i.e. there is huge number of potential customers there.

[Jarek Z]

I don’t want to take anything away from him because he is a lovely guy and a good driver, but I would like to see him stay in ERC but be pushed harder for the title.

I know what you mean, but if you were in Kajto's position, wouldn't you want to have a try at WRC2?

[PLuto]

I know what you mean, but if you were in Kajto's position, wouldn't you want to have a try at WRC2?

No. For him now it is waste of money and time...

[Mirek]

No. For him now it is waste of money and time...

lol, seriously.

[kure91]

well, if we take it from this perspective, isn´t whole rallying waste of money? :) If there would be chance to drive in WRC2, I would totaly understand his decision

[electroliquid]

In this case - if Kajto wants only drive and have fun WRC2 ok, if he wants have chances to keep wining something - ERC is the choice.

[Mirek]

I would say he knows better whot he wants.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

In this case - if Kajto wants only drive and have fun WRC2 ok, if he wants have chances to keep wining something - ERC is the choice.

Kajto making the choice of keeping winning ERC ? No, been there, done that.

WRC2 - trying new rallies and running with some young guns - that might be what will get him excited again.

[dimviii]

Kajto making the choice of keeping winning ERC ? No, been there, done that.

WRC2 - trying new rallies and running with some young guns - that might be what will get him excited again.

I dont think that he will be ''excited'' at stage stops at wrc 2

[Andre Oliveira]

I am fan of Kajto, but lets face the real scene. In WRC2 with those braves guys, he would be tricked.

[RS]

So any speculation on what car/team DMack might partner with?

[RS]

I am fan of Kajto, but lets face the real scene. In WRC2 with those braves guys, he would be tricked.

It depends who drives in WRC2 next year. Against ŠKODA works team it would be difficult.

[Jarek Z]

I am fan of Kajto, but lets face the real scene. In WRC2 with those braves guys, he would be tricked.

Of course Kajto wouldn't win WRC2, because he is slower than Tidemand, Suninen or Kopecky. But this championship is full of slow drivers and a place in top 6 would be very possible. Why can't Kajto try something new?

[Mirek]

I am fan of Kajto, but lets face the real scene. In WRC2 with those braves guys, he would be tricked.

And so what?

[Mirek]

It depends who drives in WRC2 next year. Against ŠKODA works team it would be difficult.

Likely no Suninen, Tidemand or Camilli there and I have doubts over Kopecký as well. We have to wait and see who is actually going to take part.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So any speculation on what car/team DMack might partner with?

It's pure speculation even that DMack will run a team in ERC 2018...

But if they do, how about a British team of Cave and Ingram ? Both have some money to bring with them ...

[Mirek]

I think that in case they really want to do ERC they need at least one driver who can bring them overall victories. Without that it doesn't make much sense from marketing point of view. That means someone capable of defeating Kajto, Lukyanuk and local heroes and someone who also knows ERC events so that he can start delivering right away. There isn't many of such drivers around who aren't already employed in WRC. Bouffier is one name which comes to my mind. Or there is another option - they can steal the show by taking Kajto or Lukyanuk under their wings.

[Essaj]

I think that in case they really want to do ERC they need at least one driver who can bring them overall victories. Without that it doesn't make much sense from marketing point of view. That means someone capable of defeating Kajto, Lukyanuk and local heroes and someone who also knows ERC events so that he can start delivering right away. There isn't many of such drivers around who aren't already employed in WRC. Bouffier is one name which comes to my mind. Or there is another option - they can steal the show by taking Kajto or Lukyanuk under their wings.

British team would make sense. Beating Kajto speed wise (like Luky, Sirmacis, Gryazin, Bouffier, Rovanpera etc. have shown) should be possible from many drivers. Beating Luky (if he is able to do whole season and finish most of them) will definitely be harder.
If DMack will come to ERC and want to win they will most likely bring Ingram and someone other young driver (Cave would make sense) with them. Gryazin would be good but he dosen't really need any financial help and is most likely going to take part in WRC2 instead.
No one knows what Sirmacis is going to do, we know he is fast but dose he have any backing left? no one knows.

[Mirek]

Neither Gryazin nor Sirmacis can reallistically win any asphalt event and they can also hardly give much feedback for asphalt tyre development. I mention that specifically because the sales potential for asphalt tyres is somewhat bigger in ERC countries than for gravel tyres. I named Bouffier also because he has plenty of experience as a test driver but that was of course only a name I would probably choose against the other ERC contenders.

[Andre Oliveira]

Brynildsen

[electroliquid]

I named Bouffier also because he has plenty of experience as a test driver but that was of course only a name I would probably choose against the other ERC contenders.

Bouffier + Ingram/Griebel would be hell of a team.

[Mirek]

Brynildsen

Zero experience with ERC events and not fast enough on asphalt.

