RACC Rally Catalunya 2018

[psychemedia]

Loeb's SS17:

1669

[mknight]

I really wonder about Evans. His orders right now must be win it (position over Neuville) or bin it.
And it's basically the only rally of the season where he has decent pace + potentially result.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Disappointing rally for Breen when he was so looking forward to showing his speed on tarmac.

[EstWRC]

Cmon Ottt!!!!

[KKS]

Latvala very slow 1st split

[jonkka]

Latvala wants to drop behind Tanak?

[Mirek]

Latvala likely to let Tänak pass him.

[itix]

Why are there fish all over the road?

[BigWorm]

According to Desborough, Tänak is now Finnish

[EstWRC]

great words Ott, never give up!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Toyota team orders to help Tanak. They havent given up totally.

[dimviii]

Tanak 6,4 sec faster from Loebs morning winning time

[EstWRC]

Sordos pace very good so far

[jonkka]

Sordos pace very good so far

But Evans is faster

[EstWRC]

just look at the gaps in first split!!! amazing

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Yes Elfyn good job. Dont think its enough though.

[EstWRC]

the master started now!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville slow !!

[EstWRC]

yesssssssss EVanssssss

[T16]

tyre

[KKS]

oh what a rally... WHAT A RALLY!!!!!!

[EstWRC]

lol Neuville saying its Evans fault

[Mirek]

Uh, interesitng...

[stefanvv]

drama

[EstWRC]

Loeb and Ogier equal in first split

[gorganl2000]

sorry for neuville...but i think he had to do it

[BigWorm]

Nice podium for Evans, much needed for him!

[T16]

Loeb and Ogier equal in first split

no they're not

[mknight]

Nice podium for Evans, much needed for him!

Indeed, this might just saved his career.

[Integrale]

lol Neuville saying its Evans fault

"Evans in front of me took a bit stone out of the cut and I couldn't avoid it."

=/=

"Evans gave me a puncture."

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier could lead going to Aus !

[sonnybobiche]

"Evans in front of me took a bit stone out of the cut and I couldn't avoid it."

=/=

"Evans gave me a puncture."

Class is permanent. Classlessness is also permanent.

[EstWRC]

and the master wins!!!!!!!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loeb takes the win !

[KKS]

Oh !!! Fucking yeeaaaahh!!!!!1 a win for loeb!!!!



Wiiiiiinnn yaaaaaaaaaaaeeeaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!

[dimviii]

congrats Maestro!!
the best ever!

[sonnybobiche]

That was something special.

[denkimi]

I almost can't believe it. Loeb humiliates the current wrc drivers.

[KKS]

what a trilller.. that understeerr... oh my nervous was on a limit!!!
What a rally mates! WHAT A RALLY!!!!

[cali]

Unbelievable!!!!!

[Rally Hokkaido]

Yes! Hahaha, as an old guy I feel really happy, right now!

[BigWorm]

The victory smoke for Danos must taste beautiful

[EstWRC]

he is the best motorsports talent ever and im so lucky to have witnessed it with my own eyes.


there will never be better.

[m-ast]

Amazing final stage, amazing event, bring on Australia

[KKS]

Brilliant!!! JUST SIMPLY BRILLIANT!!!!!!!

[fegh]

Simply the BEST

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[er88]

He's a GOD. What a win. Congrats and nice to see Ogier congratulating him on the roof

[BigWorm]

Ogier 204
Neuville 201
Tänak 181

[mknight]

Posted this 16. October:


Have to say I am really surprised how little faith people have in Loeb in the pickems...

*smug*

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loeb has to come back full-time.

[EstWRC]

Ogier 204
Neuville 201
Tänak 181

Ott will win it...he has to.

[itix]

Yesssssssss! And some of you ridiculed the betting sites having him as a winner!

[mknight]

Ogier 204
Neuville 201
Tänak 181

MSport could get Ogier 10s penalty and he will only loose his 4 PS points dropping just behind, will they?

[T16]

Superb job by Loeb.
Great result for Ogier and Evans (please give him a drive next year) in the Eco-Boost powered Fiesta.

[BigWorm]

Ott will win it...he has to.

Outsider, you just never know. But what can Ogier do? First on the road, is 3 points going to be enough?

[Ds3]

Loeb is a thief....

[EstWRC]

Loeb got more points with 3 events than Meeke with 6 events.

[AL14]

wtf if driver and car are from the same country they play the national anthem twice?

[KKS]

And they are so happy. Brilliant Seb and Danos! They deserve it!
Oh..

[tommeke_B]

Ogier will now be first on the road in Australia, with a very small advantage in terms of points... This puncture could be the best thing that could happen to Neuville.

[jiipee64]

I just love this sport.

[EstWRC]

Loeb is a thief....


https://i.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/789/439/d8a.jpg

[BigWorm]

MSport could get Ogier 10s penalty and he will only loose his 4 PS points dropping just behind, will they?

We will see, I got the impression of both Ogier and Neuville that they want to take every point they can. But that's just what they say to the media, will be interesting to see what happens.

[gorganl2000]

just wow...Loeb has done it again
i'm very happy for him, Elena and the team

[sonnybobiche]

And now, the national anthem of the 2nd placed driver!

[tommeke_B]

Are time penalties added to the power stage time now? I think they're not? So having a penalty won't take any PS points from Ogier...

[cali]

Ogier will now be first on the road in Australia, with a very small advantage in terms of points... This puncture could be the best thing that could happen to Neuville.Indeed, before the event my hopes were that Tänak will be 3rd in points and some 3 pts behind. Thierry has a small advantage in AUS.

[Simmi]

Would love to be out on the piss in Salou tonight with Loeb and Elena.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

@MSportLtd
Our World Champions had to settle for second place this weekend, but they're back in the lead of the championship and it was another double podium for the EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRC courtesy of @SebOgier and @ElfynEvans 👊 #WRC #FordPerformance #RallyRACC https://t.co/UwXVYBz18J

[AL14]

We will tell about today to our grandchildren one day. What championship, what a rally and what a legend has won it.

[sonnybobiche]

Citroen really, really needed this.

Budar is a great leader, but a win is irreplaceable.

[steve.mandzij]

Ott will win it...he has to.The only thing disappointing about this season is that the driver who deserved the championship the most now has only a mathematical chance of the title.

[mknight]

Are time penalties added to the power stage time now? I think they're not? So having a penalty won't take any PS points from Ogier...

I think that any time penalty taken on last day results in you loosing PS points.

[itix]

The only thing disappointing about this season is that the driver who deserved the championship the most now has only a mathematical chance of the title.Have to agree with you there. We all know he should really have won since he has consistently been the quickest.

[EstWRC]

Ogier just said they need every point so definitely arent taking the penalty

[jonkka]

I think that any time penalty taken on last day results in you loosing PS points.

No, only if you do it to affect running order of the PS.

[BigWorm]

Ogier's not wrong. Neuville has to score the points now, the pressure is on him.

[KKS]

so Ott need a full points at Aus
Ogier not higher than 7th with 0 PS points
Neuville not higher than 5th with 0 PS points
to make Ott a champion.

[mknight]

Have to agree with you there. We all know he should really have won since he has consistently been the quickest.

Neuville has consistently been quickest in 2017.

[itix]

Agree..
Neuville has consistently been quickest in 2017.

[WRC1]

lol Neuville saying its Evans fault

and exectly this behavior from Mr Neuville is it why i hope he will NOT be Champion, not this year, not next year, NEVER!!!

[focus206]

Great win by Loeb, he's just that amazing. Great rally by Ogier, now he leads and will have to sweep in Australia. I think to get the championship Neuville will need a perfect rally in Australia.

