Silly Season 2020

[meh]

I think we should watch "contract news" and "title news" as one topic. One is fuel to another. There are a lot of drivers who probably have their contract negotiations in progress but no one put the main focus there till No 1 Driver does not have contract in place. It's all normal. We are all waiting, we are audience and they produce news/"news" for us.

[Allez Andruet]

This is just my own speculation, but I think they made a very low offer so they could say they offered him a seat, but it was something that no one would accept.

Could be. Lappi himself said that "Citroen really wanted me" which could mean that it was a low-ball offer from Tommi.

[EstWRC]

BREAKING NEWS!!! -> Seb Ogier will also join HyundaiWRC# team in 2020 so it will be fair fight and fair competition to find out who is the best amongst BIG3, once for all

[denkimi]

BREAKING NEWS!!! -> Seb Ogier will also join HyundaiWRC# team in 2020 so it will be fair fight and fair competition to find out who is the best amongst BIG3, once for all
That would be a bombshell. :p

No doubt if it was up to adamo alone this would be the case.

[AnttiL]

That would be a bombshell. :p

No doubt if it was up to adamo alone this would be the case.

sshhh, don't give him any ideas...

[EstWRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIJp1iWWwAQ4BCn?format=jpg&name=large

[Allez Andruet]

Just wondering, why would Ogier want to jump from Citroen to Toyota? Based on the stories we've heard during the past few days, Seb would have to spend half of his season (his last season ever) telling the two TGR bosses to mind their own business. I bet he'll have much more friendly environment at Citroen.

[ggg377]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIJp1iWWwAQ4BCn?format=jpg&name=large

Delete this :D

[ggg377]

Just wondering, why would Ogier want to jump from Citroen to Toyota? Based on the stories we've heard during the past few days, Seb would have to spend half of his season (his last season ever) telling the two TGR bosses to mind their own business. I bet he'll have much more friendly environment at Citroen.

I agree. I love the Ott + Toyota combination and I dread the day the Hyundai announcement is made public, but the thought of Ott losing another title to reliability issues is also very scary. Toyota might have the aesthetic and the speed (especially with Ott), but it's far from perfect.

[AnttiL]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIJp1iWWwAQ4BCn?format=jpg&name=large

You need to start printing rallydriver paper dolls. You can then try how different coveralls fit :D

[EstWRC]

Haha. It’s not mine, found it on Twitter. Seb looks actually quite good in Toyota outfit.

Ott not so much in Hyundai one.

[wrc2017]

Just wondering, why would Ogier want to jump from Citroen to Toyota? Based on the stories we've heard during the past few days, Seb would have to spend half of his season (his last season ever) telling the two TGR bosses to mind their own business. I bet he'll have much more friendly environment at Citroen.

Ogier has himself convinced the Toyota is light years ahead

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It's going to be tough for him next season whatever and I'm starting to think Ogier will stay at Citroen.

If he jumps to Toyota and fails in their 'Championship-winning car' he will look bad.

And if he doesnt win in the Citroen he can still look a loyal Frenchman but blame the inconsistant C3.

[racerx1979]

Now Evans reporting Kalle R. will be in the third Yaris as a fact.... Not sure how much to read into it, but he sneaked that in the article linked below.

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/146879/could-toyota-move-for-ogier-after-tanak-moves

[T16]

Now Evans reporting Kalle R. will be in the third Yaris as a fact.... Not sure how much to read into it, but he sneaked that in the article linked below.

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/146879/could-toyota-move-for-ogier-after-tanak-moves

I’m not trying to argue your point, but for clarity Evans has seemed pretty adamant that Rovanpera has signed for Toyota since the news broke in Autosport that Tanak has signed. He said something like ‘Rovanpera is the only Toyota driver with a contract for next year’.
Anyway, my point being, if he is correct on that too, he will have certainly cemented himself as the man with the knowledge in a big way.
Fair play to him, everyone else seems to be whispering it tentatively.

[mousti]

I’m not trying to argue your point, but for clarity Evans has seemed pretty adamant that Rovanpera has signed for Toyota since the news broke in Autosport that Tanak has signed. He said something like ‘Rovanpera is the only Toyota driver with a contract for next year’.
Anyway, my point being, if he is correct on that too, he will have certainly cemented himself as the man with the knowledge in a big way.
Fair play to him, everyone else seems to be whispering it tentatively.

Or he's the thief of Tommi's phone :D

[racerx1979]

Some teach Tommi how to use a passcode to unlock phone or get him a phone with a finger sensor.. what a joke!

[Allez Andruet]

Ogier has himself convinced the Toyota is light years ahead

Yet still Tänak wanted to get out. I'm thinking more of the atmosphere aspect of it. The car is fast, that we know. But would Ogier be willing to sacrifice it all just to have a faster car in his last ever WRC season?

[Got Mail]

It's going to be tough for him next season whatever and I'm starting to think Ogier will stay at Citroen.

If he jumps to Toyota and fails in their 'Championship-winning car' he will look bad.

And if he doesnt win in the Citroen he can still look a loyal Frenchman but blame the inconsistant C3.

I think you're making a pretty big assumption that Citroen will be entered into the WRC in 2020.

I don't believe they will.

[tomhlord]

I think you're making a pretty big assumption that Citroen will be entered into the WRC in 2020.

I don't believe they will.

There are certainly massive macro politics threatening the involvement. Linda Jackson, the Citroen CEO who greenlighted the WRC project is rumoured to be getting the boot. Then we have today's news of a potential merger between FCA and PSA.

However, they have two drivers under contract for 2020 and a new aero package, I believe they'll be there next season but not in 2021.

[AnttiL]

I also believe Citroen will stay for 2020. But beyond that, it's a question mark.

[pantealex]

https://www.is.fi/ralli/art-2000006291271.html?ref=rss

Jouhki says it´s 50-50 that Ogier is joining TGR.

[T16]

There are certainly massive macro politics threatening the involvement. Linda Jackson, the Citroen CEO who greenlighted the WRC project is rumoured to be getting the boot. Then we have today's news of a potential merger between FCA and PSA.

However, they have two drivers under contract for 2020 and a new aero package, I believe they'll be there next season but not in 2021.

She's already gone. Last week I think.

[wrc2017]

I also believe Citroen will stay for 2020. But beyond that, it's a question mark.

They may only stay if Ogier stays

[sinepikohv]

So let's speculate that Ogier indeed moves to Toyota. I'm 100% sure they'll pull the plug then. Wtf are they going to do? Drive with Lappi and Östberg/Camilli/whoever? For what and for whom? To see how many last places they'll get?

If Ogier goes then could Citroen go for Thierry? I hardly think so, Thierry must be happy at Hyundai (him and Nico and Ott and Martin are good friends, no wonder why he welcomes Ott's move) and when'd even think of going to Citroen, his wife would surely take out her phone, open Twitter, start typing something and Thierry will freak out and end the negotiations because he doesn't want a Shitroen moment. Although, it was pretty entertaining.

Losing a manufacturer would be awful, of course. And yesterday's news that M-Sport's involvement in WRC will probably go down to the wire yet again makes my nerves tingle. Would be nice if the Promoter or FIA signs a contract with a manufacturer for X number of years. Then we wouldn't have to think every year who'll leave etc.

Although, I guess if someone wants to leave, they'll do it. Like with Volkswagen. They would've left anyway even if they'd have to pay a fine for breaking the contract. So in another words - my idea is useless :D

[AL14]

Then we have today's news of a potential merger between FCA and PSA.


Let's see if FCA pulls out PSA from WRC or maybe the other way around. :)

[rallyfiend]

The only reason Ogier could have to look for another drive is if Citroen leave WRC.

Not the other way around.

[Got Mail]

She's already gone. Last week I think.

"Moved to another role within PSA"

Yes - she's gone.

[Rally Power]

Let's see if FCA pulls out PSA from WRC or maybe the other way around. :)

If done (they’ll be negotiating for several weeks) the merger won’t affect Citroen 2020 WRC plans. According to the reports, PSA will have 6 board members and FCA 5; Elkann (Agnelli grandson) is set to be Chairman and Tavares (PSA boss) the CEO.

Btw, despite an earlier resistance, Tavares is now firmly pushing for his brands electrification; hopefully, the 2022 WRC hybrids may fit on his stratergy.

[tomhlord]

Btw, despite an earlier resistance, Tavares is now firmly pushing for his brands electrification; hopefully, the 2022 WRC hybrids may fit on his stratergy.

Good point.

I would say though, that their strategy for 'supermini' cars that are the same size as current WRC cars with the new 208 and Corsa is to offer Petrol, Diesel or full-EV and no hybrid in this segment. Which means the WRC Hybrid rules aren't necessarily relatable to the road-going brethren.

[Rally Power]

I would say though, that their strategy for 'supermini' cars that are the same size as current WRC cars with the new 208 and Corsa is to offer Petrol, Diesel or full-EV and no hybrid in this segment. Which means the WRC Hybrid rules aren't necessarily relatable to the road-going brethren.

True, but they won’t take long to use mild hybrid systems on their whole range: https://www.enginetechnologyinternational.com/news/partnerships-investments-acquisitions/groupe-psa-and-punch-powertrain-negotiate-joint-venture-terms.html

[AL14]

If done (they’ll be negotiating for several weeks) the merger won’t affect Citroen 2020 WRC plans.

I was taking this for granted. I mean, everything is possibile but most likely they will stay the coming year for sure.

[Allez Andruet]

https://www.is.fi/ralli/art-2000006291554.html

Jouhki blasting Märtin and Tänak and the game they've played in negotiations, saying it's "unbelievable" what they've done. "It's been very unprofessional, and I've been around for 35 years. I would never do such things myself. These kind of actions will be remembered." There's speculation (not directly by Jouhki though) that Märtin and Tänak have tried to "steal" Toyota's R5 project or atleast parts of it (whatever that means) for MM Motorsport.

