Wrc2 2018

[pantealex]

The positive thing with it, is that other rallies can get a small entrant boost.

Sardinia and Finland for sure will have more WRC2 entries this year.

[Bartolbia84]

Rumors: #Tempestini possibility start in Portugal Sardegna and Finland with Citreoen C3 R5

[RICARDO75]

Marquito Bulacia with Ford Fiesta R5 on WRC2. Starts in Mexico

[Bartolbia84]

Possibility program for marquito?

[JUF]

Possibility program for marquito? Wasn't that already confirmed a while ago? As far as I know, he plans to compete in six rounds this year.

[RICARDO75]

Wasn't that already confirmed a while ago? As far as I know, he plans to compete in six rounds this year.

Yes, we know that since December 29, but now we know where he will start and also on which car

[Bartolbia84]

Marquito start in

Mexico
Argentina
Sardinia
Wales
Spain
Australia

[AL14]

Marquito start in

Mexico
Argentina
Sardinia
Wales
Spain
Australia

I hope he is considering to attend some asphalt event as well, if not in WRC2 in some other minor event. He is very young and some tarmac experience is what he needs

[Bartolbia84]

@BenitoGuerra 🇲🇽 confirmed the 7 dates of #WRC2 2018 in which it will run: 🇲🇽, 🇦🇷, 🇵🇹, 🇮🇹, 🇩🇪, 🇪🇸, 🇬🇧; your navigator @borjarozada with the team @motorsport_ita and the Skoda Fabia R5

[RICARDO75]

After Sweden, Nil Solans starts WRC2 on Mexico, followed by Corsica, Portugal and Spain. Remaining program will be announced later.

http://revistascratch.com/wrc/noticia/nil-solans-disputara-en-mexico-su-primera-carrera-puntuable-para-el-wrc2-42541?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[tolis]

I heard Costel Casuneanu will do WRC2 too.

[Bartolbia84]

I heard Costel Casuneanu will do WRC2 too.

.... romanian driver....Tolis?

[tolis]

Yes - Skoda Fabia R5

[PLuto]

I have heard also that rumour. But to say the truth, before I have never heard about that name...

[PLuto]

Rumors: #Tempestini possibility start in Portugal Sardegna and Finland with Citreoen C3 R5

Tempestini sen. told in some interview that they are in negotiations with Citroen to do this three events with their support. And trying additional budget to do another 4 events to do a full season.

[RICARDO75]

Pierre-Louis Loubet:
ERC: Azores and Canarias (Hyundai R5)
WRC2: Corsica, Portugal, Sardegna, Finland, Deutschland, Wales and Spain

[dimviii]

Matteo Deriu
‏


@Bartolbia84
13m
13 minutes ago


More
@JybeFranceschi program 2018

Monte-Carlo (WRC3)
Sweden (JWRC)
Corse (JWRC)
Portugal (JWRC)
Sardegna (WRC3)
Finland (JWRC)
Deutschland (WRC3)
Turkey (JWRC)
Wales (WRC3)
España (WRC3)

[AnttiL]

No WRC2 starts?

[PLuto]

Matteo Deriu
‏


@Bartolbia84
13m
13 minutes ago


More
@JybeFranceschi program 2018

Monte-Carlo (WRC3)
Sweden (JWRC)
Corse (JWRC)
Portugal (JWRC)
Sardegna (WRC3)
Finland (JWRC)
Deutschland (WRC3)
Turkey (JWRC)
Wales (WRC3)
España (WRC3)

He can do JWRC and not be eligible to WRC3 on same race?

[Andre Oliveira]

Eheh you know the answer ;)

[Bartolbia84]

I heard Costel Casuneanu will do WRC2 too.

News?? Tolis

[cosmin_sb]

I also heard this news. I have read an interview with Carmen Poenaru on a motorsport site, ex Marisca co-driver. She said she would do 4 rallies with Casuneanu in Skoda R5. The first rally would be Sardinia...but for moment everything is a rumors

[Bartolbia84]

Cristóbal García 🇪🇸 start in Portugal 🇵🇹 (@rallydeportugal) and Catalunya 🇪🇸 (@RallyRACC) with Fiesta R5 @RMCMotorsport #WRC2

[RS]

I just watched the one hour Monte Carlo review on BT Sport.. no mention of WRC2 at all. Great value for the manufacturers and sponsors in WRC2 :rolleyes:

[er88]

I just watched the one hour Monte Carlo review on BT Sport.. no mention of WRC2 at all. Great value for the manufacturers and sponsors in WRC2 :rolleyes:Not sure why they can't even do a 5mins review in that 1hour coverage. Then do a separate 30mins/ even an hour review of wrc2 on wrc+. That would be great.

They've got better drivers and better teams than the ERC nowadays, so should make the most of it with extra coverage of the R5s.



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[Watson]

Not sure why they can't even do a 5mins review in that 1hour coverage. Then do a separate 30mins/ even an hour review of wrc2 on wrc+. That would be great.

They've got better drivers and better teams than the ERC nowadays, so should make the most of it with extra coverage of the R5s.



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I suppose they're just ignorant enough to think that people don't care. I think in truth even for people who just happen to watch and haven't caught the rally fever yet it would add another intersting facet to know there are multiple classes and seeing where the talents come from. You could even add a little bit of JWRC whenever they're present.

In Moto GP they always show the lower tier races as well. I'm not crazy about Motorbike races but when I happen to tune in, I usually watch the lot.

[PLuto]

Usually people around WRC (media, organisers, promoter) prefers WRC cars and factory teams. Other competitors are there mainly to bring money through entry fee...

[ESTR]

Usually people around WRC (media, organisers, promoter) prefers WRC cars and factory teams. Other competitors are there mainly to bring money through entry fee...

Still they could provide some manus into lower class like Skoda. Opel could easily be there with their R2 Adam.. And let's face it it's quite boring (even for the Skoda drivers) if they compete only to ourselves. M-Sport do good for couple of stages then they are out. Others are way back. That's not called competion but a joke.

[Sulland]

RC2 in Sweden

We have 28 cars, where 27 are R5s, and 4 Mirages that are R5 (NonHom)

RC2: https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries...2018/?cat=1018 (https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/42875-rally-sweden-2018/?cat=1018)
NAT4: https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries...2018/?cat=4742 (https://www.ewrc-results.com/entries/42875-rally-sweden-2018/?cat=4742)

Many top pairs are on the startline.
Tidemand, Veiby, Huttunen, Abbring and Åhlin are maybe those on paper that springs to mind.

But many interesting outsiders: Adielsson, very good R2 driver, maybe this will be 4wd breakthrough?
Johann Kristofferson, multitalented driver ala Ekstrøm.
Nikara, fast as a blitz, but some times too fast...
Scandola is fast, but on Asfalt. Not sure on the white stuff
Fellow italian Tamara Molinaro are there to learn.

Will the Mirages be able to match the other R5s, or way off?
Will some of the RC2 cars take overall points this time?

I hope the RC2 cars for once get their deserved focus by wrc live, and other media!!

[pucky54]

I hope the RC2 cars for once get their deserved Focus...

That's what we have the ERC for!!

[KKS]

In old days we have separate 25min review of support classes after each rally.

[Sulland]

Takamoto is impressive on snow. Did not see that one coming.

[Sulland]

Anyone that knows why Pirelli is so much better in Sweden this year?

[AMSS]

Anyone that knows why Pirelli is so much better in Sweden this year?

Their tire is made specifically for R5 cars and I think they even upgraded it this year, Michelins are made for WRC cars which have slightly different demands due to the more power. Rumours say Michelin will have a completely new tire for next year to WRC 2.

[dimviii]

Anyone that knows why Pirelli is so much better in Sweden this year?

pirelli almost always had a better snow tyre.Different way to install nails at produce,which makes nails much more robust at carcass,so they can cope better when gravel appears.

