WRC Rally Sweden 2020

[AnttiL]

https://rallysweden.com/en/the-race/

- Finnskogen returns from 2015 (reversed) for Friday
- Nyckelvattnet new stage for Friday
- Torntorp returns from 2018
- new start for Vargåsen
- Hagfors starts with Ullen 2008

At least some changes after three years of almost same route.

[MTA]

The historic class will be run the second lap on the stages and not in between as before.

New information, it was only on Friday. On Saturday they will run between the WRC class.

[Sulland]

Not much snow yet in the rally area.
look for Malung on the map, that is aprox the most northern ss area.

https://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/snodjup/1920
snödjup = snowdepth

[DocMS]

Not much snow yet in the rally area.
look for Malung on the map, that is aprox the most northern ss area.

https://www.smhi.se/vadret/vadret-i-sverige/snodjup/1920
snödjup = snowdepthWouldnt worry too much about snow just yet. Still 6 weeks to go and like many other years always January before real winter starts in the rally area.

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[HarriK]

https://rallysweden.com/en/entry-list-wrc/

Latvala with Juho Hänninen

[mknight]

https://rallysweden.com/en/entry-list-wrc/

Latvala with Juho Hänninen

More surprised by Loeb tbh. Last year he was clearly the slowest WRC (apart from Tidemand)...Might have to do with the manu point rules for 2nd teams

[Allez Andruet]

So, Hänninen to be on the podium both as a driver and a co-driver... anyone?

[RS]

So, Hänninen to be on the podium both as a driver and a co-driver... anyone?

Why not share the driving too?

[Allez Andruet]

Why not share the driving too?

I'm quite sure Latvala isn't too keen to give free rounds to anyone on a drive he's paid himself.

[RS]

I'm quite sure Latvala isn't too keen to give free rounds to anyone on a drive he's paid himself.

Yes, I just thought it would be something unique..

Anyway, does Juho have any co-driving experience? Is this a good idea?

[Allez Andruet]

Yes, I just thought it would be something unique..

Anyway, does Juho have any co-driving experience? Is this a good idea?

Anything with Hänninen is a good idea if you ask me!

They've done few historic rallies in Finland together in a Celica. And Hänninen has been on the co-driver seat in few test sessions with Latvala (in a Yaris) as well. So JML knows what he gets.

[Andre Oliveira]

Yes, I just thought it would be something unique..

Anyway, does Juho have any co-driving experience? Is this a good idea?

https://www.ewrc-results.com/coprofile/159482-juho-hanninen/

[atsiotras79]

In Greece test for Turkey last year Hanninen was codriving Latvala all day...

[KiwiWRCfan]

, does Juho have any co-driving experience? Is this a good idea?

yes https://www.ewrc-results.com/coprofile/159482-juho-hanninen/

[KiwiWRCfan]

, does Juho have any co-driving experience ?

yes https://www.ewrc-results.com/coprofile/159482-juho-hanninen/

[dupanton]

I can't find a reason why he would prefer Hanninen over Antilla?

[AnttiL]

I can't find a reason why he would prefer Hanninen over Antilla?

Money. Also, Anttila could be looking for co-operation with a driver who can pay him for all year.

[HarriK]

Anttila will sit with Erik Pietarinen at least winter season

[Gustav Andel]

Juho may be the first person to be on the WRC podium as both a driver and a co-driver ;)

[DocMS]

Hof-Finnskog stage today 04/01/2020

***Picture taken from enthusiasts of rally sweden facebook page https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200104/d45f01f5e8d8a969634ba8fbe3419216.jpg

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[Portimao]

Those conditions mean nothing. More than month left.

[AnttiL]

At least there’s the ice base, it’s important, but still a long time until the rally.

Southern Finland (much more in the North than Torsby)is now practically snowless, which is very unusual for January

[BleAivano]

Those conditions mean nothing. More than month left.

On the contrary, it means allot. Good conditions does not appear over night. It is a process that spans over several months where the weather alternates between cold, warm, cold and snowy,
and warm and snowy which will provide a thick layer of compressed snow and ice.

[masa90]

Yeah I fear for similar conditions such as 2019. Here in Finland and in more north than any point of rally we just got our first few mm of snow yesterday.

Lets see, I am hoping for the best.