[Jarek Z]

Neither Gryazin nor Sirmacis can reallistically win any asphalt event and they can also hardly give much feedback for asphalt tyre development.

Plus, in the case of Gryazin, DMack will want to test tyres, not durability of the car ;)

[electroliquid]

Plus, in the case of Gryazin, DMack will want to test tyres, not durability of the car ;)

Last year I was sceptical about Gryazin in terms of speed, while he wasn't super fast in 2wd. In start of season, he was ok fast, but in 2nd half he beat Kalle (which maybe not a measure, but still) twice fair and square, he improved a lot. He has speed. Now I'm also sceptical about his ability to finish without crashes. But this season he has 2 accidents, and few minor offs, so maybe he will surprise us next year; don't underestimate him before time. Of course it's very unlikely to see him in DMack car, even if DMack thing happens.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Would love to see Sirmacis back... great driver and big loss to the ERC.

[Andre Oliveira]

Zero experience with ERC events and not fast enough on asphalt.

Agree, and DMACK need improve on tarmac too. But he will be there afaik.

[dimviii]

Eyvind Brynildsen‏*
@E_Brynildsen

Interesting days coming up!

[liposh]

Neither Gryazin nor Sirmacis can reallistically win any asphalt event and they can also hardly give much feedback for asphalt tyre development.

N. Gryazin is circuit driver. And in fact very good circuit driver. He has much more experiences with tarmac than for example Lappi before his Skoda years. (I know about Lappi´s Karting youth)

[Mirek]

Results count... his asphalt events in last two seasons:

2017: Roma Capitale 8th, Barum 14th, Rzeszow crash, Weiz crash, Rouergue 7th, Canarias 12th, Targa Florio 4th
2016 (results it class RC4): Barum 7th, Rzeszow 2nd, Limousin superally, Ypres retired, Circuit of Ireland 4th, Spa retired

If You believe he can win an ERC asphalt round next year I don't agree with You. A podium will be a nice achievement.

[Sulland]

Well lets see if drivers that has been regulars in WRC2 in the latter years will swap to ERC in 18.

For Brynildsen it has also been speculation on the WRC17 Fiesta of Adapta that now is for sale.
maybe he wants to give it a go?

But logically it makes sense with ERC for him.
Could be that we could see more Scandinavians swap, Grøndal, Larsen, Brynildsen and Østberg from Norway, a few swedes are also potential swappers.
Lets see if some finns, and baltic teams also see that sponsors will get better payback, than spending a lot of money on a series almost without media coverage?

Could be that I am on the wrong track, and that it is the BRC that is the goal, and not ERC.

[Jarek Z]

Unfortunately Scandinavians have never shown much interest in ERC. Lappi and Hanninen were exceptions, but that's only because Skoda Motorsport was interested in ERC.

[Andre Oliveira]

Brynildsen in Fiesta DMACK sounds good. Pity DMACK exists

[Mirek]

Unfortunately Scandinavians have never shown much interest in ERC. Lappi and Hanninen were exceptions, but that's only because Skoda Motorsport was interested in ERC.

Nordic names from last tens editions of Barum. Not that bad I would say ;) Hänninen, Mikkelsen, Huttunen, Lappi, Nikara, P-G Andersson, Gardemeister, Sandell, Alén, Joge, Adielsson, Madsen, Bergkvist, Kristiansen, Flodin, Furuseth, Jonsson, Knudsen, Gustafsson,

[the sniper]

Surely Brynildsen is far more likely to do the British Championship than the ERC? He did the Pirelli International in Kielder this year (with no luck) and Rally GB, they were his only two rallies outside of Scandinavia in the last two years. I'd presumed they were a toe in the water before a possible full campaign? ERC doesn't really seem to suit his recent experience and the ERC is surely an expensive way to learn tarmac rallies? Yeah okay if Dmack are paying fair enough, but I can't see that he's the most suitable candidate for an ERC campaign available to them.

[Jarek Z]

Mikkelsen, Nikara, P-G Andersson, Gardemeister, Sandell, Alén, Joge, Adielsson, Madsen, Bergkvist, Kristiansen, Flodin, Furuseth, Jonsson, Knudsen, Gustafsson,

Exactly. None of them was competing in full ERC.

[Mirek]

Most of them did IRC before IRC and ERC was merged so while You're technically correct it's not reflecting the reality in my opinion.

Bergkvist is JERC winner so that he was ERC regular. Adielsson was JERC regular. Kristiansen was sort of semi-regular. He did 4 ERC events in 2014 and at least 2 in 2015 and 2016.

Mikkelsen, Nikara, P-G, Gardemeister, Sandell, Alén, Joge, Flodin were IRC regulars in at least one full season.

[pantealex]

It's better for PR to get podium on ERC overall, than podium on WRC2 class and 12th overall.

I meant real WRC, not any support classes.

[electroliquid]

I meant real WRC, not any support classes.

