Oliver Solberg

[rallyfiend]

Hyundai's actions should not have come as a shock to any of the Solberg's. The problem is that they live in their own little bubble....

[WRCStan]

Oliver Solberg: “Hyundai does not want to stay long in the WRC”

https://www.autohebdo.fr/actualites/rallye/wrc/oliver-solberg-hyundai-na-pas-envie-de-rester-longtemps-en-wrc.html

Ouch. Anybody still in denial?

[EstWRC]

i dont have access to the full article. what does he say?

[mknight]

Is it good for Oliver's career to do another partial Rally1 season with lots of pressure (need to show skills on these few expensive drives) and to drive the Fiesta Rally2 which is not competitive in WRC2?


With MSport only Rally1 makes sense.

He could probably get a Fabia for Rally2 for free or even getting paid and if he wants to pay himself he can as well drive own Polo rather than the Fiesta.

I think doing close to all rounds in Rally2 would be best.

[AnttiL]

I think doing close to all rounds in Rally2 would be best.

I agree. And in a good Rally2 car (Skoda).

[Rallyper]

With MSport only Rally1 makes sense.

He could probably get a Fabia for Rally2 for free or even getting paid and if he wants to pay himself he can as well drive own Polo rather than the Fiesta.

I think doing close to all rounds in Rally2 would be best.

Once being in RC1 car, nothing is better than continue in RC1 car. Stepping down at this point isnt´t getting things better.
That´s a general rule.

[PLuto]

Once being in RC1 car, nothing is better than continue in RC1 car. Stepping down at this point isnt´t getting things better.
That´s a general rule.

I dont agree with you. It doesnt work as general rule for sure. And even for Oliver should be better to move to R5...

[AnttiL]

Once being in RC1 car, nothing is better than continue in RC1 car. Stepping down at this point isnt´t getting things better.
That´s a general rule.

Remember how it worked for Tänak and Evans?

[dimviii]

i dont have access to the full article. what does he say?

i dont have too.just found it at twitter and post it here,maybe somebody read it and come here to comment.

[WRCStan]

i dont have too.just found it at twitter and post it here,maybe somebody read it and come here to comment.

Cough up lads we need to crowdfund €1.

[djip]

i dont have too.just found it at twitter and post it here,maybe somebody read it and come here to comment.

It basically says that giving up on youg drivers training is a sign that there is no long term plan, hence the signature of withdrawing soon. It's a surprisingly open minded interview in today's PR driven world ... And it does not shed a very nice light on the internal team dynamics ... I reprint here only the first half of the interview, the second deals with the future and is less controversial - Have fun with google translate...

"Comment vous sentez-vous après une telle annonce de la part de Hyundai ?
Cela pourrait aller mieux, mais cela pourrait aussi être pire. (Rires)

Quand avez-vous appris que vous ne seriez pas prolongé ?
Le dimanche soir à l’issue du rallye de Nouvelle-Zélande. L’équipe a d’abord prévenu mes parents, puis ces derniers m’ont expliqué la situation. Ensuite, le team manager m’a dit que c’était compliqué parce que les Coréens voulaient un pilote expérimenté pour l’an prochain et qu’il n’y avait pas de budget pour une 4e voiture.

Quelle a été votre réaction ? Est-ce que cela a été une surprise ?
D’un certain côté, pas tant que cela. J’ai eu de drôles de sensations pendant tout le week-end néo-zélandais. Certaines personnes étaient vraiment très gentilles avec moi. J’ai trouvé cela très bizarre, parce qu’elles ne l’avaient jamais été auparavant ! Je savais qu’il pouvait se passer des choses. Après, compte tenu de ce qui était prévu pour l’an prochain, cela a effectivement été un choc.

Quelle aurait dû être la suite ?
Tout était prêt… tout. Le contrat avec Hyundai était établi depuis six mois pour une durée de deux ans sur une Rally1 pour l’ensemble du championnat afin de prendre de l’expérience et de préparer le futur. Cela a été complètement remis en question.

Y avait-il eu des signes avant-coureurs, des exigences de meilleurs résultats ou un ultimatum concernant vos performances ?
Personne ne m’a rien dit. Tout au long de la saison, ils m’ont toujours demandé de rouler pour apprendre. Ils affirmaient : « Nous savons que la Hyundai est difficile à piloter et que la situation dans le team n’est pas facile et bla bla bla, tu as l’avenir devant toi, reste calme, ne t’inquiète pas… ». Je n’avais donc pas à paniquer… et bang ! C’est étrange.

Est-ce justifié selon vous ?
Difficile de répondre. Il s’agissait de ma première année à ce niveau et ce n’était même pas une saison complète (Oliver a disputé 5 manches WRC en 2021 et 8 des 13 rallyes 2022 sur la Rally1. Ndlr). Nous avons rencontré énormément de soucis mécaniques sur la voiture. J’ai également connu deux accidents (Croatie et Finlande. Ndlr), mais cela arrive quand tu es jeune et en période d’apprentissage.

Comment pouvez-vous expliquer qu’on investisse sur vous pendant deux ans et que soudain tout s’arrête ?
Tout dépend quels seront les projets de Hyundai à l’avenir. Comme ils ne souhaitent pas de jeunes pilotes, il apparaît que Hyundai n’a pas envie de rester longtemps en WRC. D’un certain côté, je peux comprendre que s’ils ne désirent pas s’impliquer à long terme, ils n’ont pas besoin de former quelqu’un. Ils ont pourtant dit plus tôt cette année qu’ils voulaient développer l’avenir avec un espoir, mais cela a changé et je ne saisis pas pourquoi."

[skarderud]

It basically says that giving up on youg drivers training is a sign that there is no long term plan, hence the signature of withdrawing soon. It's a surprisingly open minded interview in today's PR driven world ... And it does not shed a very nice light on the internal team dynamics ... I reprint here only the first half of the interview, the second deals with the future and is less controversial - Have fun with google translate...

"Comment vous sentez-vous après une telle annonce de la part de Hyundai ?
Cela pourrait aller mieux, mais cela pourrait aussi être pire. (Rires)

Quand avez-vous appris que vous ne seriez pas prolongé ?
Le dimanche soir à l’issue du rallye de Nouvelle-Zélande. L’équipe a d’abord prévenu mes parents, puis ces derniers m’ont expliqué la situation. Ensuite, le team manager m’a dit que c’était compliqué parce que les Coréens voulaient un pilote expérimenté pour l’an prochain et qu’il n’y avait pas de budget pour une 4e voiture.

Quelle a été votre réaction ? Est-ce que cela a été une surprise ?
D’un certain côté, pas tant que cela. J’ai eu de drôles de sensations pendant tout le week-end néo-zélandais. Certaines personnes étaient vraiment très gentilles avec moi. J’ai trouvé cela très bizarre, parce qu’elles ne l’avaient jamais été auparavant ! Je savais qu’il pouvait se passer des choses. Après, compte tenu de ce qui était prévu pour l’an prochain, cela a effectivement été un choc.

Quelle aurait dû être la suite ?
Tout était prêt… tout. Le contrat avec Hyundai était établi depuis six mois pour une durée de deux ans sur une Rally1 pour l’ensemble du championnat afin de prendre de l’expérience et de préparer le futur. Cela a été complètement remis en question.

Y avait-il eu des signes avant-coureurs, des exigences de meilleurs résultats ou un ultimatum concernant vos performances ?
Personne ne m’a rien dit. Tout au long de la saison, ils m’ont toujours demandé de rouler pour apprendre. Ils affirmaient : « Nous savons que la Hyundai est difficile à piloter et que la situation dans le team n’est pas facile et bla bla bla, tu as l’avenir devant toi, reste calme, ne t’inquiète pas… ». Je n’avais donc pas à paniquer… et bang ! C’est étrange.