[focus206]

Looking at the PS, if Sordo would get a 10 seconds time penalty now, would it affect the PS times and drop him behind Neuville, so making Neuville gain 1 point? Just theoretical question, I don't think they'd do it.

[steve.mandzij]

Neuville has consistently been quickest in 2017.So? Tanak was consistently quickest this year. Neuville made the same mistake as last year of not capitalizing on Ogier's misfortune and now he's got himself into this situation he didn't have to get into.

He relaxed and now he's paying the price.

[er88]

If you win a championship you deserve it. Nuff said

[bugwrx]

so Ott need a full points at Aus
Ogier not higher than 7th with 0 PS points
Neuville not higher than 5th with 0 PS points
to make Ott a champion.

Considering how unlucky has Ott been last two rallies, still not too bad for him .. by far the fastest driver in the world

[BigWorm]

Looking at the PS, if Sordo would get a 10 seconds time penalty now, would it affect the PS times and drop him behind Neuville, so making Neuville gain 1 point? Just theoretical question, I don't think they'd do it.

Sordo would have to retire or be disqualified to drop his points now, 10s time penalty would be added to his overall time, not stage time.

I don't think Hyundai wants to give up on those points he brings for the manu champ.

[jonkka]

Looking at the PS, if Sordo would get a 10 seconds time penalty now, would it affect the PS times and drop him behind Neuville, so making Neuville gain 1 point? Just theoretical question, I don't think they'd do it.

If you mean now, after the stage, then the answer is no. But had he jump started or done anything else worth a time penalty during the stage, then yes as per Art 13.3.4.

[Eli]

What a rally, What a living Legend, 6 years after his last visit here,only doing 3 events this year...hats off, congrats to Loeb & Elena, and a very well deserved win for Citroen who really needed this after a year of drought....Shame Breen couldn't get it right this time, hopefully better luck next time in Australia. Imho, Ogier will take the title down under, he has the psychological advantage knowing he's done it 5 times before and won Australia 4 times before being 1st on the road, but just as Neuviile said last time out in GB, it won't be over until they cross the finish line in Coffs Harbour.

[cali]

Actually saw the rock now on WRC+ and it was there before Evans passed through...Evans avoided it nicely.

[N.O.T]

wow... history was made today by the greatest motorsport driver of all times and ages... wow.

Lets see if potato dog has what it takes in Oz.

[dimviii]

Loeb had also his chief mechanic from his championship years.Is the guy who takes in his hug Budar at video.
https://twitter.com/CitroenRacing/status/1056524289527164930

[Eli]

wow... history was made today by the greatest motorsport driver of all times and ages... wow.

Lets see if potato dog has what it takes in Oz.

Probably Ogier will take it, and I bet he's happy to see that C3's potential ahead of next season.

[René]

And now what about it : https://bit.ly/2O9sGnr

[Ds3]

Citroen and Loeb has always done things only to hurt Ogier. If we see one more time the same scenario here in Spain, I'm starting an open petition for Seb Ogier not to go to Citroen Racing next year.

[Mirek]

Citroen and Loeb has always done things only to hurt Ogier. If we see one more time the same scenario here in Spain, I'm starting an open petition for Seb Ogier not to go to Citroen Racing next year.

This is so wrong that I have to quote it.

[N.O.T]

Citroen and Loeb has always done things only to hurt Ogier. If we see one more time the same scenario here in Spain, I'm starting an open petition for Seb Ogier not to go to Citroen Racing next year.

Its normal when you have to choose between a champion and a tv presenters lap dog...

Neuville needs 2nd or a win in Oz and he wins the championship no matter what... if he finishes lower then Ogier controls the fate.

[Allez Andruet]

What an instant classic this was. And on so many levels.

[N.O.T]

i would pay money to have that useless dog slowson back to hear what he has to say... lol

of course we had some other autistic boys over the years saying crap about THE GREATEST DRIVER OF ALL TIMES but probably they overdose on anti depressants right now...

[wia5958]

Neuville won't take the title he's far too fragile mentality wise. Only a mechanical failure from ogier will secure it

[EstWRC]

This is so wrong that I have to quote it.

not only wrong, its also one of the funniest things i have ever read here.

[dimviii]

i would pay money to have that useless dog slowson back to hear what he has to say... lol

of course we had some other autistic boys over the years saying crap about THE GREATEST DRIVER OF ALL TIMES but probably they overdose on anti depressants right now...

Loeb won because citroen applied team orders to his team mates
Loeb won because he had tailored for him cars
Loeb hadnt got good competition at his era.
Loeb won because he was at the team with the biggest budget.
Finally KKK has won with most different manufactures.

[mknight]

So? Tanak was consistently quickest this year. Neuville made the same mistake as last year of not capitalizing on Ogier's misfortune and now he's got himself into this situation he didn't have to get into.

He relaxed and now he's paying the price.

Tanak this year is in many ways similar to Neuville last year. Fastest but also trying just a bit too much resulting in small things that in the end cost a lot of points.

This year Neuville "relaxed" in a good way and is not making unnecessary mistakes, the only ones are GB and Finland. Sometimes the pace just isn't there from the car (Corsica, GER, FIN). He is on completely different level mentality-wise than last year. Ogier has POR, GER, TUR mistakes.
Which is why I think they have about same chance going to AUS (due to start position).

What I don't like is the double-standards in relation to Tanak. Last year everyone agreed it was Neuville's own fault he didn't win the title.
This year Tanak is always "unlucky". Sure sometimes he is, but looking at the bigger picture over multiple rallies it's not without reason.

If you try to look at it without fan- or anti-fan glasses there is little difference between Neuville in 2017 and Tanak in 2018. Just that one is more popular among fans than the other. I don't really have a preference as a fan, but as usual I feel the need to balance the one-way comments.

[EstWRC]

its not a double standard, its the difference

has Tänak made any stupid driving errors this year like Neuville did last year ?

NO...that is the biggest difference.

[jparker]

Probably Ogier will take it, and I bet he's happy to see that C3's potential ahead of next season.
Probably yes, probably not .......

[mknight]

its not a double standard, its the difference

has Tänak made any stupid driving errors this year like Neuville did last year ?

NO...that is the biggest difference.

It is double standard and you are certainly not qualified to tell the difference

Tanak this year mistakes:
Sweden
Sardinia

Borderline:
GB (lower setup than anyone else, 42s lead)
Spain (33s lead and big cut)

[EstWRC]

lol. Who are you to say who is qualified or not? What mistake in Sardinia?

[Sulland]

Loeb was and is a fantastic driver, not only in rally, but also in racing.

if he needs another challenge, the logical step be endurance racing. But would be cool to see him in formula 2, to se if he mastered single seaters as well.

But I think he feels he still has something to prove in Rally Cross. But driving rally cross, he can not use the tactician Loeb, the starts are too important.

Winning in WRC from 2002 till 2018 is extreem. And this year in a car that no-one seems to master has to be embarrasing to the drivers in Citroen!

[N.O.T]

I would like tanak to win it... it does not matter for me if Ogier or Neuville win it... i dislike them the same for different reasons...

plus this years championship is garbage when a semi retired white hair old dude returns in a shit car that has not won the whole year and ridicules you like some dog waiting on death row in some chinese restaurant...

[macebig]

Toyota 331
Hyundai 319
Ford 305
Should be the first time in ages 3 manufacturers have a title chance at the final event.

[mknight]

lol. Who are you to say who is qualified or not? What mistake in Sardinia?

It's not very hard to see you are a big Tanak fan is it *points at the icon + country*, even without reading a single post of yours.

Ruining the radiator when you are the only one out of top 5 that didn't lift or break on a jump is mistake.

[jparker]

its not a double standard, its the difference

has Tänak made any stupid driving errors this year like Neuville did last year ?

NO...that is the biggest difference.


Shut up please, and tell your guy to learn how to jump.