That's a fact, that WRC>ERC, but they talked about running ERC team with R5 machines, so alternative is WRC2, from this point of view WRC+ERC campaign is better than WRC+WRC2, in therms of different rallies, and possibilities to be on podium overall in more amount of rallies.

[Sub_Skoda]

Serderidis wants to compete Acropolis with his Fabia R5 : http://www.lemagsportauto.com/wrc-interview-de-jourdan-serderidis-apres-laustralie/28158/

[CivEngine]

Efrén Llarena will probably do ERC Junior U27 as a prize for winning the spanish Beca R2.

[mousti]

And Pellier probably for winning the 208 cup in France.

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[dupanton]

Yes. Would be interesting to see them fight again after the great fight they had in the Peugeot cup.

I think Llarena had a bit more pure speed, but is less consistent.

[CivEngine]

Yes. Would be interesting to see them fight again after the great fight they had in the Peugeot cup.

I think Llarena had a bit more pure speed, but is less consistent.

I also think that would be interesting to see because there won't be these 'home' factor for Peiller. I hope to see great battles in U27 next year as different federations will be supporting young guns.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kajto ahead of 2017 Rally Barbórka in Fiesta WRC:

"One more time I want to thank my fans and partners, especially Grupa LOTOS, for our season together. This is probably the way to finish another chapter in my life…"

http://kajto.pl/en/news/kajetanowicz-and-baran-in-a-championship-winning-wrc-car/

[WUff1]

Kajto ahead of 2017 Rally Barbórka in Fiesta WRC:

"One more time I want to thank my fans and partners, especially Grupa LOTOS, for our season together. This is probably the way to finish another chapter in my life…"

http://kajto.pl/en/news/kajetanowicz-and-baran-in-a-championship-winning-wrc-car/

End of career?

[Munkvy]

End of career?

"Chapter in my life" perhaps implies moving up, so maybe WRC2?

Either way, nice reward, but he has also done a great job for his sponsors, you can't ask for more than 3 titles in a row and hardly ever denting the car!

[Jarek Z]

Either way, nice reward, but he has also done a great job for his sponsors, you can't ask for more than 3 titles in a row and hardly ever denting the car!

3 titles in a row in the ERC, but let's not forget 4 titles in a row in the Polish championship. It doesn't happen very often, that someone wins 7 tiltles in 8 years :)

2010 Polish Rally Champion
2011 Polish Rally Champion
2012 Polish Rally Champion
2013 Polish Rally Champion
2015 European Rally Champion
2016 European Rally Champion
2017 European Rally Champion

P.S. It's great to see someone from "down under" appreciating European titles! :)

[Jarek Z]

Kajto ahead of 2017 Rally Barbórka in Fiesta WRC:

"One more time I want to thank my fans and partners, especially Grupa LOTOS, for our season together. This is probably the way to finish another chapter in my life…"

http://kajto.pl/en/news/kajetanowicz-and-baran-in-a-championship-winning-wrc-car/

Entry list is here if someone is interested:
http://barborka.pl/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Lista-zg%C5%82osze%C5%84-55.-Rajd-Barb%C3%B3rka-2017-evo-24.11.2017.pdf

https://scontent-waw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/23737810_1829099023790024_2516266560249765181_o.jp g?oh=2bcbda1c533ccb5c3fbedd163b2c8232&oe=5A9F7071

[Jarek Z]

Efrén Llarena will probably do ERC Junior U27 as a prize for winning the spanish Beca R2.

More info about it here:
https://www.fiaerc.com/destination-erc-junior-under-27-for-llarena/

[Munkvy]

3 titles in a row in the ERC, but let's not forget 4 titles in a row in the Polish championship. It doesn't happen very often, that someone wins 7 tiltles in 8 years :)

2010 Polish Rally Champion
2011 Polish Rally Champion
2012 Polish Rally Champion
2013 Polish Rally Champion
2015 European Rally Champion
2016 European Rally Champion
2017 European Rally Champion

P.S. It's great to see someone from "down under" appreciating European titles! :)

That is a pretty impressive list!

And of course, we are all rally fans, so you have to admire people who achieve in their sport, regardless of location, even if I wish the IRC had stayed. I miss the days of S2000s and the IRC.

[Reis Eduardo]

75. Rajd Polski 2018 in 21. 9. – 23. 9. 2018 (https://www.ewrc-results.com/season/2018/?nat=23)
More news about the ERC calendar for 2018? 8 events 5 in gravel (Azores, Greece, Cyprus, Poland and Liepaja) and 3 events in asphalt (Canaries, Rome, Barum) or 10 events 5 gravel and 5 asphalt?

