[WRC] News & Rumours 2018

[rallyfiend]

speaking about the coverage, i think no one wont use WRC+ anymore now after they made a deal with Rallysafe

here is a video about it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LY3EmQi3NVU

and you can see how it works from here, https://app.rallysafe.com.au/Event/PublicView/2483

and they have Monte already on upcoming events :) https://app.rallysafe.com.au/Event/EventViewer#upcoming

i didnt know anything about it before they announced the deal to work with WRC but i have only seen good words about it.

You can bet your life that won't be accessible for the WRC events....

[EstWRC]

what are you on about? You cant see they have Monte Carlo there?

Status Awareness Systems (SAS) is pleased to announce that following an extensive selection process by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), SAS has been confirmed as the timing, tracking and connectivity solutions’ provider for the 2018-2022 FIA World Rally Championship seasons.

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-fia-world-rally-championship

[Watson]

I'll still use WRC+. I don't mind paying for what I support. I still buy Venyl and CDs of my favourite artists. I'm old fashioned like that.

[EstWRC]

you par for it? theres a free code every month :)

if this rallysafe tracking is as good as it seems, then goodbye from me for WRC+.

[rallyfiend]

That doesn't mean they'll be allowed to publicly share timing and tracking data.

SIT wasn't, what makes you think this company would?

[EstWRC]

i dont think anything, we will see if the rally starts

and what do they show for us then? only stage end times and split times? whats the point of that if we have them already on wrc.com and in wrc+?

[br21]

we will see how it will go, I'm currently preparing for Monte Carlo and there are some problems (solvable) with the system. In my private opinion they didn't notice the difference between national events and WRC rallies... Many people complained about the SIT system, but for the moment it looks like it was much more "user friendly"

[KiwiWRCfan]

Here is a more recent video about what rallysafe does. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcrzwH16Fp4

I am used to using RallySafe to follow both tracking maps and timing for several years.
I am anticipating on WRC events they will be channeled thru WRCplus.
I am more than happy to pay for WRCplus, I do not expect to get everything in life for free.

[AnttiL]

I am more than happy to pay for WRCplus, I do not expect to get everything in life for free.

This. Besides, I watch the old onboards and highlights more than the monthly fee is worth

[EstWRC]

well, the first years i paid for it too and i dont expect everything to be free in life but right here i agree with the majority of this forum that it SHOULD be free for fans.

Since last year they started to give out those monthly free codes and since then i have used those and not paid to them.

Like i said, if this rallysafe tracking and timing system works like a clockwork and is for free then i see no point of having WRC+ too because it is basically the same thing with the exception of onboards and live stages but this is my problem.

[AnttiL]

Like i said, if this rallysafe tracking and timing system works like a clockwork and is for free then i see no point of having WRC+ too because it is basically the same thing with the exception of onboards and live stages but this is my problem.

Split times have been available for free from wrc.com and tracking is not really necessary if you listen to the wrc radio, they usually notice if someone has stopped. Unless, of course, you want to tweet/post something before they noticed ;)

[pantealex]

I have never used WRC+

[mknight]

i dont think anything, we will see if the rally starts

and what do they show for us then? only stage end times and split times? whats the point of that if we have them already on wrc.com and in wrc+?

It seems to me youmisunderstood how it works.

wrc.com and WRC+ are platforms that visualize the data (split times, stage times and for WRC+ also car positions live).

The data used by these will from 2018 be supplied by RallySafe instead of the company that supplied them previously.

Imo it's quite unlikely they will introduce different platform to visualize the data, at least not immediately.

[Revman]

I love WRC+ and have no problem paying. It is my lifeline to this fabulous sport. I use every aspect of the service. Very pleased.

[BigWorm]

Think WRC+ is decent, the cost for a year is not that much, 40 euros with the code WRC201X (X is for the current year) for a season pass. Totally fine with that.


I still buy Venyl and CDs of my favourite artists. I'm old fashioned like that.

Vinyls - old fashioned? They're coming back, not old fashioned!

[AnttiL]

Think WRC+ is decent, the cost for a year is not that much, 40 euros with the code WRC201X (X is for the current year) for a season pass. Totally fine with that.



Vinyls - old fashioned? They're coming back, not old fashioned!

CD's or purchased downloads are so last season. Vinyl is so mainstream that indie artists have started making cassettes again.

Sorry for the offtopic

[EstWRC]

Skoda cools talk of a WRC return


https://www.motorsport-news.co.uk/news/rallying-news/wrc/skoda-cools-talk-of-a-wrc-return/

[PLuto]

Skoda cools talk of a WRC return


https://www.motorsport-news.co.uk/news/rallying-news/wrc/skoda-cools-talk-of-a-wrc-return/

Nothing new...

[RS]

Skoda cools talk of a WRC return


https://www.motorsport-news.co.uk/news/rallying-news/wrc/skoda-cools-talk-of-a-wrc-return/

The very fact Hrabanek talked about it at all to me indicates it is a strong possibility, but probably for 2020.

In Skoda-speak anything but a complete denial means 'yes'

[Watson]

CD's or purchased downloads are so last season. Vinyl is so mainstream that indie artists have started making cassettes again.

Sorry for the offtopic

The medium is not the point. The point is that I pay for the artist's work the same way I pay for my groceries and my boss pays me wages for my work. It's only fair.

[SubaruNorway]

I guess the Rally Safe system in the WRC won't be based on GPS points for start and stopline like in the APRC?
Because the times have been up to 3 seconds wrong there I'm hearing.

[EstWRC]

Nothing new...

im really sorry.

[N.O.T]

if there was an award for creative writing in motorsport journalism evans would be king...

[KiwiWRCfan]

If there was an award for Negative Opinions & Trolling what should we abbreviate it to and who would be king ...

[Hartusvuori]

Split times have been available for free from wrc.com and tracking is not really necessary if you listen to the wrc radio, they usually notice if someone has stopped. Unless, of course, you want to tweet/post something before they noticed ;)

Tracking map is handy if you are interested in actual locations of accidents. For Finnish championship GPS is very nice to use while spectating a stage and a crew is not arriving on their slot. If GPS shows it's just around the corner, I walk. Or run, actually.

[Gregor-y]

I've used a similar system in Canada and the US. It doesn't replace timing but it's good to see when cars come out of service or approach a stage if you're waiting around wondering where everyone is. It can help find/detect a stopped car for spectators and even recovery crews, too.

[er88]

So Skoda will be back in a couple of years...

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[PLuto]

im really sorry.

I mean that there is nothing new in that article, everything (and I think also more) was told in lot of other articles before.

[AnttiL]

One rumor I came across is that Peugeot could replace Citroen in WRC in the near future, as Peugeot has already announced they are quitting their rally raid program.

[rallyfiend]

One rumor I came across is that Peugeot could replace Citroen in WRC in the near future, as Peugeot has already announced they are quitting their rally raid program.

Isn't the commitment moving from Dakar to Rallycross programme? Hence why they've dumped the Hansen family and taken the programme in-house?

[Eli]

Isn't the commitment moving from Dakar to Rallycross programme? Hence why they've dumped the Hansen family and taken the programme in-house?

And they said they decided to focus on WorldRX because they think/hope it will become an electric series come 2020. Tbh, imho it would be very nice to see the lion back in the WRC instead of Citroen.

[rallyfiend]

As i noted in the testing thread.

Watch this space for every stage from every event being done Live.

As teased by the windscreen on Jari’s car.

Apparently well known in the service park for some time. Just waiting for Autosport show announcement.

Lets see how that goes - and notably, what price they expect people to pay.

Sometimes the love isn’t worth the price now.

[RS]

As i noted in the testing thread.

Watch this space for every stage from every event being done Live.

That would be quite something.

Perhaps that's part of the reason why they have been pushing the idea of shorter rallies too.