[sinepikohv]

I must say, that Jouhki has been extremely vocal about all of this. Of course, the Finnish media turns to him at every moment but I don't remember him being so vocal about anything. Obviously it's understandable. He has his interests with Toyota and Mäkinen must a good friend.

And while I think it's kind of weird for Jouhki to be so vocal, I do believe that he knows excactly what kind of shitagians have been going on and it's obvious he'd like to spank Ott and Markko for being naughty. If it'd be a normal contract negotiations, he'd say a thing here or there not be in the spotlight for weeks.

[TypeR]

I must say, that Jouhki has been extremely vocal about all of this. Of course, the Finnish media turns to him at every moment but I don't remember him being so vocal about anything. Obviously it's understandable. He has his interests with Toyota and Mäkinen must a good friend.

And while I think it's kind of weird for Jouhki to be so vocal, I do believe that he knows excactly what kind of shitagians have been going on and it's obvious he'd like to spank Ott and Markko for being naughty. If it'd be a normal contract negotiations, he'd say a thing here or there not be in the spotlight for weeks.

same thoughts.. haven't noticed it before, but now during the whole Tänak's contract thing he always has something to say :D Yes, he has brought many youngster to WRC and got them seats.. But his last WRC champion was 17y ago, Tommi Mäkinen.
Great list of drivers, who's manager Jouhki is/has been:
- Kankkunen
- Mäkinen
- Hirvonen
- Latvala
- Suninen
- Rovanperä
etc

Ofcourse he has to get to Tommi's side

[Andre Oliveira]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EINwSarXYAAIQ4C?format=jpg&name=medium

[AnttiL]

Great list of drivers, who's manager Jouhki is/has been:
- Kankkunen
- Mäkinen
- Hirvonen
- Latvala
- Suninen
- Lappi
- Rovanperä
etc



Not Lappi’s

[EstWRC]

man i dont even have words anymore how silly this is :D

[TypeR]

Not Lappi’s

Yes ofcourse, my bad.. I was reading an article about him, and somehow wrote him also.

thanks!

[sinepikohv]

same thoughts.. haven't noticed it before, but now during the whole Tänak's contract thing he always has something to say :D Yes, he has brought many youngster to WRC and got them seats.. But his last WRC champion was 17y ago, Tommi Mäkinen.
Great list of drivers, who's manager Jouhki is/has been:
- Kankkunen
- Mäkinen
- Hirvonen
- Latvala
- Suninen
- Rovanperä
etc

Ofcourse he has to get to Tommi's side

It's obvious that he's not pleased - I'd even say he is pissed about it - how Tänak and Märtin have handled things. To me, the sad part is, that unless somebody from Toyota or Jouhki speaks, we will never know what really happened. Because Ott nor Markko aren't going to speak about it for sure.

Jouhki won't probably tell either because it wouldn't be good for his image. Maybe Wuorela? I hear he's working for Jouhki. Maybe he'll write something in his magazine? He did tweet on Monday and that created a buzz.

[TypeR]

and boom, the tweet is gone :D

[T16]

This really is nuts!

[mknight]

Jouhki won't probably tell either because it wouldn't be good for his image. Maybe Wuorela? I hear he's working for Jouhki. Maybe he'll write something in his magazine? He did tweet on Monday and that created a buzz.

Last year Jouhki heavily criticized Veiby both for Lappi and for Tidemand. So it just seems to be his style lately.

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

@Neuville in Jyvaskyla
That would confirmt two things:

a) Tanak is leaving for sure
b) Tommi/Toyota is desperate

I am not sure it's very likely he moves even if he gets a very good offer.

[the sniper]

In hindsight, I presume that the delay in Ott being confirmed for Rally Estonia this year may have been part of these shenanigans?

[TypeR]

That exchange would be awesome :D Neuville leaves to still be a nr 1 and.. I think that team change would make a good difference for him. He has been in Hyundai for so long and sadly achieved nothing..

[trykmann]

Neuville also complained all the time, how they could not compete with Toyotas. This way he would be able to show, how the Yaris drives itself to victory.

[ggg377]

Doesn't Neuville already have a contract with Hyundai for the next season?

[sinepikohv]

Doesn't Neuville already have a contract with Hyundai for the next season?

He does but aren't contracts like rules? They're meant to be broken...

[EstWRC]

i do really wonder if that Neuville tweet was made with purpose to spice things up.

and the longer Hyundai waits with its announcement the crazier the stories go.

[er88]

Ofcourse that tweet from Thierry puts silly season to a whole new level, but maybe it could just be that Hyundai are testing upgrades in Finland for next season (like Citroen did), and maybe also using this opportunity to let Ott drive the car on roads it has historically struggled on vs the Yaris?

[BigWorm]

He's just testing for a decent 2020 Rally Finland setup

[T16]

Ofcourse that tweet from Thierry puts silly season to a whole new level, but maybe it could just be that Hyundai are testing upgrades in Finland for next season (like Citroen did), and maybe also using this opportunity to let Ott drive the car on roads it has historically struggled on vs the Yaris?

Tänak won’t be able to drive it yet will he?

[Crazy J]

https://i.imgur.com/A0e21Ib.jpg?1

[er88]

Tänak won’t be able to drive it yet will he?Yeah I wouldn't have thought so, but I guess anything is possible in this silly season :D

Still would be shocked if Neuville isn't at Hyundai next year.

[ggg377]

Neuville and Ogier in Toyota for 2020?

[SubaruNorway]

Neuville's PR lady Linda is Hirvonen's wife who lives in Jyväskylä, doubt he posts anything himself on Twitter.

[tcrown]

Tänak won’t be able to drive it yet will he?

Team (probably Martin) have tested it, supposedly.

Tanaks team have also been to France for talks with Citroen, however looking at the season I seriously doubt they were having serious thoughts about that.

.

[T16]

Neuville's PR lady Linda is Hirvonen's wife who lives in Jyväskylä, doubt he posts anything himself on Twitter.

Wonder why he deleted it then.

[TypeR]

End of silly season, Ott in Hyundai from 2020, his Facebook page

[T16]

Now official on WRC!!
Good stuff.

[dimviii]

I must say, that Jouhki has been extremely vocal about all of this. Of course, the Finnish media turns to him at every moment but I don't remember him being so vocal about anything. Obviously it's understandable. He has his interests with Toyota and Mäkinen must a good friend.

And while I think it's kind of weird for Jouhki to be so vocal, I do believe that he knows excactly what kind of shitagians have been going on and it's obvious he'd like to spank Ott and Markko for being naughty. If it'd be a normal contract negotiations, he'd say a thing here or there not be in the spotlight for weeks.

Jouhki have to protect his drivers,so i will not take his words for real.
About the ''steal'' we have to know more details,to see if its a ''steal'' or just Tanak/Martin show interest for running the project,in conjuction with the renewal of his contract with Toyota

[T16]

https://motorsport.hyundai.com/ott-signs-for-two-years/

[dimviii]

Toyota GAZOO Racing WRT
@TGR_WRC
·
5m
Thanks for the memories! We've had two great years with @otttanak
and Martin Järveoja and some amazing achievements together. We wish them both the best of luck for the future, and look forward to fighting for one more title together in Australia!

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIOOUjFWwAIUgg7?format=jpg&name=small

[er88]

Hyundai confirming Neuville and Tanak will do full seasons, Loeb and Sordo sharing 3rd car. They claim they are continuing to talk with Andreas and Breen but realistically I can only see an R5 campaign being an option...


No Neuville to Toyota.

[EstWRC]

cmon now all the guys who said the will reveal the back scene stories about Ott leaving, im waiting :D

[TypeR]

interesting thing is that, the contract is for 2 years..? ending just before the new cars?

[cali]

Shocking news I must say :D

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[flykas]

Haha I can say he masterfully pretended that it was all just a rumour. Though at one moment I thought it might be true when Becs interviewed him and he started laughing when she mentioned how good was his poker face lol

[EstWRC]

Not since 2001 has a reigning World Rallying champion changed team for the next season. In 2001 Richard Burns and
@robertreidwrc
won the title with Subaru and changed to compete in Peugeot from 2002. #WRC

[dimviii]

i do really wonder if that Neuville tweet was made with purpose to spice things up.

and the longer Hyundai waits with its announcement the crazier the stories go.

Linda Hirvonen
@LindaMartins13
·
27m
Replying to
@BritRallyMedia
and
@HartusvuoriWRC
Yes! And can’t blame you guys! My mistake!
🤦🏻*♀️

[EstWRC]

anybody has access to this ? https://www.autosport.com/wrc/feature/9657/the-inside-story-of-tanak-shock-hyundai-switch


thanks

[Katvala]

Now I'm curious how the rest of the drivers out of contract will shuffle about.
I hope Mikkelsen won't be left out/have to do R5 again

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[er88]

So David Evans with the Meeke to Toyota scoop, Loeb to Hyundai, Kalle to Toyota as 3rd driver, and now Tanak to Hyundai.

Not bad for all the bashing he sometimes gets.

[cali]

Evans has been more right than wrong so I do not understand how much slack he gets here.


Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[logic]

anybody has access to this ? https://www.autosport.com/wrc/feature/9657/the-inside-story-of-tanak-shock-hyundai-switch


thanks

How on earth did it come to this? How did Toyota lose Ott Tanak? Be under no illusion, Toyota has lost its world champion. Persuasive and charismatic as Hyundai Motorsport director Andrea Adamo is, he shouldn't have been allowed anywhere near Tanak.