[electroliquid]

https://www.fiaerc.com/azores-airlines-rallye-to-open-2018-erc-season/

[Reis Eduardo]

https://www.autosport.pt/ralis/rali-dos-acores-abre-erc-marco/

According to Autosport.pt will be 8 events 4 in gravel and 4 asphalt. The same news also goes to see that there was a change between the Rally of Poland - which this year was in the WRC - to replace the Rzeszow Rally.
Which Gravel event goes out and which asphalt event does it enter? :D

[PLuto]

https://www.autosport.pt/ralis/rali-dos-acores-abre-erc-marco/

According to Autosport.pt will be 8 events 4 in gravel and 4 asphalt. The same news also goes to see that there was a change between the Rally of Poland - which this year was in the WRC - to replace the Rzeszow Rally.
Which Gravel event goes out and which asphalt event does it enter? :D

I think that this information is not correct...

[Reis Eduardo]

I do not understand because of so much secrecy, when the rallies the dates of the rallies already almost all known ...
my bet
Rally of the Azores
Rally Islas Canarias
Rally of Greece
Cyprus Rally
Rally Cidad di Roma
Barum Czech Rally Zlín
Rajd Polski - Rally Poland
Rally Liepāja

[tc10a]

German Fabian Kreim (BRR Fabia R5) will contest U28 ERC in 2018:

http://www.brr.at/presse/presseberichte/presse/detail/skoda-auto-deutschland-startet-2018-mit-fabian-kreim-frank-christian-in-der-rallye-em/

[Jarek Z]

Kajto looks happy, doesn't he?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhju3snash8

[RS]

German Fabian Kreim (BRR Fabia R5) will contest U28 ERC in 2018:

http://www.brr.at/presse/presseberichte/presse/detail/skoda-auto-deutschland-startet-2018-mit-fabian-kreim-frank-christian-in-der-rallye-em/

Good move. Hope they confirm a two car team with Griebel again soon.

[PLuto]

Good move. Hope they confirm a two car team with Griebel again soon.

Marijan will not start with Skoda Deutschland :)

[RS]

Marijan will not start with Skoda Deutschland :)

I meant BRR.

[PLuto]

I meant BRR.

I think he will not continue also with BRR. But I think there will be more BRR cars in ERC. But we will see ;)

[TWRC]

Update on Herczig: he just had a TV interview. He said their ERC project is very much on, they're waiting on one of his sponsors' confirmation, all the others have given green light, and said that he's feeling good about this happening. He also said that he has no big ambitions for the first season, he wants to finish somewhere 5th-7th, and start challenging for the podium form the 3rd season onwards. So fingers crossed. :)

[WUff1]

Update on Herczig: he just had a TV interview. He said their ERC project is very much on, they're waiting on one of his sponsors' confirmation, all the others have given green light, and said that he's feeling good about this happening. He also said that he has no big ambitions for the first season, he wants to finish somewhere 5th-7th, and start challenging for the podium form the 3rd season onwards. So fingers crossed. :)

So we´ve got another BRR car in ERC ;)

[Jarek Z]

Kajto ahead of 2017 Rally Barbórka in Fiesta WRC:

"One more time I want to thank my fans and partners, especially Grupa LOTOS, for our season together. This is probably the way to finish another chapter in my life…"

http://kajto.pl/en/news/kajetanowicz-and-baran-in-a-championship-winning-wrc-car/

Kajetanowicz/Baran and their Ford Fiesta WRC on the stages of Barborka Rally. Recommended!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFBgOm2fxdE&feature=youtu.be

[Jarek Z]

New driver joins Peugeot Rally Academy in ERC 2018:
https://www.rallye-sport.fr/pellier-six-manches-erc-u28/

[hari]

The 2018 FIA European Rally Championship calendar is:


22-24 March
Azores Airlines Rallye
Portugal, gravel, ERC Junior


3-5 May
Rally Islas Canarias
Spain, asphalt ERC Junior


1-3 June
Acropolis Rally
Greece, gravel*


15-17 June
Cyprus Rally
Cyprus, gravel


20-22 July
Rally di Roma Capitale
Italy, asphalt ERC Junior


24-26 August
Barum Czech Rally Zlín
Czech Republic, asphalt, ERC Junior


21-23 September
Rally Poland
Poland, gravel, ERC Junior


12-14 October
Rally Liepāja
Latvia, gravel, ERC Junior


*Subject to signing of event promoter agreement

https://www.fia.com/news/fia-announces-world-motor-sport-council-decisions-8

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/24991117_1951064688256282_2028400234361599398_n.jp g?oh=c957ecb3d780945d4a2ac610cee816a9&oe=5AD18B5B

[RS]

New driver joins Peugeot Rally Academy in ERC 2018:
https://www.rallye-sport.fr/pellier-six-manches-erc-u28/

Just Pellier or are Lopez & Suarez coming again next year too?

[RS]

The calendar is fine, apart from I would rather see one more asphalt instead of two rough gravel events, and as we discussed before the off-season is a little too long for me.