[Mintexmemory]

Its normal when you have to choose between a champion and a tv presenters lap dog...

Neuville needs 2nd or a win in Oz and he wins the championship no matter what... if he finishes lower then Ogier controls the fate.
I take it maths isn’t your forté - Neuville wins Australia but no PS = 25 Ogier second with max PS = 23 so would be WDC by 1 point. Not only does Neuville have to finish ahead of Ogier he must have enough tyre left to outscore Ogier in the PS - lotsa luck with that

[brianjai]

Tanak this year is in many ways similar to Neuville last year. Fastest but also trying just a bit too much resulting in small things that in the end cost a lot of points.

This year Neuville "relaxed" in a good way and is not making unnecessary mistakes, the only ones are GB and Finland. Sometimes the pace just isn't there from the car (Corsica, GER, FIN). He is on completely different level mentality-wise than last year. Ogier has POR, GER, TUR mistakes.
Which is why I think they have about same chance going to AUS (due to start position).

What I don't like is the double-standards in relation to Tanak. Last year everyone agreed it was Neuville's own fault he didn't win the title.
This year Tanak is always "unlucky". Sure sometimes he is, but looking at the bigger picture over multiple rallies it's not without reason.

If you try to look at it without fan- or anti-fan glasses there is little difference between Neuville in 2017 and Tanak in 2018. Just that one is more popular among fans than the other. I don't really have a preference as a fan, but as usual I feel the need to balance the one-way comments.
I agree. Both Neuville and Tanak are suffered by weakness of the car (fragile tarmac suspension in Hyundai and fragile under protection of Toyota)
However, as a Tanak fan, Tanak is way faster this year (setting top 3 times on every rallies this year) than Neuville last year (failed to capitalize Ogier's retirement in Finland) and Neuville has a obvious driving error by crashing in Sweden's SSS and timing error by checking late on the stage in GB which costs him the title, while Tanak's error is mostly not his fault (Catalunya, Sardinia and GB are the more debatable one). I think Tanak deserves more than Neuville, but they are both unlucky

[Mirek]

And now what about it : https://bit.ly/2O9sGnr

Let that stupid thread sleep please ;)

[N.O.T]

I take it maths isn’t your forté - Neuville wins Australia but no PS = 25 Ogier second with max PS = 23 so would be WDC by 1 point. Not only does Neuville have to finish ahead of Ogier he must have enough tyre left to outscore Ogier in the PS - lotsa luck with that

its hard to imagine that the rally winner will not score any points in ps if he goes flat out... but anyway you are correct the PS will also play its part.

what are your plans for today ? have the anti depressants kicked in yet after seeing THE GREATEST DRIVER OF ALL TIMES TAKING A HUGE SHIT IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY THAT ONE OF THE USELESS DOGS WILL LIFT IN AUSTRALIA ?

[Mirek]

Citroen and Loeb has always done things only to hurt Ogier. If we see one more time the same scenario here in Spain, I'm starting an open petition for Seb Ogier not to go to Citroen Racing next year.

Sorry, I can't resits...
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DXnP-vrW4AAxcoL.jpg

[Ds3]

The FIA should change this rule by various guest pilots to start in such good positions (10). Let guests start 1.

[tommeke_B]

Fantastic jokes @Ds3, keep going. Although the chances are small, I really hope to see Loeb again in more events next year. Would be funny if he returns full-time at Citroën to ridicule Ogier for a year.

[focus206]

The FIA should change this rule by various guest pilots to start in such good positions (10). Let guests start 1.

How much does it hurt?

[EstWRC]

Great to see NOT so happy after a long time.

[N.O.T]

The FIA should change this rule by various guest pilots to start in such good positions (10). Let guests start 1.

You see what you do to little kids Mr LOEB ?

Are you happy that you make little kids cry ?

YOU MONSTER !!!!

[stefanvv]

Toyota 331
Hyundai 319
Ford 305
Should be the first time in ages 3 manufacturers have a title chance at the final event.

Actually it's 306 for M-Sport, but not much difference anyway, probably they won't take the title.

[N.O.T]

Actually it's 306 for M-Sport, but not much difference anyway, probably they won't take the title.

oh look another doggy is out of its trashcan... must be hard for you today.

[steve.mandzij]

A driver to commend from this rally is Evans for me. He was a little off the pace the last two days but he put in a good PS and finally got himself a podium. I don't see much hope for him next year but at least he's got a silver lining to hold onto.

[dodge33cymru]

Wow, what a championship and what an event.

RC1, RC2 and RC4 all with a tiny gap between them after 3+ hours of SSs.

Neuville looked absolutely gutted at the end, but honestly I think it's probably better to be a point behind than a point ahead with Australia next up.

No point in people arguing about which car is best at this or that and which driver is best; it's a team game and they're all combinations and no-one being the perfect combination is what has made this year thrilling. Title wise, this is the same feeling I had watching rallying in the 90s where the titles often came down to two or three drivers at the last round; can't wait for Australia.

Great drive by Evans too, these last two events make me think he should get another year if M Sport can afford him over a paying driver. If not, get him in that new R5 and go Skoda-hunting.

Really happy in my decision to go out to Spain to watch Loeb; originally thought it may be his last event but I'm sure now with no WRX drive he'll be thinking about it next year. Or give him some R5/ERC events to show off that car. Was a pleasure to watch and I was getting very misty-eyed on the edge of my seat watching the end there. For sure I hope he has some more rallying in him.

Shout out to some lower-order drivers who looked quick when I saw them on certain stages; Huttenen seems to have been quick on Friday in parts, Franceschi I've not heard of but looked really fast when I saw him, both Solans' especially Nils whose speed on Saturday was astounding, Camilli who was a great advert for the VW (anyone know why he retired? VW mechanics wouldn't tell me; the airbox was cracked but no other sign of damage) and of course to Rovanpera for willing on tarmac against Kopecky and by dominating his class relative to the winning margins in the other two!

Ramble over.

[rage82]

Podium:https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181028/646565ee08e33c766c269cf7660268ef.jpg

Sent from my Redmi Note 5 using Tapatalk

[dodge33cymru]

Oh, and honourable mention to Fabio Andolfi, just because he drives like an absolute nutjob and he hit some piece of scenery every time he's passed me in Wales and Spain.

[Mintexmemory]

its hard to imagine that the rally winner will not score any points in ps if he goes flat out... but anyway you are correct the PS will also play its part.

what are your plans for today ? have the anti depressants kicked in yet after seeing THE GREATEST DRIVER OF ALL TIMES TAKING A HUGE SHIT IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY THAT ONE OF THE USELESS DOGS WILL LIFT IN AUSTRALIA ?
If he hadn’t played pick and choose perhaps I’d be more impressed - wasn’t exactly a return to the days of true dominance though, now was it?

[AL14]

Consiprationist theories on DS3-Loeb and Ogier are beautiful. This forum never end to amaze me lol.

Neuville-Tanak parallelism is interesting but we have a lot of differences: Tanak didn't make Neuville's silly mistakes of last year but on the other hand it is true that Tanak has a part of fault on the problems he has had this year and it wasn't only mechanical issues and bad luck.

[cali]

Consiprationist theories on DS3-Loeb and Ogier are beautiful. This forum never end to amaze me lol.

Neuville-Tanak parallelism is interesting but we have a lot of differences: Tanak didn't make Neuville's silly mistakes of last year but on the other hand it is true that Tanak has a part of fault on the problems he has had this year and it wasn't only mechanical issues and bad luck.This happens when in every rally you go for a win. Cannot blame the drivers for that. Only last year in Sweden the mistake of Neuville was silly but otherwise they both have gone for it.