Btw, is there any easy way to get from Karlstad to Torsby to see shakedown without a car? I think I might go with the rallybus again but that does not cover the shakedown. And the stage in Karlstad only starts late in the evening. Or is there any action in the service park during the wait for the stage 1?

[pantealex]

Every year same thing: People are asking 50 days before Rally: There is no snow, Is Rally canceled ???

;)

[Crazy J]

If searching for second guaranteed snow rally besides Sweden, FIA should be looking to Hokkaido which has rallying heritage and a lot of snow guaranteed. If that would be Rally Japan, then the planned tarmac rally could be in some other country.

[Tauri_J]

This winter has been terrible and not getting any better in january. Fingers crossed!

[SubaruNorway]

It's perfect just an hour north of Hof-Finnskog, lots of ice and 50cm-1m snow banks

[KKS]

Every year same thing: People are asking 50 days before Rally: There is no snow, Is Rally canceled ???

;)
For example opening round of Latvian and Estonian rally championship - Rally Aluksne was moved from 18Jan to 21Feb due to not winter weather in a region. 2 weeks before real start. So 5 weeks it's not so much as it would looks like...

[Tauri_J]

It's perfect just an hour north of Hof-Finnskog, lots of ice and 50cm-1m snow banks

Isnt Hof-Finnskog the northest stage? It was same story last year, if you moved a little north you got perfect winter rally conditions.

[masa90]

On friday on the stage which goes on Norway aswell it was nice. On rest it was ok still. I liked the Colins Crest stage, though might just had good spot with very few spectators.

Saturday last year was bad with such warm weather so just LOADS of slush. Big shoutout to the organisers who just manage to keep it running every year.

[Hartusvuori]

Every year same thing: People are asking 50 days before Rally: There is no snow, Is Rally canceled ???

;)

Taking N.O.T.'s duties there :-)

[Rallyper]

Taking N.O.T.'s duties there :-)

However I think someone should... :)

Maybe.

[Andre Oliveira]

Mads / Torstein in PH Sport C3, Oliver / Aaron in unknown R5... last additions to Sweden entry list

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EN2sUiXWAAEHOqJ?format=jpg&name=medium

[AnttiL]

Pictures from stages


https://twitter.com/hartusvuoriwrc/status/1215318531610423297?s=21

[BleAivano]

Pictures from stages


https://twitter.com/hartusvuoriwrc/status/1215318531610423297?s=21


From this radio article: https://sverigesradio.se/sida/artikel.aspx?programid=93&artikel=7381058

[Tauri_J]

5 weeks to go but no winter in sight at least couple of weeks.

[Katvala]

All snow is gone here and today I went out with a t shirt! Hopefully it turns around soon, but it isn't looking so good. This winter has been very mild so far

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[AnttiL]

Let's move Rally Sweden to Saudi-Arabia, they have plenty of snow right now!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EN6NSo9XUAAXqGb?format=jpg&name=small

[masa90]

Well they already got the spanish football so lets see if they can buy rally :D

[Hartusvuori]

3rd M-Sport's Fiesta WRC to Lithuanian gentleman driver (?) Deividas Jocius.

[Rallyper]

MSport maybe ends up with a team of this guy, Serderidis and some more gentlemandriver. :(

How on earth can they get permission to have licence for WRC17 car?

[Alex009]

MSport maybe ends up with a team of this guy, Serderidis and some more gentlemandriver. :(

How on earth can they get permission to have licence for WRC17 car?

Are you pissed that Tidemand doesnt have enough money?

[T16]

MSport maybe ends up with a team of this guy, Serderidis and some more gentlemandriver. :(

How on earth can they get permission to have licence for WRC17 car?

Good call.... wasn’t there some sort of rule or agreement in place as to who could drive these cars?

[Rallyper]

Are you pissed that Tidemand doesnt have enough money?

As a matter of fact I´m not. One year ago maybe.

But I´m not going for watching old slow gentlemen when attending WRC rallies. Not even Rally Sweden. On the other hand true what you say; with money you can buy anything you want. Even a license to drive WRC 17 car.

[Alex009]

But I´m not going for watching old slow gentlemen when attending WRC rallies. Not even Rally Sweden. On the other hand true what you say; with money you can buy anything you want. Even a license to drive WRC 17 car.

I think its better to have this car on stages than in M-Sports garage. Even if its gentleman driver.