[Japé]

It would be nice to see Toyota adding 4th WRC car for Taka to Corsica, Germany and Spain. With his background from circuit racing might bring nice results.

[steve.mandzij]

It would be nice to see Toyota adding 4th WRC car for Taka to Corsica, Germany and Spain. With his background from circuit racing might bring nice results.I love the guy after Sweden but I feel that would be jumping straight into the deep end too soon.

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[ESTR]

It would be nice to see Toyota adding 4th WRC car for Taka to Corsica, Germany and Spain. With his background from circuit racing might bring nice results.

And 5th car for Juho and 6th for Nasser and 7th for Gronholm, Solberg or any other driver.. Be realistic...

[Japé]

And 5th car for Juho and 6th for Nasser and 7th for Gronholm, Solberg or any other driver.. Be realistic...

Sorry but couldn't quite follow your comment. Did you meant that it is not realistic for Toyota / WRC teams overall operate four cars in selected rallies, or that car should not be provided for single event campaigns, or that it is not yet worth to run Taka with WRC?

[steve.mandzij]

Sorry but couldn't quite follow your comment. Did you meant that it is not realistic for Toyota / WRC teams overall operate four cars in selected rallies, or that car should not be provided for single event campaigns, or that it is not yet worth to run Taka with WRC?It's unrealistic is what I got from the comment. Maaaaaybe they can crack out a fourth car but it wouldn't be worth giving it to Katsuta yet. I suppose if they did decide to do so it'd be out of gratitude for Juho or in exchange for Qatar money from Nasser.

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[Tarmop]

Let him become stable in that one first. History is full of examples about jumping into a wrc too early, even when one has mastered the r5.

[RS]

Katsuta very impressive in Sweden, hard to know exactly how much advantage the Pirellis gave him.. still you can’t go fast and reliable just by choosing the right tyre brand.

Huttunen also set some impressive times given his lack of R5 experience.

[AnttiL]

Katsuta very impressive in Sweden, hard to know exactly how much advantage the Pirellis gave him.. still you can’t go fast and reliable just by choosing the right tyre brand.
Also, he was able to keep it together leading for the whole rally, the pressure of the previous year champion breathing down his neck. The Pirellis sure helped but still very impressive.

[AnttiL]

It's unrealistic is what I got from the comment. Maaaaaybe they can crack out a fourth car but it wouldn't be worth giving it to Katsuta yet. I suppose if they did decide to do so it'd be out of gratitude for Juho or in exchange for Qatar money from Nasser.

It has been said that more Yaris WRC's will be available for money. That's what Nasser is doing. Juho doesn't have the money, and it's not worth the effort to give him a fourth car. And like said, let Katsuta do well in a whole WRC2 season, then see how he does in a WRC car. I'm sure the Toyota bosses are anxiously waiting for him to step up to the main level, but it's still a long way there.

[Rally Power]

Hat off for Katsuta! Beating Tidemand in Sweden is an amazing achievement. Hope he'll manage to show a good pace also on the gravel events.

[Doon]

Tyre advantage is a contentious point. I think M-Sport might find that Evans’ seemingly stunning individual performances last year were due to a DMACK advantage in certain events. I thought they should have trialed his real pace in a Michelin shod car before giving him a full season in the main team.

[dimviii]

Nicolas Ciamin en WRC-2 avec Sarrazin Motorsport

http://www.autohebdo.fr/wrc/actualites/nicolas-ciamin-en-wrc-2-avec-sarrazin-motorsport-192775.html

[Rally Power]

Nicolas Ciamin en WRC-2 avec Sarrazin Motorsport

http://www.autohebdo.fr/wrc/actualites/nicolas-ciamin-en-wrc-2-avec-sarrazin-motorsport-192775.html

Great news! It took a while to see Ciamin confirmed in WRC2. He’s one of the best young French drivers. Fingers crossed for him!

[the sniper]

Benito Guerra jr has said on WRC All live that he won't be doing Rally Argentina as obviously he was using the same car that he was to use in Mexico, but he will now be doing Rally Australia in addition to the European rounds.

[steve.mandzij]

Bulacia unfortunately not better than Heller, but Kalle Rovanperä is completely flying!

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[Bartolbia84]

Dalmazzini #wrc2 in Sardegna with Ford Fiesta R5

[Essaj]

Is there any bettings for WRC2 champ? OneBet really needs step up their game for lower classes.

[CivEngine]

J.A. Suarez in Portugal, Germany and Catalonia with a Hyundai i20 R5.

[cosmin_sb]

first round for Simone Tempestini in WRC2 will be Portugal Rally with Citroen C3 R5. In the last weekend he won the first round in the national championship.

[AnttiL]

The target we have set Stéphane Lefebvre in entering him in the WRC2 in the C3 R5 is to win the championship.
---
After the Tour de Corse, he will be competing in Portugal and Sardinia, and then we'll see what happens after that.

http://media.citroenracing.com/en/press-kit-c3-r5?idtok=7ce19bbb5774

[nafpaktos]

A lot of drivers were involved in testing: Stéphane Lefebvre and Yoann Bonato, as well as the likes of Craig Breen, Kris Meeke, Yohan Rossel, Paolo Andreucci and Simone Tempestini. What was the aim?

We believe that a fast, powerful rally car must also be versatile, especially when it comes to a customer racing product. This is why we decided to use a small panel of drivers – so we could not only get a comprehensive view but also go quicker in understanding any areas that needed to be corrected on the car, by comparing several opinions.

The person who asks says for a lot of drivers and the person who answer says for a small panel of drivers!!!!!

[Franky]

Well, seven is not a lot. A small group, yes.

[Daviesalaam]

what's the major difference between the R5 Katsuta is driving now en the one he crashed in testing??

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[RS]

what's the major difference between the R5 Katsuta is driving now en the one he crashed in testing??


The bodywork?

[Rally Hokkaido]

Official announcement of Guarav Gill's participation, but no details of his 2018 programme. http://indiainf1.com/wrc/team-mrf-and-gaurav-gill-head-to-wrc-2-quit-aprc-after-16-seasons-and-nine-titles/

[Rally Hokkaido]

An interview with Gill where he gives some important details (like he won't be in a Skoda!), but still not which rallies he will do in 2018. http://overdrive.in/news-cars-auto/interview-gaurav-gill-on-competing-in-the-wrc-2-championship-with-team-mrf-in-2018/

[AnttiL]

I understood that Gill won't go for WRC2 points because of the tyre brand

[pantealex]

Gill is very familiar with Skoda, which is also very fast car.

Why is he changing brand ?

It should be much easier to do new events with car you know or ?

[AMSS]

I understood that Gill won't go for WRC2 points because of the tyre brand

Isnt`t tire brand free for WRC2 this year?

[macebig]

VW Polo?

[br21]

Isnt`t tire brand free for WRC2 this year?

No, it's free for non-priority with R5 car

[AnttiL]

VW Polo?

Homologation delayed until Catalynua

[RS]

Are Skoda not doing APRC this year?

[rallyfiend]

I understood that Gill won't go for WRC2 points because of the tyre brand

So in otherwords, the news items should read:

'Gill to enter 4 WRC events'.

He won't be in WRC2 at all.

[ESTR]

Maybe that Toyota R4??, or Malaysian Proton Iriz R5 (logic choice)

[AnttiL]

It should still be a FIA homologated R5 car, just not driving for WRC2 points

[pantealex]

and those R4 cars are not allowed in European WRC events. Proton also is not homologated yet, 1.july is next possible homologation day.

[AnttiL]

https://www.rallit.fi/rovanpera-paasee-taas-irti-avasi-taman-kauden-ralliohjelmaansa/

Rovanperäs next WRC event after Argentina is Finland. And he probably won't do APRC at all because MRF Racing decided to put its resources on Gill's WR2 campaign.