[tommeke_B]

https://www.facebook.com/299815740127818/videos/192069571707493/ Who thought Elena could do that! :D

[mknight]

Completely agree, but often settling for less than win gives more points at the end of the season. Ogier was superb at that last year, Neuville is getting good at it this year.

[René]

https://www.facebook.com/299815740127818/videos/192069571707493/ Who thought Elena could do that! :D

Other drivers do that too, except that they often forget to get out of their car before :)

[Rally Power]

What a fanatstic rally! Honestly it’s hard to understand all this talk about Loeb win making Ogier, or any other current WRC driver, look ridicule. Just like Meeke in 2016, Loeb run a few events without caring about the drivers championship and despite some mistakes (in Mexico and Corsica) was able to show a strong pace and get a win.

That’s certainly great for Loeb, Elena, Citroen and the WRC, but it’s even greater to have a WDC epic figth, wich only will be decided in the last rally (stage, hopefully) of the season, thanks to the effort and talent of 3 fantastic drivers: Ogier, Neuvllle and Tanak. Congrats to all of them and also to the amazing WRC rising star, Rovanpera.

[N.O.T]

If he hadn’t played pick and choose perhaps I’d be more impressed - wasn’t exactly a return to the days of true dominance though, now was it?

yes it makes a difference being in your 30s and a full time rally driver than a semi retired 44 guy...

no surprise you live in london... lol...

[AL14]

This happens when in every rally you go for a win. Cannot blame the drivers for that. Only last year in Sweden the mistake of Neuville was silly but otherwise they both have gone for it.

Not blaming but at the end who makes more points wins the championship and the less mistakes you make the more points you get, along with victories.

[mknight]

A driver to commend from this rally is Evans for me. He was a little off the pace the last two days but he put in a good PS and finally got himself a podium. I don't see much hope for him next year but at least he's got a silver lining to hold onto.

He made Malcolm's choice a bit harder. Question is if it's too late. His only good rally of the season. (Portugal is really hard to count when "everyone" had issues.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

A brilliant last-minute tyre choice made the difference for Loeb today. Not just a great driver but an inspired one.

Ogier did what he could with poor tyre choices all rally and made no mistakes in all the difficult rally conditions.

[dimviii]

Yesterday Elena was streesed about the rally.Well captured at this video.

https://www.facebook.com/DanielElenaOfficiel/videos/413970209137223/

[Gregor-y]

If he hadn’t played pick and choose perhaps I’d be more impressed - wasn’t exactly a return to the days of true dominance though, now was it?

That he did it at all is still awfully impressive. Not at all what I was expecting this time around.

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/oUh9Oq6s1qc

[dimviii]

eWRC-results

New record for @SebastienLoeb - the biggest gap between the first and the last #WRC win. What a LEGEND @CitroenRacing

https://twitter.com/KiwiWRCfan/status/1056534238810394624

what a guy! lol
https://twitter.com/DanosElena/status/1056585943065522177

[rallysupportnl]

Video WRC Rally Catalunya 2018:

https://youtu.be/CF0KaHicy7o

[itix]

Do we actually know what happened with Loeb on the last stage? He clearly had issues turning in on right turns.

Can't find any info at all and I had to cut the live feed and run as soon as the stage was complete.

[dimviii]

"It was intense all weekend, we gave everything, I'm a little tired, we got closer to the head after a very difficult Friday, I was hoping to finish in front of Ogier to widen the gap. Final result is not so bad, we will not have to open the road in Australia It could be an advantage I was a little disappointed in the Power Stage because we were busy making a good result, but I realized that the scenario was not so bad, it would have been difficult to open in Australia with two points ahead.Thereafter, it is to finish the championship in beauty and to win the last round. in Australia, I took a lot of seconds and was second behind Ogier, and we hope that the scenario will be a little similar this year, "Neuville told the microphone of our colleague Olivier Gaspard, RTBF's special correspondent in Catalonia.
"Loeb did a demonstration this weekend, we drove very fast over the weekend, we were a little on the edge of the razor.It's the case for everyone, we must be able to dance on the wire. The loss of the head of the championship Oddly, it even gave me a smile I already thought of Australia, it is a rally with a sweeping important It is complicated without having a comfortable lead Fate has decided otherwise in view of our puncture at the end of the Power Stage.It will not open in Australia, it is not worse after all.I think we have a 60% chance to get the champion, 30% for Ogier and 10% for Tanak.In case of a tie, he is the first to win a rally: it would be Ogier because he won the Monte Carlo, so we have 4 points of delay, "added Nicolas Gilsoul, co-driver of our compatriot.
https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/rallye/wrc/detail_neuville-le-resultat-n-est-pas-si-mauvais-on-ne-devra-pas-ouvrir-la-route-en-australie?id=10058821

[N.O.T]

I cannot see Neuville winning this championship to be honest... he is nothing. He threw away a 29 point lead... pfffttt he will probably retire trying to gain as much as he can on Ogier.

[Tarmop]

It's not very hard to see you are a big Tanak fan is it *points at the icon + country*, even without reading a single post of yours.

Ruining the radiator when you are the only one out of top 5 that didn't lift or break on a jump is mistake.

We`ve been through this and you are still claiming it. Did Neuville lift? But otherwise, well, yeah, bad luck or a mistake, when one had succeeded in it the previous five times and happened to have a hole dug by Neuville on the last one, not for us behind the computers to tell. jparker is ofc really smart :D

ESTwrc, why all that drama, it`s just rally, just one season, plenty of chanches left for everyone next year...and the year after etc. Even this year, if you think about Moya/Sainz.

Great to see Loeb doing what he did, after a failed SS1 would never have guessed.

[stefanvv]

Do we actually know what happened with Loeb on the last stage? He clearly had issues turning in on right turns.

Can't find any info at all and I had to cut the live feed and run as soon as the stage was complete.

IMO Porter was exaggerating. There was some dirt on the road after some cuts from previous drivers and he seemed to understeer, that's all.

[tommeke_B]

Nothing more than panic from the presenters indeed.

[focus206]

I cannot see Neuville winning this championship to be honest... he is nothing. He threw away a 29 point lead... pfffttt he will probably retire trying to gain as much as he can on Ogier.

Either we get another perfect rally from Neuville like Sardinia or it will be very difficult indeed, even when not opening the road. Of course Ogier could run into troubles but that doesn't happen often.

[mknight]

We`ve been through this and you are still claiming it. Did Neuville lift?

Everyone else in top 5 what has onboard on wrc+ either lifted or was even hard on the brakes, most notably Latvala, Lappi and Ogier. Neuville onboard wasn't up last time I checked.

[dimviii]

what caused Neuvilles puncture

http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_10_2018/post-135-0-89254000-1540748330.jpg

[Tarmop]

Everyone else in top 5 what has onboard on wrc+ either lifted or was even hard on the brakes, most notably Latvala, Lappi and Ogier. Neuville onboard wasn't up last time I checked.

And we went over that also, Latvala was warned by Tänak right after his fail. It was Lappi and Ogier taking it slower.

[Mintexmemory]

yes it makes a difference being in your 30s and a full time rally driver than a semi retired 44 guy...

no surprise you live in london... lol...
Don’t you wish you did? What happened in Corsica and Mexico? Arse/ plate. You missed your calling, there isn’t an international Greek stand up comedian.

[stefanvv]

what caused Neuvilles puncture


Jeez, that guy need to get a grip if he wants the title.

[stefanvv]

A driver to commend from this rally is Evans for me. He was a little off the pace the last two days but he put in a good PS and finally got himself a podium. I don't see much hope for him next year but at least he's got a silver lining to hold onto.

In general I agree, good rally for him. On Friday he wasn't off the pace, even managed to be ahead of Loeb. I expected little more from him on Saturday on the wet tarmac though (he had some remarkable performance in Corsica in such conditions 2-3 years ago). On Sunday all Fords seemed off the pace on the morning loop, only one certain Sebastien realized what they need to do with the car to be faster on the second. Probably all credit goes to him if his settings were copied. I hope Evans has learned something from his last 2 years.