[Sulland]

Tracking map is handy if you are interested in actual locations of accidents. For Finnish championship GPS is very nice to use while spectating a stage and a crew is not arriving on their slot. If GPS shows it's just around the corner, I walk. Or run, actually.

what gps timing system is in use in Finland?
If you have a brandname or who or what firm are setting this up, it is a need for a similar system in Norway?

[polomayu]

Wich caracteristic you use the most in wrc+?
I almost never use live tracking, but for me to have all the onboards is very useful to plan a rally and find a nice spot to spectate, and of course the live stages.
Sorry for my english

[Hartusvuori]

what gps timing system is in use in Finland?
If you have a brandname or who or what firm are setting this up, it is a need for a similar system in Norway?

Sorry, I can't remember nor can't check it right now either. Will have to wait three weeks for Arctic Rally - for which GPS tracking is difficult due to its distant location. Ralli SM have also a GPS based split time system.

http://www.rallism.fi/content/fi/1/205377/GPS-seuranta.html

[Hartusvuori]

Wich caracteristic you use the most in wrc+?
I almost never use live tracking, but for me to have all the onboards is very useful to plan a rally and find a nice spot to spectate, and of course the live stages.
Sorry for my english

Live stages, GPS tracking when no live stages and onboards archives with map for preparations.

[tommeke_B]

I have WRC+ but only use it for the onboards to prepare spectating an event. If I watch the powerstage, it's usually on TV and not on WRC+, watched maybe 1 live stage last year. For me personally, it's worth having it for the onboards only, without the onboards I'd cancel my subscription immediately.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Wich caracteristic you use the most in wrc+?
I almost never use live tracking, but for me to have all the onboards is very useful to plan a rally and find a nice spot to spectate, and of course the live stages.
Sorry for my english

For me Live tracking is the most used part of WRC+. I cancelled my pay TV subscription and now use WRC+ to watch preview & highlights shows before they appear on our local Free To Air TV channels.

[dimviii]

wish a speedy recovery to Luis!

http://www.marca.com/motor/rallies/2018/01/06/5a50c52d46163fa1708b4574.html

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DS32dsGX4AA2V_i.jpg
2018 has started randomly for Luis Moya. The Galician copilot (57 years old), two world champion of rallies with Carlos Sainz and standard bearer of the extinct Volkswagen team, was operated on an emergency yesterday afternoon at the Model Hospital in La Coruña, suffering from three brain aneurysms of various kinds.
Moya arrived at the hospital center of his hometown - where he was spending these days with his family - with a severe headache, triggered by the cerebrovascular condition detected by the doctors who treated him. Fortunately, the surgical intervention was satisfactory and the doctors were able to reverse the situation.
As MARCA has learned, Moya is stable, resting in the ICU. He must remain hospitalized a few days before being discharged from hospital and be able to return to Barcelona, ​​the city where he lives and in which he practices daily, for years, his favorite sport: swimming.
The president of the Royal Spanish Automobile Federation, the Valencian Manuel Aviñó, showed his support for Moya.

[Eli]

Wish him a speedy recovery!!!

[A FONDO]

wish a speedy recovery to Luis!

Shit this is so dangerous happening, I always feel bad when I see physically active people suffer something like this. Hopefully he got good doctors around but not everyone is so lucky, life is a game of luck.

[Hartusvuori]

I have WRC+ but only use it for the onboards to prepare spectating an event. If I watch the powerstage, it's usually on TV and not on WRC+, watched maybe 1 live stage last year. For me personally, it's worth having it for the onboards only, without the onboards I'd cancel my subscription immediately.

I watch live stages on TV on the WRC+ app.

[Watson]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/d/2018/01/07/kris-meeke-so-war-es-wirklich-mit-polen/

Meeke says he took the break in Poland on his own free will to prove to the team that it was indeed the car that was unstable and not his driving. He says he was happy to have Mikkelsen and Loeb testing the car and confirming that it has a very narrow operating window.

After him coming out saying it is a mistake not to give Breen a full season and now this it seems to me that he's really fed up with the team and its politics.

[Franky]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/d/2018/01/07/kris-meeke-so-war-es-wirklich-mit-polen/

Meeke says he took the break in Poland on his own free will to prove to the team that it was indeed the car that was unstable and not his driving. He says he was happy to have Mikkelsen and Loeb testing the car and confirming that it has a very narrow operating window.

After him coming out saying it is a mistake not to give Breen a full season and now this it seems to me that he's really fed up with the team and its politics.

Original source and a bit of discussion about it also - http://www.motorsportforums.com/showthread.php?31501-Citroen-WRT&p=1166379&viewfull=1#post1166379

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Big week this week: Autosport Show on Thursday with new 2018 WRC liveries, and more WRC+ info. Then on Friday its the entry list for Monte Carlo. :)

[br21]

Big week this week: Autosport Show on Thursday with new 2018 WRC liveries, and more WRC+ info. Then on Friday its the entry list for Monte Carlo. :)

I'm going there and on invitation there is nothing about new WRC+ features, so we will see...

[tomhlord]

Big week this week: Autosport Show on Thursday with new 2018 WRC liveries, and more WRC+ info. Then on Friday its the entry list for Monte Carlo. :)

Thank goodness!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I'm going there and on invitation there is nothing about new WRC+ features, so we will see...

Just assuming after the Toyota test car showing WRC+ ALL LIVE on the sunstrip...

And this tweet:
Don’t miss, great #WRC show (and news!) ahead �� #WRCplus https://t.co/eyh8rQK5AM

[Hartusvuori]

I'm going there and on invitation there is nothing about new WRC+ features, so we will see...

There will be new features.

[EstWRC]

cmoonnnn, tell us.

[EstWRC]

Bouffier in a third Fiesta then according to this site https://www.rallye-sport.fr/3e-fiesta-wrc-bouffier-monte-carlo/

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTBji0WXcAInW7D.jpg


https://twitter.com/RallyeSport/status/950369154237943809

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC+ rumour is all stages live at Monte-Carlo...

[Barreis]

about Bouffier
http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/133800

[swanny]

They would change WRC+ after I decide to drop it! Oh well, at least without auto renew it will be cheaper if I do decide to get it again (don't get me started on how they normally screw their returning customers).

[tomhlord]

Matton set to be head of the WRC.....

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-boss-matton-replace-mahonen-fia-994127/

On the one hand, having someone who has managed a team can be great for the WRC. On the other, you could argue he's not been that great at managing a team!

[AndyRAC]

My gut reaction is "No".....but whoever they choose is likely to be under 'orders'......

[rallyfiend]

WRC+ rumour is all stages live at Monte-Carlo...

All stages, from all events.

[Barreis]

matton set to be head of the wrc.....

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-boss-matton-replace-mahonen-fia-994127/

on the one hand, having someone who has managed a team can be great for the wrc. On the other, you could argue he's not been that great at managing a team!

lol

[Fast Eddie WRC]

All stages, from all events.

Hope so but we'll have to wait for official confirmation. European events I can believe but others might be harder to produce.

[seb_sh]

Matton set to be head of the WRC.....

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/citroen-boss-matton-replace-mahonen-fia-994127/

On the one hand, having someone who has managed a team can be great for the WRC. On the other, you could argue he's not been that great at managing a team!

pieces falling into place? Citroen "get rid" of Matton who screwed up their re-entry to WRC, Famin comes in and brings Loeb along.

[Rally Power]

pieces falling into place? Citroen "get rid" of Matton who screwed up their re-entry to WRC, Famin comes in and brings Loeb along.

Farmin? He was lucky to save his neck after ’15 Dakar flop…btw, aren’t we being a bit unfair to Matton? Yep, he failed to manage Citroen ’17 full return to WRC, but besides 2012 WRC titles and after Loeb’s departure, what more could a low budget Citroen realistically hope than being 2nd to VW, like they were in 13/14/15 (they missed ’16)?