Something has gone seriously awry to lure Tanak and Martin Jarveoja away from the best-funded team with the fastest car and the brightest future in the championship. How many other manufacturers have a president clapping and cheering at the side of the road in the way Akio Toyoda does?

Naturally, the positioning of this one depends very much on who you ask, but Autosport knew Tanak was keen to get his future sorted much sooner rather than an awful lot later. He told Autosport as much in Estonia in April. The last thing he wanted was contract negotiations potentially tripping him up in a title fight.

That didn't happen, but the spectre of every second question being about where he would be next year - as summer moved into autumn - played out exactly as he predicted. For months, the service park has been awash with talk of Tanak's overblown and apparently increasingly exorbitant demands for the next two seasons.

We were reliably informed he wanted his own knife, fork, spoon and plate to eat from. And that came after private planes were demanded for him and his family...for all the rallies.

Some of the shorter long-hauls, sure. But not all the rallies.

I've known Tanak his entire professional career and reported on every one of his 105 WRC starts. I've been fortunate enough to meet his family, his parents and his wife Janika. Such demands are outlandish to the point of being laughable. It's not him. Give him a car, some cash and some competition and he's in.


I'm not naive enough to think Tanak hasn't watched with interest as his former team-mate Sebastien Ogier did the big deals and counted the millions coming in and then fancied a little bit of that. Avaricious he ain't. I see him, Markko Martin - the man who has guided Tanak through his entire career - as understanding the worth of a world champion. And then driving a hard and, at times, uncompromising deal.

But wanting his own toilet... on his own private plane, 14 times a year? Nah. The very fact that Tanak has left Toyota is indicative of a breakdown in the relationship. I would stress that the Japanese side of the deal seemed very happy - throughout negotiations - to keep Tanak.

It's at the Finnish-Estonian end that things have apparently turned sour. The seeds of such discontent were sown in the middle of last year, but a greater Japanese influence over the place was thought to be enough to steady the ship.

You would have thought, allied to all the Toyota loveliness detailed above, the fact that Tommi Makinen Racing (Makinen's firm, which runs Toyota's WRC programme) had moved its re-prep base to the outskirts of Tallinn would have been another tick in another box for Tanak. When Autosport looked around it earlier this year, there was a real sense of pride from Tanak over his involvement. That's gone now.

So, does the fault sit firmly with Tommi Makinen here? No. There's fault on both sides.

Tanak has divided opinion inside the team, as some feel he was too quick to criticise them and their work. That's understandable.

But what's more surprising is the inability of these two sides to find common ground and agreement to make sure Toyota's first world champion since Didier Auriol in 1994 stayed put, and with the team for a very long time.

Six months ago, the understanding was that Tanak wanted to tie-up an agreement with the world's biggest carmaker for a good few years. Why wouldn't he? Sources within Toyota acknowledge TMR management dragged its feet over sealing this deal and the time element certainly played its part in the new champion's departure.

Tanak, it seems, simply got fed up with waiting. And, undoubtedly, he struggled with Makinen's approach to running the team he's built himself. If you're looking for precedent, remember Esapekka Lappi, the Finn who walked out on a Finnish team run by a Finn at the end of last season.

Winning the drivers' title should mean sky-high morale at TMR, but's not so, apparently. As one insider said: "You'd have thought winning the championship a round early was something worth celebrating on Sunday night in Spain. Instead, we all just went our own way."

We've got to be careful here. In just the same way that Mitsubishi's Group A Lancer used to be labelled undriveable by all those apart from the man who used it to win four world titles, it would be easy to look into Toyota and criticise Makinen.

But let's not forget, he's a man who won a world championship for Toyota in just his second year in charge. Hyundai has been in the championship since 2014 and is still to win any season-long silverware.

Ultimately, it's the team principal's job to manage his team and that includes man-managing drivers like Tanak.

Tanak has elevated himself to another level in the last two years and he feels the team hasn't supported that rise as much as it might have done.

He's out there, risking his own and Martin Jarveoja's neck and he's suffering power steering problems, alternator issues and the like. Put plainly, he didn't feel loved. At times, he didn't even feel liked.

From Thursday, that's changed. As we've seen through this season, Andrea Adamo's all about the love. It still beggars belief that this has happened, when Tanak-Toyota seemed the likeliest of long-term alliances. But it has.

Writing a piece like this doesn't bring much pleasure. Doubtless, it'll be fascinating to see what's possible with two of the big three competiting in one team.

But at the same time, spare a thought for the hardworking folk at Toyota Gazoo Racing. What might have been... Instead, all that's left is a world champion-sized hole in the team's driver line-up.

[EstWRC]

thanks logic and it was actually quite a sad read.

especially the part about no celebrations on Sunday.

The guy carried the team on his shoulders for two years, and nothing.

[mknight]

End of silly season, Ott in Hyundai from 2020, his Facebook page

I'd actually say that the really silly season begins right now.
Toyota with Latvala, Meeke and Rovanpera is unlikely to have a chance on any of the two championships.
So now let's see who they (try to) get.

[TypeR]

Now everything makes sense.. After Rally Germany Ott and Sordo did armwrestling.. and the bet was ,,winner stays in the team''. Ott lost and here's the result :D Ott to Hyundai! Interesting times staying ahead ;)

[Eraisik]

Now, as news is official, there is no word about Martin. Is it me or is it actually “cold” looking in this car over last rallies?? (Excluding Catalonia finish ...)
EDIT: it’s me...
In Facebook Martin writes:
What a journey it has been together with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRC! Forever thankful for those 2 years! Arigato 🙏

But now it’s time to tackle some new adventures together with Hyundai Motorsport from the 2020 season!

Ott Tänak

#Season2020

[ggg377]

Wow... this story. Here's one for the people that said someone is "machining" a PR campaign against TGR. I'm happy for Tänak.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just amazing how this seemingly made-in-heaven relationship could go so bad.

It must've been so strange for them both working together the last few weeks, knowing it was all about to end.

I bet Tanak learned at lot from Ogier in how to demand the best from your team, but it seems TMR couldnt handle it and broke the bond.

Nothing in rally will ever surprise me now.

[dimviii]

haha Danos the biggest troll https://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/oldforum/lol.gif

Sunday morning @RallyRACC
I give the first instruction to @OttTanak
... that he will not respect!
Ott, be careful, from now on you will have to listen to your teammates
��


Nice to welcome you with Martin at @HMSGOfficial


https://twitter.com/DanosElena/status/1189970977125543936

[ggg377]

Just amazing how this seemingly made-in-heaven relationship could go so bad.

It must've been so strange for them both working together the last few weeks, knowing it was all about to end.

I bet Tanak learned at lot from Ogier in how to demand the best from your team, but it seems TMR couldnt handle it and broke the bond.

Nothing in rally will ever surprise me now.

Among other things, Toyota wasted the marketing opportunity to become the Citroen of 00s or the VW of the 10s. If Ott had dominated for years with Toyota, everyone would have said Ott is good because of Toyota. And that would have been a guaranteed thing because Ott is indeed good. Now that he will go to Hyundai and most likely continue fighting for titles as he has always done, this will be for nothing even if he should return to Toyota, because the cat is out of the bag. Everyone knows Ott is winning because he's Ott, not because his car is better. Toyota absolutely needed to secure him. The most shocking part is that TGR management were dragging their feet about Ott's contract in the spring like they weren't even serious about him. To me it already occurred when he had to fight for the top driver spot with Latvala and Meeke in the beginning of the season. As Sordo would say, what were they smoking over there?

[Crazy J]

Some doubts if Jouhki/TMR and Tanak/MMM crews will ever have co-operation again. If there is some sort of relationship war, it might lead to all sorts of weird situations in lower rally markets that originally have no connection to this relationship.

[dimviii]

. Everyone knows Ott is winning because he's Ott, not because his car is better.

next year will answered plenty of questions about what share at Tanak/yaris speed had the driver/car.

[wrc2017]

Jouhki have to protect his drivers,so i will not take his words for real.
About the ''steal'' we have to know more details,to see if its a ''steal'' or just Tanak/Martin show interest for running the project,in conjuction with the renewal of his contract with Toyota
Yes, but why so vocal. What Tanak does doesn't really affect him or his drivers.

[robertr]

next year will answered plenty of questions about what share at Tanak/yaris speed had the driver/car.

Tänak has always been incredibly fast. Even before Toyota. The big difference is that now he can stay on the road.

[wrc2017]

next year will answered plenty of questions about what share at Tanak/yaris speed had the driver/car.

Also Ogier if he goes to Toyota. Has he the raw speed that Tanak has?

[cali]

Like Dimvii said we will see this next season.
The short answer is you never win a title with a slow driver and a car. It must be both.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Rallyper]

Well, big surprise to me.

However we saw what the Polo did to Ogier.

At Citroen Ogier became more human. The car jst makes the final difference, the small margin you need to win...

2020 will be even more exciting.

[er88]

Also Ogier if he goes to Toyota. Has he the raw speed that Tanak has?The raw speed part is maybe in question, but I personally think Tanak has the edge.

However, Ogier will win the title in 2020 if he's in a Yaris. If he stays at Citroen, he will compete for it (and have a better chance than this year).