[pantealex]

Kalle Rovanperä confirmed that his next event after Argentina is Finland, so no show for Portugal and Sardinia.

[Sulland]

Good for Pontus that he gets pushed from behind noe.
He has been number 1 too long, so he goes into cruising mode, after getting his lead after a few stages.

[AnttiL]

Tidemand said in the press conf of Argentina he is doing Portugal.

Maybe Nordgren also in Portugal, as Kopecky is doing Sardegna?

[Allez Andruet]

Maybe Nordgren also in Portugal, as Kopecky is doing Sardegna?
Let's hope so... about time for him to get an outing in WRC2.

[br21]

Tidemand said in the press conf of Argentina he is doing Portugal.

Maybe Nordgren also in Portugal, as Kopecky is doing Sardegna?

Yes, he should be there

[Jarek Z]

On today's press conference in Warsaw Kajetan Kajetanowicz revealed that he is going to compete in WRC2. He is still going to drive Ford Fiesta R5 from M-Sport Polska as Lotos Rally Team driver. First rally - Sardinia.

More details at http://kajto.pl/en/news/kajetan-kajetanowicz-takes-part-in-wrc/

http://kajto.pl/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/001-1.jpg

[AnttiL]

Will be interesting to see his pace, hopefully he gets enough outings this year. Probably going for all remaining European events?

[Sulland]

Will the C3 R5 also be competitive on gravel?
Your pros and cons please.

[Rally Power]

Will the C3 R5 also be competitive on gravel?
Your pros and cons please.

In a week we'll know it. Hopeffuly it'll be ok. Fingers crossed.

[dimviii]

Gaurav Gill to drive the Ford Fiesta R5 in WRC 2

https://evoindia.com/mrf-gill-headed-for-wrc/

[Andre Oliveira]

By M-Sport but not WRC2. MRF Tyres not eligible.

[Sulland]

Will Pontus be able to take the win in Portugal, he is eating seconds all the time, but will it be enough?

C3 is working well also on gravel, good for the R5 market, and diversity!

[RS]

New Citroen seems to be a good car and absolutely definitely better than the old PSA R5s, however the only conclusion i think we can draw from Portugal is that Michelin need to work on the durability of their R5 tyre.

[AnttiL]

the only conclusion i think we can draw from Portugal is that Michelin need to work on the durability of their R5 tyre.

Nordgren has had four punctures in the rally, one each wheel. He claims it hasn't been because of going wide or cutting too much

[ESTR]

Michelin tyres more and more crappy..

[AnttiL]

I would say the cars and suspensions are just progressing faster than tyres, which in turn become the weakest link on the pace the drivers are able to keep on the rough roads.

[AnttiL]

https://toyotagazooracing.com/release/2018/challengeprogram_rally/0521-01.html

Jarmo Lehtinen to co-drive for Hiroki Arai from Sardegna onwards.

[Andre Oliveira]

Pontus in WRC2 now is a joke. He is better than all the rest. Give that man the WRC car.

[ESTR]

Or bring Citroen, Hyundai and M-Sport proper involvement into WRC2 with proper drivers. There are many of them. Each team 2 cars and that's it. Then it would be interesting to watch and proper battle between them.

[Rally Hokkaido]

https://toyotagazooracing.com/release/2018/challengeprogram_rally/0521-01.html

Jarmo Lehtinen to co-drive for Hiroki Arai from Sardegna onwards.

I believe that is because Glenn Macneal is going back to co-drive for Guarav Gill in the remaining gravel WRC rounds, this year.

[dimviii]

WRC 2018: Gaurav Gill's Team MRF M-Sport Fiesta R5 finally unveiled
http://overdrive.in/news-cars-auto/wrc-2018-gaurav-gills-team-mrf-m-sport-fiesta-r5-finally-unveiled/

[Sulland]

Or bring Citroen, Hyundai and M-Sport proper involvement into WRC2 with proper drivers. There are many of them. Each team 2 cars and that's it. Then it would be interesting to watch and proper battle between them.

Agreed, but then they have to leave ERC to the private teams, so that championship will be a level playing field.

[ESTR]

Agreed, but then they have to leave ERC to the private teams, so that championship will be a level playing field.

They could merge ERC/APRC and WRC2 too.

[the sniper]

What benefit would there be to that? At least, the ERC and WRC2 are better off being separate and serving different purposes. I would like the APRC to be taken more seriously by the sport/manufacturers/FIA, using a bit of vision, to further the reach of rallying beyond the core European market, but there doesn't seem to have been any real purpose or drive behind the APRC since the late 90s. Not surprising really when even the WRC was aimlessly drifting around like a rudderless ship until relatively recently, I suppose...

[Rally Power]

Why was Kajto so slow on SD?

[PLuto]

Why was Kajto so slow on SD?

I dont expect so much from him on Sardegna. Half a year break, new codriver... He is perfectionist and he needs things working precisely...

[pantealex]

I dont expect so much from him on Sardegna. Half a year break, new codriver... He is perfectionist and he needs things working precisely...

I sure hope that speed difference between ERC and WRC2 is not that big what Kajto has been showing this friday...

[Jarek Z]

Kajto had two punctures and damaged suspension. Let's hope for a better luck for him on the next stages.

[Jarek Z]

Veiby Ole Christian - problems with steering arm, loses 1 min
Kajetanowicz Kajetan - stopped in stage, probably out with damaged suspension
Tempestini Simone - stopped in stage, probably out of the rally
Pieniazek - went off, but continues

:(

[RS]

I sure hope that speed difference between ERC and WRC2 is not that big what Kajto has been showing this friday...

Good comparison would be to look at the times of Loubet on Azores and Canarias.

Kajto showed some potential on SS5, otherwise disappointing, but then he was rarely the absolute quickest in ERC either.

[Mirek]

I sure hope that speed difference between ERC and WRC2 is not that big what Kajto has been showing this friday...

This is a double-edged sword. I can give You really a lot of examples where WRC2 (or even WRC) drivers failed against ERC ones - Barum regularly, Ypres regularly, this year's Canarias etc. There are very few who can jump into a different championship without any experience with it's stages, tyres, rules whatever and be on top immediately. Those who can are usually not sitting in R5 cars but in works WRC ones...

[Jarek Z]

Good comparison would be to look at the times of Loubet on Azores and Canarias.

Which were quite bad in both cases. But what does it prove?

[RS]

Which were quite bad in both cases. But what does it prove?

Actually I don’t think he was that bad, somewhat similar to his WRC2 performance so far. But if the level between the two championships was so different one would have expected him to perform relatively better in ERC.

I do think the overall level in WRC2 is higher at the moment, but almost all due to the Skoda works team and their experienced drivers, plus Lefebvre maybe.

[Sulland]

Good job from Veiby yesterday, not to just give up, but to do a "field repair job" and continue.

@OCVeiby: ������Glad to make it back to service, even with a huge time-loss. It's been challenging after midday service, on SS6 we damaged a wishbone and then the driveshaft went out. But we made it back, and will be fighting again tomorrow! #WRC2 #SkodaMotorsport https://twitter.com/OCVeiby/status/1005148804952281089/photo/1

Shows good fighting spirit!

Today he wins again, and are climbing back up with 3 stage wins!

[Rally Power]

Ciamin was much slower this morning, but he has been doing a great rally (P2 currently), considering his lack of experience in 4wd cars. Hope he’ll manage to be on the final podium.

Any photos or videos of Lefebvre issue?

[Sulland]

Veiby now up to 2nd in Sardinia.
leads by 2,9 sec before the PS.

Good job after the tech issues on friday.

Perfect job by Kopecky in the other Skoda Motorsport car, now in 9th overall, and clear win in class.

[Mirek]

So now Pontus 3x 1st, 1x 2nd from 4 start. Jan 3x 1st from 3 starts. The only one who managed to take a victory from these two was Katsuta in Sweden.