Besides, he was also behind Citroen’s WTCC successful campaign and it was thanks to Matton that Meeke returned to the WRC, besides allowing two young drivers, Lefebvre and Breen, to start and carry on WRC careers.

If he’s confirmed as FIA rally chief I believe he’ll do better than Mahonen and won’t defend his predecessor (or the promoter) foolish proposals. Fingers crossed.

[seb_sh]

I didn't mean to judge Matton or put all blame on him; was just putting together some context for the rotation of positions. He has a fair share of blame for sure but I don't think it's all on him.

He's not a bad choice to replace Mahonen imo, from memory i don't think he had crazy ideas a la Capito, but we'll see.

[macebig]

Matton has flopped so badly in Citroen, that it's not even funny. He took an all conquering squad, which under his watch has turned into a laughing stock. From ousting Ogier, to not renewing Neuville for 4 events, then allienating Loeb, ignoring Meeke, his shortcomings are endless. As for WTCC, the rules were tailor made to Citroen, and on top of the best car , they also had the best drivers in Muller and Lopez. So, winning the championships there wasn't exactly a triumph of the outsider.

[tommeke_B]

Many may be sceptical, with the last year of Citroën Racing, although it's probably easy to point all failure to him. Even if he doesn't have any influence on the car itself, and even if Meeke himself asked to step back for Poland... I think Matton could be a great choice to run as rally manager for FIA. He used to drive himself as an amateur in the late 80's, early 90's. During the 90s he started a team offering cars for rent etc, and he founded the Citroën Rally Challenge in Belgium, which every rally enthousiast from Belgium remembers. It was a great competition for drivers with limited budget. Later he started at Citroën Racing and worked his way up. Alongside that he was running MY Racing where many young drivers got their chances to drive (like Neuville and Weijs). He knows the sport on all levels and has seen it from different points of view. He was also the one who countered the (stupid) ideas of Capito. If I'm not mistaken, Matton was also the one who wanted more freedom for organizers to create longer events (and to create or keep their own identity), a couple of years ago. So in my point of view, I think it wouldn't be a bad choice...

[Rally Power]

Matton has flopped so badly in Citroen, that it's not even funny. He took an all conquering squad, which under his watch has turned into a laughing stock. From ousting Ogier, to not renewing Neuville for 4 events, then allienating Loeb, ignoring Meeke, his shortcomings are endless. As for WTCC, the rules were tailor made to Citroen, and on top of the best car , they also had the best drivers in Muller and Lopez. So, winning the championships there wasn't exactly a triumph of the outsider.

I won’t say your recall is wrong, as time goes by and we all tend to forget things, but this is the way I remember: Ogier (still under Quesnel management) leaved at the end of 2011 because he wasn’t happy about being Citroen’s number two; Loeb leaved at the start of 2013 because he was tired from 10 full WRC seasons; Meeke was picked up by Matton in late 2013, when nobody cared about him; WRC budget suffered a huge bump after Citroen started to run WTCC (2014) and, like you say, Loeb was dispensed in last WTCC season because they decided to run just 2 cars and he was slower than Lopez/Muller. All considered I can only see one major flop in Matton’s path: 2017.

[dimviii]

he was slower than Lopez/Muller.

not from Muller.

[Rally Power]

not from Muller.

Quick check on wikipedia:
2014: 1st Lopez (462 points/10 wins/7 poles)/ 2nd Muller (336/4/3)/ 3rd Loeb (295/3/0)
2015: 1st Lopez (475/10/7)/ 2nd Muller (357/6/3)/ 3rd Loeb (356/4/1)

[dimviii]

357 vs 356 points doesnt indicate a faster driver.

[Rally Power]

357 vs 356 points doesnt indicate a faster driver.

True, but having all 2014/15 stats in Muller favour seems a much more reliable indicator than your subjective opinion.

[macebig]

From what we know, getting rid of Ogier and Neuville happened to please Loeb. And then, Matton manages to stray Citroen and Loeb's relationship after 2015 WTCC season. Really questionable leadership if you ask me.

[Rally Power]

From what we know, getting rid of Ogier and Neuville happened to please Loeb. And then, Matton manages to stray Citroen and Loeb's relationship after 2015 WTCC season. Really questionable leadership if you ask me.

Fair enough. The episode was a sort of PR nightmare for Citroen. It’s still hard to understand why Matton wasn’t able to present Loeb’s move to Peugeot as a normal situation among PSA brands.

[Watson]

Sweet lord. FIFA, IOC, FIA, you name it every sports comitee is utterly corrupt. They are worse than the Mafia. Here you have a guy who took over a team that seemingly couldn't stop winning championships to save their lives and somehow managed to bring it to the shitters, then gets the sack from said team and those funny men go 'you know what? he should manage the whole sport!'

Whoopdeefuckingdoo.

[Simmi]

Some news on a few things to expect tomorrow at the Autosport Show launch via Motorsport News.

- News on another M-Sport driver
- Mads Ostberg plans for 2018

That's on top of the WRC+ stuff. I was going to go to the show but it looks like all drivers and team personnel will leave after Friday, just ahead of the actual public fan days starting at the weekend. You need to be media or trade to go on Thu/Fri. I completely get why they wouldn't hang around in Birmingham for four days, but for the paying punter you won't see anyone!

[N.O.T]

Some news on a few things to expect tomorrow at the Autosport Show launch via Motorsport News.

- News on another M-Sport driver
- Mads Ostberg plans for 2018

That's on top of the WRC+ stuff. I was going to go to the show but it looks like all drivers and team personnel will leave after Friday, just ahead of the actual public fan days starting at the weekend. You need to be media or trade to go on Thu/Fri. I completely get why they wouldn't hang around in Birmingham for four days, but for the paying punter you won't see anyone!

why you want to see them ? you do not know how they look like ?

[tomhlord]

Some news on a few things to expect tomorrow at the Autosport Show launch via Motorsport News.

- News on another M-Sport driver
- Mads Ostberg plans for 2018

That's on top of the WRC+ stuff. I was going to go to the show but it looks like all drivers and team personnel will leave after Friday, just ahead of the actual public fan days starting at the weekend. You need to be media or trade to go on Thu/Fri. I completely get why they wouldn't hang around in Birmingham for four days, but for the paying punter you won't see anyone!

There's the Autosport stage during punter days, with intereviews all day with racing drivers. Hopefully a current and ex-WRC stars are interveiwed. At the very least, Petter Solberg usually sticks around.

[dimviii]

True, but having all 2014/15 stats in Muller favour seems a much more reliable indicator than your subjective opinion.

what i wantto say is that Loeb extracted from wtcc programm because he had to go to rally raids with peugeot,not because he was slow.

[pantealex]

So:
Is Yves Matton better option for FIA job than Jarmo Lehtinen ?

Both have their merits, but which one would suit better for FIA job ?

Hard to say, I have no opinion.

[EstWRC]

More details about tomorrow’s launch https://t.co/fyHgzSqr1u

[Andre Oliveira]

Mads Hummm

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTLrEvfWsAAVm5L?format=jpg&name=large

[BigWorm]

Mads Hummm

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTLrEvfWsAAVm5L?format=jpg&name=large

Reaveling his plans to replace Mahonen?

[Watson]

I have a feeling the M-Sport cars will be the only ones with significantly changed liveries.

[Andre Oliveira]

All 3 in Red Bull design

[PLuto]

All 3 in Red Bull design

Bouffier will not have Red Bull design...

[Andre Oliveira]

All 3 not counting with Bryan :) tomorrow we will see

[Watson]

I'm pretty certain Ogier's and Evans' car will havr the Red Bull design I don't know about Suninen though.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

MN says the show is live on Autosport.com.