Est-ce justifié selon vous ?
Difficile de répondre. Il s’agissait de ma première année à ce niveau et ce n’était même pas une saison complète (Oliver a disputé 5 manches WRC en 2021 et 8 des 13 rallyes 2022 sur la Rally1. Ndlr). Nous avons rencontré énormément de soucis mécaniques sur la voiture. J’ai également connu deux accidents (Croatie et Finlande. Ndlr), mais cela arrive quand tu es jeune et en période d’apprentissage.

Comment pouvez-vous expliquer qu’on investisse sur vous pendant deux ans et que soudain tout s’arrête ?
Tout dépend quels seront les projets de Hyundai à l’avenir. Comme ils ne souhaitent pas de jeunes pilotes, il apparaît que Hyundai n’a pas envie de rester longtemps en WRC. D’un certain côté, je peux comprendre que s’ils ne désirent pas s’impliquer à long terme, ils n’ont pas besoin de former quelqu’un. Ils ont pourtant dit plus tôt cette année qu’ils voulaient développer l’avenir avec un espoir, mais cela a changé et je ne saisis pas pourquoi."Yeah, seems like they planning something, todays technical plattform is for 3 years, so 2 more years then?
Isn't it something asian to quit if they don't win?

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[mknight]

How can you explain that we invest in you for two years and that suddenly everything stops?
It all depends on what Hyundai plans for the future. As they do not want young drivers, it appears that Hyundai does not want to stay in the WRC for long. In a way, I can understand that if they don't want to be involved long term, they don't need to train someone. They said earlier this year that they wanted to develop the future with hope, but that has changed and I don't understand why."



This is one way to look on it - the Solberg way (blame the car/team).

The other one is that they stopped investing him cause they did not believe in him (either short term or longer term) and/or that they need/want to fight for both championships. (unlike say Citroen in 2019 which gave up manu completely). This year Hyundai also basically gave up manu from start only hoping that Solberg will improve a lot.

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

We have seen multiple way to invest in drivers:

Kastuta was with Toyota for long time, but that has all to do with Nationality.
Rovanpera tested in 2018 (or 2017?) yet they "let" him stay at Skoda for 2 more years. (while Katsuta was driving Fiesta Rally2 "with Toyota" just a bit later).

(for laughs) MSport says they are looking for next 5-10 years with Fourmaux and Greensmith....

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

Generally keeping Solberg in 4th car, or putting him in Rally2 Hyundai (unless that wasn't an option for him) would be best signal for Hyundai staying long term. However kicking him and actually trying to fight for manu is still better signal than Citroens 2019 approach.

[Rallyper]

Remember how it worked for Tänak and Evans?

Not necessarily comparable.

[AnttiL]

Not necessarily comparable.

Why?

[skarderud]

I also think Oliver has best to do a year in WRC 2, low shoulders and good results.
And, maybe its good for him to change the flag in the window to something more red?;)

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

[TypeR]

I also think Oliver has best to do a year in WRC 2, low shoulders and good results.
And, maybe its good for him to change the flag in the window to something more red?;)
Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

You think something like turkish co-driver? :D

[bandit12]

I also think Oliver has best to do a year in WRC 2, low shoulders and good results.
And, maybe its good for him to change the flag in the window to something more red?;)

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

You mean Switzerland? 🤔

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Any thoughts on the reason for the decision to drive in the UK at the Cambrian Rally ?

Maybe coming back to the Solbergs' 'second home' and getting the attention of M-Sport with a good result ?

[AnttiL]

Any thoughts on the reason for the decision to drive in the UK at the Cambrian Rally ?

Maybe coming back to the Solbergs' 'second home' and getting the attention of M-Sport with a good result ?

ERC is over, only remaining WRC2 chance is Japan, it’s a good international event to enter. Also one that he can likely win as well.

[HKSjbg]

ERC is over, only remaining WRC2 chance is Japan, it’s a good international event to enter. Also one that he can likely win as well.

Does it really count as an ‘International’? I’m not even sure what that means these days anyway :D

[Rallyper]

I also think Oliver has best to do a year in WRC 2, low shoulders and good results.
And, maybe its good for him to change the flag in the window to something more red?;)

Sent fra min SM-G950F via Tapatalk

The pressure will still be on.

[AnttiL]

Does it really count as an ‘International’? I’m not even sure what that means these days anyway :D

Well yeah, outside his home country and likely with more global rally media exposure

[HKSjbg]

Well yeah, outside his home country and likely with more global rally media exposure

For the sake of British rallying I hope so!

[J4MIE]

Any thoughts on the reason for the decision to drive in the UK at the Cambrian Rally ?

Maybe coming back to the Solbergs' 'second home' and getting the attention of M-Sport with a good result ?

It just seems really strange to me and gives him everything to lose. Can you imagine if he gets beaten by Matt Hirst or someone?
Wouldn’t be surprised if the BRC are throwing money at him so they can have an extra car on the entry list.

[rallyfiend]

I can't see the BRC 'throwing money' at some over-rated international rather than using that money to help that actual BRC competitors.....

[WRCStan]

Remember how it worked for Tänak and Evans?


Not necessarily comparable.

I'm with you Per, Solberg's choice is what is best for Solberg, and that's no help dropping down. If I put a team boss/financier hat on then dropping down might make sense, but I don't think that's the question right now. The question is a 2023 Puma drive either supported or not, MW can take it or not. There's no long-term investment for him.

[Steve Boyd]

I can't see the BRC 'throwing money' at some over-rated international rather than using that money to help that actual BRC competitors.....
Why not?
BRC have never supported UK competitors but events have often given free or supported entries to foreign competitors.

[cali]

I can't see the BRC 'throwing money' at some over-rated international rather than using that money to help that actual BRC competitors.....You have benchmark for domestic competitors.

Sent from my DN2103 using Tapatalk

[PLuto]

ERC is over, only remaining WRC2 chance is Japan, it’s a good international event to enter. Also one that he can likely win as well.

Small correction, it is a good national event :-)

[AnttiL]

Small correction, it is a good national event :-)

Yes, I already was corrected on this :) but I was thinking about event outside his home country.

I can see Dirtfish writing numerous articles on this event, not from a Norwegian local rally.

[HKSjbg]

It just seems really strange to me and gives him everything to lose. Can you imagine if he gets beaten by Matt Hirst or someone?
Wouldn’t be surprised if the BRC are throwing money at him so they can have an extra car on the entry list.

It’s not very likely though is it? Even if Pryce and Cronin had entered the Cambrian I doubt they’d be able to touch Solberg - not saying a clean sweep of stage wins, but it would probably be a similar result to Hayden Paddon on Rali Ceredigion

[pantealex]

My question is:
Why did Oliver choose to drive POLO when they have i20 Rally2 with latest upgrades in their garage also ?

Are they so mad to Hyundai ?

Latest i20 should be faster than their POLO which haven't been used in year (or did they do latest "tuning" for POLO)

[Jarek Z]

My question is:
Why did Oliver choose to drive POLO when they have i20 Rally2 with latest upgrades in their garage also ?

Because Hyundai i20 Rally2 never wins any rallies? ;)

[Danny0405]

My question is:
Why did Oliver choose to drive POLO when they have i20 Rally2 with latest upgrades in their garage also ?

Are they so mad to Hyundai ?