[PLuto]

Just Pellier or are Lopez & Suarez coming again next year too?

Pellier should be confirmed, who will be second driver (and if there will be) is still a question.

[PLuto]

The calendar is fine, apart from I would rather see one more asphalt instead of two rough gravel events, and as we discussed before the off-season is a little too long for me.

Changing Rzeszow to Mikolajki was decision of polish ASN. In that case calendar changed to disproportion in surfaces. There was an idea to replace one rough gravel with tarmac event (thats the real reason why calendar was not published earlier), but finally it didnt happened. Maybe next year :)

[RS]

There was an idea to replace one rough gravel with tarmac event (thats the real reason why calendar was not published earlier), but finally it didnt happened. Maybe next year :)

Hopefully.

[Jarek Z]

Aleks Zawada is going to continue his fight in JERC in 2018. He said his only goal will be to win Junior ERC. Any other result will be a disappointment for him. Sorry, news in Polish only:
http://rajdy.autoklub.pl/news/zawada-powalczy-w-erc-2018,81189

[Jarek Z]

Something about the popularity of modern rally sport... Today was the official presentation of the results of the voting for "Sportsman of the Year" in Poland. The winner was Anita Wlodarczyk (hammer throw), who won the Summer Olympics.

TOP 10:
1. Anita Włodarczyk (light athletics - hammer throw)
2. Robert Lewandowski (football)
3. Piotr Małachowski (light athletics - discus throw)
4. Rafał Majka (cycling)
5. Magdalena Fularczyk-Kozłowska, Natalia Madaj (rowing)
6. Maja Włoszczowska (mountain bikes)
7. Jakub Błaszczykowski (football)
8. Bartosz Zmarzlik (speedway)
9. Karol Bielecki (handball)
10. Marta Walczykiewicz (canoeing)

Kajto, the two-time European Rally Champion... didn't even receive nomination! :(

Guys, do you remember my sad post from last year? Well, after Kajto won ERC for the third time something has finally changed. Kajto has been nominated for the prestigious "Sportsman of the Year" contest in Poland, for the first time in his career :) This competition is run by the sports newspaper Przegląd Sportowy since 1926 and is very popular here. Kajto is among 20 nominated sportsmen.

More about it here:
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-champion-kajetanowicz-in-the-running-to-emulate-kubica/

List of nominated sportsmen (and the "VOTE" button):
http://plebiscyt.przegladsportowy.pl/

[Mirek]

Entry fees are lowered by 33% for ERC, 50% for ERC2 and ERC3.

[Sub_Skoda]

Guys, do you remember my sad post from last year? Well, after Kajto won ERC for the third time something has finally changed. Kajto has been nominated for the prestigious "Sportsman of the Year" contest in Poland, for the first time in his career :) This competition is run by the sports newspaper Przegląd Sportowy since 1926 and is very popular here. Kajto is among 20 nominated sportsmen.

More about it here:
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-champion-kajetanowicz-in-the-running-to-emulate-kubica/

List of nominated sportsmen (and the "VOTE" button):
http://plebiscyt.przegladsportowy.pl/

Vote done ! :)

[Jarek Z]

The situation of Radomir Kupec is still very serious. His brother Karel Kupec decided to suspend his rally career :(
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-junior-kupec-calls-on-rallying-community-to-help-injured-brother/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Guys, do you remember my sad post from last year? Well, after Kajto won ERC for the third time something has finally changed. Kajto has been nominated for the prestigious "Sportsman of the Year" contest in Poland, for the first time in his career :) This competition is run by the sports newspaper Przegląd Sportowy since 1926 and is very popular here. Kajto is among 20 nominated sportsmen.

More about it here:
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-champion-kajetanowicz-in-the-running-to-emulate-kubica/

List of nominated sportsmen (and the "VOTE" button):
http://plebiscyt.przegladsportowy.pl/

About time ! :)

It's like over here... Elfyn Evans didnt even get nominated for BBC Wales Sportsperson of the Year 2017 despite being the first Welshman to win Rally GB ! :(

[mousti]

About time ! :)

It's like over here... Elfyn Evans didnt even get nominated for BBC Wales Sportsperson of the Year 2017 despite being the first Welshman to win Rally GB ! :(Thierry Neuville got fifth place here in Belgium. Quite good in front of Chelsea football club star Eden Hazard..

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[AndyRAC]

About time ! :)

It's like over here... Elfyn Evans didnt even get nominated for BBC Wales Sportsperson of the Year 2017 despite being the first Welshman to win Rally GB ! :(

He was never likely to get nominated; too many rally fans live in a bubble. There are far more bigger and popular sports around.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

He was never likely to get nominated; too many rally fans live in a bubble. There are far more bigger and popular sports around.

In Wales though... rugby and football, then what ?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ultimate show of invisibility on the UK SPOTY show with no mention of rallying at all (despite M-Sport, Meeke and Evans 2017 wins).