Also says it's on Motorsport TV but not listed on my EPG.

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.flis8-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/26756852_1989745767721507_3740667336262561233_o.jp g?oh=ceb484692cf9b7c9536294c6aa104fc8&oe=5AE4D70E&dl=1https://scontent.flis8-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/26233322_1989745791054838_8217545039417860173_o.jp g?oh=b4a841759db1894444f55b66acfc00d5&oe=5AB7091F&dl=1

[EstWRC]

meh, seems that even m-sport aren bringing anything new to the table...and why the hell is the Toyota in gravel spec?

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.flis8-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/26756852_1989745767721507_3740667336262561233_o.jp g?oh=ceb484692cf9b7c9536294c6aa104fc8&oe=5AE4D70E&dl=1https://scontent.flis8-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/26233322_1989745791054838_8217545039417860173_o.jp g?oh=b4a841759db1894444f55b66acfc00d5&oe=5AB7091F&dl=1


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTMf9FRXUAE4R4K?format=jpg&name=medium

[Watson]

meh, seems that even m-sport aren bringing anything new to the table...and why the hell is the Toyota in gravel spec?
Well it is gonna be dark blue, red, yellow and silver or white there was never much choice.

[er88]

Bit of a let down that all cars liveries are basically the same as last year. Especially with this being a big public launch...

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[Simmi]

Is it my eyes - or does the C3 still say WRC 2017 on the side?

[macebig]

It's true. They didn't bother to change the sticker from last year.

[Watson]

Is it my eyes - or does the C3 still say WRC 2017 on the side?

It does indeed. I zoomed into the picture.

[Andre Oliveira]

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26219262_1989745807721503_7871913970366642157_n.jp g?oh=f4ccf2330dbb07e60b1b17a7bd494a7f&oe=5AB27CB8
https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26229707_1989745804388170_10884885259736925_n.jpg? oh=17c062546273389820ef6e866cf02ddb&oe=5ABA09AC

[Andre Oliveira]

It does indeed. I zoomed into the picture.

https://scontent.fopo2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26196313_1989745861054831_8353675652003705100_n.jp g?oh=86357ba9647822f6b2ed751c72ed4299&oe=5AF393AA

[EstWRC]

Bit of a let down that all cars liveries are basically the same as last year. Especially with this being a big public launch...

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

+1

and they made the Toyota even more messy...

[Eli]

So anyhow, all the liveries are the same ugly ones we got last year except for M-Sport Ford.....can't say I'm surprised but still disappointed....

[mmm]

I understand that the Yaris is stuck with the livery as it is used across multiple disciplines of racing. But the C3 could have used a change to help forget about the 2017 season..

[Watson]

+1

and they made the Toyota even more messy...

It's ghastly. That Panasonic sticker on the front corners personifies how out of place everything is.

[er88]

I understand that the Yaris is stuck with the livery as it is used across multiple disciplines of racing. But the C3 could have used a change to help forget about the 2017 season..Yeah but they should update that livery year on year across all their motorpsort disciplines. Stick with the same theme and colours but at least progress it or change it in certain ways.

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[JUF]

+1

and they made the Toyota even more messy... The livery looks like it was designed by Tommi Mäkinen himself... Look at the stickers on the front wings :eek:!

[steve.mandzij]

Yeah but they should update that livery year on year across all their motorpsort disciplines. Stick with the same theme and colours but at least progress it or change it in certain ways.

Sent from my SM-G920F using TapatalkThe worst part of all this is that it's been tweaked to make it ever so slightly more horrible. The only differences are sponsor placements and those shards of accents on the front leading to the new bumper, unfortunately ruined by the livery. Seriously, that Panasonic sticker is atrocious. I didn't mind the livery last year but, come on, it got old before it was even new.

I tried making a side by side of old vs new here
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180110/228c61e3066f1ca700ab2f5b78fd1e85.jpg

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[EstWRC]

Tänaks car should be in estonian colours :D

http://www.rallifoorum.ee/foorum/download/file.php?id=608

[Simmi]

Never seen so many people by the placement of a sticker before...


The subject of liveries not changing is quite an interesting one. A big part of me would like to see the cars look different every year. But equally, like any team or brand, there's something to be said for consistency and teams building that brand recognition. Like Subaru did in the 90s. So I can see both sides, particularly when big name title sponsors are all but a thing of the past.

In general teams are pretty lazy though. I'd love to see more unique one-off liveries or throwback paint schemes on events. It's great PR and good for merchandise etc. How many people, particularly in the UK, bought those Michelin Pilot bobble hats back in 2014. I still see them on rallies. Stuff like that is incredibly popular among the fans.

[ESTR]

Last years privateers have better liveries, at least that's my opinion. Hyundai should stick with 2016 and that black color is missing... Citroen have nothing special. Toyota...hmm better looking Nasser's hilux than these wrc machines. Ford/M-Sport have/had at least good looking for almost all years... Skoda have good too but those green wheels a big no...

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTNVcoqX0AAIzLZ.jpg

FMC plate and same Red Bull logo on the rear

[macebig]

FMC plates? Wow, haven't seen these since the Martini days...

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTNYUmRU0AAXHFq.jpg

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

Tänaks car should be in estonian colours :D

http://www.rallifoorum.ee/foorum/download/file.php?id=608
With Aqours branding instead of Microsoft.. :p

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

Why not Skype, it was developed in Estonia and is now owned by Microsoft

[racerx1979]

Why not Skype, it was developed in Estonia and is now owned by Microsoft

I was thinking the same thing. Also the Skype colors were initially based on the Estonian flag colors.

[EstWRC]

and the season has been launched https://twitter.com/MiikaWuorela/status/951378691350843398

[pantealex]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmVVnl6g-DE

Live from Autoshow (or recorded if you watch later)

[Watson]

https://twitter.com/MSportLtd/status/951403356676939776/photo/1

The M-Sport livery has changed quite a bit but boy that oversized Ford logo at the front looks silly. Not quite as silly as that monstrosity on the WEC Ford GTs however.

[dupanton]

FMC plates? Wow, haven't seen these since the Martini days...

What is a FMC plate?

[Rallyper]

Ford Motor Company, I learnt just an hour ago ...

[dimviii]

New hair styling for Neuville?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTP5B1OXcAAjWaf.jpg


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTQaXCdW4AEYcdX.jpg

[dupanton]

Ford Motor Company, I learnt just an hour ago ...

Aaah, sounds logical :D

[macebig]

Ford Motor Company, I learnt just an hour ago ...

Yeap. All the factory backed WRCs by M Sport had those plates until 2002. From the 03 Focus onwards, they disappeared and now they are making a return. Nice throwback.

[SubaruNorway]

Yeap. All the factory backed WRCs by M Sport had those plates until 2002. From the 03 Focus onwards, they disappeared and now they are making a return. Nice throwback.

They bought them back from some company, was an article on it last year

[dimviii]

Oleg Gross is my biggest fan and supporter! Today is his birthday, thank you for everything you have done for me!
Happy birthday, Oleg!

from Tanaks twitter.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTPXNm2W0AEnb6T.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

They bought them back from some company, was an article on it last year

No, they were the 'WRT' plates.

[Watson]

... meaning it says FMC on the number plate. I had to research pictures from the Martini days to confirm that this is what they meant by it.

[car]

No, they were the 'WRT' plates.

the WRT plates wern't bought.... they were loaned.

[dimviii]

Hayden Paddon‏

2018 here we come! You will see us at Rally Sweden, Portugal, Sardenga, Finland, Turkey, GB and Australia. We will also have increased NZ program and some other events to stay match fit. Will make the most of each opportunity

[tomhlord]

Didn't expect Ostberg to drive for Citroen! One round only currently - Sweden.