[RS]

Doubt we’ll see Kopecky in Finland, which is probably a good one for him to miss.

Hope to see the other four works Skoda drivers all there.

[Mirek]

I expect Jan to do Germany and Catalunya. He has very good chances to win there. However all of the other events are not strong at all for him.

[RS]

I expect Jan to do Germany and Catalunya. He has very good chances to win there. However all of the other events are not strong at all for him.

Turkey is a bit of an unknown to all recently.

I agree Finland and GB probably wouldn’t be good for him, and GB clashes with the last round of MCR.

Australia could be anything depending on who drives there, and if Skoda go there.

[Mirek]

...and GB clashes with the last round of MCR.

No problem with that. Škoda skips Příbram regularly. That's the only event where other drivers win (Dohnal in last two years).

[Rally Power]

Still impressed with Ciamin; ok, his raw speed wasn’t astonishing and he was easily overtaken by Veiby, but if we think that he’s only on his 3rd ever rally season and it was his second outing in the gravel with a R5, to finish at P3 is quite an achievement.

[AnttiL]

Doubt we’ll see Kopecky in Finland, which is probably a good one for him to miss.

Hope to see the other four works Skoda drivers all there.

Probably not four cars for one rally? Hopefully Rovanperä and Nordgren though

[pantealex]

Probably not four cars for one rally? Hopefully Rovanperä and Nordgren though

Some can start with private cars.

(IKH would be pleased to have Kalle´s car with their stickers.)

If you check WRC2 teams results from WRC.com there is Skoda Motorsport and Skoda Motorsport II, so even 4 factory cars is possible. My guess is only 2 factorycars but 4 drivers.

[Mirek]

Škoda works team don't have the capacity to run four cars at the same time. One or two cars would have to be run by some other team. Anyway I'm quite sure there won't be four in Finland.

[AnttiL]

I would guess Veiby or Rovanperä with a private entry then. Tidemand probably securing a win elsewhere

[Mirek]

It can be a works team entry. No problem with that. Only the car must be physically run by someone else. This year Škoda already used Kresta Racing or Wevers Sport services while the cars were in works colors and prepared in works service area (in both cases it was for Nordgren and in both cases it was due to the simple fact that the works team staff was elsewhere).

Just out of curiosity - even Kopecký's car in Czech championship is sort of semi-works because it's being prepared in Kopecký's own family facility (former CRT WRT). Despite that he drives under works banner, with full works show in the service park and for Škoda's money.

[mousti]

I guess it will be the same with Veiby in Ypres. Again with Wevers I presume.

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[RS]

Hrabánek says Kopecky and Tidemand ‘will do the same number of events until the end of the season’

I guess that means three each, which still favours Tidemand as he has already done four and Kopecky only three.

[Mirek]

The meaning of the press release in Czech language is different. It clearly says same number of events per season. It explicitly states that both will have same chances for the title.

Anyway great news :)

[AnttiL]

Will Skoda put Kopecky and Tidemand against each other? If they would want to secure wins at most events they would put Kopecky to Germany, Turkey and Spain with Tidemand doing Finland, Wales and Australia. But that way Kopecky would get one event less.

[Essaj]

Will Skoda put Kopecky and Tidemand against each other? If they would want to secure wins at most events they would put Kopecky to Germany, Turkey and Spain with Tidemand doing Finland, Wales and Australia. But that way Kopecky would get one event less.

Could be a championship showdown in Australia? :)

[Jarek Z]

If someone is interested, Kajto's Day 4 highlights from Rally Italia Sardegna 2018 can be seen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cEUTYSJcoE

Day 2 here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWswn-XrWtc

Day 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABHkpaXIUg0

[Jarek Z]

Kajto is going to compete in Rallye Deutschland:
https://www.fiaerc.com/kajetanowicz-step-up-an-inspiration-to-erc-aces/

[Jarek Z]

So this time it is 1-2-3-4 for Skoda. Congratulations to Kopecky!

http://www.autoklub.pl/news/foto/201808/news20180819_87115h.jpg

[pantealex]

Both Kopecky and Tidemand have 2 WRC2 rallies left after Turkey.
Skoda have promised equal chances for both.
If 1 of those is driving with VW Polo in Catalonia is that equal ?

So let´s think who are those 2 VW Polo drivers in Catalonia.
-Petter huge PR value, no experince with R5 + long break from rallying
-Kalle first timer in Catalonia
-Camilli is he in contract with M-Sport again or available
-other names?

[Barreis]

http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/138512

[PLuto]

Both Kopecky and Tidemand have 2 WRC2 rallies left after Turkey.
Skoda have promised equal chances for both.
If 1 of those is driving with VW Polo in Catalonia is that equal ?

So let´s think who are those 2 VW Polo drivers in Catalonia.
-Petter huge PR value, no experince with R5 + long break from rallying
-Kalle first timer in Catalonia
-Camilli is he in contract with M-Sport again or available
-other names?

Turkey should be crucial event for the win in WRC2...

[AnttiL]

http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/138512

That would make it even more confusing...

[RS]

That would make it even more confusing...

Yep, sounds a total mess. Plus manufacturers would have to develop two types of R5 car, and best drivers are always going to be in the manufacturer cars, making privateer R5 class less prestigous.

[Barreis]

FIA is always a mess...

[OnlyRally]

Both Kopecky and Tidemand have 2 WRC2 rallies left after Turkey.
Skoda have promised equal chances for both.
If 1 of those is driving with VW Polo in Catalonia is that equal ?

So let´s think who are those 2 VW Polo drivers in Catalonia.
-Petter huge PR value, no experince with R5 + long break from rallying
-Kalle first timer in Catalonia
-Camilli is he in contract with M-Sport again or available
-other names?
VW don’t have to nominate Tidemand for scoring points in Catalonia, if he is driving.

[Rallyper]

Havent checked WRX scheme, but why not Kristoffersson and Petter?

[mknight]

In first outing you want to show massive speed (reliability not so important). Also preferably with a driver who's general pace is known.

[Duvel]

Petter and Kalle

[the sniper]

http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/138512

Seems to be a lot of different ideas thrown into one article, it's a bit all over the place!

I think the moment has probably passed for needing to up the power of the R5s. A few years ago I was big on the idea of giving them 30bhp more through increasing the size of the air restrictor, because to my eye they just lacked an edge in terms of spectacle, but as the years have gone on I think most of the manufacturers have gained that 30bph or more through development. Now the latest spec R5s don't stand out to me to needing more power.

I'm rather bemused by David Evans reporting/believing that R5s have 260bhp, I've never seen a figure that low attributed to any R5!

On splitting WRC2, while I can see what they're trying to achieve in theory, this seem like a messy solution. To my mind WRC2 has to be a primarily manufacturer supported category if it's to serve as a feeder category to the WRC. How many young drivers looking to progress to the WRC are going to be able to completely fund a comprehensive WRC2 campaign privately, particularly with the calendar featuring a decreasing number of European events? Personally I'd keep WRC2 as is, but require each WRC manufacturer to run at least a 2 car junior team in it. Alongside that you could revive the PWRC title. RC2 privateers could enter WRC2 while also scoring points towards the PWRC, though they'd likely only be able to challenge for the latter title. Entry to the PWRC could be free for anyone entering in RC2. For the purposes of seeding, WRC2 and PWRC could be mixed and based on merit or at worst the PWRC RC2s could be directly behind the WRC2 guys.

[AnttiL]

VW don’t have to nominate Tidemand for scoring points in Catalonia, if he is driving.

That's not the promotion they want. They want to feature on the TV broadcasts and on the final official results. They want to show they can win.

[pantealex]

Turkey should be crucial event for the win in WRC2...

Best scenario in Turkey would be 1.Tidemand 2.Kopecky
Both would have 118 points from 5 rallies.