[dimviii]

Yes, but why so vocal. What Tanak does doesn't really affect him or his drivers.

why so vocal? because he is jelous that he havent got the ''power'' to ask from manufacturers/teams for that money(and not only) with his current driver line up,as does Tanak/Martin
because he is so many years with armada of drivers,and somebody else managed to stop the ''Seb'' lailapa.
of course affects his drivers.Tanak go to hyundai=one more year for Latvala=money for him.If Tanak was at Toyota Latvalas seat was at high risk.
So Jouhki even Tanak wouldnt like to ''steal'' yaris r5,wouldnt like to have Tanak at Toyota.
He would prefere Kalle for example...and Latvala=money x 2

if Tanak/Martin managed to gain their requirements from Adamo/Hyundai, seems that was possible from a big budget team to satisfy them.
But we dont know if they took the same requirements from Adamo.
At Tanaks press release,there is a paragraph that maybe this is about


'''“The vision that Andrea has set out is very promising and matches my own ambitions for the future'''

[wrc2017]

why so vocal? because he is jelous that he havent got the ''power'' to ask from manufacturers/teams for that money(and not only) with his current driver line up,as does Tanak/Martin
because he is so many years with armada of drivers,and somebody else managed to stop the ''Seb'' lailapa.
of course affects his drivers.Tanak go to hyundai=one more year for Latvala=money for him.If Tanak was at Toyota Latvalas seat was at high risk.
So Jouhki even Tanak wouldnt like to ''steal'' yaris r5,wouldnt like to have Tanak at Toyota.
He would prefere Kalle for example...

if Tanak/Martin managed to gain their requirements from Adamo/Hyundai, seems that was possible from a big budget team to satisfy them.
But we dont know if they took the same requirements from Adamo.
At Tanaks press release,there is a paragraph that maybe this is about


'''“The vision that Andrea has set out is very promising and matches my own ambitions for the future'''

Don't fully agree with above. If Tänak stayed, Latvala was looking unlikely. If Ogier comes, Latvala is looking unlikely. Joukki hope Ogier doesn't go to Toyota, so that chance of Latvala staying increases. That's why he commented "50/50" of Ogier to Toyota.

[dimviii]

Don't fully agree with above. If Tänak stayed, Latvala was looking unlikely. If Ogier comes, Latvala is looking unlikely. Joukki hope Ogier doesn't go to Toyota, so that chance of Latvala staying increases. That's why he commented "50/50" of Ogier to Toyota.

he didnt said that he likes to have Ogier at Toyota....,he just said that is 50-50

[wrc2017]

he didnt said that he likes to have Ogier at Toyota....,he just said that is 50-50
I didn't say he did want Ogiera at Toyota. I feel his only hope of Latvala staying, is Ogier doesn't go to Toyota

[dimviii]

I didn't say he did want Ogiera at Toyota. I feel his only hope of Latvala staying, is Ogier doesn't go to Toyota

so why you dont agree with my post?
for same reason he didnt want Tanak to Toyota
Jouhki can say whatever because there are money for him involved.

[dimviii]

Ogier with Makinen= not an easy co operation imho.And of course he will not ask less from Tanak

[Crazy J]

Jouhki family is said to be one of the richest in Finland, same goes to many of the companies that he has managed to get support for Finnish rally drivers careers nowadays. For Jouhki it is probably not just purely about ROI, but also much about pro Finnish rally drivers vs. foreign.

[wrc2017]

so why you dont agree with my post?
for same reason he didnt want Tanak to Toyota
Jouhki can say whatever because there are money for him involved.
Because, Latvala is not a replacement for a no1 driver. Weather Tanak went or not, Toyota are now chasing Ogier. May point is.. Situation doesn't chance for Latvala if it were Tanak or Ogier at Toyota.

[dimviii]

but also much about pro Finnish rally drivers vs. foreign.

with Tanak and Neuville Ogier more patience required.

[EstWRC]

Sébastien Loeb
@SebastienLoeb

We will not only share the podiums now �� Tere Tulemast
@OttTanak and @MartinJarveoja
���� Happy to know you by our side for next year but also to see the ambitions of @HMSGOfficial in @OfficialWRC
��#HMSGOfficial

https://twitter.com/SebastienLoeb/status/1189990293665460224?s=20

[ggg377]

Ogier now has all the leverage to rob Toyota blind, which sets off the whole negotiation process on the wrong foot, plus he's already tied up in agreements with Citroen. Pierre Budar has seemed pretty confident in dismissing the rumor and confirming he will be with them for the next season. This partnership could only work when some serious alarm bells start going off in the Japanese offices and big cash wads get sent to TGR.

[dimviii]

Because, Latvala is not a replacement for a no1 driver. Weather Tanak went or not, Toyota are now chasing Ogier. May point is.. Situation doesn't chance for Latvala if it were Tanak or Ogier at Toyota.

we are not talking about if Latvala is No1 material,but about if he would have a seat for 2020 and Jouhki money.
and with Tanak at Toyota that was in doubt.

[wrc2017]

I was stating a fact about Lavala not being No. 1, not arguing. My point it, and remains my point.. situation doesn't change for Latvala if it were Tanak or Ogier at Toyota...thats all.

Also, does Tommi really want 2 Joukki drivers in one stable?

[Allez Andruet]

Also, does Tommi really want 2 Joukki drivers in one stable?

I guess it's more about the drivers, not who's their manager.

[dimviii]

Also, does Tommi really want 2 Joukki drivers in one stable?

they are from Finland,they are cheap,sponsored from his own manager,so why not?

[dimviii]

before some weeks we had a conversation here about Makinen and his future about when Toyota will end the wrc programm.
I said that Tommis future was the r5 yaris project ,that will give him even more money that wrc programm,pending the car is competitive.
Seems that is what Tanak/Martin wanted,thats why it was impossible to find a solution with Makinen.
The rumored travel Tanak to Japan maybe was a meeting for this subject to upper Toyota heads,the answer was a ''no'' and that ended their coperation.

Maybe Jouhki talks about the way they handled Tanak/Martin has to do with this travel to Japan,that they moved to upper Toyota heads without talk with Makinen.

[ggg377]

I was stating a fact about Lavala not being No. 1, not arguing. My point it, and remains my point.. situation doesn't change for Latvala if it were Tanak or Ogier at Toyota...thats all.

Also, does Tommi really want 2 Joukki drivers in one stable?

Maybe Jouhki wants 2 of his drivers in Toyota and he actually has the influence to get it done? In my opinion that would very easily put the last years in Toyota in perspective (mistreating the world champion off the team, Latvala's sky high salary despite poor results, hiring Meeke the fastest guy who will drive for free etc). Someone on the Estonian forum said the Japanese are pissed, but deleted it afterwards. I don't know if it's true, but they have a reason to be. I think the Ogier talk is just a distraction. I think TGR will try to sell the Japanese office the dream of Rovanperä becoming the next Tänak overnight. Which will leave us with Latvala, Meeke and Rovanperä.

[ggg377]

The rumored travel Tanak to Japan maybe was a meeting for this subject to upper Toyota heads,the answer was a ''no'' and that ended their coperation.

That rumor came after the Hyundai deal was signed. In the Evans article it's said the Japanese were supportive of Tänak throughout the negotiation process.

[sinepikohv]

interesting thing is that, the contract is for 2 years..? ending just before the new cars?

That seems like a logical move. If Hyundai can't work well on a new car he can leave without any issues.

My bet is that he'll win a championship or two with Hyundai, go to M-Sport for 2022 and retire in 2023. M-Sport has always been good with new cars so perhaps he'll win a title with them too.

[wrc2017]

Is that an advantage to an international brand to have 2 finnsh drivers? Is Latvala cheap?

[dimviii]

That rumor came after the Hyundai deal was signed. In the Evans article it's said the Japanese were supportive of Tänak throughout the negotiation process.

yes but the negotiation process was about 4-5 months,we dont know at which point they were still supportive.
Take with a bit of salt what i write,i dont have facts,we just try to fix the puzzle from what we know and make sense.

[dimviii]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIOrtynW4AUx1nS?format=jpg&name=small

[wrc2017]

yes but the negotiation process was about 4-5 months,we dont know at which point they were still supportive.
Take with a bit of salt what i write,i dont have facts,we just try to fix the puzzle from what we know and make sense.

The R5 thing is starting to make sense. WRC is maybe getting more like F1 where B2B relationships are evermore important.

[ggg377]

Is that an advantage to an international brand to have 2 finnsh drivers? Is Latvala cheap?

From what I understand the Japanese have provided the money and left the team with creative control as long as they deliver results. In my opinion recent developments, especially Finnish (Jouhki's) business interests intertwining with questionable decisions, leave them open to accusations of corruption and mismanagement. Latvala's salary is supposedly 4.5 million euros per season. I have no doubt they negotiated a sweet deal for Rovanperä. Of course people (particularly those that live in Nagoya Japan and manage Toyota's finances) will start thinking this may be more than a coincidence.

[ggg377]

yes but the negotiation process was about 4-5 months,we dont know at which point they were still supportive.
Take with a bit of salt what i write,i dont have facts,we just try to fix the puzzle from what we know and make sense.

Of course, I speculate a lot too, because a lot of the questions are still unanswered. I remember very specifically that the rumors of Tänak/Märtin going to Japan was around October 10, a time when everything was already sealed. Now to think about past events it might have been decided when Adamo said negotiations with Ott have led him to believe they're "no longer friends" (being business partners instead), which was in the middle of September. Martin Järveoja looked noticeably down since Germany, it may have been bubbling since then.

[dimviii]

The R5 thing is starting to make sense. WRC is maybe getting more like F1 where B2B relationships are evermore important.

i cant find any other request that wasnt able to satisfy.
These about airplanes about Tanaks family i find laughable.Nobody will change the winning championship team for this reason.

[deephouse]

If Ogier will stay in Citroen (I hope so), that we will have fine show. If he goes to Toyota it's bad because he could dominate over Hyundai boys. That's not good for sport. Despite reliability issues others had always more bad luck with reliability than him in the same cars, so I don't think if he would be in yaris that the car would break so much. Or he is simply master of keeping the car as much as intact or without failures. Then Latvala and also Meeke can stay in Toyota too and losing superman at the wheel they could show and maybe have a little more confident and motivation for winning rallies maybe challenge for the title. Still better than M-Sport boys. Sorry, but Evans is not close enough yet to the fastest and Latvala and Meeke are. I think that big factor was for them just Tanak, because of his raw speed straight away and leaving everyone breathless. Latvala was not that bad in 2017 when he was nr. 1 in the team.