[dimviii]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180111/68a68b4c2d0e894cad92c1f5ca7c01a4.jpg

[BigWorm]

New hair styling for Neuville?

That would be the ''after race'' hair style

[Watson]

Didn't expect Ostberg to drive for Citroen! One round only currently - Sweden.

But they can't be bothered to give Breen the third car for the Loeb rounds? Weird.

[RS]

But they can't be bothered to give Breen the third car for the Loeb rounds? Weird.

Mads is probably paying something for Sweden.

[sonnybobiche]

Sordo goes to Argentina but not Paddon? That's an odd choice.

[AnttiL]

Sordo goes to Argentina but not Paddon? That's an odd choice.

Sordo does all Spanish-speaking events, makes sense

[pantealex]

Sordo goes to Argentina but not Paddon? That's an odd choice.

Same car/setup in Mexico and Argentina (those are paired)

So much easier to do with same driver.

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/fuckmatie37/status/951447581929951232

Bertelli doing one WRC rally this year

[Norm75]

Oleg Gross is my biggest fan and supporter! Today is his birthday, thank you for everything you have done for me!
Happy birthday, Oleg!

from Tanaks twitter.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTPXNm2W0AEnb6T.jpg
Didn't know Greg Wallace was a rally fan :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just a thought on the 2018 liveries... maybe the Team's were asked to keep them much the same as the WRC7 game has not long launched with all the 2017 cars ?

https://gamecloud.r.worldssl.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/WRC7-Feature-Image.png

Or maybe Team's are just trying to build on their image that they established last year...

[N.O.T]

or maybe they are a bunch of worthless dogs that do not care about the sport they throw money in...

Its a disgrace to present the same liveries or very slight variations each year.

[Sub_Skoda]

Just a thought on the 2018 liveries... maybe the Team's were asked to keep them much the same as the WRC7 game has not long launched with all the 2017 cars ?

https://gamecloud.r.worldssl.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/WRC7-Feature-Image.png

Or maybe Team's are just trying to build on their image that they established last year...

WRC 7 is not big enough to have something to do with teams decisions. It's sad to don't see new liveries, but that's it. It's not new in the WRC history but it's unfortunate.

[Rally Power]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmVVnl6g-DE
Live from Autoshow (or recorded if you watch later)

Thanks for the link! Quick check on those live chats: Cammilli confirmed by MSport in WRC2 at RMC (at least); Proton mainly in APRC (maybe also some WRC2 events); Wales hardly ending the season in the future (organizer delighted with October date, but not with 2 days proposal).

This WRC presentation seems to be a nice effort and WRC+ All Live announcement (like FastEddie predicted) will hopefully boost the series coverage. Finally, some proper work from the promoter!

[AnttiL]

I don't recall anyone complaining about the Martini Lancias or the 555 Subarus having the same livery for 10 years straight

[Rally Power]

Sordo does all Spanish-speaking events, makes sense

I hope you're not including Portugal in those. We proudly speak Portuguese!

[steve.mandzij]

Wow, Seb Marshall is huge!

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

[A FONDO]

Liveries (except citroen's) are good enough, no need to change all the time.


Mads is probably paying something for Sweden.

Citroen Norway actually.

[dimviii]

I don't recall anyone complaining about the Martini Lancias or the 555 Subarus having the same livery for 10 years straight

there is no comparison between 555 and Martini liveries with yaris for example livery.

[N.O.T]

I don't recall anyone complaining about the Martini Lancias or the 555 Subarus having the same livery for 10 years straight

you compare those liveries with the current assortment of generic steam of shit ?

[seb_sh]

I didn't expect the liveries to change much, except maybe for MSport. The reason is these are all corporate identity liveries for the respective manufacturers, Toyota being the most consistent in all the disciplines. The only way a livery will change at this point is if a team get a main partner to sponsor the cars and promote their image, however it seems those times are in the past. Maybe now that WRC+ coverage has ramped up. And don't expect Toyota to change at all, except maybe if the update the whole Gazoo Racing theme but i doubt it.

[Munkvy]

Sordo does all Spanish-speaking events, makes sense
Except when you have a driver benched that has won the event...


Liveries (except citroen's) are good enough, no need to change all the time.

Citroen Norway actually.
Is there anymore detail anywhere about what Mads is upto?

And agree, Citroen was a terrible livery, really hoped they would change this year to something new. But instead it's just polishing the same turd.

[AnttiL]

https://rallysportmag.com/ostberg-springs-massive-surprise-ahead-of-swedish-rally/

Østberg's Fiesta is not sold or for sale. They are planning to rent it for other drivers. He is also planning to do Argentina and another WRC round, as well as two R5 outings.

[er88]

Why can't i watch the autosport stream back that was live earlier today? Says it's blocked on copyright grounds now...

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[steve.mandzij]

Except when you have a driver benched that has won the event...


Is there anymore detail anywhere about what Mads is upto?

And agree, Citroen was a terrible livery, really hoped they would change this year to something new. But instead it's just polishing the same turd. Citroen's livery is nice! It's simple and clean and fits well on the C3. I'd have wanted to see a more drastic change from both Toyota and Hyundai. That i20 looks worse now imo, with all that empty orange space.

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[Andre Oliveira]

https://rallysportmag.com/ostberg-springs-massive-surprise-ahead-of-swedish-rally/

Østberg's Fiesta is not sold or for sale. They are planning to rent it for other drivers. He is also planning to do Argentina and another WRC round, as well as two R5 outings.


I can imagine Henning or Brynildsen rent it to Sweden.

[EstWRC]

all cars from front

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTRyGqMU0AAFHwh.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTRyGqOVQAc0q2t.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTRyGqPV4AAEH8Y.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTRyGqQV4AA2aIr.jpg

[Rally Power]

Why can't i watch the autosport stream back that was live earlier today? Says it's blocked on copyright grounds now...

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Yep, bit of a shame. I’ve skipped some parts hoping to see them later.

[sonnybobiche]

Interesting that Hyundai put the 2017 mirrors on this show car rather than the 2018 ones, which are a carbon copy of the Toyota mirrors.


Also, what was wrong with having a livery with a single base color for the whole car? Or just two colors with simple lines? These look like they were made by Jackson Pollock!

[pantealex]

Mads said that he made deal with Citroen 9am yesterday morning.

[Watson]

Interesting that Hyundai put the 2017 mirrors on this show car rather than the 2018 ones, which are a carbon copy of the Toyota mirrors.


Also, what was wrong with having a livery with a single base color for the whole car? Or just two colors with simple lines? These look like they were made by Jackson Pollock!

I'm wondering whether these are fully functioning cars or just empty shells without engine, gearbox, proper suspension, fuel tank etc.

They probably used the same show cars as last year with the 'new' liveries.

[Simmi]

I'm wondering whether these are fully functioning cars or just empty shells without engine, gearbox, proper suspension, fuel tank etc.

They probably used the same show cars as last year with the 'new' liveries.

I'm sure they are just show cars. Not much point bringing a full spec 2018 machine to just sit there. At least Toyota bothered to update the aero on theirs. Citroen's we know is just a 2017 car as it came in with 2017 stickers on it.

I think testing, and probably the service park in Gap is where we see the full picture.

[Fitz]

I'm wondering whether these are fully functioning cars or just empty shells without engine, gearbox, proper suspension, fuel tank etc.

They probably used the same show cars as last year with the 'new' liveries.

Hyundai is a show car & I think the others are the real deal.

The fiesta certainly had insurance documents (what looked like) in the rear pocket behind Julian.

[spiderem]

Anybody knows yet if Elena will be up and running alongside Loeb for the WRC events they have planned after the crash in dakar and injuries sustained?

[car]

Anybody knows yet if Elena will be up and running alongside Loeb for the WRC events they have planned after the crash in dakar and injuries sustained?