And Kalle will drive Wales and Catalonia for sure. Australia is still open, probably not.

[pantealex]

VW don’t have to nominate Tidemand for scoring points in Catalonia, if he is driving.

True but starting position would be very bad.
Doesn´t sound like a good plan.

[Rally Power]

http://classic.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/138512

It’s a shame Evans doesn’t dig a bit more in order to know if these alleged R5+ idea is coming from the FIA or from certain manus. Anyway, it can make sense to have a privateer or junior cup in WRC2 but there’s no real need for a R5+ category.

Drivers like Lappi or Suninen have proved that the gap between R5 and WRC ‘17+ cars isn’t a problem for those trying to reach the top and with so many concerns about WRC cars speed it’s not hard to believe they will be somehow restricted on a near future.

Besides, it’d be quite complicated to restrain R5+ cars only to WRC2; most likely manus would pressure the FIA to extend them to regional and national series, destroying the leveled field currently existent in most of them.

Definitely, R5+ is not a smart move in the current rally situation.

[KKS]

In first outing you want to show massive speed (reliability not so important). Also preferably with a driver who's general pace is known.
yep, thats why some rumors about Petter will drive one of VW's

[mknight]

yep, thats why some rumors about Petter will drive one of VW's
I mostly meant it the other way around. Petter's pace in rally is a big unknown atm.

Then again it would surely create publicity and if he is slow it's always possible to blame him and not the car. There certainly is a possibility that he will be fast (unlike Kristofferson).

[Tarmop]

Like i already mentioned in another subject, VAG, including VW motosport ventures have usually been up there from day 1. It was also claimed, that they have sold already 100 cars. So probably not worried about R5 marketing...good publicity on the otherhand is worth even more.

[Jarek Z]

Before Rally Turkey Kajto was testing his car in the Polish mountains :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pWOkMhRsKk

[KKS]

Before Rally Turkey Kajto was testing his car in the Polish mountains :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pWOkMhRsKk
Where he tested? It's Carpathian mountains ? Why Polish championship did't have rally in this region?

[Jarek Z]

Where he tested? It's Carpathian mountains ? Why Polish championship did't have rally in this region?

Yes, it was in the Carpathian mountains. There is no rally there, but maybe you like hillclimbing? ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSWPc4p4FMo

[PLuto]

Best scenario in Turkey would be 1.Tidemand 2.Kopecky
Both would have 118 points from 5 rallies.

And Kalle will drive Wales and Catalonia for sure. Australia is still open, probably not.

At Skoda, there is crucial result on Turkey. We will see, which events (and if) their drivers do later...

[Simmi]

At Skoda, there is crucial result on Turkey. We will see, which events (and if) their drivers do later...

Pontus and Kalle for Wales GB - organisers announced today: http://walesrallygb.com/news/4230.php#.W5erW5MlNE5

[AnttiL]

Camilli drives Polo in Spain https://www.wrc.com/en/wrc-2/news/2018/september-2018/camilli-polo-spain/page/5716--51-51-.html

[Mirek]

Pontus and Kalle for Wales GB - organisers announced today: http://walesrallygb.com/news/4230.php#.W5erW5MlNE5

And Kopecký does Spain so no direct fight for the title at all.

[AnttiL]

And Kopecký does Spain so no direct fight for the title at all.

Other than Turkey

[Mirek]

Other than Turkey

Yes but that's absolutely not enough for a worthy championship if You ask me. Also nothing against Tidemand but they could have sent him to at least one asphalt. In the end it looks like if škoda bosses just play a puppet theatre.

[Mirek]

Who could have imagined that both of them would get a double puncture in the same stage with another puncture for Pontus in another stage. Sometimes the reality is wilder than the imagination...

Let's see if that was the end of surprises but I guess it wasn't.

[Jarek Z]

It's a rally of punctures. Nearly everyone from the top drivers had at least one puncture - Kopecký, Tidemand, Tempestini, Kajetanowicz. I think Ingram was the only exception.

[AnttiL]

It's a rally of punctures. Nearly everyone from the top drivers had at least one puncture - Kopecký, Tidemand, Tempestini, Kajetanowicz. I think Ingram was the only exception.

And Heller, who struggled with power steering issues

[Jarek Z]

A short video from WRC2 - Tidemand overtakes Kopecky and then Kopecky overtakes Tidemand on a special stage :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV0bcRIi8j4

[RS]

WRC2 rules are best six of seven scores count right? But it looks likely Kopecky and Tidemand will both only do six, so no dropped scores..

[AnttiL]

WRC2 rules are best six of seven scores count right? But it looks likely Kopecky and Tidemand will both only do six, so no dropped scores..

Tidemand is entered for Wales, and is rumored to do Catalunya with VW Polo.

[AnttiL]

Tidemand has to retire Turkey. https://twitter.com/MotorsportSkoda/status/1040830709802446848


#RallyTurkey #SKODA #WRC2 Having consulted technical stewards of the FIA, @ Pontus Tidemand is not able to re-start under Rally 2 regulation for safety reasons. Additional structural damage was discovered when the car was inspected at service, safe repair cannot be carried out.

[RS]

Tidemand is entered for Wales, and is rumored to do Catalunya with VW Polo.

Maybe that's the real reason to retire him in Turkey, level the playing field with Kopecky again.

[AnttiL]

Maybe that's the real reason to retire him in Turkey, level the playing field with Kopecky again.

Sorry but that is ridiculous

[RS]

Sorry but that is ridiculous

I just find it rather hard to believe the chassis was irrepairably damaged as the result of a puncture.

And if Tidemand is entered for WRC2 in Spain and Kopecky doesn't go to Oz, they will not have 'exact same chances of WRC2 title' as Skoda promised.

[SubaruNorway]

I just find it rather hard to believe the chassis was irrepairably damaged as the result of a puncture.

And if Tidemand is entered for WRC2 in Spain and Kopecky doesn't go to Oz, they will not have 'exact same chances of WRC2 title' as Skoda promised.

Maybe he had a crack in the rollbar leading from the strut tower, like Østberg had in Finland one year

[Micke_VOC]

Maybe he had a crack in the rollbar leading from the strut tower, like Østberg had in Finland one year

Yes, it was that after the damper was broken and was going thru bonnet. He had also double puncture on last stage of the day. So in total 4 punctures on two stages

[AnttiL]

I just find it rather hard to believe the chassis was irrepairably damaged as the result of a puncture.

And if Tidemand is entered for WRC2 in Spain and Kopecky doesn't go to Oz, they will not have 'exact same chances of WRC2 title' as Skoda promised.

Skoda gives their drivers equal 6 drives each. It's up to Tidemand's own relations to get an extra drive from VW?

But it's just a ridiculous thought that they realized mid-rally that their drivers will have unequal chances of the title and thus retired one of themö

[RS]

Skoda gives their drivers equal 6 drives each. It's up to Tidemand's own relations to get an extra drive from VW?

But it's just a ridiculous thought that they realized mid-rally that their drivers will have unequal chances of the title and thus retired one of themö

I thought it may have been a factor once he had to retire from day one, like 'oh well, he's got another chance' but probably not i suppose, especially given the nature of this rally.

They said on the BT Sport broadcast yesterday that if Kopecky wins today he would win the title. That would be the case if each just had their six Skoda rounds but unfortunately we're not going to know until the entry lists for Spain and even Australia come out. I hate the dropped score system.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Great result for Chris Ingram on Rally Turkey. Perfect tactics paid off with a WRC2 podium on debut.

[AnttiL]

Great season from Kopecky. Five WRC2 starts, five wins. Six starts in Czech National Championship, six wins (one of them also ERC). 100% wins.