[itix]

IMO Porter was exaggerating. There was some dirt on the road after some cuts from previous drivers and he seemed to understeer, that's all.I'm not so sure. He lost considerable time on the second half of the stage and he took huge risks with his driving as if to compensate for something.

It also looked to me like he was turning a lot more than the corner "wanted" only on right hand turns.

[T16]

Looks like Loeb’s Tyre choice today wasn’t too much guess and risk... says he was sure and they referred back to a test he did in similar conditions recently and that the hard worked, even on slightly damp surface.
What a performance, it’ll go down in history.
I’m also beginning to think he might want a crack at number ten after this result.... wonder if Ogier has it in his contract that Loeb can’t join the team full time?

[dimviii]

Don’t you wish you did? What happened in Corsica and Mexico? Arse/ plate. You missed your calling, there isn’t an international Greek stand up comedian.

https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xL7Wm38P_CU/fit=1000x750/EDB-SEBASTIEN-LOEB-17-07-12-18.jpg
https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mSel2DH..0c/fit=1000x750/EDB-SEBASTIEN-LOEB-040813-16.jpg

[T16]

https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xL7Wm38P_CU/fit=1000x750/EDB-SEBASTIEN-LOEB-17-07-12-18.jpg
https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mSel2DH..0c/fit=1000x750/EDB-SEBASTIEN-LOEB-040813-16.jpg

He just gets better! Ice cold beer and sucking the life out of a gitanes. What’s not to like.

[dimviii]

https://www.fia.com/news/wrc-loeb-six-years-later-its-amazing-feeling

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/2k-kITMkp7o

[KKS]

https://twitter.com/CitroenRacing/status/1056555673360785408
Danos - mostly a same :D

[Ucci]

What a rally, What a living Legend, 6 years after his last visit here,only doing 3 events this year...hats off, congrats to Loeb & Elena, and a very well deserved win for Citroen who really needed this after a year of drought....Shame Breen couldn't get it right this time, hopefully better luck next time in Australia. Imho, Ogier will take the title down under, he has the psychological advantage knowing he's done it 5 times before and won Australia 4 times before being 1st on the road, but just as Neuviile said last time out in GB, it won't be over until they cross the finish line in Coffs Harbour.
100% agree. Loeb-living legend. Ogier-take the title....

[Tarmop]

That does not look like a normal cigarette in Loeb`s hands. :D Secret of speed?

[N.O.T]

This year is similar to 2010 i think where hirvonen was very close of winning the title against Loeb and after losing it he just broke as a driver...

so its time for mr neuville to either take the title or prove he is a natural born potato loser !!!

[Jarek Z]

https://twitter.com/CitroenRacing/status/1056555673360785408
Danos - mostly a same :D

Ha ha ha! :) This guy is amazing! 45 years old and still keeps in shape. I have never been his great fan, but have enormous respect for his achievements, even more after reading his biography. A true legend of our sport.
http://www.sebastienloeb.com/ma-ligne-de-conduite-lautobiographie-actualisee-de-sebastien-loeb/

P.S. Elena in great shape too! :D

[Ucci]

Loeb won because he had tailored for him cars.
But not C3WRC

[Myrvold]

P.S. Elena in great shape too! :D

I like to say that "round" is a shape as well when people ask me, when I am going to get in shape! :)

[SubaruNorway]

My first time in Spain for Rally Catalunya and it didn't disappoint! Bit too many people in the city so only went so service on Wednesday and didn't even bother trying to get to the podium, but stages are more important :)
https://youtu.be/qMu1tOds8-Q

Sorry for the cracking sound some places, think i got some china copy mic in Barcelona after loosing mine on the previous rally.

[EstWRC]

My first time in Spain for Rally Catalunya and it didn't disappoint! Bit too many people in the city so only went so service on Wednesday and didn't even bother trying to get to the podium, but stages are more important :)
https://youtu.be/qMu1tOds8-Q

Sorry for the cracking sound some places, think i got some china copy mic in Barcelona after loosing mine on the previous rally.

i was so looking for that place whats right in the beginning of the vid with Tänak.

thanks...great vid like always

[AnttiL]

I'm still speechless, such a great rally.

[Essaj]

My first time in Spain for Rally Catalunya and it didn't disappoint! Bit too many people in the city so only went so service on Wednesday and didn't even bother trying to get to the podium, but stages are more important :)
https://youtu.be/qMu1tOds8-Q

Sorry for the cracking sound some places, think i got some china copy mic in Barcelona after loosing mine on the previous rally.

There is couple spots where I wouldn't personally be spectating but once again amazing video! Probably the best WRC videos in YouTube :)

[tc10a]

My first time in Spain for Rally Catalunya and it didn't disappoint! Bit too many people in the city so only went so service on Wednesday and didn't even bother trying to get to the podium, but stages are more important :)
https://youtu.be/qMu1tOds8-Q



Including some completely irresponsible places to stand. Maybe in some calm day think about the consequences for the sport and your life if the luck is not on your side one day...

[SubaruNorway]

Including some completely irresponsible places to stand. Maybe in some calm day think about the consequences for the sport and your life if the luck is not on your side one day...
Some places look worse and closer on video than what they really are, like the at the first clip there is and edge you can get down behind if someone would hook on the concrete or bank but it seems quite easy flat there. Where Veiby had a little moment there is a tree you can get behind. I haven't really had a close call in my 14 years of filming just to let you know. Haven't had time to look at any other video's but hopefully i got some places everyone else haven't done or from a different angle :)

Most dangerous thing in Spain is the road driving culture...

[Essaj]

Some places look worse and closer on video than what they really are, like the at the first clip there is and edge you can get down behind if someone would hook on the concrete or bank but it seems quite easy flat there. Where Veiby had a little moment there is a tree you can get behind. I haven't really had a close call in my 14 years of filming just to let you know. Haven't had time to look at any other video's but hopefully i got some places everyone else haven't done or from a different angle :)

Most dangerous thing in Spain is the road driving culture...

:D Sounds fair, Keep up your awesome work! and stay safe!

[tc10a]

Some places look worse and closer on video than what they really are, like the at the first clip there is and edge you can get down behind if someone would hook on the concrete or bank but it seems quite easy flat there...

Looking on Tänaks onboard about your place: good luck going down fast enough on a place where the cars go 160+ km/h and you stand on / below road level next to the road.
Physics mostly will be not on your side. I don't want to advise you - just a reminder that life has no rewind button.

[MartijnS]

Good video again but obviously you can’t justify the first spot.

[tommeke_B]

Of course it's each up to their own to think and decide. Many years ago I was often in places I would never stand again, got much more cautious, fortunately. Even if you try to avoid it, some danger will always be involved in spectating a rally. Things go wrong every now and then, sadly every year some spectators get killed somewhere, more often than not they are photographers or filmers. I hope it will never happen to somebody I know personally...

[Essaj]

Of course it's each up to their own to think and decide. Many years ago I was often in places I would never stand again, got much more cautious, fortunately. Even if you try to avoid it, some danger will always be involved in spectating a rally. Things go wrong every now and then, sadly every year some spectators get killed somewhere, more often than not they are photographers or filmers. I hope it will never happen to somebody I know personally...

Dosen't matter if you as a spectator/filmer/marshall decice to take the risk but if something bad happens it's not just you who lost your life or got injured badly. But it's also horrible situation for a driver who might have hit you, no matter if the person was professional filmer, small kid or a parent of 3 it always affects someone (kids, parents, family, friends etc.). We can't have any more casualties in WRC or the whole sport of rallying as we know it could be over.