I'm not 100%, but I think he will be fine. He's been up doing interviews etc. I'm sure it will only be a short period of time (he may even be ok now).

[spiderem]

I'm not 100%, but I think he will be fine. He's been up doing interviews etc. I'm sure it will only be a short period of time (he may even be ok now).

Ok thanks, i've read that he got a coccyx fracture which normally is a lengthy recovery, but indeed already doing interview so let's see...

[jbmarcus21]

This week application for Japan Rally 2019 has been revealed during press conference :
- Tarmac event in november
- Stages around Chubu (préfecture d’Aichi et la préfecture de Gifu)
- Service Park in Morikoro (Nagoya)
Full details ► http://bit.ly/2D8PKRw

[er88]

Great, at least it's tarmac (even though Japan has nice unique forest stages). The championship needs more events on the black stuff.

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[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

This week application for Japan Rally 2019 has been revealed during press conference :
- Tarmac event in november
- Stages around Chubu (préfecture d’Aichi et la préfecture de Gifu)
- Service Park in Morikoro (Nagoya)
Full details http://bit.ly/2D8PKRw
Does it same as in CMR..

Sent from my A12 using Tapatalk

[Rally Hokkaido]

This week application for Japan Rally 2019 has been revealed during press conference :
- Tarmac event in november
- Stages around Chubu (préfecture d’Aichi et la préfecture de Gifu)
- Service Park in Morikoro (Nagoya)
Full details ► http://bit.ly/2D8PKRw

Service Park is located about 15kms from Toyota Head Office!!

[Gregor-y]

Marcus has some nasty mobile ads that keep you from seeing the site, at least with ads targeted to the US.

[Watson]

Great, at least it's tarmac (even though Japan has nice unique forest stages). The championship needs more events on the black stuff.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Indeed. And a world championship with a round in Asia gives a much more complete picture.

[SubaruNorway]

Marcus has some nasty mobile ads that keep you from seeing the site, at least with ads targeted to the US.

It's google ads which pays for running the site, it shows what you have been searching and visited previously...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Bertelli
The @OfficialWRC event we’re taking part to is @RallySweden with @MSportLtd!
See you very soon on #StuddedTyres ❄️ �� ��
https://t.co/NLdwKxeE2y

[Gregor-y]

It's google ads which pays for running the site, it shows what you have been searching and visited previously...

I know it's the ads but it's the type of ads that are the problem on a mobile device. And Google is far more sophisticated than just showing searches and previous things. It extrapolates what it thinks you may want to see. And that still doesn't account for ads designed so they cannot be closed or redirect such that the original site cannot be read.

On the other hand it's fine on my computer and a very short article, but it was very annoying yesterday morning on the telephone.

All that said it would be good to have an event in Japan, and probably South Korea as well given Hyundai's efforts. With Australia and/or New Zealand it would make a nice sweep around the Pacific, and hopefully mesh with the Aisa Pacific series, too.

[ESTR]

As long as it's tarmac event it doesn't matter where it's held.. And now with WRC all live (hope that will last long), don't care about Croatia too.

[AnttiL]

https://www.fia.com/news/yves-matton-appointed-fia-rally-director



Yves Matton has been appointed FIA Rally Director and will take up his position at the Federation’s Geneva offices on 7 February 2018. Matton replaces Jarmo Mahonen who retired at the end of 2017.

The Belgian will be responsible for the strategic vision of rallying and cross country rallying at all levels, from grassroots with amateurs through to the regions and the pinnacles of the disciplines, the FIA World Rally Championship and FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies. He will also be in charge of the administration and regulatory management of the associated FIA championships and sporting commissions. Reporting to the FIA General Secretary for Sport, Peter Bayer, Matton will be instrumental in liaising with all the sport’s stakeholders in order to optimise the attractiveness, efficiency and future sustainability of the discipline.

FIA President, Jean Todt, said: “Yves has a wealth of experience across many facets of rallying, which is important for its continued growth. He has great passion for the sport and his understanding of competition and management at independent and manufacturer levels will be a great asset to further securing the future development of our sport. I would also like to thank PSA Motorsport for making Yves’ transition to the FIA so seamless.

“I also pay tribute to Jarmo (Mahonen) for his significant contribution and the advancements made in rallying under his management. We have solid foundations to further build on and I am confident we will continue to see the sport grow from strength to strength.”

Yves Matton’s love of motor sport dates back to his childhood and having followed rallies in Belgium for many years he began competing in 1986. He went on to found a company specialising in the preparation and rental of racing cars before becoming Team Manager at Kronos Racing. At the end of 2002 he joined Citroën Sport as Logistics Manager and more latterly WRC Co-ordinator and Team Manager. He maintained close relations with Citroën after leaving in 2008 and then returned to the Championship-winning Citroën Racing team as Team Principal in 2012 where he was responsible for the WRC programme and the squad’s entry into the FIA World Touring Car Championship where three world titles were secured under his management. Matton was then instrumental in Citroën’s return to the WRC, where it now competes with the C3 WRC.

Yves Matton explained: “I must admit that I feel very honoured to take on this position at the FIA, the governing body of world motor sport. I have worked at various levels of the sport, including for one of the most successful manufacturers in history, but this is for me a real achievement in itself.”

[wwbroe]

https://www.fia.com/news/yves-matton-appointed-fia-rally-director

Yes, i have seen it on his twitter acoount as well. Congratulations to Yves, now it remains to be seen who will take the lead in Citroen factory team. I also hope that Matton can counter some of the ideas that Mahonen has spread end of last season.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Excellent news! Now Meeke will be able to concentrate more and focus on rallying rather then politics and views in the team!

[Watson]

Do we know anything about his positions considering shortening stages and rallies?

[seb_sh]

Hopefully as an ex WRC team boss he will understand what the manufacturers want and hopefully the fans and not just pander to the promoters desiring more rallies to get more money in the coffers.

For one I hope there will be more joined up thinking from national through to WRC level as at the moment it all seems a little disjointed.

Yeah, for me the main thing i hope is he sees and applies the manufacturer's side to keep the sport viable so we don't get a repeat of what happened after 2004.

[Barreis]

https://www.fia.com/news/yves-matton-appointed-fia-rally-director

this is worse then in croatia, incompetent gets leading role. maybe it's good for citreon

[AndyRAC]

Seems like 'jobs for the boys'.....

However, I will wish him well, but I'm not sure what his plans are for the sport.
We need a strong WRC, but also a viable 2nd tier series, i;e ERC and strong regional series. There has to be more to the sport than just WRC.

[Andre Oliveira]

Legend Boucles

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTqHuI_W0AAYoB5?format=jpg&name=900x900

[Simmi]

Very cool. A Vauxhall Nova as we would call it in the UK. That's his first rally car right?

[Andre Oliveira]

Yes :)

[tommeke_B]

https://scontent.fbru2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/26685735_802812026588544_7974786963194796563_o.jpg ?oh=2cddcf431cc1943399e72a6d6ebfa06a&oe=5AEBE485

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Speaking of driver's first rally cars...

https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/wrc-drivers-first-rally-cars

[RS]

Speaking of driver's first rally cars...

https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/wrc-drivers-first-rally-cars

Good old Mads..

"Because it was a cheap car, though, nothing worked consistently on it the way it should have. I remember I had some brake problems with the car, which we never really found the cause of. But just from time to time, I lost the brake assistance, so I couldn’t really stop the car, and that was quite scary…"

[Eli]

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/133925/ostberg-still-has-fiesta-as-backup-plan
Speaking of Mads

[Tarmop]

Two drivers are in contention for that drive, with WRC veteran Henning Solberg one of them.

Asked about the identity of the other, Ostberg replied: "I'm not going to tell you, but you would be surprised."

Interesting...