[Tarmop]

Well, when it comes to alternators, ECUs, faulty powersteering (of all the cars the same weekend), i don`t think he has more to do than others. And Evans has podium pace and was about to win rally Corsica, finished/is ahead of Meeke and Latvala in the standings WITHOUT doing 3 events...i`d rate him quite high at the moment, when you consider drivers reliability (including mental) and consistancy, he is right after the top 3.

[doubled1978]

Interested to see what Hyundai have to talk to Mikkelsen about. On the face of it there doesn’t seem much available, as now they have Neuville/Tanak it’s certain Sordo/Loeb won’t drive in the same events.
I guess Breen would pick up any drives left (Finland/Wales etc) to go with the R5 development stuff...

[ggg377]

Interested to see what Hyundai have to talk to Mikkelsen about. On the face of it there doesn’t seem much available, as now they have Neuville/Tanak it’s certain Sordo/Loeb won’t drive in the same events.
I guess Breen would pick up any drives left (Finland/Wales etc) to go with the R5 development stuff...

Rally Finland for example is a rally neither Sordo nor Loeb want to do. Between Sweden, Argentina, Kenya, Mexico and the likes there may be probably a few of those and that's where Breen or Mikkelsen could come in handy.

[Rally Power]

Everyone knows Ott is winning because he's Ott, not because his car is better.

We don’t call Ogier, Tanak and Neuville the BIG 3 by accident. They’re clearly on a class of their own but if one of them manages to get a faster car it’ll soon be noticed. That was Neuville case in most 2017 season and Tanak during 2018 and part of 2019, at least until Turkey, where the rear wing was finally revised. Since Turkey the i20 seems leveled with the Yaris on gravel although still a bit behind on tarmac, as the 3.8s gap in Catalunya decisive PS has shown.

Btw, with today’s official announcement I hope the forum will stop washing Makinen and Tanak dirty laundry; they deserve better than that.

[er88]

The R5 thing is starting to make sense. WRC is maybe getting more like F1 where B2B relationships are evermore important.Tbh having thought about this more, I think it's an absolute joke if this is the reason anyway. How is it it even acceptable for someone like Tanak and Martin to try and take a potential multi million R5 project away from Tommi AND Toyota. That's almost like taking R5 development and running away from Malcolm and Msport - it just isn't going to happen and never was...

If that is genuinely a reason why Tanak has left (I have to doubt it), then you can't blame Tommi and Toyota for not giving into those demands. And frankly I'd lose a bit of respect for Ott and question his full motives with Martin.

Tommi built this project/partnership on the trust and backing from Toyoda, and so far has delivered more success than even the most optimistic person could've predicted back in 2015/16. The majority (including myself) were fearing the worst.

Losing Tanak is the first big mistake this operation has made, but if it's because of not handing over the running and development of a future R5, then frankly I don't blame them. Those demands are over the top and below the belt at the same time, and not linked to a driver caring only about getting himself the best car/ team/ team manager and salary for the next few years - to keep him at the top of the sport.

[doubled1978]

Rally Finland for example is a rally neither Sordo nor Loeb want to do. Between Sweden, Argentina, Kenya, Mexico and the likes there may be probably a few of those and that's where Breen or Mikkelsen could come in handy.

Yes, but Loeb is contracted for 6 rallies, and Sordo will surely do a similar amount. That’s only going to leave 2 rallies, perhaps Finland/Wales as previously mentioned.
I can’t see Mikkelsen being too chuffed with that....unless Loeb/Sordo do less.

[wrc2017]

Well, when it comes to alternators, ECUs, faulty powersteering (of all the cars the same weekend), i don`t think he has more to do than others. And Evans has podium pace and was about to win rally Corsica, finished/is ahead of Meeke and Latvala in the standings WITHOUT doing 3 events...i`d rate him quite high at the moment, when you consider drivers reliability (including mental) and consistancy, he is right after the top 3.

Agree Evans if good, but still has off days.
Meeke started to feel comfortable in car mid season(after 'rim-gate') then came across events he missed last year. Meeke had winning pace on Finland, Germany, Spain, Portugal, GB.. Maybe some others. I think another year would be good for him, but also his last chance saloon.. Ogier, Meeke and Rovenpera is strong, exciting lineup. If Ogier goes to Toyota and Citroen stay.. Evans could be good there. But what chance of having Citröen top driver again in 2021? Neuvile would be a good fit, but he would only be moving if he was getting it tough against Tanak, and would Citroen be any better than Hyundai?

[EstWRC]

Of course the R5 project isn’t the main reason. And the Japanese were actually okay with handing it over to Märtin.

[dimviii]

Of course the R5 project isn’t the main reason. And the Japanese were actually okay with handing it over to Märtin.

how do you know it?

[Indreq]

Can anyone summarize this? https://www.autosport.com/wrc/feature/9657/the-inside-story-of-tanak-shock-hyundai-switch?fbclid=IwAR3SlTRNl64f2RuCkEuJ_jxSsQ3KW1IisE kteNQW05swhPRpsCiaqnIsPzo

[Sulland]

Ok, so the big cat is out of the bag.

what will now happen to the rest of the teams?

Hyundai will field Tänak and Neuville, third car split Sordo and Loeb.

Ford should swap one or two drivers. Both have underperformed.
who should come in? Breen or Mikkelsen I guess is stamdimg first in line

Citroen: I guess they stay with same crew, no third car

if Toyota keep Meeke and Latvala, Rovanpära in car 3
Or will Ogier move here, and Latvala retire?

[Andre Oliveira]

If Citroën leaves, can Lappi goes to M-Sport?

[denkimi]

the whole r5 story just makes no sense. if it was really all about that, there is nothing to gain by going to hyundai.

[wrc2017]

the whole r5 story just makes no sense. if it was really all about that, there is nothing to gain by going to hyundai.
Apart from loads of money

[wrc2017]

If Citroën leaves, can Lappi goes to M-Sport?
Yes, if he pays.

[Oraamat]

Im really looking forward to Toyotas lineup that can fight for both titlws next year according ro Tommi.

[Katvala]

Im really looking forward to Toyotas lineup that can fight for both titlws next year according ro Tommi.Did he say that?

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[dimviii]

the whole r5 story just makes no sense. if it was really all about that, there is nothing to gain by going to hyundai.

we dont know yet.At next months we will see what happens to MM

[Oraamat]

https://www.rallit.fi/tommi-makisen-arvio-kaksi-pettymysta-johti-ott-tanakin-lahtoon-paperit-olivat-allekirjoitusta-vaille-valmiina/

Its in the end of that article.

– Uskon, että meillä on kova ja vahva tiimi ensi vuonna. Uskon, että me taistelemme samalla tavalla kaikista titteleistä, Mäkinen vakuutti.

If i understand it correctlt it should be something like that in translation.

- I believe we have a strong team next year and we will fight for all titles in the same way.

[Oraamat]

Pretty strong statement. I wouldnt say something like that unless im hiring Ogier in current situation

[jparker]

Kalle Rovanperä will be 2020 champ :)

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[jparker]

If Tanak had included the R5 business in the contract talks, that's bad.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[robertr]

Latvala was not that bad in 2017 when he was nr. 1 in the team.

Latvala got 55 pts less than Tänak in 2017 and Tänak was nr 2 in his team back then.

Latvala is pretty bad.

[mknight]

https://www.rallit.fi/tommi-makisen-arvio-kaksi-pettymysta-johti-ott-tanakin-lahtoon-paperit-olivat-allekirjoitusta-vaille-valmiina/

Its in the end of that article.

– Uskon, että meillä on kova ja vahva tiimi ensi vuonna. Uskon, että me taistelemme samalla tavalla kaikista titteleistä, Mäkinen vakuutti.

If i understand it correctlt it should be something like that in translation.

- I believe we have a strong team next year and we will fight for all titles in the same way.

It is possible he will go into "I know best" /"I trust Joukhi" mode and run Latvala, Rovanpera and maybe even Suninen a bit like 2017.
In that case the japanese ought to step in and tell him to get to his sendes. Dunno how likely that is.

[Tarmop]

If Tanak had included the R5 business in the contract talks, that's bad.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

No, it is not. But u being u...

[dimviii]

At Tanaks press release,there is a paragraph that maybe this is about


'''“The vision that Andrea has set out is very promising and matches my own ambitions for the future'''


Makinen at https://www.rallit.fi/tommi-makisen-arvio-kaksi-pettymysta-johti-ott-tanakin-lahtoon-paperit-olivat-allekirjoitusta-vaille-valmiina/

Of course we wanted Ott to continue with us. But I understand that in the role of a driver, the future is very carefully considered. He had now come to the conclusion that he wanted to take on new challenges


these 2 sentences imho shows something else than money/number 1 status/airplanes etc

[Indreq]

Some days ago everybody talked about Mia as the reason why Tänak is leaving, now it is R5 deal, i wonder what comes next week? :D

[EstWRC]

the car being unreliable the most obvious one?

[Allez Andruet]

Latvala got 55 pts less than Tänak in 2017 and Tänak was nr 2 in his team back then.

Latvala is pretty bad.

Ever thought to actually follow the rallies, not just read the results?

[AnttiL]

the car being unreliable the most obvious one?

I dug up a facebook speculation from June when there was talks that Tänak might go to M-Sport. This was after winning Chile and Portugal, before Sardegna. I replied "if the car breaks in Sardegna, he leaves Toyota". Could be that this was exactly what happened.