[Mirek]

And 19 podiums in a row since the Tour de Corse in April 2017 (power steering failure) :)

[Jarek Z]

Maybe someone will be interested in seeing Kajto's video report from day 2. He was 4th in WRC2 at the finish line of Rally of Turkey, but without all the power steering problems he would have had a chance to win this category. Actually, this rally was so strange, that each of the top 4 drivers (Kopecky, Tempestini, Ingram, Kajto) had a chance to win at some point :)

Here is the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyMIDMjAkV8

[Mirek]

Not very understandable with google translator but an article and an interview with Kopecký after the finish: https://sport.idnes.cz/jan-kopecky-turecka-rallye-rozhovor-dv0-/motorsport.aspx?c=A180916_142648_motorsport_tof

The article mentions that Tidemand may still appear in Catalunya despite what was claimed by Škoda. Let's see...

Not much in the interview. He basically said he didn't enjoy this weekend at all.

[rp]

Not very understandable with google translator but an article and an interview with Kopecký after the finish: https://sport.idnes.cz/jan-kopecky-turecka-rallye-rozhovor-dv0-/motorsport.aspx?c=A180916_142648_motorsport_tof

The article mentions that Tidemand may still appear in Catalunya despite what was claimed by Škoda. Let's see...



Of course Pontus will be there, if he will drive the 2nd Volkswagen Polo GTi R5

[Mirek]

Of course Pontus will be there, if he will drive the 2nd Volkswagen Polo GTi R5

The question is if he is entered to WRC2 or not.

[RS]

The question is if he is entered to WRC2 or not.

So championship could be decided by what box VW decide to tick on the entry form. What a mess.

First Pontus will need to score at least 8 points in Wales.

[PLuto]

According to original plans, Pontus and Jan were set to do different events before Turkey. Turkey was planned as only one event where both drivers will start. On this event, which nobody of them did in the past, should be decided, who will be the champion...

[dimviii]

According to original plans, Pontus and Jan were set to do different events before Turkey. Turkey was planned as only one event where both drivers will start. On this event, which nobody of them did in the past, should be decided, who will be the champion...

so if Pontus will entry as wrc 2 at Germany will be something against skoda will?

[RS]

Is it open secret that Pontus’ definitely starts with Polo in Spain or is it just speculation?

They said there would be 2 and previous speculation said Pontus and Petter, but now they confirmed Camilli..

[PLuto]

so if Pontus will entry as wrc 2 at Germany will be something against skoda will?

:)

[AnttiL]

The question is if he is entered to WRC2 or not.

Would be weird marketing strategy from VW to put the car further in running order and out of TV broadcasts...

[RS]

I guess they never expected Kopecky to do so well this year, and that championship would be wrapped up by now, leaving newly crowned WRC2 Champion free to drive the Polo in Spain.

[er88]

Skoda can't complain if VW go ahead and enter Pontus in WRC2. They've been trying to manipulate what driver of theirs wins which championship since 2011, when they desperately tried (and failed) to get Kopecky to win the IRC title.

[dimviii]

I guess they never expected Kopecky to do so well this year, and that championship would be wrapped up by now, leaving newly crowned WRC2 Champion free to drive the Polo in Spain.

something like that they must be thinking.

[Mirek]

They've been trying to manipulate what driver of theirs wins which championship since 2011, when they desperately tried (and failed) to get Kopecky to win the IRC title.

You're talking rubbish. Mikkelsen and Kopecký were both doing the whole championship and they both did all events. Kopecký did better in the season than Mikkelsen but Mikkelsen won by 1,5 points thanks to the rules which gave higher coefficient to the last two gravel events and due to the fact that the worst three events didn't count. This rule meant that Mikkelsen got away with 3 crashes without any point loss while Kopecký lost 27 points which simply didn't count.

[pantealex]

Would be weird marketing strategy from VW to put the car further in running order and out of TV broadcasts...

Well, Ogier did drive his VW Fabia season outside WRC2 (better testing opportunies), so they have used that strategy before.
Also Henning was running outside WRC2 in Turkey and got plenty of PR-time, bad starting place only first day, after that speed order.

My prediction is still VW in WRC2.

[AnttiL]

Well, Ogier did drive his VW Fabia season outside WRC2 (better testing opportunies), so they have used that strategy before.
Also Henning was running outside WRC2 in Turkey and got plenty of PR-time, bad starting place only first day, after that speed order.

My prediction is still VW in WRC2.

Henning in Turkey and Kalle in Monte are probably the only times a non-WRC2 driver has gotten so good coverage. Kalle was about the only competitive R5 left and Henning was up to top ten.

[er88]

You're talking rubbish. Mikkelsen and Kopecký were both doing the whole championship and they both did all events. Kopecký did better in the season than Mikkelsen but Mikkelsen won by 1,5 points thanks to the rules which gave higher coefficient to the last two gravel events and due to the fact that the worst three events didn't count. This rule meant that Mikkelsen got away with 3 crashes without any point loss while Kopecký lost 27 points which simply didn't count.Nah you seem to be a bit confused.

Mikkelsen was a Skoda UK driver, a team funded by the British importer and run by an Italian team. Not a part of the factory team, which was Jan and Juho. Mikkelsen was a huge huge outside bet for the championship up to the last round.

I'm talking about Skoda being so desperate for their own Czech driver to win the series, that they restricted Juho when he could've blitzed the series and taken back to back IRC titles. But they pissed about and neither driver won the title. Juho was by far the fastest driver on most of the rounds he entered, dominating Monte till the snow came and the bad tyre choice, winning Canaries, Yalta and Azores and taking 3rd in Barum, before having his entry pulled for Sanremo at the last minute - despite being on the entry list.

They gave Jan the whole season to get the job done and clinch the title, but Hanninen was needed as insurance policy for them as Kopecky wasn't convincing. Then Juho got drafted back in for the last two rounds after missing Sanremo. But he initilally struggled in the wet conditions in Scotland compared to 2010 and made a mistake in Cyprus, while Mikkelsen dominated both events and took the title. Leaving Skoda motorsport without one of their two contracted drivers winning the series. Kopecky finished runner up for the third time in the series. They wanted him to win that title, when giving Juho one or two extra events probably would've meant back to back titles for him. But they wanted Jan to win IRC and for Juho to have his SWRC crown. It was obvious at the time.

[Mirek]

Mikkelsen was a Skoda UK driver, a team funded by the British importer and run by an Italian team. Not a part of the factory team, which was Jan and Juho. Mikkelsen was a huge huge outside bet for the championship up to the last round.

Yes and no. Škoda UK paid but Mikkelsen had works car and works service. You can check Yourself that Andreas and Jan actually used the same chassis at some occasions through the 2011 season (No. 48)


I'm talking about Skoda being so desperate for their own Czech driver to win the series, that they restricted Juho when he could've blitzed the series and taken back to back IRC titles. But they pissed about and neither driver won the title. Juho was by far the fastest driver on most of the rounds he entered, dominating Monte till the snow came and the bad tyre choice, winning Canaries, Yalta and Azores and taking 3rd in Barum, before having his entry pulled for Sanremo at the last minute - despite being on the entry list.

That shows that You don't know what Jan's position in Škoda has always been. He has never ever been a priority driver in the team. In fact it was the opposite. Yes, Juho was not given the whole IRC 2011 but that was not done to help Jan win but to take as many titles as possible. They did the very same thing with other drivers in all following seasons. That's why Jan, Sepp or even Esapekka drove APRC. In fact for them the best outcome was Andreas winning due to his way bigger marketing value.


They gave Jan the whole season to get the job done and clinch the title, but Hanninen was needed as insurance policy for them as Kopecky wasn't convincing. Then Juho got drafted back in for the last two rounds after missing Sanremo. But he initilally struggled in the wet conditions in Scotland compared to 2010 and made a mistake in Cyprus, while Mikkelsen dominated both events and took the title. Leaving Skoda motorsport without one of their two contracted drivers winning the series. Kopecky finished runner up for the third time in the series. They wanted him to win that title, when giving Juho one or two extra events probably would've meant back to back titles for him. But they wanted Jan to win IRC and for Juho to have his SWRC crown. It was obvious at the time.