To put this in perspective, the champion of that huge sport of para-dressage was featured...

[AndyRAC]

I'm afraid that is were the sport is in the UK; the big crowds on RallyGB have kidded some people that the sport is bigger than it actually is....

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm afraid that is were the sport is in the UK; the big crowds on RallyGB have kidded some people that the sport is bigger than it actually is....

But it's not as tiny and niche as its being made to seem by the media.

I bet there were more people watching Rally GB alone than watch Taekwondo but its champion was nominated !

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I dont expect rallying to get much coverage on the likes of SPOTY, but none at all compared to some of the minority sports that do is ridiculous.

[liposh]

Martin Koci from Slovakia is going to compete in all 6 rounds of JERC U28 plus in Slovak championship

[Daniel Popov]

Somebody somewhere around here mentioned something about new R2 regulations from next year.
Do we know more about that? What would the changes be?

[RS]

According to Fast Eddie on the WRC forum, M-Sport have plans for ERC to be announced soon (maybe with DMack?)

[Mirek]

According to Fast Eddie on the WRC forum, M-Sport have plans for ERC to be announced soon (maybe with DMack?)

Or Kajto again?

[Andre Oliveira]

Something totally new ;)

[Mirek]

New confirmed drivers

Martin Koči - 6 events of U27
Hubert Ptaszek - all 8 events with Fabia R5 from TRT

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Still awaiting news on his plans but passing on Chris Ingram's thanks and good wishes for 2018:
https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/25508226_10154864065206503_3471382443335079517_n.j pg?oh=f71b350a78de30e14e6ccd0103cc0d1d&oe=5AF3B07D

[mousti]

Koci with R2?

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[Mirek]

Yes, if I got it right.

[PLuto]

Koci with R2?

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G935F met Tapatalk

I think with R5.

[Jarek Z]

Haha :) Have you seen this video? Skoda always have so many great ideas :)
https://www.fiaerc.com/former-erc-champ-kopecky-turns-taxi-driver/

[WUff1]

Simon Wagner, tragic hero of Jänner Rallye 2018, wants to compete in ERC Junior U27 this year.

[Jarek Z]

Kajto has been nominated for the prestigious "Sportsman of the Year" contest in Poland, for the first time in his career :) This competition is run by the sports newspaper Przegląd Sportowy since 1926 and is very popular here. Kajto is among 20 nominated sportsmen.

More about it here:
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-champion-kajetanowicz-in-the-running-to-emulate-kubica/

List of nominated sportsmen (and the "VOTE" button):
http://plebiscyt.przegladsportowy.pl/

Unfortunately Kajetanowicz had no chance. Final results:


1 Kamil Stoch
2 Robert Lewandowski
3 Anita Włodarczyk
4 Łukasz Kubot
5 Paweł Fajdek
6 Patryk Dudek
7 Adam Kszczot
8 Piotr Lisek
9 Piotr Żyła
10 Michał Kwiatkowski
11 Kajetan Kajetanowicz
12 Kamil Glik
13 Bartosz Zmarzlik
14 Joanna Jędrzejczyk
15 Iga Baumgart, Aleksandra Gaworska, Malgorzata Hołub, Justyna Święty
16 Irmina Mrózek Gliszczynska, Agnieszka Skrzypulec
17 Tomasz Marczyński
18 Wojciech Wojdak
19 Magomedmurad Gadżijew
20 Agnieszka Kobus, Maria Springwald, Marta Wieliczko, Katarzyna Zillmann

[electroliquid]

Martinš Sesks in ERC this season. Info in Latvian: http://www.go4speed.lv/lv/news/erc/7572-martins-sesks-ar-jaunu-sturmani-startes-eiropas-rallija-cempionata/

[Rally Power]

Peugeot Sport further involvement at ERC from 2019.
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-peugeot-sport-alliance-extends-into-2018-and-beyond/

[TWRC]

Peugeot Sport further involvement at ERC from 2019.
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-peugeot-sport-alliance-extends-into-2018-and-beyond/
Let's hope they'll have a more competitive R5 car by then.

[jbmarcus21]

Neuville-Gilsoul confirmed to drive Ypres Rally in Belgium next June with i20R5 ► http://bit.ly/2CX3eRc

[Mirek]

Neuville-Gilsoul confirmed to drive Ypres Rally in Belgium next June with i20R5 ► http://bit.ly/2CX3eRc

It's good news however Ypres is not part of the ERC anymore therefore it shall be posted in Belgian rally news not here ;)

[RS]

Peugeot Sport further involvement at ERC from 2019.
https://www.fiaerc.com/erc-peugeot-sport-alliance-extends-into-2018-and-beyond/

Sounds like just one R5 this year though.

[PLuto]

Actually it looks like only one R5 from Sainteloc.