Latest i20 should be faster than their POLO which haven't been used in year (or did they do latest "tuning" for POLO)

Think it is really over between Solberg and Hyundai and probably they even said him he will not be their Rally2 lead driver (clearly think about Paddon for this considering his season and Suninen being quite average); else the communication would have been less sharp.
And at the moment, the Hyundai, even if latest car, is not the best car on the market (and maybe more expensive as newer). And Polo is clearly not a bad choice if driven by the good team. See for example in France where Giordano and his Polo is beating Ciamin and a new Hyundai.
Also, it’s not a big event so maybe Hyundai didn’t want to lend them a car and Petter’s team owns one Polo so it’s clearly simpler.

Well, difficult to know about Solberg if it’s the good decision by Hyundai. Clearly he was an Adamo and PR choice. Maybe an early choice but not a completly insane choice as the guy has some potential and for this time, we cannot criticize Hyundai for having launched a young guy in the mix.

With the new management + a brand where it’s really difficult to know how much time they will get involved (and since quite a while), we can understand than the team management wants to try something else (than the plan of the former manager) as Solberg has not done enough to prove he can become fastly an efficient driver.
But as I said before, it’s only valuable if Tanak stays; if Tanak is leaving, even with a shared-car strategy in the 3rd and even the 2nd car, I’m highly doubtful they can fight with Toyota line-up for the manufacturer title (as Toyota is now using a shared-car strategy itself even if not totally by its own choice so it’s different than 2019) and in that case, their best chance would have been in Solberg’s improvements.
Anyway, saying that Solberg has made them lost the championship is also wrong, they clearly had a lot of issues with the car from the beginning and even with Breen still being there, the result in the championship would have no different this year considering the gap; next year is another stuff as Hyundai has now improved the car.

[Sulland]

My question is:
Why did Oliver choose to drive POLO when they have i20 Rally2 with latest upgrades in their garage

which one do Solbergs own?
https://www.ewrc-results.com/cars-owners/156-hyundai-i20-n-rally2/

[AnttiL]

I was under the impression that i20 N Rally was only "borrowed" for the Solbergs to get more familiar with it, but I have no factual knowledge. Polo meanwhile is their own for sure.

From Oliver's perspective, he just needs to keep active and to have fun and the stages on that rally are a perfect way to do that, and maybe Polo is the perfect car for that purpose, to have fun? Or maybe they just really don't want to show up with Hyundai anymore.

[bandit12]

As far as i know, if he drove that rally2, he used one of redgrey cars
https://redgreyteam.com/

[ouvreur]

The Solberg family do not own any Hyundai i20 N Rally2s.

[AMSS]

I was under the impression that i20 N Rally was only "borrowed" for the Solbergs to get more familiar with it, but I have no factual knowledge. Polo meanwhile is their own for sure.

From Oliver's perspective, he just needs to keep active and to have fun and the stages on that rally are a perfect way to do that, and maybe Polo is the perfect car for that purpose, to have fun? Or maybe they just really don't want to show up with Hyundai anymore.

Didn`t Dennis Rådström buy the Polo from the Sohlbergs?

[Eli]

To add a bit more fuel to next year: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/m-sport-in-talks-with-solberg-for-2023/

Not that it hasn’t been speculated here before in this forum but apparently they did talk after NZ.

[TypeR]

They should still have the #1 chassis Polo R5.

[AnttiL]

I'm with you Per, Solberg's choice is what is best for Solberg, and that's no help dropping down.

Why is it no help? Isn't it good to learn the events with a lower budget and lower pressure, and to learn the culture of winning (class)?

[Rallyper]

Why is it no help? Isn't it good to learn the events with a lower budget and lower pressure, and to learn the culture of winning (class)?

Why are you so on?
There are different ways of learning. Neather you nor me knows what´s best for Oliver. Some of us though believe he can go forward in RC1 cars, if possible from many other points of views we don´t know a thing about. (Economics, sponsors, teambosses etz, etz...)

[TypeR]

Not saying he hasn't done mistakes himself, but I would say it is also the i20.

Either this new or previous one.. Both very difficult to understand or feel comfortable.
Look at Loubet, he was blamed almost same way as Solberg now. Many mistakes and crashes with quite ? speed.

Jumped to Ford and like a different driver.
(can also include Loeb to this list)

So let's wait and see.

[AnttiL]

Why are you so on?
There are different ways of learning. Neather you nor me knows what´s best for Oliver. Some of us though believe he can go forward in RC1 cars, if possible from many other points of views we don´t know a thing about. (Economics, sponsors, teambosses etz, etz...)

This is a discussion forum, I want to discuss this topic and have good arguments other than "because I say so".

[AnttiL]

Not saying he hasn't done mistakes himself, but I would say it is also the i20.

Either this new or previous one.. Both very difficult to understand or feel comfortable.
Look at Loubet, he was blamed almost same way as Solberg now. Many mistakes and crashes with quite ? speed.

Jumped to Ford and like a different driver.
(can also include Loeb to this list)

So let's wait and see.

Loubet had the customer car with old parts. Solberg had the same car as Tänak and Neuville. But I agree that the situation in the team has not been good for a young driver.

[Rallyper]

This is a discussion forum, I want to discuss this topic and have good arguments other than "because I say so".

We know your opinion and arguments. You already written them down pages ago.

[AnttiL]

We know your opinion and arguments. You already written them down pages ago.

But we still haven't heard yours or WRCStan's. :)

EDIT: Consider me wanting the best for Oliver's career. I don't want him to have a third successive broken year doing a partial season with Puma Rally1. Instead a victorious season in WRC2 with a good car would showcase his talent better. And I would also include non-points events to get more experience from the rallies (WRC2 season can only have seven events).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I dont think Oliver thinks he needs to prove himself any more at Rally2/WRC2 level and he is happy to continue to learn in a Rally1. If some deal can be done with M-Sport then this will be the preferred option.

However if not, driving the new Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 would be the next best choice.

[rallyfiend]

I doubt he has enough backing to afford a meaningful programme in a Rally1 car.

[WRCStan]

Why is it no help? Isn't it good to learn the events with a lower budget and lower pressure, and to learn the culture of winning (class)?

I can't discuss anything on budget or support, only an ideal world. If budgets say no Rally1 then that kills any other point and we're left making PR-like excuses.

I don't subscribe to this idea of learn the events, what does that mean if it's a different car? Assuming the intention is to get back in to a Rally1 with more power, hybrid and pressure and learn the events again. Same with culture of winning, the taste of WRC2 champagne when beating privateers won't help him learn how to approach or manage a rally when up against the manufacturer juggernauts.

[PLuto]

Assuming the intention is to get back in to a Rally1 with more power, hybrid and pressure and learn the events again.

This is not the best way for learning. Especially on the point of career where Oliver is now...

[WRCStan]

This is not the best way for learning. Especially on the point of career where Oliver is now...

Learn what?

[dimviii]

Learn what?

to dont crash at first stage and first corner.
Really you ask ''what to learn''?
He gives you the impression of a ''learned driver''?

[cali]

Learn what?

So you think he doesn't need to learn anything...interesting. Why he's then kicked out of HMSG? Because the team is bad or because he is so rookie that it's costing them financially and also if you look at the manufacturers standings, they have almost no help from Oliver. And I do not blame Oliver for it, he was put in a very wrong place in a very wrong time of his career.
Some of you have some silly ideas that young guys should right away step into the top category and have the most expensive learning kms of all of rallysport.

By that logic I have serious doubts why the Rally2 category even exists....

He belongs to the Rally2 category and unless he beats those opponents fair and square he doesn't have any place to Rally1. And he needs to manage the whole rally and not just have flashes of brilliance and then bin it.