[EstWRC]

interviews from autosport show, Tänak https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fOZcNGhqH4
Neuville https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RgZ3tCwmBI

[Rally Power]

Seems like 'jobs for the boys'.....
However, I will wish him well, but I'm not sure what his plans are for the sport.
We need a strong WRC, but also a viable 2nd tier series, i;e ERC and strong regional series. There has to be more to the sport than just WRC.

FIA rally director it’s certainly an influential post, but it’s not up to him to decide rallysport future; he’s mainly a general supervisor. The important stuff (new rules, calendars, etc) are decided on the WRC Commission (were manus, organizers and the promoter have seats) or on the Rally Commission. Anyway, Matton has the experience to make a proper job; best luck to him.

[skarderud]

Two drivers are in contention for that drive, with WRC veteran Henning Solberg one of them.

Asked about the identity of the other, Ostberg replied: "I'm not going to tell you, but you would be surprised."

Interesting...Henning is at the startlist with a fiesta WRC now.

Sent fra min XP7700 via Tapatalk

[PLuto]

FIA rally director it’s certainly an influential post, but it’s not up to him to decide rallysport future; he’s mainly a general supervisor. The important stuff (new rules, calendars, etc) are decided on the WRC Commission (were manus, organizers and the promoter have seats) or on the Rally Commission. Anyway, Matton has the experience to make a proper job; best luck to him.

You are too optimistic. The important stuff are decided "behind", WRC commission is only theatre...

[Rally Power]

You are too optimistic. The important stuff are decided "behind", WRC commission is only theatre...

For sure many matters are discussed behind the formal meetings, but it’s up to the Commission to present and subject them to FIA assembly (WMSC) approval. Besides, all major WRC players are represented on the WRC Commission.

[ESTR]

For sure many matters are discussed behind the formal meetings, but it’s up to the Commission to present and subject them to FIA assembly (WMSC) approval. Besides, all major WRC players are represented on the WRC Commission.

Well and Ogier too hahaha. Whatever he says, then they aprove it

[racerx1979]

Two drivers are in contention for that drive, with WRC veteran Henning Solberg one of them.

Asked about the identity of the other, Ostberg replied: "I'm not going to tell you, but you would be surprised."

Interesting...

Maybe Petter lol.

[Simmi]

Story in Motorsport News today says that if the calendar works out in 2019 the WRC will look to launch at the Autosport Show again, but look to move to do something on a public day of the show - rather than the dedicated media day this year. A few quotes in there (Ogier, Wilson etc) acknowledging that they could have done more for the fans.

[Mirek]

Škoda boss Hrabánek for Martin Holmes


And after that? Are you frustrated on a personal level that you cannot go to the World Rally Car level?

“I’m not frustrated. It’s, let’s say, one of the long term options for Skoda, but not with the current generation of the car.”

That in Škoda language means a lot in my opinion.

He also says that engines of Fabia R5 and Polo R5 are same and that there is a lot of same components. He mentions the reasonable difference in used vehicle platforms as well.

He also confirmed that Kopecký will not drive full WRC2.

It's from this interview: https://rallysportmag.com/interview-tidemand-is-skodas-focus-for-2018-says-team-boss-hrabanek/

[pucky54]

He also confirmed that Kopecký will not drive full WRC2.

Big shame as he was the second best driver in average results of WRC2 just behind Mikkelsen!

[pantealex]

Big shame as he was the second best driver in average results of WRC2 just behind Mikkelsen!

If you only count average Huttunen was best: 25p/rally

[er88]

Škoda boss Hrabánek for Martin Holmes



That in Škoda language means a lot in my opinion.

He also says that engines of Fabia R5 and Polo R5 are same and that there is a lot of same components. He mentions the reasonable difference in used vehicle platforms as well.

He also confirmed that Kopecký will not drive full WRC2.

It's from this interview: https://rallysportmag.com/interview-tidemand-is-skodas-focus-for-2018-says-team-boss-hrabanek/When do you think the earliest we could see them in the WRC? If you were to make a guess...

Clear that it's in their thinking medium to long term

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[Mirek]

When do you think the earliest we could see them in the WRC? If you were to make a guess...

The new Fabia shall come in 2020 I think.

[AndyRAC]

Story in Motorsport News today says that if the calendar works out in 2019 the WRC will look to launch at the Autosport Show again, but look to move to do something on a public day of the show - rather than the dedicated media day this year. A few quotes in there (Ogier, Wilson etc) acknowledging that they could have done more for the fans.

The 'launch' at the Autosport Show was a perfect example of were they're going wrong. It was a good idea, but poorly executed.

And as far as the coverage of it was concerned, especially here in the UK, it was poor; e;g Pistonheads reported on a new BTCC car and a Toyota Gazoo road car, but nothing about the WRC launch. And none of the other car mags bothered.

I thought the whole point of using the Autosport Show was to launch the WRC , and 'sell' the sport.....

[pucky54]

If you only count average Huttunen was best: 25p/rally

Sorry, best of the drivers doing at least two rounds ;)

[AnttiL]

If you only count average Huttunen was best: 25p/rally

No, he retired in Wales.

[KiwiWRCfan]

Preview of 2018 #WRC season by Luke Barry http://thisisrally.weebly.com/wrc/ogier-or-neuville-or-mikkelsen-or-tanak-or-anyone
Luke is currently studying journalism at a Scottish university He is part of the Autosport Academy. A budding young motorsport journalist I expect we will read lots more of Luke's writing in the years ahead.

[pantealex]

No, he retired in Wales.

He was not WRC2 in Wales.

[the sniper]

Does anyone know if Dmack have any plans, for anywhere? I thought there was going to be some kind of alternative (presumably lower budget) program this year...

[GigiGalliNo1]

They have cars with their Tyres including in MC and other WRC rounds from WRC to R2 cars this year. MC have a few cars with DMacks.

[br21]

They have cars with their Tyres including in MC and other WRC rounds from WRC to R2 cars this year. MC have a few cars with DMacks.

they don't have 16inch snow and studded tires in stock, so no good R2 cars with their tires on MC.

[Watson]

they don't have 16inch snow and studded tires in stock, so no good R2 cars with their tires on MC.

R2 cars are allowed full winter spec at MC?

[br21]

R2 cars are allowed full winter spec at MC?

16 inch is normal tarmac tire size for R2

[pantealex]

The new Fabia shall come in 2020 I think.

Probably yes, there is launch of new Fabia at Geneva/Geneve motorshow in march, but it´s just facelift with current platform. So, 2020 probably completely new Fabia.

[car]

Henning will drive WRC fiesta in Sweden. (2017 spec)

[jbmarcus21]

Which Team ? Which Drivers ? ... Who ? Where ? ... Special guide 2018 #WRC Season ► http://bit.ly/2DmEjTl

[Andre Oliveira]

Jérémie you doing such a great work. Consider my advice ;) english version. Cheers

[mknight]

So now with WRC+ All live, will we see crews that are waiting before the start of the stage watching live from the cars that started before them?

I'd say most certainly we will. We have already seen this for example in Finland town SS.

Will FIA try to ban it in some way, like they did with in-car splits? Should it be banned?

It certainly changes the "spirit" of rallying, but so does endless recce-videos and WRC+ watching to the point where crews remember the stages. But it's probably hard to to enforce any ban without some excessive measures.

[car]

So now with WRC+ All live, will we see crews that are waiting before the start of the stage watching live from the cars that started before them?

I'd say most certainly we will. We have already seen this for example in Finland town SS.

Will FIA try to ban it in some way, like they did with in-car splits? Should it be banned?

It certainly changes the "spirit" of rallying, but so does endless recce-videos and WRC+ watching to the point where crews remember the stages. But it's probably hard to to enforce any ban without some excessive measures.

Wow... never considered that! Yeah, it could make a very unlevel playing field.
It is possible that they have a ban similar to this years Dakar?