If You think that Škoda UK was a competitor to Škoda Motorsport You are wrong. It was just another works car painted in Union Jack. The Italians really didn't have 6 different and mostly brand new bodyshells for Andreas for two seasons. In fact it was all works cars and most of them were brand new cars built for Andreas, used by him for 3-4 events and sold to privateers. The only time when Andreas actually used Škoda Italia car was for small or show events like Goodwood Festival. Also for Škoda it had higher marketing value to have Andreas as winner due to the British and Norwegian market. There was near no marketing value in Jan (sadly).

If they were pushing Jan for victories they would never threat him as they did in WRC2. 2018 season is the first ever when they let him drive a near whole season (actually only 6 of 7 possible events so still not maximum possible). In previous seasons they gave him only 3-4 events each time even when he was winning one after another in 2015. The reason was likely still the same - Jan's victory has no marketing value because there is nothing to gain from WRC2 on Czech market. Winning Czech events is enough for that (and that's why they keep sending Jan to win Czech titles again and again despite I know very well that he doesn't like that).

[tommeke_B]

About Mikkelsen... I remember in 2012, before Ypres, he and Hänninen were sharing a testing location for a day, consisting of 2 short stages. Both had their own dedicated test-car from the works team and by seeing how much parts (dampers/springs, differentials, gearboxes) they took with them to try out, they were not short of money at all. Saying his car was run by an Italian team is nonsense.

[AnttiL]

Tidemand not at the wheel of VW in Spain...does this mean he only does Wales this year and thus Kopecky is champion?

[pantealex]

Tidemand not at the wheel of VW in Spain...does this mean he only does Wales this year and thus Kopecky is champion?

Probably yes but Tidemand owns FabiaR5 so he can drive with it...

[RS]

Probably yes but Tidemand owns FabiaR5 so he can drive with it...

I doubt he would do that just to take title in 'unfair' way. He wished Kopecky best of luck in Turkey after his exit.

[Rallyper]

I don´t think it´s the most important whether he wins title or not this year. He has proven his abilities already.

However where his future is is only on speculation.

My wild guess you´ll find him in a WRC Skoda within 12 months... Until then running WRC2 in Skoda on most 2019 events, rather all.

[mknight]

I think that would be a mistanke. He needs to do a few rallies already next year. MSport Fiesta looks like the only option, but Veiby doesn't want to pay for drives. Get Skoda factory to pay for his outings with Fiesta if he stays?

[Tarmop]

If they want to be in the top, then yes, they need min. of two fast and reliable drivers. Especially now that there seem to be only 3 men scoring most of the points in both championships. So needs to step out of WRC2 asap.

[Got Mail]

I think that would be a mistanke. He needs to do a few rallies already next year. MSport Fiesta looks like the only option, but Veiby doesn't want to pay for drives. Get Skoda factory to pay for his outings with Fiesta if he stays?

100% sure that that would never happen.

[Tarmop]

Has happened before, in some ways is happening now, could happen again. Depends how much they want to succeed with the WRC project and whether they see him as a no. 1 or 2 driver.

[Got Mail]

Has happened before, in some ways is happening now, could happen again. Depends how much they want to succeed with the WRC project and whether they see him as a no. 1 or 2 driver.

With SKODA?

[OnlyRally]

With SKODA?
Some people have big dreams about Skoda WRC return

[Got Mail]

Some people have big dreams about Skoda WRC return

Yes - I am aware of that.

I was questioning whether SKODA have ever paid for a driver to drive another brand's car?

I find that unimaginable.

[Rallyper]

Yes - I am aware of that.

I was questioning whether SKODA have ever paid for a driver to drive another brand's car?

I find that unimaginable.

Even if they ever did, maybe they need to do like others done in the past.

And during the same roof of VW/Skoda it happened before.

[Mirek]

Škoda will likely enter WRC only with new technical rules in 2021. Now it seems pretty sure that it won't happen earlier.

[RS]

Škoda will likely enter WRC only with new technical rules in 2021. Now it seems pretty sure that it won't happen earlier.

Roughly when new Fabia will come out.

All seemed to point to something earlier than that, what changed?

[Andre Oliveira]

Veiby out of Skoda Motorsport. C3 R5 at Wales.

2019?

[RS]

Veiby out of Skoda Motorsport. C3 R5 at Wales.

2019?

Not surprised, he’s not had a strong year.

[AnttiL]

Veiby with Citroen also in Catalunya, official now https://ocveiby.com/veiby-with-a-citroen-c3-r5-for-wales-and-spain/

[tomhlord]

Veiby out of Skoda Motorsport. C3 R5 at Wales.

2019?

I guess Citroen really need to see some better results from the car too to help sales.

[AnttiL]

I guess Citroen really need to see some better results from the car too to help sales.

AFAIK Veiby has just hired a car from PH-Sport, but I'm not sure if that's different to Tempestini's and Bonato's drives...

[Got Mail]

ŠKODA Motorsport boss Michal Hrabánek explains: “We will modify our motorsport strategy for 2019. Based on this, Ole Christian Veiby and Stig Rune Skjaermœn will leave the team. I would like to thank both of them for the contribution they made to our successful 2018 season, I wish them all
the best for the future. We will officially announce our future plans and 2019 driver line-up during the annual press conference, which will take place later this year.

[Eli]

ŠKODA Motorsport boss Michal Hrabánek explains: “We will modify our motorsport strategy for 2019. Based on this, Ole Christian Veiby and Stig Rune Skjaermœn will leave the team. I would like to thank both of them for the contribution they made to our successful 2018 season, I wish them all
the best for the future. We will officially announce our future plans and 2019 driver line-up during the annual press conference, which will take place later this year.

When does this annual press conference takes place?

[AnttiL]

ŠKODA Motorsport boss Michal Hrabánek explains: “We will modify our motorsport strategy for 2019. Based on this, Ole Christian Veiby and Stig Rune Skjaermœn will leave the team. I would like to thank both of them for the contribution they made to our successful 2018 season, I wish them all
the best for the future. We will officially announce our future plans and 2019 driver line-up during the annual press conference, which will take place later this year.

I want to read into this bold part...WRC!

[JUF]

Veiby with Citroen also in Catalunya, official now https://ocveiby.com/veiby-with-a-citroen-c3-r5-for-wales-and-spain/

Maybe that´s the beginning of a new relationship between Even Management and Citroen ;).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Veiby: “A championship podium is within reach and our aim is to try for that. I will be nominated by the team (Citroën Total) in the championship and will be able to score points in both Wales and Spain.”

[Got Mail]

When does this annual press conference takes place?

Think it was 12th December last year.

[had_zachau]

Well, rumours says, that this is the main reason, his photo on instagram


https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2607010645982466&id=100000206689776&set=p.2607010645982466&source=47

[RS]

Well, rumours says, that this is the main reason, his photo on instagram


https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2607010645982466&id=100000206689776&set=p.2607010645982466&source=47

Accidentally leaking the facelift Superb?

[Simmi]

It's not a good look to be leaking internal company presentations. But 100% I'd just put that down to youth/naivety. I'm also pretty sure if any of their other contracted works drivers had done the same thing the repercussions would not have been the same. Which makes you think they were possibly looking for a reason to terminate.

It always did strike me they had too many works drivers this year.

[RS]

It's not a good look to be leaking internal company presentations. But 100% I'd just put that down to youth/naivety. I'm also pretty sure if any of their other contracted works drivers had done the same thing the repercussions would not have been the same. Which makes you think they were possibly looking for a reason to terminate.

It always did strike me they had too many works drivers this year.