[Adler]

I think Hermann Neubauer will do ERC 2018, he confirmed already that the WRC is sold, his program is fixed and it´s not ÖRM...
I hope it will be for the whole season...

[RS]

SRT plan for ERC and WRC this year, but I don't know with what programmes: http://www.go4speed.lv/lv/news/erc/7576-srt-sogad-plano-startet-eiropas-un-pasaules-rallija-cempionatos/

[pucky54]

SRT plan for ERC and WRC this year, but I don't know with what programmes: http://www.go4speed.lv/lv/news/erc/7576-srt-sogad-plano-startet-eiropas-un-pasaules-rallija-cempionatos/

So basically the same as last year! ;)

[RS]

So basically the same as last year! ;)

Did they do something in WRC last year?

[mousti]

Not really. Could be that Gryazin will do some. Lots of money there..

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[PLuto]

Did they do something in WRC last year?

Yes, with Raul Jeets.

[Reis Eduardo]

Frank Tore Larsen - Torstein Eriksen will return ?
https://www.facebook.com/lmsg.rally/videos/1765344680166698/

[PLuto]

;)

[skarderud]

Frank Tore Larsen - Torstein Eriksen will return ?
https://www.facebook.com/lmsg.rally/videos/1765344680166698/Yes, they are aming for some erc driving, more news today.
Torstein is codriving Mads at Sigdalsrally next weekend in Adaptas fiesta WRC'17.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

[pantealex]

Not really. Could be that Gryazin will do some. Lots of money there..

Gryazin has entered to FRC (Finland Rally Championship) 2018

[RS]

I presume Sesks will be with SRT in ERC, I hope that is not their only ERC involvement.

[Andre Oliveira]

Larsen / Eriksen at Azores with Fiesta R5

[Reis Eduardo]

https://www.facebook.com/notes/larsen-motorsport/larsen-and-eriksen-returns-to-azores/1765851786782654/

[RICARDO75]

Gryazin has entered to FRC (Finland Rally Championship) 2018

Also on Sigdalsrally next weekend

[Jarek Z]

Emma Falcon plans to compete in ERC with Citroen DS3 R3:
https://www.fiaerc.com/falcon-recruits-gonzalez-targets-erc-azores/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Chris Ingram on Instagram suggesting he plans to start his season on the Azores Rally.

[Andre Oliveira]

Yes and with a surprise.

[PLuto]

As a winner of ERC Junior U27, there should be no surprise that he will do at least few starts in ERC. And most probably with R5.

[PLuto]

Maybe today we will have also other interesting news ;)

[106 sport]

Hello

Rumours in Gran Canaria about Hermann Neubauer´s possible participation.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

As a winner of ERC Junior U27, there should be no surprise that he will do at least few starts in ERC. And most probably with R5.

As his budget is limited, wouldnt it be cheaper to do mainland events ?

Maybe as he wants to do the full season he hopes to get more deals later on... but at least start with the first rallies.

[RS]

As his budget is limited, wouldnt it be cheaper to do mainland events ?

Maybe as he wants to do the full season he hopes to get more deals later on... but at least start with the first rallies.

Azores is one of the six JERC U28 rallies so if he misses that he only has five more events he can compete on to collect his four best scores.

Also, Azores and I think Canarias provide a support package to make competing there cheaper than it otherwise would be.

[Antreas]

Ingram have to do azores and canarias,and after 2 good results I think is possible to do full season like magalhaes last year

[mousti]

Azores is also a rally were he has quite of a lot experience and has also some good memories of it.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G935F met Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

All good points on Ingram in Azores...

I think Mousti is right, his experience and good results in the past will be the deciding factor.

[RS]

Maybe today we will have also other interesting news ;)

Postponed?

[RICARDO75]

As his budget is limited, wouldnt it be cheaper to do mainland events ?

Maybe as he wants to do the full season he hopes to get more deals later on... but at least start with the first rallies.

Free transport of vehicles and free airline tickets from Lisbon to Azores

[PLuto]

Postponed?

Not presented. So it will be published later ;)

[TWRC]

Some news from Hungarian crews: now it seems sure that Herczig will drive in ERC next year, but not with Igor Bacigál, as he switched to Ramón Ferencz, Kazár's old co-driver. Meanwhile, Kazár will also do ERC (not revealed how many events), and will switch from Fiesta to Fabia R5.

[RS]

Larsen going to Azores and as many more ERC U28 events as possible: https://www.fiaerc.com/larsen-targets-azores-redemption-ahead-of-erc-junior-under-28-attack/

[CivEngine]

Efrén Llarena (U27) will be technically supported by Mavisa Sport as the catalan team has been chosen by Spanish Federation to do so.

[Antreas]

Toksport join in ERC with Skoda Fabia R5 and in ERC2 with Subaru Impreza???

[RS]

Toksport join in ERC with Skoda Fabia R5 and in ERC2 with Subaru Impreza???