[SubaruNorway]

Looking on Tänaks onboard about your place: good luck going down fast enough on a place where the cars go 160+ km/h and you stand on / below road level next to the road.
Physics mostly will be not on your side. I don't want to advise you - just a reminder that life has no rewind button.

It looks very undramatic, would love to hear a drivers view on that place and i was only there for a few drivers i trust.
I was a bit amazed at their precision on the fast right with the tree on the inside, i haven't got the right angle but when stopping the video every driver must be less than 30cm from the tree. It's always a risk calculation, i feel less safe if there are people around me because you never know what they will do if something happens.

Btw, what is it with Spanish drivers getting so mad when you overtake them when they are doing 100kph in a 120 zone?
Two times I've had people tailgating me by 2m in the dark afterwards now. I was driving a Fiat Panda, but still!

[jonkka]

While typing up the results, I realized that some of the old gang were present at the same event again (and found some other parallels too). For comparison, let's refer to 2003 Rally GB where top three was:

Petter Solberg (back here at the wheel of Polo R5)
Sebastien Loeb (back here and winning this time, in 2003 he bowed under Citroen's wishes to make sure of manu title and finished 2nd)
Tommi Makinen (his last WRC event as a driver in 2003, now a team manager)

Also:
JML was 10th then, 7th this time.
Gwyndaf Evans was 27th then, his son Elfyn fourth here.
Kalle Rovanpera's father Harri retired then, his son won WRC2 here.
Eamond Boland was competing then, as he was here too.
As was Jan Kopecky.
Meeke was competing then, could have been competing here too, but...

The one that I was looking for is Timo Rautiainen, then co-driver for Marcus Gronholm. He's been FIA appointed steward on many rallies this season but not this time, thus not extending the already long list above.

All this, despite 15 years has passed.

[Norm75]

Loeb won because citroen applied team orders to his team mates
Loeb won because he had tailored for him cars
Loeb hadnt got good competition at his era.
Loeb won because he was at the team with the biggest budget.
Finally KKK has won with most different manufactures.

Sorry to drag this up from several pages back, but really!
When Loeb hit the scene in the top level o wrc, it was immediately clear he had what it takes to become (multiple) wdc. In an era that had not only Citroen and ford, but also Subaru, mitsubishi, Peugeot, Skoda, Hyundai and possibly seat (if I remember correctly) as manu entry so a lot more competition

[mas-racing]

https://i.postimg.cc/jjm75RdS/sf2-spa-2018.jpg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Jikow5b83s&feature=youtu.be)

[cali]

Sorry to drag this up from several pages back, but really!
When Loeb hit the scene in the top level o wrc, it was immediately clear he had what it takes to become (multiple) wdc. In an era that had not only Citroen and ford, but also Subaru, mitsubishi, Peugeot, Skoda, Hyundai and possibly seat (if I remember correctly) as manu entry so a lot more competitionClearly you don't understand sarcasm

[turves]

While typing up the results, I realized that some of the old gang were present at the same event again (and found some other parallels too). For comparison, let's refer to 2003 Rally GB where top three was:

Petter Solberg (back here at the wheel of Polo R5)
Sebastien Loeb (back here and winning this time, in 2003 he bowed under Citroen's wishes to make sure of manu title and finished 2nd)
Tommi Makinen (his last WRC event as a driver in 2003, now a team manager)

Also:
JML was 10th then, 7th this time.
Gwyndaf Evans was 27th then, his son Elfyn fourth here.
Kalle Rovanpera's father Harri retired then, his son won WRC2 here.
Eamond Boland was competing then, as he was here too.
As was Jan Kopecky.
Meeke was competing then, could have been competing here too, but...

The one that I was looking for is Timo Rautiainen, then co-driver for Marcus Gronholm. He's been FIA appointed steward on many rallies this season but not this time, thus not extending the already long list above.

All this, despite 15 years has passed.

2003 was the last time 3 drivers went in to the last round with a chance of winning the Championship, I think? Burns, Loeb and Solberg, although we know sadly Burnsie didn't get to compete in GB.

Also the last time someone not named Seb won the Championship - that one is pending a few more weeks and could easily be cancelled!

[macebig]

2003 was the last time 3 drivers went in to the last round with a chance of winning the Championship, I think? Burns, Loeb and Solberg, although we know sadly Burnsie didn't get to compete in GB.

Also the last time someone not named Seb won the Championship - that one is pending a few more weeks and could easily be cancelled!

Including Burns it was 4 drivers going into GB.
Loeb 63
Sainz 63
P Solberg 62
Burns 58

[dimviii]

http://forum-rallye.com/uploads/monthly_10_2018/post-4-0-71656300-1540805535.png

[dimviii]

nice pass at 0,24,there are 4-5 more cars at same corner in the video
https://youtu.be/13VLZx_ScLc

[dimviii]

https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2018/photos/rallyracc_catalunya_costa_daurada_2018/vpl__mg_6786.jpg
https://www.ewrc.cz/foto/44265-rallyracc-catalunya-costa-daurada-2018/534/

[dimviii]

@OpensTightens

So, @thierryneuville's roll on SD caused by a puncture...
Wasn't aware of that.
@nicolasgilsoul

Full video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=K4NEfwalPI0 …

Footage belongs to #BGPowerChannel


https://twitter.com/OpensTightens/status/1056850422600814592

[dimviii]

@artmccarrick
Probably the most amazing thing about Loebs win today was it was against the best of today’s crop of drivers in the midst of the closest fought WRC title battle in years. And he lands back and pisses on their chips. Class

https://twitter.com/artmccarrick/status/1056649372010770433


https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpfpazbg4yM/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=y87p4x2jjsnd

[EstWRC]

just for fun, IF Tänak wouldnt had that pucnture and he had won

Seb 200
Neu 199
Ott 198

Manu

1. Toyota 350
2. Hyundai 315
3. M-Sport 300
4. Citroen 209

oh boy, we would had even tastier and epic australia! maybe next year?

[EstWRC]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqHcGvXlBLo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LTjkoFCAwM

[Norm75]

Clearly you don't understand sarcasm
Ahhh, yes. Can I be forgiven for not paying attention fully to nots post.

[wrc2017]

@artmccarrick
Probably the most amazing thing about Loebs win today was it was against the best of today’s crop of drivers in the midst of the closest fought WRC title battle in years. And he lands back and pisses on their chips. Class

https://twitter.com/artmccarrick/status/1056649372010770433


https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpfpazbg4yM/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=y87p4x2jjsnd

who is art mccarrick?

[dimviii]

who is art mccarrick?

ask him at his twitter link.

[wrc2017]

ask him at his twitter link.

If I have to ask, it's not worth knowing.

[dimviii]

@eWRCresults
We received special task by @AnttiL_WRC @KiwiWRCfan if @SebastienLoeb 's win on @RallyRACC is #WRC record by win from the worst position during event (27th Loeb SS1). Answer - YES! So far Richard Burns on @WalesRallyGB 2000 won from 21th, special list https://www.ewrc-results.com/loeb.php




@planetemarcus

#WRC Sébastien Loeb wins #RallyRACC but also break a new record : "biggest gap between the first and the last win 2002-2018" - stats powered by @eWRCresults ► http://bit.ly/2CRC4K6

[Allez Andruet]

@eWRCresults
We received special task by @AnttiL_WRC @KiwiWRCfan if @SebastienLoeb 's win on @RallyRACC is #WRC record by win from the worst position during event (27th Loeb SS1). Answer - YES! So far Richard Burns on @WalesRallyGB 2000 won from 21th, special list https://www.ewrc-results.com/loeb.php

Sorry to spoil it, but that's not the record. Markku Alen came back to win after being as far as P35 in Portugal 1981, and Hannu Mikkola was even further down the leaderboard (somewhere around P170) in 1000 Lakes 1983, after getting a time penalty of 1:50 for being late at the start of SS2.