I hope him well and I really like this guy but he should not take too big steps because it could be very harmful to his career as life has shown so far.

[cali]

to dont crash at first stage and first corner.
Really you ask ''what to learn''?
He gives you the impression of a ''learned driver''?
I just can't believe some of the forumers here, thinking that you have to give the best car for any youngster for learning :D
Guys are living in somekind of dreamland :D

[SubaruNorway]

Yes, I already was corrected on this :) but I was thinking about event outside his home country.

I can see Dirtfish writing numerous articles on this event, not from a Norwegian local rally.

Why not, probably a lot harder competition on a Norwegian event than the Cambrian, remember how Greensmith got a beating in Numedalsrally.
https://www.ewrc-results.com/final/73089-numedalsrally-2022/
It's a shame a lot of the young guys don't get to do much events at home, It's important to a build a home fan base also in my opinion.
We still talk about the fights between Østberg and Mikkelsen in 2008.

[WRCStan]

So you think he doesn't need to learn anything...interesting.

No not all, didn't come close to saying that.

I ask what does learn the events mean. Is it how to drive on various surfaces? He's been driving a decade+, owns his own land and a stocked garage, been flying round the world motorsporting since he was in his Daddy's ballbag and doesn't appear to do much else. He's not exactly the freshest of newcomers, so assuming his goal is to get to the top of the sport, it's the Rally1 he needs to learn from here, and I assume he should be learning from the mistakes he is making - this is the learning environment you'd take away. Wasn't the Finland smash related to hybrid? How do you learn not to do that in Rally2?

All this about HMSG puts a team principal cap back on. No, I wouldn't employ him either in my team. This also wasn't what I said. And all this about who Rally2 is for is another conversation too.

[steve.mandzij]

No not all, didn't come close to saying that.

I ask what does learn the events mean. Is it how to drive on various surfaces? He's been driving a decade+, owns his own land and a stocked garage, been flying round the world motorsporting since he was in his Daddy's ballbag and doesn't appear to do much else. He's not exactly the freshest of newcomers, so assuming his goal is to get to the top of the sport, it's the Rally1 he needs to learn from here, and I assume he should be learning from the mistakes he is making - this is the learning environment you'd take away. Wasn't the Finland smash related to hybrid? How do you learn not to do that in Rally2?

All this about HMSG puts a team principal cap back on. No, I wouldn't employ him either in my team. This also wasn't what I said. And all this about who Rally2 is for is another conversation too.Not the main point but the Finland smash was a huge driving mistake, simple as: upshifting into a corner everyone took more slow (and he crashed in Finland in the i20 Rally2 as well, so there's a common denominator and it's not hybrid)

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[WRCStan]

to dont crash at first stage and first corner.
Really you ask ''what to learn''?
He gives you the impression of a ''learned driver''?


I just can't believe some of the forumers here, thinking that you have to give the best car for any youngster for learning :D
Guys are living in somekind of dreamland :D

You get the same news I do, so I dare you to ring Malcolm and ask these same questions then.

[dimviii]

You get the same news I do, so I dare you to ring Malcolm and ask these same questions then.

Malcolm will not deny some 3-4 millions for a year.

[cali]

You get the same news I do, so I dare you to ring Malcolm and ask these same questions then.

Malcolm would be happy to receive some donations, like Dimvii said around 3-4 millions per season or so. He's businessman after all. He has no problems of giving cars to the likes of Jocius or Serderidis.

[AnttiL]

Why not, probably a lot harder competition on a Norwegian event than the Cambrian, remember how Greensmith got a beating in Numedalsrally.

I'm not surprised about Greensmith not winning a national rally :)

[AnttiL]

I ask what does learn the events mean. Is it how to drive on various surfaces? He's been driving a decade+, owns his own land and a stocked garage, been flying round the world motorsporting since he was in his Daddy's ballbag and doesn't appear to do much else. He's not exactly the freshest of newcomers, so assuming his goal is to get to the top of the sport, it's the Rally1 he needs to learn from here, and I assume he should be learning from the mistakes he is making - this is the learning environment you'd take away. Wasn't the Finland smash related to hybrid? How do you learn not to do that in Rally2?

The events are not just gravel, tarmac and snow. There are certain characteristics and styles of driving and you get that by experience. For example Oliver's first technical/rough gravel rally was Sardinia 2020 exactly two years ago (well Mexico too, but it ended on the first stage). And in 2021 he only did Portugal and Greece, latter with only half of the kilometres. Meanwhile, for example Kalle did a bunch of this sort of rallies in the Italian series in 2017, even before entering WRC2.

Also what cali said is true, he needs to learn how to perform throughout a rally with no mistakes. And like I've said, learn how to keep a lead, how to win an event. It's a psychological thing.

You can learn all this with Rally1 machinery as well but it's a very expensive way to do it. Also it's more difficult to win the overall in a WRC event than to win the WRC2 class, but even the latter is not that easy.

[Rallyper]

Not the main point but the Finland smash was a huge driving mistake, simple as: upshifting into a corner everyone took more slow (and he crashed in Finland in the i20 Rally2 as well, so there's a common denominator and it's not hybrid)

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

Yes. Finland was a major setback. But not enogh for you negatives to place him in a WRC2 car and compete with amateurs. He is not an amateur at this point. He is ready for continuing in RC1 cars if circumstances allows him to do.

[Sulland]

If it is a possibility with a deal with Malcolm & Co, it would imo make sense with a three stage deal.
Year 1: WRC2 campaign, including development work on the Rally2, and as much testing as allowed with the Puma.
Year 2: 3rd car Rally1.
Year 3: 2nd car Rally1 fighting for podiums, and fighting for best scorer in the team.

[EstWRC]

Yes. Finland was a major setback. But not enogh for you negatives to place him in a WRC2 car and compete with amateurs. He is not an amateur at this point. He is ready for continuing in RC1 cars if circumstances allows him to do.

Amateurs? he should beat those AMATEURS then first when he wants to do good in upper class. he didnt do it on Rally Portugal this year, far from it

i dont get it Per why you are so against him going a step back. Tänak is a perfect example how it worked and his debut season in big class was much better than Olivers this season and its clear to see he isnt ready yet.

[mknight]

Yes. Finland was a major setback. But not enogh for you negatives to place him in a WRC2 car and compete with amateurs. He is not an amateur at this point. He is ready for continuing in RC1 cars if circumstances allows him to do.
Fun fact:

Solberg has entered 13 WRC2/3 rallies.
He won once (Estonia 2020, though Østberg wasn't loosing points to him so had no big motivation to fight him) and was on podium once more (Monza 2020, second).

Since that rally in Estonia 2020 he has led the Rally2 category on a rally once (Greece 2021 for two stages).

Doesn't look like he is a match for the amateurs...

[AnttiL]

Year 1: WRC2 campaign, including development work on the Rally2, and as much testing as allowed with the Puma.

Nice idea but testing is limited to one day per rally per driver taking part in said rally. Unless you test only on the team test area.

[TypeR]

Funny thing is that like Solberg violently took the seat and somebody way more talented stayed out..

What about Fourmaux? Disastrous season.. but nobody coughs about going back to rally2, 3, 4.
Solberg 8 vs Fourmaux 9 rallies this season - Solberg 33p vs Fourmaux 9p(Serderidis three rallies and 6p)

:D

[steve.mandzij]

Yes. Finland was a major setback. But not enogh for you negatives to place him in a WRC2 car and compete with amateurs. He is not an amateur at this point. He is ready for continuing in RC1 cars if circumstances allows him to do.Not enough to destroy a car of a tight-budget team on the first corner of one of the most high profile rallies of the season?