[Indreq]

Can anyone summarize this? https://www.autosport.com/wrc/feature/9657/the-inside-story-of-tanak-shock-hyundai-switch?fbclid=IwAR3SlTRNl64f2RuCkEuJ_jxSsQ3KW1IisE kteNQW05swhPRpsCiaqnIsPzo

anyone?

[EstWRC]

anyone?

it has been posted on page 83 in this thread.

[Indreq]

it has been posted on page 83 in this thread.

my bad. New posts were coming at such pace that i missed this entire page :(

[ggg377]

In my opinion, for (some of the influential) Finns at TGR, Tänak was not much more than a placeholder for the future superstar Rovanperä. It just so happened that he became a superstar in his own right and delivered the titles Toyota were looking for. This suspicion aligns with the fact that the Japanese were interested in keeping Tänak (obviously), but the Finns dragged their feet and openly showed their distaste for him. They were never going to treat him like a champion as Rovanperä was always set to be the future of Toyota. Given that Rovanperä has done 0 WRC rallies and the world champion is gone, the vision is starting to collide with reality and they are on thin ice. This speculation is based on the Evans article.

[pantealex]

Not since 2001 has a reigning World Rallying champion changed team for the next season. In 2001 Richard Burns and
@robertreidwrc
won the title with Subaru and changed to compete in Peugeot from 2002. #WRC

except Ogier 2 times
VW to M-Sport 2016
Msport to Citroen 2018

[meh]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIOrtynW4AUx1nS?format=jpg&name=small

Watching "new office"

[pantealex]

So David Evans with the Meeke to Toyota scoop, Loeb to Hyundai, Kalle to Toyota as 3rd driver, and now Tanak to Hyundai.

Not bad for all the bashing he sometimes gets.

I´m sorry for that!!!





but Kalle to TGR isn´t new news

[EstWRC]

Bluuuford you are moving too i guess ?

[pantealex]

Ogier with Makinen= not an easy co operation imho.And of course he will not ask less from Tanak

This is now the biggest problem for Tommi.

He has openly said that he will never take SebO to his team and now he must try it...

Evans has gained lot of money if he hasn´t signed for Msport yet...
Tommi is asking, so Malcolm must offer something more.

[tomhlord]

Ford should swap one or two drivers. Both have underperformed.
who should come in? Breen or Mikkelsen I guess is stamdimg first in line.

Not so easy. One 'Ford' M-Sport driver is paid a very small amount (and works in the family business to supplement), the other brings sponsors to pay for the drive.

If one leaves, it's more likely Greensmith's family budget will plug the gap and not Mikkelsen or Green.

[AnttiL]

So David Evans with the Meeke to Toyota scoop, Loeb to Hyundai, Kalle to Toyota as 3rd driver, and now Tanak to Hyundai.

Not bad for all the bashing he sometimes gets.

Kalle to Toyota isn't confirmed yet. But David Evans announced that Elfyn got a deal to M-Sport for 2018 right after Rally Finland 2017. The confirmation for that came just before the season started.

[wrc2017]

This is now the biggest problem for Tommi.

He has openly said that he will never take SebO to his team and now he must try it...

Evans has gained lot of money if he hasn´t signed for Msport yet...
Tommi is asking, so Malcolm must offer something more.

Different if Ogier actually want to go to Toyota.
About Evans, maybe incase they dont get Ogier? Eitherway doesn't look good for Latvala. Mikkelsen to Citröen then, if they stay and Ogier moves?

[AL14]

So David Evans with the Meeke to Toyota scoop, Loeb to Hyundai, Kalle to Toyota as 3rd driver, and now Tanak to Hyundai.

Not bad for all the bashing he sometimes gets.

I still don't like him when he writes articles without real news or content. And his comments are not very insightful, but I'll give him that he is very good in getting scoops like that. And I guess it's not easy in a little and "closed" environment like WRC.

[robertr]

Ever thought to actually follow the rallies, not just read the results?

Result is what matters. 3 podiums, 4 terrible rallies and a bunch of mediocre rallies can hardly be described as a successful season.

It reminds me the Estonian football commentators who described our womens squad 0:7 loss to Netherlands as a "graceful game" and "good effort, with nothing to be embarrased about".

[Rally Hokkaido]

Some days ago everybody talked about Mia as the reason why Tänak is leaving, now it is R5 deal, i wonder what comes next week? :D

I don't care, as long as it is something. I come home every evening to read the latest on this silliest of seasons - let's see if it can go on for more than 100 pages! Actually, it's almost as exciting as a WRC round. Forget Ott's movie, someone make a mini-series (working title, Days of Ott's Lives) about this...lol.

[AnttiL]

https://www.rallit.fi/kysyimme-tommi-makiselta-tanakiin-liittyvista-kohuvaitteista-tallipomo-repesi-nauruun/

They called Mäkinen and asked about the claims about Tänak not being in good terms with TGR leaders. Mäkinen bursts in laughter and says "that's a funny claim" :D

[AnttiL]

Result is what matters. 3 podiums, 4 terrible rallies and a bunch of mediocre rallies can hardly be described as a successful season.

Technical issues cost him the victory in Finland and a podium in Poland.

[EstWRC]

German Rallye Magazin writes that Ogier will be testing Toyota next week

[wrc2017]

German Rallye Magazin writes that Ogier will be testing Toyota next week

'Rumour they say' If he drives the Toyota before the last rally, is there anyway he does OZ with Citröen?

[deephouse]

Different if Ogier actually want to go to Toyota.

Of course he wants to go. I bet he regret every hair he have on his head that he leave M-Sport for Citroen. And best option for decent amount of money he is eager to get is Toyota and they are in big trouble now without a decent driver. He will be in Toyota despite their intense relationship lately. I mean how fragile could be if Tanak basically won two titles for them and Citroen don't won any. It's better to have fast and sometimes breakable car (still could climb places after super rally rule) than unpredictably bad handling C3 who is hard to change.

If this frenchie would still be in M-Sport maybe Tanak couldn't won the title or it would be all down to finale in Australia.

[Rally Power]

I still don't like him when he writes articles without real news or content. And his comments are not very insightful, but I'll give him that he is very good in getting scoops like that. And I guess it's not easy in a little and "closed" environment like WRC.

Let’s face it, there’s only a handful of journos covering the WRC on a permanent basis and among them Evans is the only doing it for a global motorsport press group, making him the perfect messenger if anyone inside the WRC wants to discretlly turn public a private matter.

Actually, this scoop timing makes one wonder about Evans sources purposes; it was released Friday afternoon, when Ogier was no longer a threat to Tanak but Hyundai drivers were starting to feel Toyota rivals pressure, affecting Toyota’s morale for the rest of the rally.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Apparently the Japanese were quite upset when Ogier last tested the Yaris (for 2017) and turned it down. They saw this as a big loss of face, which is a big thing in their culture.

This on top of Makinen saying he never wanted Ogier could make a deal pretty tricky.

[steve.mandzij]

Latvala got 55 pts less than Tänak in 2017 and Tänak was nr 2 in his team back then.

Latvala is pretty bad.Latvala had engine issues in Mexico and the flu in Portugal, was on course for a podium in Poland, dominated Finland until his ECU failed, had gearbox issues in Germany and was forced to reitre in Spain after a knock to the engine.

His points don't paint the whole picture.

[mknight]

Apparently the Japanese were quite upset when Ogier last tested the Yaris (for 2017) and turned it down. They saw this as a big loss of face, which is a big thing in their culture.

This on top of Makinen saying he never wanted Ogier could make a deal pretty tricky.


I for one wouldn't mind if Ogier doesn't go to Toyota, else we have a high risk of Citroen pulling out which won't be good for anyone interested in watching the championship.

[T16]

Apparently the Japanese were quite upset when Ogier last tested the Yaris (for 2017) and turned it down. They saw this as a big loss of face, which is a big thing in their culture.

This on top of Makinen saying he never wanted Ogier could make a deal pretty tricky.

Is this verified, that the Japanese were quite upset?

[deephouse]

I for one wouldn't mind if Ogier doesn't go to Toyota, else we have a high risk of Citroen pulling out which won't be good for anyone interested in watching the championship.

They could at least stay in game for two more years then Peugeot could get into next since they don't have any official program at the moment.

[Tarmop]

Because they want to go EV.

[WRC1]

I for one wouldn't mind if Ogier doesn't go to Toyota, else we have a high risk of Citroen pulling out which won't be good for anyone interested in watching the championship.

to be honest i would not mind if Citroen puls out ...they pull out next year anyway and if they continue just one more year with half effort like this year (only two cars, no real development because they always have to look for the budget....) it would be not a big loss...Ogier and Lappi will find places in other teams!

[RS]

We have a bit of a problem at the moment that there are four cars capable of winning the championship but only three drivers (and at end of 2020 only two)

Need the young guns to make some quick progress!

[Andre Oliveira]

Breen in some WRC events and R5 development?
Mikkelsen where?
Abu Dhabi in?

Super Silly Season

[deephouse]

We have a bit of a problem at the moment that there are four cars capable of winning the championship but only three drivers (and at end of 2020 only two)

Need the young guns to make some quick progress!

Or simply Latvala and Meeke need to pull their belt and finally realize they can't win any rally and get the best of those who doesn't suit them like Tanak learned from Ogier.

[the sniper]

If they're not paying Ogier, would his wage (and development funding demands) not cover the running of a third car? I can imagine a Lappi, Ostberg, Camilli line up.

[bluuford]

Bluuuford you are moving too i guess ?

Negotiantion phase is going on ;) Yesterday M-Sport, today Toyota, tomorrow Hyundai, you know, like Ott said in Spain ;)

[er88]

Makinen speaking about Katsuta, saying nothing is finalized and he needs to talk to Japan, but mentions maybe doing all the european events plus Japan next year, or even the FULL 2020 season.