Any ideas which drivers?

[Jarek Z]

Last Saturday Nikolay Gryazin took part in the first round of Norwegian rally championship - Sigdalsrally. Despite such names as Ostberg, Grøndal and Solberg on the entry list, the Russian driver won the event with nearly a 1-minute advantage.

Short report in English:
https://www.fiaerc.com/flying-start-for-erc-ace-gryazin/

Final results and some photos:
http://rajdy.autoklub.pl/news/griazin-bije-norwegow,82162

[liposh]

...and in the second half of the Sigdalsrally times of Oscar Solberg, driving Fabia R5, improved a lot and he set some really good times and even won one (last) stage. (which is also promising for future) Complete results here: http://www.sigdalsrally.no/resultater2/13

[Hartusvuori]

Finnish Miika Hokkanen (21) will participate to U27 with Oktan Sport's 208 R2.

[Jarek Z]

Is this the first time when FIA listens to the drivers?

"Responding to calls from drivers and teams, FIA European Rally Championship promoter Eurosport Events worked with governing body the FIA to modify the regulations concerning scoring opportunities in the ERC2 category (...)

Previously drivers could count their best six scores from a possible eight. But feedback from competitors concluded that by allowing drivers to include their best four scores only would lessen costs, reduce the time commitment and ultimately make ERC2 more accessible to more drivers."

More at https://www.fiaerc.com/new-rules-leave-remennik-wanting-more-erc2-action/

[PLuto]

Is this the first time when FIA listens to the drivers?

"Responding to calls from drivers and teams, FIA European Rally Championship promoter Eurosport Events worked with governing body the FIA to modify the regulations concerning scoring opportunities in the ERC2 category (...)

Previously drivers could count their best six scores from a possible eight. But feedback from competitors concluded that by allowing drivers to include their best four scores only would lessen costs, reduce the time commitment and ultimately make ERC2 more accessible to more drivers."

More at https://www.fiaerc.com/new-rules-leave-remennik-wanting-more-erc2-action/

No, it is not first time. Every year there is discussion between drivers, Eurosport and FIA. Unfortunatelly, this is only one thing which was approved by FIA, more other not...

[Mirek]

ERC2 is dead anyway just like gr.N cars. It won't help it to become less useless than it is now. Honestly I have no idea why they keep holding a championship for gr.N cars anymore.

[electroliquid]

ERC2 is dead anyway just like gr.N cars. It won't help it to become less useless than it is now. Honestly I have no idea why they keep holding a championship for gr.N cars anymore.

Yes, it's barely alive, but it isn't that ERC events are overcrowded, additional cup/class is additional crews, even it's one or two of them. It's good for locals, they have chance participate with old cars, and if they reach finish, they get award. I can't see anything bad about it. Don't remember if new R4 cars fit into ERC2 or should be in ERC?

[PLuto]

Yes, it's barely alive, but it isn't that ERC events are overcrowded, additional cup/class is additional crews, even it's one or two of them. It's good for locals, they have chance participate with old cars, and if they reach finish, they get award. I can't see anything bad about it. Don't remember if new R4 cars fit into ERC2 or should be in ERC?

That was original idea that R4 cars should replace group N cars in ERC2 (or at least from beginning they will start together). But by big surprise for everyone, FIA didnt do it...

[Sulland]

R4 should imo be doing ERC2.

Just to separate them from the start.

Then you will get logic, with ERC topclass R5, being one below WRC.

In 2019 WRC, R4 should be the next WRC3 level, and R2 being JWRC.



Level
WRC
Regional


1
WRCar
R5


2
R5
R4


3
R4
R2


4
R2

[PLuto]

R4 should imo be doing ERC2.

Just to separate them from the start.

Then you will get logic, with ERC topclass R5, being one below WRC.

In 2019 WRC, R4 should be the next WRC3 level, and R2 being JWRC.



Level
WRC
Regional


1
WRCar
R5


2
R5
R4


3
R4
R2


4
R2




That was original plan. But you know, FIA...

[Mirek]

Yes, it's barely alive, but it isn't that ERC events are overcrowded, additional cup/class is additional crews, even it's one or two of them. It's good for locals, they have chance participate with old cars, and if they reach finish, they get award. I can't see anything bad about it. Don't remember if new R4 cars fit into ERC2 or should be in ERC?

Do You agree that a cup with 3 regulars (nobody else drove more than even 1 event) is not worth a championship title?

[electroliquid]

I agree about championship - production cup/trophy should be enough.

[PLuto]

It doesnt matter if you call it championship or cup. This was platform to allow drivers with production cars to have a chance to fight for some title. But as it looks like (not only now, but also in the past), Mitsubishi and Subaru drivers prefered to be heroes only at home. But allowing R4 cars there (and I was asking also for adding RGT cars) should make it more popular.