You must realize your arguments in favor of Oliver are either emotional, nationalistic, or both, because you still haven't proved *what* Oliver has (other than deep Solberg pockets) that proves a second RC1 season will be any different.


Funny thing is that like Solberg violently took the seat and somebody way more talented stayed out..

What about Fourmaux? Disastrous season.. but nobody coughs about going back to rally2, 3, 4.
Both guys 9 rallies this season - Solberg 33p vs Fourmaux 9p(Serderidis three rallies and 6p)

:D

Of course, if Forumaux had been driving an i20 his fate would likely be the same as Oliver's, but he's got the backing for M-Sport. Still, worth considering whether he would be better off out of the Rally1 team in favor of Solberg — my vote is yes, because Forumaux has no excuses for his poor form.

[TypeR]

Not enough to destroy a car of a tight-budget team on the first corner of one of the most high profile rallies of the season?

You must realize your arguments in favor of Oliver are either emotional, nationalistic, or both, because you still haven't proved *what* Oliver has (other than deep Solberg pockets) that proves a second RC1 season will be any different.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

Tight-budget team.. haha

[AnttiL]

Funny thing is that like Solberg violently took the seat and somebody way more talented stayed out..

What about Fourmaux? Disastrous season.. but nobody coughs about going back to rally2, 3, 4.
Solberg 8 vs Fourmaux 9 rallies this season - Solberg 33p vs Fourmaux 9p(Serderidis three rallies and 6p)

:D

Fourmaux should go back to WRC2 as well, he also had a quite short WRC2 period in his career and never won anything (although had a good number of podiums). I think he got fast-forwarded to the main class with Suninen leaving the team in 2021.

[AnttiL]

Tight-budget team.. haha

Tight-resourced would be probably more correct.

[TypeR]

Being world top3 car manufacturer and can't run a 3-4 car rally team is more of bad rally team management than tight-what ever and not winning a single WDC in 9 years.

[seb_sh]

A few pages ago I wrote a post comparing Kalle's and Oliver's development paths. They are actually very similar until you get to the point where Kalle got a year in WRC2 in a good car with a good team and he won most rallies. In that year he learned to be a rally driver, he learned to manage a rally, he learned to manage a championship. He was already fast but still needed to learn. He also went through some emotions and some pressure. He also has the success to give him confidence. Oliver was put in the Hyundai WRC and had an encouraging result. Then he was ping ponged between the Hyundai WRC and the Rally2. The Hyundai WRC needed a specific driving style and even Loeb struggled and the WRC2 was just bad. What did he learn that year?

Oliver is an incredibly talented young man, I'm sure he can handle a Rally 1 car and other even more powerfull cars. But he hasn't learned to be a rally driver, and he hasn't had the success. Even if he can brute force the learning with money in a Rally 1, he will not have the experience of managing a winning championship and he will not have the extra confidence that gives when he can think back to that moment. Instead he can remember he fucked up and binned it in the first corner of Finland, going too fast, and then cried in an interview. In modern rallying it's not just about car control, it's also about everything else.

To say Oliver should stay in Rally 1 is saying he is some sort of alien talent, better than Rovanpera, Tanak, Evans and if we look back Ogier, Loeb, Sordo and others. They all had a year in a lower class where they did a proper rally championship, won rallies and won the championship. It is not only about learning but also developing a young man, and giving him the chance to have success and be put in difficult positions where he must think. I really hope he becomes a challenger for Rovanpera in the future but he's being screwed up at this point and I'm afraid his talent will be wasted because people are too emotional.

[dimviii]

Two of the most succesfull drivers at last 20 years,Loeb and Ogier won the ''wrc2'' of those years championship, before they jumped to top category.
Food for thought...

[PLuto]

For me there is a problem they are moving young drivers up too early. Some of them are going directly to R5 cars to WRC2, some of them are going too early to Rally1. This is example of Fourmaux and also Solberg. As we are in the thread of Oliver - he can be very fast on fast gravel events, he can fight for top places. On all other surfaces he had problems to be fast also in ERC, also in WRC2. So it is not surprise he is not fast in Rally1 car. It is important to know how to be fast on different surfaces / types of surfaces and also to know how to fight for win (because your mind is very important for success). To learn all this, the best way is to go step by step and learn it. If you are going to fast or missing some steps, it is more difficult to become a champion...

[PLuto]

Two of the most succesfull drivers at last 20 years,Loeb and Ogier won the ''wrc2'' of those years championship, before they jumped to top category.
Food for thought...

Loeb and Ogier are quite different story, they are product of Citroen/Bugalski school...

[seb_sh]

Loeb and Ogier are quite different story, they are product of Citroen/Bugalski school...

And even they had the experience of driving a championship in JWRC or S1600 or whatever it was called at the time. Not to mention a lot of other WRC winners. In fact I believe that only Neuville is a recent example of a fast-tracked driver that achieved any kind of success and even he is not a WDC yet, and lately is looking not so hot.

[seb_sh]

Oh and speaking of Bugalski I remember a Loeb interview where he explained he was lucky to be in the Citroen team that had a well developed Xsara and he was anxious when he had to develop the C4. Compare that to Solberg having to cope with the tricky Hyundai WRC and shitty Rally2. In the same year.

I think Petter is growing some good shit in the garden for him and some fans.

[mknight]

And even they had the experience of driving a championship in JWRC or S1600 or whatever it was called at the time. Not to mention a lot of other WRC winners. In fact I believe that only Neuville is a recent example of a fast-tracked driver that achieved any kind of success and even he is not a WDC yet, and lately is looking not so hot.
Neuville's had a second IRC year (2011) where he lost the fight for championship with alternator failure on last round was in a way an extra year. Certainly much less fast-tracked than Solberg and Fourmaux.

Bringing up Fourmaux is interesting cause I totally agree he is doing even worse than Solberg confirming that this approach doesn't work.

Notable differences:
- Fourmaux has already been "kicked" for two rounds, even though he is paying
- MSPort is a business venue that certainly doesn't have manu title (or any title) as main goal. Main goal is to run business, part of which is earning money by bringing up new talents. They risk with unknown young drivers all the time, sometimes it works (Tanak, Evans (long way), sometimes not (Camillo)). Hyundais aims should be quite different.

[dimviii]

Loeb and Ogier are quite different story, they are product of Citroen/Bugalski school...
Every ''story'' is different,but the path you have to follow is given by these examples.
You have to follow what this method did,because its prooven that extracts the best results.

[cali]

Funny thing is that like Solberg violently took the seat and somebody way more talented stayed out..

What about Fourmaux? Disastrous season.. but nobody coughs about going back to rally2, 3, 4.
Solberg 8 vs Fourmaux 9 rallies this season - Solberg 33p vs Fourmaux 9p(Serderidis three rallies and 6p)

:D1. The thread title here says clearly "Oliver Solberg" not "Adrien Fourmaux".

2. I guess there isn't member here who thinks Fourmaux is Rally1 ready, far from it but this isn't the topic here. Skipping lower classes is and this has been proven in practice. I hope Solbergs will make smart decisions from now on and they have patience to "wait" for a few years and I'm sure the results will come.

Case closed :D

Sent from my DN2103 using Tapatalk

[manthey]

Every ''story'' is different,but the path you have to follow is given by these examples.
You have to follow what this method did,because its prooven that extracts the best results.I don't know the story in depth, I assume Bugalski had a big role in development of the Xsara. Wasn't it?