[dimviii]

Sorry to spoil it, but that's not the record. Markku Alen came back to win after being as far as P35 in Portugal 1981, and Hannu Mikkola was even further down the leaderboard (somewhere around P170) in 1000 Lakes 1983, after getting a time penalty of 1:50 for being late at the start of SS2.

probably they will see this post and fix it mate.

Lappis huge spin from another angle
https://twitter.com/RallyingUK/status/1057010632476758018

[KKS]

Loeb had also his chief mechanic from his championship years.Is the guy who takes in his hug Budar at video.
https://twitter.com/CitroenRacing/status/1056524289527164930
Did Loeb bring him back for his rallys or he work for Citroen WRT anyway all this non-Loeb years?

[Atob WRC]

Hello all!!!

Here our video from the more spectacular Catalunya from last years!!!

Enjoy our video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjK5gyD1KqE

[wia5958]

who is art mccarrick? irish rally journalist and competitor

[scn]

I was in the middle of Riudecanyes, first stage in Sunday. During the first pass early in the morning, the road was damp everywhere and the temperature was only 6 degrees Celcius. Not a single point was dry. Loeb actually looked the fastest in the eye and very "clean".
When I learned in the afternoon that he was the only one on hard tyres, I was stunned. Not even one tyre manufacturer suggests the use of hard rubber in such conditions. Actually all of them, including Michelin, have these conditions out of the limits of hard compound. However, Loeb chose hard tyres, used the abrasiveness of spanish tarmac to reach their working temperature despite dampness and cold weather, and was much faster than anyone else.
For this choice alone, even if he hadn't won nine championships, I regard him as THE true master of the sport. And I hope to see him again next year.

[mknight]

Hello all!!!

Here our video from the more spectacular Catalunya from last years!!!

Enjoy our video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjK5gyD1KqE

Check out the comparison of Neuville at 1:05 and Ogier at 4:55.

This is what Neuville has been doing on tarmac most of the year. Make the car slide on start of the turn and then more or less slide out rest of it. Ogier is just driving like normal.

[jparker]

@artmccarrick
Probably the most amazing thing about Loebs win today was it was against the best of today’s crop of drivers in the midst of the closest fought WRC title battle in years. And he lands back and pisses on their chips. Class

Well, to be precise Loeb wasn't able to beat Tanak and Latvala sleedwise. So, it wasn't miracle after all, just some exta luck.

[Rally Power]

Sorry to spoil it, but that's not the record. Markku Alen came back to win after being as far as P35 in Portugal 1981, and Hannu Mikkola was even further down the leaderboard (somewhere around P170) in 1000 Lakes 1983, after getting a time penalty of 1:50 for being late at the start of SS2.

Alen 1981 win in Portugal was epic and is still remembered here. In one of the initial Sintra stages (Peninha) he crashed and ripped off a front wheel, getting to the finish in reverse. After a quick repair, wich included the use of a bonnet from a spectator’s car, he managed to continue, beating the leader (Toivonen on a Sunbeam) during the last leg.

Here’s a TV piece about it, made 26 years after, when Alen returned to Peninha, 'reuniting' with the lost whell ;) https://youtu.be/z9pyazNGvtA?t=21

[stefanvv]

Well, to be precise Loeb wasn't able to beat Tanak and Latvala sleedwise. So, it wasn't miracle after all, just some exta luck.

Yeah, but for compensation he was faster in Mexico:D Sorry, I just couldn't resist:D

[wrc2017]

Yeah, but for compensation he was faster in Mexico:D Sorry, I just couldn't resist:D
but not in Corsica

[wrc2017]

irish rally journalist and competitor

Thanks, but David Evans is the king. long live the king.

[HaCo]

Check out the comparison of Neuville at 1:05 and Ogier at 4:55.

This is what Neuville has been doing on tarmac most of the year. Make the car slide on start of the turn and then more or less slide out rest of it. Ogier is just driving like normal.

I think TN has to drive like this because the car doesn’t work well on tarmac.

[HaCo]

just for fun, IF Tänak wouldnt had that pucnture and he had won

Seb 200
Neu 199
Ott 198

Manu

1. Toyota 350
2. Hyundai 315
3. M-Sport 300
4. Citroen 209

oh boy, we would had even tastier and epic australia! maybe next year?
I believe Tanak wit dominate next year, if the Hyundai doesn’t get the improvement for tarmac and Finland.

[Art McCarrick]

who is art mccarrick?

Just a friend you haven't met yet ;)

[BigWorm]

Check out the comparison of Neuville at 1:05 and Ogier at 4:55.

This is what Neuville has been doing on tarmac most of the year. Make the car slide on start of the turn and then more or less slide out rest of it. Ogier is just driving like normal.

Was evident in the square left near the finish on the Riudecanyes stage from the helicopter view, Neuville pulls the handbrake there and slides slightly while others take it normally.

[wia5958]

who is art mccarrick?. Some say that its Sebastien Loeb's real name... And Daniel Elena is in fact his sister.

[krissucool]

Yeah, but for compensation he was faster in Mexico:D Sorry, I just couldn't resist:D

Well, he was 3.8 seconds ahead of Tänak after Friday with a LOT better starting position after Friday before Tänaks engine died on the first stage of Saturday.
Would not exactly say he was faster.

[mknight]

Was evident in the square left near the finish on the Riudecanyes stage from the helicopter view, Neuville pulls the handbrake there and slides slightly while others take it normally.
The real mistery for me is how can he have competetive times doing that and also don't destroy the tires much sooner than others.

[dimviii]

https://youtu.be/4WUWoIwttb8

[Rally Power]

Did Loeb bring him back for his rallys or he work for Citroen WRT anyway all this non-Loeb years?

Actually, the fellow in the video is Didier Clement, Citroen field engineer since ever (Rally Raid days). He was also engineer of Loeb’s car during Seb whole WRC career. He’s still in the team, working as tech coordinator on events and tests.

[N.O.T]

Well, to be precise Loeb wasn't able to beat Tanak and Latvala sleedwise. So, it wasn't miracle after all, just some exta luck.

he passed latavla before the problem... as for tanak you never know, he retired early on the tarmac stages.

In other words... shut up bitch and bow to the best of the best.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Neuville was lucky that Loeb happened to have one of his few drives in Spain. Otherwise Ogier would've taken the win and even more points lead going to Australia. It could turn out to have been decisive if Neuville wins the Championship by a few points.

I wonder what Citroen Racing will think if it turns out they effectively denied Ogier the title and having the No.1 their car next year...

[racerx1979]

Neuville was lucky that Loeb happened to have one of his few drives in Spain. Otherwise Ogier would've taken the win and even more points lead going to Australia. It could turn out to have been decisive if Neuville wins the Championship by a few points.

I wonder what Citroen Racing will think if it turns out they effectively denied Ogier the title and having the No.1 their car next year...

Citroen could care less what happens to Ogier while he is at M-Sport. They are not a charity for Ogier while he is driving for another team.

They already have Ogier in their pockets... Now they're focused on the real Seb.. lol.

[dimviii]

some nice photos

https://www.ewrc.cz/images/2018/photos/rallyracc_catalunya_costa_daurada_2018/jpo_40000600-loeb-pn.jpg

more
https://www.ewrc.cz/foto/44265-rallyracc-catalunya-costa-daurada-2018/401/

[dimviii]

*

I am finally back after an intense week in Spain with a final result that makes a good fool! I do not hide the fact that the taste of victory began to miss me but it is not necessarily this weekend where I expected to slash the champagne!