[EstWRC]

Negotiantion phase is going on ;) Yesterday M-Sport, today Toyota, tomorrow Hyundai, you know, like Ott said in Spain ;)

Is the r5 project the main reason you are moving ?

[dimviii]

Is the r5 project the main reason you are moving ?

https://www.petrolheads.gr/images/smilies/smooth/rofl.gif you made my day Est!!

[sinepikohv]

Makinen speaking about Katsuta, saying nothing is finalized and he needs to talk to Japan, but mentions maybe doing all the european events plus Japan next year, or even the FULL 2020 season.

Saw it as well. Full season would be a shocker, no? But it migt just tell us a lot about how difficult it is for Tommi to get his line up together.

[wrc2017]

Saw it as well. Full season would be a shocker, no? But it migt just tell us a lot about how difficult it is for Tommi to get his line up together.

Id say it indicates a B team for katsua and Rovanpera

[dimviii]

Rallirinki / Teemu
@HartusvuoriWRC
·
Tommi Mäkinen denies that Seb Ogier would be testing Yaris WRC next week as have been rumored. Mäkinen says they are respecting current contracts of the drivers. Mäkinen was interviewed by his local newspaper @ksmlfi
. #WRC

[tomhlord]

Id say it indicates a B team for katsua and Rovanpera

Katsuta yes, but I think Kalle is in the main team for the full season and separately, I wonder what the odds are on him being champion next season?

[tomhlord]

They could at least stay in game for two more years then Peugeot could get into next since they don't have any official program at the moment.

Or Opel..?

[mknight]

Katsuta yes, but I think Kalle is in the main team for the full season and separately, I wonder what the odds are on him being champion next season?
Odds are sky high cause the probability is close to zero.
Seriously he has not even driven a WRC car in a rally yet and just got beaten by Østberg in R5, not to mention how he started this season with a crash in multiple rallies.
People (including Tommi) should just let him develop instead of putting more pressure.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Makinen:
"We are talking and dealing with different driver's but at the moment they are just talks and there is nothing concrete. I am sure that by 2020 we will have a strong team, perhaps even stronger than this year. We will fight again for the drivers title and above all for the Constructors' title."

[Katvala]

Even stronger than this year? That does not sound remotely possible

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

Even stronger than this year? That does not sound remotely possible

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

except by hiring one certain driver

[Japé]

Perhaps Tommi is having discussions with himself whether he should do a comeback or not ;)

[denkimi]

BREAKING NEWS!!! -> Following tanak and ogier after their switch to the HyundaiWRC# team, Elfyn Evans and Kris Meeke have also been hired by Hyundai.
That makes the Hyundai list of drivers even more impressive, now containing in championship order: Tänak, Neuville, Ogier, Mikkelsen, Evans, Meeke, Sordo, Loeb and Breen.

Team boss Andrea Adamo hopes the securing of these contracts will give Hyundai a better chance to fight for both titles next year.

[Andre Oliveira]

Makinen:
"We are talking and dealing with different driver's but at the moment they are just talks and there is nothing concrete. I am sure that by 2020 we will have a strong team, perhaps even stronger than this year. We will fight again for the drivers title and above all for the Constructors' title."

Without one of BIG 3, that is bullshit.

[deephouse]

Makinen:
"We are talking and dealing with different driver's but at the moment they are just talks and there is nothing concrete. I am sure that by 2020 we will have a strong team, perhaps even stronger than this year. We will fight again for the drivers title and above all for the Constructors' title."

Maybe he is "stealing" both Ogier and Lappi and claiming that statements

[wrc2017]

Maybe he is "stealing" both Ogier and Lappi and claiming that statements

Lappi????

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Without one of BIG 3, that is bullshit.

Therefore... :idea:

[pantealex]

Or Opel..?

or Abarth ?

or Alfa-Romeo ?

or Chrysler ?

or Dodge ?

or DS ?

or Ferrari ?

or Fiat ?

or Jeep ?

or Lancia ?

or Maserati ?

or RAM ?

or Vauxhall ?

That company has so many options...

[Rallyper]

I prefer Opel... :) :)

[reff92]

I prefer Opel... :) :)

Opel is best car in world until you need to fix that engineering failure( I am Opel owner) - sorry

[Rallyper]

This OT, I know:

Engineering failure? You never seen that on other cars?

I tell you truly, Opel has less failures than most other cars, except from rust on the models up to about 2004, or so.

I had so many Opels I don´t even can count them. That is since early 70´s.

[deephouse]

It doesn't matter which one as long as there are 2 or more seats available for drivers. That means more fun & excitement for us.

[Allez Andruet]

https://twitter.com/MiikaWuorela/status/1190733124138885121

Ok, so it's Evans, Rovanperä and...

edit. and if someone didn't know it already, Miika Wuorela works for Timo Jouhki.

[racerx1979]

and Latvala. Meeke to Msport.

but then again.....

[BigWorm]

https://twitter.com/MiikaWuorela/status/1190733124138885121

Ok, so it's Evans, Rovanperä and...

edit. and if someone didn't know it already, Miika Wuorela works for Timo Jouhki.

IMO it would be interesting to see Evans in Toyota. He's been at M-Sport his whole works career piloting a Ford (vast majority of his rally career has been in a Ford also), maybe he needs a new challenge in a new environment to unlock more of his potential.

[Duvel]

I prefer Opel... :) :)

Nah, Peugeot or Abarth have much more rally DNA. A 208 in WRC trim would be great.

Just hoping Citroen stays for 2020!

[Duvel]

This OT, I know:

Engineering failure? You never seen that on other cars?

I tell you truly, Opel has less failures than most other cars, except from rust on the models up to about 2004, or so.

I had so many Opels I don´t even can count them. That is since early 70´s.

If you buy an Opel now, your buying a complete PSA car, they dont use any of the Opel thecnology anymore for the new models.

[pantealex]

If you buy an Opel now, your buying a complete PSA car, they dont use any of the Opel thecnology anymore for the new models.

bit wrong, new Astra engine is still from GM :)

[RS]

If Ogier moves to Toyota then I guess Citroen will go for Latvala or Mikkelsen. If it’s true Rovanpera is in the third Yaris then at least one of Meeke or Latvala will have to go.

[rallyfiend]

If Ogier moves to Toyota then I guess Citroen will go for Latvala or Mikkelsen. If it’s true Rovanpera is in the third Yaris then at least one of Meeke or Latvala will have to go.

If Ogier goes to Toyota, it’s because there is no Citroen.

So there’s no seats there to be filled.

[Franky]

I wouldn't mind, if Latvala would retire and grabs a commentator seat at WRC+

[Sulland]

I wouldn't mind, if Latvala would retire and grabs a commentator seat at WRC+

Not necessarily that it has to be Latavala, but they need someone with current WRCar experiance to replace Becs, during live stages. She is better in the HQ/ service area being in charge there, or they need 3 during stages,

[Oraamat]

Becs is good. They need to replace Emyr. Everytime he opens his mouth its maked u facepalm.

[cali]

Not necessarily that it has to be Latavala, but they need someone with current WRCar experiance to replace Becs. She is better in the HQ/ service area being in charge there.I was about to add the same. Completely agree!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So strong rumours of Evans to Toyota.

If they got Ogier too that is about as strong a team as possible to take on Hyundai for the titles.

[doubled1978]

I think that Becs is fine as the lead commentator, when she has Julian Porter or good guest like Ostberg/Hirvonen alongside her. When it’s her and PK or Desborough it’s starts to fall apart as neither are the ‘technical’ guys and it starts to become a bit unfocused.
Its good having J.Porter on commentary for at least some stages as he does find out useful bits and pieces, and I guess the stages are when the viewing figures are highest, but if it were me I would try to find a permanent ‘expert’ co-commentator to share the load with JP, and use Desborough in the studio, and Pk for the highlights packages.

[Indreq]

I wish there was someone around who could add his comments with authority (like ex-world champion), who has not too out-dated knowledge of workings of current cars and teams (retired not too long ago), who has passable english skills and is naturally nice and chatty person... Know anyone like this? ;-)

[kiil]

I wish there was someone around who could add his comments with authority (like ex-world champion), who has not too out-dated knowledge of workings of current cars and teams (retired not too long ago), who has passable english skills and is naturally nice and chatty person... Know anyone like this? ;-)

Sounds like a job for Tommi.

[mknight]

"has passable english skills"

[Rallyper]

Nah, Peugeot or Abarth have much more rally DNA. A 208 in WRC trim would be great.

Just hoping Citroen stays for 2020!

Were you born when man walked o the moon?

Back then Opel already had some nice results in Gr1 and Gr2, with the Rekord 1900. After that came rallye Kadett Sprint with many victories. So talking about DNA, Opel definately has it.

[EstWRC]

Sounds like a job for Tommi.

you made my day :laugh:

[pantealex]

Were you born when man walked o the moon?

Back then Opel already had some nice results in Gr1 and Gr2, with the Rekord 1900. After that came rallye Kadett Sprint with many victories. So talking about DNA, Opel definately has it.

and after that
Ascona 400
Manta 400
and then came B-group and P205T16 and after that Citroen...

For me Lancia have most rally DNA out of those FCA/PSA brands. (Stratos, 037, S4, Delta)

[RS]

If Ogier goes to Toyota, it’s because there is no Citroen.

So there’s no seats there to be filled.

Is it really a possibility that Citroen won’t continue next year, even with Ogier under contract?

[dnb]

They both stay

[Norm75]

and after that
Ascona 400
Manta 400
and then came B-group and P205T16 and after that Citroen...

For me Lancia have most rally DNA out of those FCA/PSA brands. (Stratos, 037, S4, Delta)
And the fulvia.