[Rallyper]

Amateurs? he should beat those AMATEURS then first when he wants to do good in upper class. he didnt do it on Rally Portugal this year, far from it

i dont get it Per why you are so against him going a step back. Tänak is a perfect example how it worked and his debut season in big class was much better than Olivers this season and its clear to see he isnt ready yet.

Well, I try to see things from both sides. Nothing is black or white.
I can see benefits from stepping down. But it´s not a rule written down in stones as most of you keyboardfighters seems to be sure of.
I don´t deny going to WRC2 is a good thing. But I also see ways for him to go further i RC1 if chances will appear. Maybe it´s a more expensive way of learning, but it is also learning.
Putting pressure on Oliver saying he doesn´t win after these catastrophical months hopping back and forth in classes is unfair. He shouldn´t win anything in WRC until he got the right circumstances, 12-24 months from now.
I´m quite patient seeing him as a top contender in a few years no matter he goes to WRC2 or continues in RC1.

[Essaj]

Well, I try to see things from both sides. Nothing is black or white.
I can see benefits from stepping down. But it´s not a rule written down in stones as most of you keyboardfighters seems to be sure of.
I don´t deny going to WRC2 is a good thing. But I also see ways for him to go further i RC1 if chances will appear. Maybe it´s a more expensive way of learning, but it is also learning.
Putting pressure on Oliver saying he doesn´t win after these catastrophical months hopping back and forth in classes is unfair. He shouldn´t win anything in WRC until he got the right circumstances, 12-24 months from now.
I´m quite patient seeing him as a top contender in a few years no matter he goes to WRC2 or continues in RC1.

Finally you're speaking some sense.

[WRCStan]

Finally you're speaking some sense.

Finally! :D

Man's been saying the same thing all along.

[denkimi]

The main reason solberg should not be in a wrc1 car without paying for it (aka Msport), is because he hasn't proven he has the talent to be in one.
Just because his name is solberg and he's been driving since he was a child has no meaning at all. Matthew wilson did all that, yet he never turned out to be talented.

Let him drive wrc2 so he can show he's able to beat mikkelsen and all the other amateurs, and then perhaps we can talk about why we would want to see him in a wrc1 car. But at this moment, when i look at the list of his results, there is nothing that makes me think this guy should be a in wrc1 car.

[AnttiL]

I also see ways for him to go further i RC1 if chances will appear. Maybe it´s a more expensive way of learning, but it is also learning.

We agree here. He can learn as well with Rally1 cars but it will take time and it will be expensive. How long someone is paying the bills, be it a factory or a sponsor?

[AnttiL]

likely with more global rally media exposure

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/solberg-ready-to-enjoy-himself-on-cambrian/

Also last night I saw already people posting stream links on a Discord rally channel, to follow the event. I wouldn't see that happening on an average BRC round.

BTW the stream link is here

https://youtu.be/neWIMXigcWs

[AnttiL]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/solberg-ready-to-enjoy-himself-on-cambrian/

Also last night I saw already people posting stream links on a Discord rally channel, to follow the event. I wouldn't see that happening on an average BRC round.

BTW the stream link is here

https://youtu.be/neWIMXigcWs

Sadly there is no BRC regular winners on this event

[Rallyper]

Sadly there is no BRC regular winners on this event

However, without any comparison otherwise, obvious differences in speed appeared.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/brc/solberg-rediscovers-his-rallying-love-on-cambrian/

[Jarek Z]

Nobody is watching the rally, everybody is looking at their phones!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYipuzcMKfM

[AnttiL]

Nobody is watching the rally, everybody is looking at their phones!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYipuzcMKfM

That's rallying in the 2020's. I bet they look at those shaking phone vids every night...:rolleyes:

[lmmjvss]

I remember GIVING an (free practice only) Indycar ticket for a friend... It was his first time watching a race car in person... He LITERALLY spent THE WHOLE DAY filming the cars... And when he was not filming it, he as looking at the clips on his phone, posting then on instagram. He spent ten minutes trying to do a selfie with a car passing on the track behind him. He didnt LOOKED DIRECTLY at any car during the whole day!! This is so weird. Im not exagerating. He didnt looked to the cars without the phone in between his eyes and the car.

[Jarek Z]

This is so weird. Im not exagerating. He didnt looked to the cars without the phone in between his eyes and the car.

There's something very wrong with people these days!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRic_2dwVa8

[tr4m]

I too ruined my first rally visit by looking at the cars through the lens instead of taking it in for myself. I was only able to see 1 stage in 2 passes at that rally and as soon as the last car drove by, at the end of the second pass, I was instantly filled with regret. Next rally left the camera home and took only my camping chair. Completely different experience. Thinking back and actually remembering the rally beats any blurry photo I could take.

[hutchie]

My thoughts on photos and videos at rallies is the same as music concerts. I'll maybe take a minute or two to get some photos and videos to look back on, but otherwise I want to be in the moment. Nothing wrong with wanting something to look back on and share on social media your experience. But that's not how to experience the majority of an event.

[AnttiL]

My thoughts on photos and videos at rallies is the same as music concerts. I'll maybe take a minute or two to get some photos and videos to look back on, but otherwise I want to be in the moment. Nothing wrong with wanting something to look back on and share on social media your experience. But that's not how to experience the majority of an event.

I was about to say the same. I typically take a video or photo to send to a friend or as a memory, but definitely not all or most cars. And I usually I don't waste the experience of seeing the top drivers through the lens, but some lesser driver. Often I even film the zero car just to show my friends what kind of a place I chose.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I agree, leave the photos and videos to the experts as your handheld phone wont do it justice.

I can still remember the sight, sound and smell of the Group B cars in the 80's which I experienced and never worried about filming.

[HKSjbg]

Bare minimum you get one video of a MkII Escort coming out of a corner on the lock-stops and anything else you feel you have time for is a bonus

[bomber21]

I only take pictures or videos from one SS and I watch the rest with my eyes. This is a good rule I think.

[Rallyper]

Guys. I made a new thread especially for talking about how to spectate. Enjoy.

[the sniper]

Nobody is watching the rally, everybody is looking at their phones!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYipuzcMKfM

6.7k have watched the rally because someone was looking at their phone, recording the footage you posted...

[denkimi]

I usually don't film anything, but i'm glad other are doing it. Most of the hot moments and crashes are only captured on video due to amateurs filming with their phone.

[tbtstt]

He should go to rally2 and prove he can win there first.
Bingo; he is definitely a good driver but I think he needed longer at the Rally2 level before stepping up.

[AnttiL]

6.7k have watched the rally because someone was looking at their phone, recording the footage you posted...

But it wouldn’t have required all those people filming, just one.

[M5]

If R5 is the only option next year what is the best option in your mind

1 Go for team solbeg with polo
2 Team solberg but another car
3 Try to get a seat with Toksport
4 Go for M-sport Fiesta, and maybe get a Puma option, and work for Puma seat in 2024

[pantealex]

If R5 is the only option next year what is the best option in your mind

1 Go for team solbeg with polo
2 Team solberg but another car
3 Try to get a seat with Toksport
4 Go for M-sport Fiesta, and maybe get a Puma option, and work for Puma seat in 2024

TokSport is "car rental" company just like many others.
For Oliver I would start season (SWE and/or Mexico) with Polo and if/when FabiaRS is absolutely reliable, switch to it Portugal/Sardinia time

[Managarium]

If R5 is the only option next year what is the best option in your mind

1 Go for team solbeg with polo
2 Team solberg but another car
3 Try to get a seat with Toksport
4 Go for M-sport Fiesta, and maybe get a Puma option, and work for Puma seat in 2024

I think that option 4 with M-Sport gives him the best chanse to drive Rally1 car.