*

Before the race, I was hoping to be in the game while being aware that it would not be easy. In Mexico, we played in front of, in Corsica too. In Spain, with the mix of both surfaces and the weather that was announced capricious, my first goal was to make a rally without error. Of course, deep within me, I dreamed of winning. But from there to concretize it ...

*

By losing more than ten seconds from the first super special, and when we know that the level is such that it is often played by the second, we were rather badly gone. The next morning, on earth, I never managed to find the confidence and do what I wanted from the car. Something is wrong. Either on the car or on me. We still do not know anyway! There is certainly a bit of both linked to the lack of driving. One thing is certain, I have not managed to really benefit from my position on the road. When it started to get better, the day was over!

*

Bis repetita the next morning! I did not manage to let go in these conditions. I had not driven on wet asphalt with a WRC for 6 years. In addition, we did not put the tires 'rain'. It was hot to find its braking marks, when you get to the bottom of 6, with these monsters that are the WRC today, with tires that do not drain water ... I absolutely did not want to do error and to make time in the morning, it was necessary to take risks. As the day before, the afternoon was better, we sign a scratch. Despite all this, we are still in the lead by being 8 seconds from the lead in four specials of the end. I was pretty happy with our job with Danos and the team. When I went to bed, I said to myself, "It would not be bad to go and get this one! "

1420/5000
The next morning, the weather was still his. At first, we decide to go 'soft', to play the security. And then with Cedric, my engineer, we remembered my feedback that I had in tests in these conditions and the comparison between 'hard' and 'soft'. It was clear, it was written in black and white: 'I prefer a' hard 'hot on wet than a' soft 'too hot on wet'. So we decide to try a bet by putting the 'hard', unlike everyone else ... It was before the audience, at breakfast, at 6:30 in the morning. And then, the time of the assistance arrives and the questions begin to arise, one talks about all together, and the doubt settles. The weather engineer tells us that it will not rain but the day before, we were told the same thing and we had a big shower in special. At that moment, I do not know who to believe. On the other side, the openers then 'weather man' at the finish of the special tell me that it is dry and that it will remain so. While the 'soft' are mounted on the car and it remains 1 minute thirty seconds before pointing, I decided to go back on my first decision and put the 'hard'. I was deep inside me quite convinced but we still doubt in these moments. Once seated in the car, we had no choice! He had to go to battle! And then you know her ..
Many people ask me if this is my best victory. I do not know. One thing is certain, if we integrate all the parameters, our absence since all this time, the new cars, the level of the current WRC, the difficulty of this rally with the conditions, and if we add that this is played in the last special against the guy who is the five-time world champion in title, indeed, it is, I think, one of the most beautiful! Noticeably more beautiful than the seasons when we won ten in the year with more than a minute in advance. There, once past the line, we did not know! To be honest, we got on the roof of the C3 WRC without being sure! It was only once 'up there' that I saw the sign with my own eyes and realized that it was really true. The emotion was strong to share it with Daniel and to offer this success to Citroën Racing.

*

We enjoyed it all together afterwards! Now, as everyone knows, I will take some time to ask myself and think about 2019. One thing is certain, I will keep you informed as soon as it will be a little clearer. For the moment, we are only at the stage of discussions, I have several tracks that I will study. What I can assure you is that I do not intend to retire now, so you will see me behind a wheel in 2019. But which one ?! Stay connected!

*

See you soon.

*

Seb. "

http://www.sebastienloeb.com/rallye-despagne-je-revais-de-gagner/

[dimviii]

nice photo

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpjdljNgF4_/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=1n9kpv4zudqxv


@scn tell us some more from Spain! Driving lines,cars behaviour etc.

[T16]

Lovely words there. Real nice insight... highlights just how much he loves the sport.
full season coming up...

[EstWRC]

With M-Sport...

[dimviii]

With M-Sport...

https://scontent.fbru3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/45133517_1878446825585419_5342381567475974144_n.jp g?_nc_cat=102&_nc_ht=scontent.fbru3-1.fna&oh=88ae8a15d8e1f518e991e92fa4d65ec2&oe=5C842B54

[jparker]

he passed latavla before the problem... as for tanak you never know, he retired early on the tarmac stages.

In other words... shut up bitch and bow to the best of the best.

Did I spoil you mental treatment somehow? Don't worry, it's a process.
Without the lost time, Tanak is ahead of Loeb by more than 20sec, without even pushing. That of course doesn't make Loeb's victory less remarkable.

[racerx1979]

A lot of could haves in this event. Don't forget JML had a flat and lost a lot of time before working his way up. He would have had a decent lead as well and would not have to push as hard on days 2-3... but this is rally and sheeet happens.

[jbmarcus21]

My video from #RallyRACC and full report with photos ► http://bit.ly/2yFuXSr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZUe5Xr94xQ

[N.O.T]

Did I spoil you mental treatment somehow? Don't worry, it's a process.
Without the lost time, Tanak is ahead of Loeb by more than 20sec, without even pushing. That of course doesn't make Loeb's victory less remarkable.

and without Loebs mistake in the super special that difference is nothing... back to your trashcan dog.

[Japé]

Was it said somewhere why Block did not continue rally on Sat/Sun? At least in onboard the off looked like a slow speed accident.

[scn]

@scn tell us some more from Spain! Driving lines,cars behaviour etc.

The only thing I can say is that it was my second time in Catalunya and it was much much better than the first, about 8 or 9 years ago. The rally is very good, the mixed conditions offer something different, the asphalt stages of Querol and Riudecanyes are stages I would love to drive, Spanish people are very friendly, the security in the stages does not reach stupid levels of restrictions and watching is for free. And, most important, the modern WRC cars are the most impressive cars I have seen as a spectator since I started watching rallies, back in the beginning of the 1980s.

[dck1989]

was talking to a restaurant owner in salou and he heard its moving away from salou next year! anyone else heard of this happening?

[N.O.T]

was talking to a restaurant owner in salou and he heard its moving away from salou next year! anyone else heard of this happening?

Seems like a pretty legit source you got there...

Are you british by any chance ?

[dck1989]

i just asked was there any truth to this. was just a question!!
and no i'm not British, even though thats got nothing to do with what i asked!!

[AL14]

Seems like a pretty legit source you got there...

Are you british by any chance ?

I don't like that you offended the nationality but the first sentence made me laugh

[spiderem]

i just asked was there any truth to this. was just a question!!
and no i'm not British, even though thats got nothing to do with what i asked!!

Don't pay attention, there are some special cases on this forum who struggle with life...

[tommeke_B]

Would be nice. Salou is a great place to stay away from anyway. Full tarmac again and moving north of Barcelona would be perfect.

[Tarmop]

We need a mixed event in the calendar.

[SubaruNorway]

I only went to service on Wednesday since it was too chaotic in Salou the rest of the weekend, saw two drivers faces all week...
So i wouldn't mind if that part was changed because even in Finland you can get into service quite easy.

Really enjoyed the mixed event so i would keep the same format.

[dimviii]

where is bluuford? id like to listen from him about the weather and tyre choice at Saturday morning.

[eib1]

unfortunately ss8 was cancelled and later Tänak`s puncture ruined their party, but bluuford was right again... as always...

[Rally Power]

Was it said somewhere why Block did not continue rally on Sat/Sun? At least in onboard the off looked like a slow speed accident.

In here: https://www.rallye-sport.fr/block-trois-petits-tours-et-puis-sen-va/
Roll cage damage, according to it; it’s also said that despite the retirement, Block enjoyed this new WRC experience and is eager to come back soon.

[deephouse]

We need a mixed event in the calendar.

Promoter is obviously trying to get rid of all tarmac events.

[dck1989]

Promoter is obviously trying to get rid of all tarmac events.

Soon become world gravel rally championship

[Oliverk]

Hope so. Tarmac rallys are boring to watch anyway.