[er88]

Talking about all stages being live, will this mean the gaps between the WRC crews will be increased on every single stage now? Good for T.V. but a tad annoying if you're out on the stages, particularly if it's in the freezing cold or driving rain.

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[car]

So now with WRC+ All live, will we see crews that are waiting before the start of the stage watching live from the cars that started before them?

I'd say most certainly we will. We have already seen this for example in Finland town SS.

Will FIA try to ban it in some way, like they did with in-car splits? Should it be banned?

It certainly changes the "spirit" of rallying, but so does endless recce-videos and WRC+ watching to the point where crews remember the stages. But it's probably hard to to enforce any ban without some excessive measures.


Talking about all stages being live, will this mean the gaps between the WRC crews will be increased on every single stage now? Good for T.V. but a tad annoying if you're out on the stages, particularly if it's in the freezing cold or driving rain.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

I don’t understand why it will lead to an increase in gaps. Would you mind explaining? Cheers...

[er88]

I don’t understand why it will lead to an increase in gaps. Would you mind explaining? Cheers...Normally on live tv stages they increase the gaps between cars so they can show more of each driver.

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[AnttiL]

Normally on live tv stages they increase the gaps between cars so they can show more of each driver.

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We must understand that not all stages will be a similar production as current live TV stages. We'll see helicopter footage, in car and maybe one ground mounted camera, not multiple cameras like on the current live stages. That won't need an increase in start gaps.

As for watching stages live while waiting for start, I think the crews currently do it at the power stages. Also, Neuviille knew in Wales before starting the Power Stage that Ogier had finished and would be the champion.

[Watson]

We must understand that not all stages will be a similar production as current live TV stages. We'll see helicopter footage, in car and maybe one ground mounted camera, not multiple cameras like on the current live stages. That won't need an increase in start gaps.


I suppose a lot of drone camera work as well since they deliver nice close up footage and they are easy to set up and moved from one stage to another.

[A FONDO]

Yeah, we do not need expensive helicopters for every stage. Most of us are happy with a single camera on facebook live. Just a sequence of 2-3 mounted cameras at a suitable place + onboard before and after that. Easy filled two minutes.

[ESTR]

2018 will be quite interesting from both Toyota and Hyundai. And Citroen too. M-Sport Ford quite stable team at the moment. No real pressures. Everyone knows where is their place. Jari and Ott now are in the pre-war or something before it even starts. Hyundai's Thierry and Mikkelsen thinks that they can manage their friendship through competition untouched but I think that this will change. Citroen quite unstable, everything is a mess, no real backup if Meeke or Breen go down (we all know where this is heading). Changing bosses seats will do more mess. If Loeb will have no pace or will crash it will be more messier.

But I think it will be unpredictable year too.

[spiderem]

i don't know exactly where to post this but any pickems for the 2018 rounds?

[Rallyper]

If you pick a fantasy team at www.fantasywrc.com and then make the opposite prediction att Pickems it should go well in one of the two, wouldn´t it?

[Red bull]

https://www.renaultsport.com/carlos-sainz-to-make-rallye-monte-carlo-debut.html

[PLuto]

https://www.renaultsport.com/carlos-sainz-to-make-rallye-monte-carlo-debut.html

That is really great sentence - he will make debut on Rallye Monte Carlo... ...as safety car.

[ESTR]

If he care about rallying he would be in that sport not some non-interesting always the same round and round for 4 hours with action only coming in a few months

[Simmi]

If he care about rallying he would be in that sport not some non-interesting always the same round and round for 4 hours with action only coming in a few months

I don't think he's losing any sleep over choosing a career in F1...

[N.O.T]

choosing a career in F1...

i am certain "paying" is not spelled that way....

[car]

i am certain "paying" is not spelled that way....

What absolute twaddle, NOT... he's hot property in F1. He does not pay for a drive.

[car]

I don't think he's losing any sleep over choosing a career in F1...

Ha - well said sir.

[AndyRAC]

If he care about rallying he would be in that sport not some non-interesting always the same round and round for 4 hours with action only coming in a few months

No offence, but when two sons of former WRC champions (Sainz & Blomqvist) show very little interest in a rally career, and choose a circuit racing, you can't really blame them. They can choose F1/ single seaters, GT/ Sportscars, Tin tops/ Touring cars....if you're good, and adaptable you can have a long professional career, as there are lots of decent series. With rallying, it's basically WRC...

[mousti]

Normally on live tv stages they increase the gaps between cars so they can show more of each driver.

Sent from my SM-G920F using TapatalkIn IRC it was the normal 2 minute gaps between the top crews in Monte Carlo.

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[RICARDO75]

The new Fabia shall come in 2020 I think.

The new Fabia will be presented in Geneva in two months and should be on sale in September.
Long enough to develop a world rally car until 2020 :)

[AnttiL]

How long was the agreement to compete with the current spec cars? Five years? That would mean 2017-2021

[Mirek]

The new Fabia will be presented in Geneva in two months and should be on sale in September.
Long enough to develop a world rally car until 2020 :)

No, it will not. What is going to be shown in Geneve is only facelifted Fabia III (that may impact the look of Fabia R5 at maximum).

[RICARDO75]

You're right. I had read the article on the diagonal :)

[pantealex]

How long was the agreement to compete with the current spec cars? Five years? That would mean 2017-2021

Must be 6, every 3 year with same rules.

[ESTR]

And what changes are there for 2019? They announce before starting of 2017 that there will be big changes, but I can't figure it out what ones. Maybe just calendar expansion?

[Rally Power]

No, it will not. What is going to be shown in Geneve is only facelifted Fabia III (that may impact the look of Fabia R5 at maximum).

How much time is this face lift Fabia Mk3 supposed to last? It makes one wonder if the Mk4 will actually be released in 2020.

[liposh]

ESTR, You mean 2020, right? Because 2019 is the third year of first cycle.

[Mirek]

How much time is this face lift Fabia Mk3 supposed to last? It makes one wonder if the Mk4 will actually be released in 2020.

AFAIK the plans are for 2020, i.e. 6-years long total lifecycle.

[Rally Power]

AFAIK the plans are for 2020, i.e. 6-years long total lifecycle.

Ok. Still, a 2 or 2 and half years life seem a bit short for the face lift model. In any case, they can use last year Fiesta precedent and homologate the WRC car several months before the series model launch. Time will tell.

[Eli]

How long was the agreement to compete with the current spec cars? Five years? That would mean 2017-2021

Current regulations for WRC cars started last year and are for the 2017-2019 seasons.

[AnttiL]

https://www.mtv.fi/sport/ralli/uutinen/artikkeli/tulosruutu-klo-22-25-suomalainen-rallipomo-yllattaa-jatkaa-huippupestin-jalkeen-jean-todtin-neuvonantajana/6744546 (in Finnish)

Jarmo Mahonen continues working as an assistant to Jean Todt and the other FIA leaders, mostly strategic work.

[Allez Andruet]

https://www.mtv.fi/sport/ralli/uutinen/artikkeli/tulosruutu-klo-22-25-suomalainen-rallipomo-yllattaa-jatkaa-huippupestin-jalkeen-jean-todtin-neuvonantajana/6744546 (in Finnish)

Jarmo Mahonen continues working as an assistant to Jean Todt and the other FIA leaders, mostly strategic work.

Oh dear...

[PLuto]

Nobody wanted to employ him, so he will stay at FIA. I hope he will be as far as possible from rallysport...

[dimviii]

@nicolasgilsoul
This year, l'll introduce you to some of the Hyundai team members

Say hi to Nicolleta, responsible for media relations. She speaks 4 languages(!) and is the daughter of Ninni Russo, famous co-driver and former coordinator at Lancia #RallyeMonteCarlo #CoDrivingTheWorld #WRC