[Rallyest]

I think that option 4 with M-Sport gives him the best chanse to drive Rally1 car.

But option 4 also gives him the worst chance in Rally2, if he wants to win wrc2 this year or atleast show good pace. i think rather Polo private entries and if possible payed M-sport Rally1 outings.

[Sulland]

If RedBull came to Oliver and said, we would like to have you on our A-List. He would then be part of a professional motorsport environment.

Could that happen, and that the solbergs leave Monster for RedBull and MSport?

[ouvreur]

If RedBull came to Oliver and said, we would like to have you on our A-List. He would then be part of a professional motorsport environment.

Could that happen, and that the solbergs leave Monster for RedBull and MSport?

Offer them enough money and I'm sure Oliver would drive with anything written on the car. That's what it all comes down to.

[AnttiL]

I would guess Monster is more of a long time partnership that is not ditched for a single season funding.

[pantealex]

If RedBull came to Oliver and said, we would like to have you on our A-List. He would then be part of a professional motorsport environment.

Could that happen, and that the solbergs leave Monster for RedBull and MSport?

There are already more than enough drivers in RedBull A-list (Loeb, Ogier, Kalle, Neuville, Katsuta + many Rally2 drivers)

No offer to Oliver!

[the sniper]

There are already more than enough drivers in RedBull A-list (Loeb, Ogier, Kalle, Neuville, Katsuta + many Rally2 drivers)

How many of those are 'Red Bull A-list' though? I get the impression that not all Red Bull athletes are in the same boat... You have the likes of Loeb, who I imagine is funded out of a kind of 'Central Bank of Red Bull', whereas at the other end you've got your Katsuta's or Evans, who I imagine are more on pocket money deals by comparison, dished out by the equivalent of a 'Red Bull regional development fund'.

If Oliver were to be offered a big money, multi year deal from the 'Central Bank of Red Bull', it'd probably be worth switching. If it's a standard 'Red Bull Athlete' association, he's presumably much better off trying to work with Monster. As much as I like Oliver, I see no reason to believe he'd be getting offered the former big deal at this point in his career.

[RS]

Solberg tested with Toksport today:

https://youtu.be/zHi1etPRYcM

[pettersolberg29]

Oliver won't be leaving Monster, not an option!

[Sulland]

2023: WRC2 with Toksport and new Fabia.

from facebook

✍️ ������������, ������������, ������������������!


Very happy to announce we'll be driving a brand new Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 with Toksport WRT in 2023 ��


Fantastic to have Monster Energy's support as we get ready to fight for the WRC2 championship! See you in Monte Carlo! ��

[RS]

A good move for Oliver to return to WRC2 and try and do it properly as he should have before progressing to WRC1.

Also, Lindholm/Solberg/Gryazin/Pajari/Bulacia/Ingram(?) a pretty strong lineup for Toksport.

[AnttiL]

A good move for Oliver to return to WRC2 and try and do it properly as he should have before progressing to WRC1.

Also, Lindholm/Solberg/Gryazin/Pajari/Bulacia/Ingram(?) a pretty strong lineup for Toksport.

Against...Rossel in a Citroen, maybe Suninen in a Hyundai, who else?

[EstWRC]

right choice, should have done it already this season not jump to the big car

[AnttiL]

right choice, should have done it already this season not jump to the big car

or kept there in 2021

[pettersolberg29]

right choice, should have done it already this season not jump to the big car

If you're promised a long term plan with a top WRC team where you'll be allowed to develop without pressure or expectations then you accept that deal. Not his fault that the team then imploded and completely changed their strategy and attitude.

Having said that, it's good for Oliver's mentality to have a season of stability away from the chaos and the pressure. Will be a massive thing for him to refresh.

[EstWRC]

If you're promised a long term plan with a top WRC team where you'll be allowed to develop without pressure or expectations then you accept that deal. Not his fault that the team then imploded and completely changed their strategy and attitude.

Having said that, it's good for Oliver's mentality to have a season of stability away from the chaos and the pressure. Will be a massive thing for him to refresh.

I know he was promised these things, like Adamo promised for Ott a lot of things.

But still my point stands, it was too early for him to do a full season in a rally1 car

[focus206]

Oliver was in Hyundai in a 3rd car, a point scoring car for the manufacturer, not in a 4th car or in a B team like Katsuta was.
There's no way in hell Hyundai was going to just let Oliver drive with no pressure without expecting at least few good results here and there.

[Rallyper]

Oliver was in Hyundai in a 3rd car, a point scoring car for the manufacturer, not in a 4th car or in a B team like Katsuta was.
There's no way in hell Hyundai was going to just let Oliver drive with no pressure without expecting at least few good results here and there.

Their (Hyundai) words at the time are more worth than yours having all the aftermath.

[AndyRAC]

How many of those are 'Red Bull A-list' though? I get the impression that not all Red Bull athletes are in the same boat... You have the likes of Loeb, who I imagine is funded out of a kind of 'Central Bank of Red Bull', whereas at the other end you've got your Katsuta's or Evans, who I imagine are more on pocket money deals by comparison, dished out by the equivalent of a 'Red Bull regional development fund'.

If Oliver were to be offered a big money, multi year deal from the 'Central Bank of Red Bull', it'd probably be worth switching. If it's a standard 'Red Bull Athlete' association, he's presumably much better off trying to work with Monster. As much as I like Oliver, I see no reason to believe he'd be getting offered the former big deal at this point in his career.

I think you're right; not all are equal - some RB athletes are backed by each country's 'importer' - others by the main RB house. There is a list on the RB website of athletes. As somebody who follows MTB, there's a large number of them in that sport. Similarly, in MXGP, which is a Monster Energy sponsored series.

It's unusual for athletes to switch between the big two; from memory Jonathan Rea was a RB athlete back in BSB, but there was a big gap between getting ME backing. I can't see Oliver switching at all; he's their main guy in the WRC, and even went over to the USA last month. It's not something I see happening.

[pantealex]

Against...Rossel in a Citroen, maybe Suninen in a Hyundai, who else?

Kajto + MSport drivers Formaux and Munster in some rallies, hopely some others too, Spanish? Marczyk?

[Paul Hudson]

https://bit.ly/UNLEASHEDpodcast Monster Energy Podcast with the Solberg's.

[ferrial]

Basically said that Tänak was a cool guy and Neuville was a cruel team member, who pushed him down from the beginning. Harsh words to say in public.

[seb_sh]

Can't wait for Cyril to start to be team principal. They should do some Drive to survive or Hyundai team documentary next year.

[skarderud]

Basically said that Tänak was a cool guy and Neuville was a cruel team member, who pushed him down from the beginning. Harsh words to say in public.Why i'm not surprised....

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[dimviii]

Basically said that Tänak was a cool guy and Neuville was a cruel team member, who pushed him down from the beginning. Harsh words to say in public.

so for his bad pace through the year ,Neuville was the reason?
i would be in ''silenced mode'' in his position,and i would focus in my driving and how i will progress.
Its unbelievable that he keeps mentioning Neuville/Hyundai with this attitude.
Petter must protect him,but i dont see that...

[focus206]

so for his bad pace through the year ,Neuville was the reason?
i would be in ''silenced mode'' in his position,and i would focus in my driving and how i will progress.
Its unbelievable that he keeps mentioning Neuville/Hyundai with this attitude.
Petter must protect him,but i dont see that...

I'm curious to see how Oliver will do this season, I want to see how he'll react in the face of adversities, if he'll search for excuses etc.
I wish him the best, but ultimately a teammate you don't get along with can't do much to affect your results. In the car it's just you and your codriver vs the clock.