The trouble is Lancia only sell one car. One car! and they only sell it in Italy. To a majority of which are women.

As for heritage, don't forget Citroen started in rally a long time ago, with the original ds (maybe even before that) through to the cx, then the visa and it's various group B incarnations, the BX4TC (yeah, I know) to the Xsara, C4, DS3 and now C3. So Citroen has had a presence in rallying every decade since the 60's.

[Rallyper]

This is OT, so I started a new thread.

Rallycars with DNA and heritage from the old days

[EstWRC]

Elfyn Evans has been tipped as Ott Tanak's Toyota World Rally Championship replacement after he visited the team's Finnish headquarters squad last week.

Autosport revealed before Rally Spain two weeks ago that Tanak would make a shock switch to Hyundai, leaving the Toyota Gazoo Racing team with which he sealed the 2019 drivers' championship for the first time days after the news of his departure from the squad broke.

Speculation about who will drive for Toyota next year reached fever pitch last week, when current Hyundai driver Thierry Neuville was also reported to have been in Jyvaskyla.

Hyundai sources have since denied this.

Citroen's six-time WRC champion Sebastien Ogier has also been linked to replacing Tanak, but his contract at Citroen next year complicates any potential deal.

Current M-Sport Ford World Rally Team driver Evans and Toyota team principal Tommi Makinen were unavailable for comment when Autosport contacted them on Monday regarding Evans visit to the team.

It is understood that Makinen rates Evans highly, and has been impressed with his pace and consistency this year.



Evans spent a day with the Toyota team last week, looking at the Puuppola premises and talking to the squad's senior management.

A move from M-Sport would take Evans into uncharted waters - every one of his 86 World Rally Championship starts have been made in a Ford Fiesta of varying secification.

He took his maiden British Rally Championship with M-Sport in 2016 and first WRC win in Wales the following year came at the wheel of a Fiesta WRC.

Following Rally Germany, M-Sport boss Malcolm Wilson told Autosport that it would be "crazy" to let either Evans or its second driver Teemu Suninen leave after the investment he had placed in them.

M-Sport WRC team principal Richard Millener told Autosport he would do all he could to keep Evans for next season.

"We've worked with Elfyn for a very long time," said Millener.

"As a team, Malcolm [Wilson, team principal] has invested a huge amount in him and we'd be very reluctant to see him leave.

"We're ready to fight as best as we can.

"I think it's fairly common knowledge that we perhaps don't have the same resources as some of the other teams, but we'll do all what is possible."


Millener admitted the realities of M-Sport's position complicated negotiations with Evans.

"As much as we would love to keep Elfyn and win more rallies with him next year," Millener added, "we have to be very aware that we're a private team in a competitive commercial environment."

Toyota's only retained driver for next season is Skoda's WRC 2 champion Kalle Rovanpera.

Both Kris Meeke and Jari-Matti Latvala are discussing contract extensions for next year, but Autosport understands neither driver has yet confirmed an agreement.


https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/147008/evans-in-frame-to-replace-tanak-after-toyota-visit

[AnttiL]

Evans leaves M-Sport because of the R5 program? :D

[T16]

Cracking news for Evans if he goes there. I always thought that M-Sport have not really shown him enough desire to keep him there (always waiting until last minute for contract etc). Seems they may regret that now and they should have signed him for 2020 already.

[reff92]

Cracking news for Evans if he goes there. I always thought that M-Sport have not really shown him enough desire to keep him there (always waiting until last minute for contract etc). Seems they may regret that now and they should have signed him for 2020 already.

Yeah but hey have contract when the driver leave from m-sport then msport can take a portion of salary.I think something like that was with Tänak also. Malcolm invest millions into drivers and it would be odd that kinda move is not writed into contract.

[meh]

It will be sad when M-Sport will not have any potential challenger for some rally win. Not really motivative for the team to put huge effort in, when there is no one to deliver results.

... but silly season is far from being over yet.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Much as I'd miss Evans at M-Sport I wouldnt blame him for moving. I think it would do him good to try another car and team and see just how far he can really go.

Suninen can still improve and has already shown some good pace at times. Paddon would be my choice to come in, with Greensmith in a third car at times.

[T16]

Yeah but hey have contract when the driver leave from m-sport then msport can take a portion of salary.I think something like that was with Tänak also. Malcolm invest millions into drivers and it would be odd that kinda move is not writed into contract.

Yeah, I agree with that, just get the feeling they might be kicking themselves a little that they didn’t commit to him for 2020 sooner, but then again, there is a chance Toyota would have come knocking if Tanak has stayed, but then again (!) they actually might have had him in their sights anyway.
As much as I wouldn’t mind seeing Meeke Make something of it and as much as I love Latvala being in the championship, I actually think Evans is a better bet than both of them right now.

[EstWRC]

Evans leaves M-Sport because of the R5 program? :D

yeap, heard rumours that he and his dad Gwyndaf wanted to steal Malcolms R5 project. They couldnt, so now they decided to try to get the Yaris R5 project from Tommi ;) ;) ;)

[TypeR]

Wilson is a businessman and I think he didn't sign Evans early(ier) on purpose. He knew about Ott's team change and therefore ,,Evans to Toyota,, plan and €€ already playing in his mind..
+ the stories that letting Evans go would be crazy.. maybe trying to hype Evans up a bit and get him to Toyota.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Wilson is a businessman and I think he didn't sign Evans early(ier) on purpose. He knew about Ott's team change and therefore ,,Evans to Toyota,, plan and €€ already playing in his mind..
+ the stories that letting Evans go would be crazy.. maybe trying to hype Evans up a bit and get him to Toyota.

Evans doesnt need to be 'hyped-up' - his speed has been very impressive at times and he is the 'best of the rest' despite missing three events with injury.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Malcolm will make a few quid if he moves though...

And quite rightly as he's stuck with Elfyn through some pretty lean years.

[OHL]

And quite rightly as he's stuck with Elfyn through some pretty lean years.

Comments like this are made a lot but it's important to remember that this is Malcolm's business model. He wants a driver who is promising and occasionally fast. They will drive for very little cost and bring the odd good result. He invests in them to develop them and his company. When they move on to a better pay situation he benefits as well and rightly so.
Where these comments go a little off the rails are when it's stated in such a way like Malcolm has been benevolent and suffered or sacrificed to bring that driver along.
In the case of Elfyn, Malcolm chose to keep going with him, for his own reasons. Good for Elfyn that he may now have a chance in a proper paying situation and good for Malcolm that his investment may be paying off.

[EstWRC]

theres an interview with Adamo today in estonian newspaper.

"there were also rumours about golden toilet seat and that i make dinner for Ott every day, there were a lot of rumours".

about the contract: "shorter one would have been stupid and longer one too, im not marrying with them, two years is a good compromise to start a relationship"

about his saying in the summer that he hasnt got the money to hire Tänak: "it was a joke that i told everybody to win time, the budget coming from South-Korea is good enough to run the team as we want. we didnt have to cry in front of the bosses to double our budget, i didnt do any miracles."

he isnt sayin when exactly the deal was done because "he honestly" doesnt remember. About his and Ott sayings in september (when Ott said the conversations were difficult and they arent friends anymore): "At one point i and Ott were asked so much about our contract talks, that WE (he and Ott) decided we start playing with journalists."

The pressure from journalists didnt bother him, says that its part of his and Otts job and he actually didnt like playing games with journalists: "If i say to them that i dont have anything to say but they wont stop asking, of course then i have to play fool for them." "Ott is more important than me, he is a national hero now in estonia, he had a lot of pressure and i fully understand he didnt want to talk about rumours".

Also he mentions that Alain Penasse helped him a lot during the talks, he couldnt handle his temper at times but Penasse was more pragmatic :D.

About talks with Markko:
“It was tricky because Markko is a very tough guy. I told Märtin that I was once a fan of his and bought model cars - I had both his Subaru and Ford. I told Markko that I would never have supported him if I had known that he was such a tough guy to have negotiations. In the end, he gave a free signature to the model ”

[AnttiL]

Priceless stories!

[dimviii]

@EstWRC
can we find online the whole interview to translate via google?

[EstWRC]

@EstWRC
can we find online the whole interview to translate via google?

it was a paid article, you can only see the first pharagraph or introduction lets say

i actually bought it, i dont remeber when was the last time i actually bought something from estonian media :D

[robertr]

it was a paid article, you can only see the first pharagraph or introduction lets say

i actually bought it, i dont remeber when was the last time i actually bought something from estonian media :D

You are a hero. I was about 30 seconds away of paying myself. Decided to check here before and it paid off...1,49 eur to be exact.

[dimviii]

Guys its get sillier!

https://twitter.com/HartusvuoriWRC/status/1191771311909023744?s=19


edit at French forum wrote that they may took same plane for Australia

[Japé]

Aichi recce? Central Rally Aichi (8 - 10 November)

[er88]

edit at French forum wrote that they may took same plane for Australia

Yep

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Comments like this are made a lot but it's important to remember that this is Malcolm's business model. He wants a driver who is promising and occasionally fast. They will drive for very little cost and bring the odd good result. He invests in them to develop them and his company. When they move on to a better pay situation he benefits as well and rightly so.
Where these comments go a little off the rails are when it's stated in such a way like Malcolm has been benevolent and suffered or sacrificed to bring that driver along.
In the case of Elfyn, Malcolm chose to keep going with him, for his own reasons. Good for Elfyn that he may now have a chance in a proper paying situation and good for Malcolm that his investment may be paying off.

Of course its business... M-Sport isnt a charity. But its taken a long time for Evans (and Tanak incidentally) to break into the top level and MW could easily have given up on him and switched to another prospect. His belief in him has been huge and I dont see him ever getting this anywhere else.