I agree. Sometimes they do these types of things as part of a 'communications strategy' anyway.

I expected more from Veiby this year, maybe Skoda did too.

Sounds like they will go with less drivers next year, maybe Kopecky and Rovanpera in WRC2 and Nordgren to ERC?

[AnttiL]

I agree. Sometimes they do these types of things as part of a 'communications strategy' anyway.

I expected more from Veiby this year, maybe Skoda did too.

Sounds like they will go with less drivers next year, maybe Kopecky and Rovanpera in WRC2 and Nordgren to ERC?

Having five drivers seemed like a bit of excess really

[RS]

Having five drivers seemed like a bit of excess really

Maybe it was always planned to whittle it down to a couple to move forward with after this year?

I guess Tidemand will want to move on too if they are not coming with a WRCar until 2021.

[deephouse]

Nordgren doesn't show promising year either. I wouldn't be surprised if SKODA signs Ingram..

[RS]

Nordgren doesn't show promising year either. I wouldn't be surprised if SKODA signs Ingram..

I have nothing against Ingram, but if Skoda really want another young driver they should take Gryazin.

[AnttiL]

Nordgren doesn't show promising year either.

What do you expect from someone with less than 15 4WD starts...Although I think they signed him quite early. He needs more starts than he has got this year.

[RS]

What do you expect from someone with less than 15 4WD starts...Although I think they signed him quite early. He needs more starts than he has got this year.

Maybe this is why they might keep him and not Veiby.. yes Nordgren not too impressive either this year but he is the least experienced of all Skoda guys.

[nafpaktos]

ŠKODA Motorsport boss Michal Hrabánek explains: “We will modify our motorsport strategy for 2019. Based on this, Ole Christian Veiby and Stig Rune Skjaermœn will leave the team. I would like to thank both of them for the contribution they made to our successful 2018 season, I wish them all
the best for the future. We will officially announce our future plans and 2019 driver line-up during the annual press conference, which will take place later this year.

why he switched to another car and another team before the end of the year?i suppose the contract was until the end of the season.

[dimviii]

why he switched to another car and another team before the end of the year?i suppose the contract was until the end of the season.

read post #467

[dimviii]

Veiby already testing c3 r5
https://twitter.com/OCVeiby/status/1043190922538827777

[RS]

Spain will be really interesting in the R5 class.. new Polo, Veiby and Ostberg in C3, Solberg comeback..

[Got Mail]

I agree. Sometimes they do these types of things as part of a 'communications strategy' anyway.

I expected more from Veiby this year, maybe Skoda did too.

Sounds like they will go with less drivers next year, maybe Kopecky and Rovanpera in WRC2 and Nordgren to ERC?

My guess is that there is zero chance of SKODA entering the ERC ever again.

[RS]

My guess is that there is zero chance of SKODA entering the ERC ever again.

Not as a full factory team, but Nordgren already drove a few events for them there this season.

[SubaruNorway]

Spain will be really interesting in the R5 class.. new Polo, Veiby and Ostberg in C3, Solberg comeback..

Østberg is not doing Spain

[Rally Power]

Škoda will likely enter WRC only with new technical rules in 2021. Now it seems pretty sure that it won't happen earlier.

Did the FIA change WRC cars development cycles? 2017-2019 and 2020-2022 without major changes and new regs only from 2023, that was the initial plan. If it remains like that, why can’t Skoda enter in 2020?

[Sulland]

Østberg is not doing Spain

To bad really. Would like to see him towards Petter.

[RS]

Did the FIA change WRC cars development cycles? 2017-2019 and 2020-2022 without major changes and new regs only from 2023, that was the initial plan. If it remains like that, why can’t Skoda enter in 2020?

I don’t know, I think Mirek said new rules would be 2021..

[kure91]

if i´m not mistaken, i´ve read somewhere that there are tendencies to prolong current tech regs until end of 2020 (si it would last for four years) and then start with new regs in 2021

[Rally Power]

if i´m not mistaken, i´ve read somewhere that there are tendencies to prolong current tech regs until end of 2020 (si it would last for four years) and then start with new regs in 2021

That would be nuts; no manu can cope with new regs every 4 years.

AFAIK, VW was the only manu asking to short the 3+3 cycles (to a 3+2, not a 3+1), in order to rush new energies introduction, but hopeffuly the FIA will stick to the original schedule.

The WRX is delaying EV’s use because only VW and Peugeot signed for them; the WEC slowed down Hybrid expansion after having lost 4 (out of 5) manus; why should the WRC rush for major tech changes and put the series future at risk?

[Tarmop]

Something major is supposed to happen that year, because apart from these Škoda talks, Toyota was also making a a limited quantitiy of Yaris' homologation specials to introdue a new chassis 2020-2021.

[Mirek]

I may be wrong but I understood that in 2021 we'd get some sort of hybrid WRC and that all manufacturers have known about that already for quite some time.

[Rally Power]

I may be wrong but I understood that in 2021 we'd get some sort of hybrid WRC and that all manufacturers have known about that already for quite some time.

That would be a total surprise. Alternative energies on the WRC were said to be discussed on a WRC commission meeting earlier in the year, but nothing come out from it. Besides, Smeets recently (last July) made a public request to get hybrids in the series from 2022 (one year earlier than the original 3+3 cycles), but theres was no (public) reaction from other manus to it.

Evans reported it on a bit confusing piece, althouthg Smeets clearly said at same point: "Maybe the answer is to have a two-year cycle next. That would give the current manufacturers another three years, including next season, but it's also enough time to make a change in the regulations”. Full article here: https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/137501/vw-urges-wrc-not-to-dither-over-electric-future

Anyway, it’d be quite amazing to see the FIA and the other manus rushing things just to please VW, the same brand that pulled out from the WRC in a hasty way, not showing then to care about the series future.

[Rallyper]

That day when there´s no sound from turbo engines in WRC, I´ll quit WRC. Promise. Possibly only follow Rally Finland. And that just for friends and environments around Jyväskylä.

[pantealex]

That day when there´s no sound from turbo engines in WRC, I´ll quit WRC. Promise. Possibly only follow Rally Finland. And that just for friends and environments around Jyväskylä.

BDA
S2000
Kit-Cars

no need for turbo, just gazoline and high revs.

(I know what you mean, NO to fully electronic cars)

[Mirek]

That day when there´s no sound from turbo engines in WRC, I´ll quit WRC. Promise. Possibly only follow Rally Finland. And that just for friends and environments around Jyväskylä.

Chill out, hybrid is not an electric car. Electric cars won't come anytime soon into WRC (unlike in rallycross).

Not that I like hybrids but the sound is the last thing to be afraid of with them.

Anyway this is off topic in WRC2 thread.

[dimviii]

Veiby testing c3 r5 at gravel
http://planetemarcus.com/o-c-veiby-au-volant-de-la-c3r5-au-gb-puis-espagne/

[racerx1979]

BDA
S2000
Kit-Cars

no need for turbo, just gazoline and high revs.

(I know what you mean, NO to fully electronic cars)

You can add RGT GT3 to that list also

[Mirek]

It happened in a strange way but Škoda has just officially announced that Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler are World Champions! :)

It seems that they were waiting for closing of entries for Australia to announce that.

https://www.skoda-storyboard.com/en/press-releases/skoda-at-rallyracc-catalunya-new-wrc-2-champion-jan-kopecky-wants-to-crown-season-with-another-win/

I'm going to celebrate... well, not because I'm on a forced diet :(

[dimviii]

if skoda wasnt sure about if their driver will enter Australia,maybe this means that Tidemand has secured another drive for next year?

[Tarmop]

At the moment it probably meant, that they couldn`t confirm what one would do with his own money.

[focus206]

Happy for Kopecky, deserved title, he had an amazing year: 1st in WRC2 in every WRC event he took part of and 1st overall in every any other event so far.