[Paul Hudson]

I'm curious to see how Oliver will do this season, I want to see how he'll react in the face of adversities, if he'll search for excuses etc.
I wish him the best, but ultimately a teammate you don't get along with can't do much to affect your results. In the car it's just you and your codriver vs the clock.

I agree with the first part of your post, but in most teams they have a lead driver who dictates the spec of the car to suit his driving style, the other drivers in the team have to try to adapt the driving style to suit the car,. Some drivers find it easier than others as it does not come natural , A car that understeers , or oversteers , they have very limited scope to adapt the Settings to change things to suit themselves. So that has a massive effect on any driver on a event if the car does not suit them.

[manthey]

So the i20's setting was based on Neuville's preference? No way to change the setup for Ott? Hyundai listened more Thierry that a former world champion?
Seems to me a bit strange...

[Rallyest]

So the i20's setting was based on Neuville's preference? No way to change the setup for Ott? Hyundai listened more Thierry that a former world champion?
Seems to me a bit strange...

So you have been here since 2014, but havent been keeping up with latest interviews and info. Thierry is their golden boy and sadly he has a lot of say in the team, also about the direction of car development

[wyler]

So you have been here since 2014, but havent been keeping up with latest interviews and info. Thierry is their golden boy and sadly he has a lot of say in the team, also about the direction of car development

then happens 2022 silly season, when lappi tests the hiunday (same as solberg's one) and says the car is very neutral, almost similar to toyota.
i guess both are steering a bit reality to suit their interest.

[AMSS]

So the i20's setting was based on Neuville's preference? No way to change the setup for Ott? Hyundai listened more Thierry that a former world champion?
Seems to me a bit strange...

With the diffs being locked for the whole season with the same for the whole team things are a bit more complicated nowadays.. But of course I have no way of knowing what the initial problem was/is

[cali]

With the diffs being locked for the whole season with the same for the whole team things are a bit more complicated nowadays.. But of course I have no way of knowing what the initial problem was/isDiffs was one of the issues yes

Sent from my DN2103 using Tapatalk

[J4MIE]

I'm curious to see how Oliver will do this season, I want to see how he'll react in the face of adversities, if he'll search for excuses etc.
I wish him the best, but ultimately a teammate you don't get along with can't do much to affect your results. In the car it's just you and your codriver vs the clock.

Confidence is a massive issue as well.

[manthey]

So you have been here since 2014, but havent been keeping up with latest interviews and info. Thierry is their golden boy and sadly he has a lot of say in the team, also about the direction of car development

Yes I know about the influence by Thierry (almost "Ceo" of Hyundai Rally) but it feel strange to me the dynamics of the car could not be adapted to other drivers

[manthey]

With the diffs being locked for the whole season with the same for the whole team things are a bit more complicated nowadays.. But of course I have no way of knowing what the initial problem was/isOk this could be a reason, we know Thierry uses a lot handbrake to turn the car

[cali]

Ok this could be a reason, we know Thierry uses a lot handbrake to turn the car
That's his style.

[focus206]

Confidence is a massive issue as well.

If your confidence is damaged to a degree that it hurts your speed and reliability as we saw last year... what is he going to do when fighting for a championship, maybe against a teammate? He needs to be mentally stronger.
In circuit racing a teammate can truly hinder you by driving dirty around you, pushing you off the track etc, but in rallying? Saying "the car doesn't fit me" is a good reason for bad results, saying "my teammate is mean to me" is not good enough.

[seb_sh]

Not saying there aren't shananigans going on at Hyundai with Thierry but let's not forget Oliver went in 1 gear higher than anyone else in that corner in Finland and then blamed the car saying the rear just snapped. Usually the truth is somewhere inbetween.

[ferrial]

That's his style.
Yep, he used that style also with former generation cars.

[Sulland]

Signs of a non functioning team;

- No Teamboss
- A substitute boss with little to no authority
- A driver with a wannabe teamboss feeling in his belly
- No sharing of data btw drivers
- A pissed off world champion, that can not get a car that behaves as he wants.
- A junior driver that was pushed to much to soon.

Does not sound like a recipee for success!

[J4MIE]

If your confidence is damaged to a degree that it hurts your speed and reliability as we saw last year... what is he going to do when fighting for a championship, maybe against a teammate? He needs to be mentally stronger.
In circuit racing a teammate can truly hinder you by driving dirty around you, pushing you off the track etc, but in rallying? Saying "the car doesn't fit me" is a good reason for bad results, saying "my teammate is mean to me" is not good enough.

Surely the mental game is part of what happens when you develop as a driver with time?

Or are you saying you already need to be completely 100% confident and not let *anything* affect you *at all* in your first proper year as a full works driver in a team that is acting haphazardly at best with a poor car? Because that is completely unrealistic, maybe unless you are Loeb or Ogier.

[focus206]

Surely the mental game is part of what happens when you develop as a driver with time?

Or are you saying you already need to be completely 100% confident and not let *anything* affect you *at all* in your first proper year as a full works driver in a team that is acting haphazardly at best with a poor car? Because that is completely unrealistic, maybe unless you are Loeb or Ogier.

To me what puts pressure on a driver is when there's a team who demands a certain level of results, or even more, when a driver is in a fight for a podium, a rally or a championship. I can only imagine the amount of stress when you're about to start a decisive stage!
But a teammate being "mean" to you? Sure, not nice, but what is he going to do? He can't hinder you on a stage. Release interviews talking bad about you? I only recall Monte, in which Neuville said Oliver should have tried to keep going despite the problems.
I don't know how much Oliver blames his performance on himself or on the car or on his teammate, but this seems waaay out of proportion.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Surely the mental game is part of what happens when you develop as a driver with time?

Or are you saying you already need to be completely 100% confident and not let *anything* affect you *at all* in your first proper year as a full works driver in a team that is acting haphazardly at best with a poor car? Because that is completely unrealistic, maybe unless you are Loeb or Ogier.

Or Rovanpera. He is truly a freak to have the confidence and mental strength to be at the top level at such a young age. Remember the next youngest Champion was McRae - at 5 years older !

So J4MIE is correct about young Solberg, you need to cut him some slack and not expect him to be at the top level in any way yet.

[dimviii]

So J4MIE is correct about young Solberg, you need to cut him some slack and not expect him to be at the top level in any way yet.

nobody asked from Oliver to be at ''top level''
the problem was that he was below average at most rallies.

[Rallyper]

nobody asked from Oliver to be at ''top level''
the problem was that he was below average at most rallies.

Sorry.
Disagree.
By the fans and us guys on certain forums we thought and hoped he would be at top level. Else we don´t know a thing about expectations on him, I´d say.
Below average? How do you measure that? If average is Fourmaux and Loubet, he beat them in the overall standings not driving all rounds...

[Sulland]

This years livery

https://www.facebook.com/OliverSolberg01

[HKSjbg]

This years livery

https://www.facebook.com/OliverSolberg01

Anyone got an image for those of us not on facebook? I’d need to log in to see anything past the homepage

Edit: found it on twitter:

https://twitter.com/OliverSolberg01/status/1613492312163729409?cxt=HHwWgoC-pbKto-QsAAAA

The livery was actually designed by a guy who goes by the name Sims Racing on youtube/reddit etc. He created the livery to showcase the Fabia RS Rally2 mod for Assetto Corsa.

When I put it to him that I assumed it was Solberg’s livery for this year he responded “I guess he’ll have the same livery as Lindholm and Gryazin but with a black bonnet which has Monster Energy on it”. Good to see Solberg has decided to use the livery for real!

[Rallyest]

Petter again present at test Oliver test... no independece whatsoever