[electroliquid]

3rd M-Sport's Fiesta WRC to Lithuanian gentleman driver (?) Deividas Jocius.

Well, he's not quite a gentleman driver, pretty fast in national level, we will see what he's capable do with WRC, hope it will be ok results :)
https://www.ewrc-results.com/results/37681-rally-talsi-rally-of-champions-2017/?s=143240

[Rallyper]

I think its better to have this car on stages than in M-Sports garage. Even if its gentleman driver.

Nope. I´d rather see one fast youngster in old R5 car, than WRC car on low gears.

[Alex009]

Nope. I´d rather see one fast youngster in old R5 car, than WRC car on low gears.

Ofcourse, i didn't say that. There will be these R5 cars anyway. If Jodius wouldn't be driving, that Fiesta would be at garage in Cumbria. Jodius doesn't effect what others do. So, 0 or +1, you choose which is better.

[Jarek Z]

I´d rather see one fast youngster in old R5 car, than WRC car on low gears.

How about an old man in a young car? :D

Here's Skoda Fabia R5 for 57-year-old Michal Solowow for Rally Sweden:
https://www.facebook.com/rallypl/photos/a.748098781889067/2967556989943224/?type=3&theater

[janvanvurpa]

As a matter of fact I´m not. One year ago maybe.

But I´m not going for watching old slow gentlemen when attending WRC rallies. Not even Rally Sweden. On the other hand true what you say; with money you can buy anything you want. Even a license to drive WRC 17 car.

Yep that's they way all the "Teams" has wanted it...Think of just shell prep..Early 90s Ford said "100 hours" to prep and acge a Sierra Cosworth 4x4...Now "600 hours"...wonder what the cost difference is???

It's all about money.

[Rallyper]

How about an old man in a young car? :D

Here's Skoda Fabia R5 for 57-year-old Michal Solowow for Rally Sweden:
https://www.facebook.com/rallypl/photos/a.748098781889067/2967556989943224/?type=3&theater

Nope. That´s what we talked about, yes? No I want action. Not a parade.

[wyler]

also on the 4th fiesta at monte carlo, btw. more to come maybe.

[RAS007]

3rd M-Sport's Fiesta WRC to Lithuanian gentleman driver (?) Deividas Jocius.

You misspelled his name. The proper spelling is Deivida$ Jociu$.

[electroliquid]

You misspelled his name. The proper spelling is Deivida$ Jociu$.

Making fun of Lithuanian's names, niiice ;)

[sindroms]

Well, he's not quite a gentleman driver, pretty fast in national level, we will see what he's capable do with WRC, hope it will be ok results :)
https://www.ewrc-results.com/results/37681-rally-talsi-rally-of-champions-2017/?s=143240

I agree. While he is on the road (on national events) he is very spectacular. I would say he is Lukyanuk's style driver with lower skills level than Luky.
So if he really will drive almost whole season I expect some flashes from him - maybe some decent times in particular stages. As long as he will stay on the road...

[electroliquid]

I agree. While he is on the road (on national events) he is very spectacular. I would say he is Lukyanuk's style driver with lower skills level than Luky.
So if he really will drive almost whole season I expect some flashes from him - maybe some decent times in particular stages. As long as he will stay on the road...

Yes, you are right, I don't expect miracles, but call him gentlemen driver, that's not fair.

[flykas]

Deividas Jocius testing Fiesta last year

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zhib7t_SFo4&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR26CICTylZlEPkMWClxWzzu5xsifbX6vhcYRAYAk Ix5JyEt9Pbn2TKOw6o

[DocMS]

Any locals on here give update on weather within the rally area? Still 4 weeks away so how does it look now?

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[Rallyper]

I´m not local, but forecast could give below zero degrees during nights, which is fundamental. Frozen gravel is for sure not good, but will be like a kind of icy conditions. So big need of below zero temperatures coming weeks.

Snow on top is abonus, but first frozen surfaces.

Edit: a closer look gives information of plus degrees during days for 10 days ahead, so RS is in danger (my thoughts)

[Tauri_J]

What i've seen from the pictures posted by the locals, is that conditions are terrible right now. Pretty much all of the stages are on gravel or at best have a thin layer of ice.

Here is a snow depth map. https://www.smhi.se/en/weather/sweden-weather/snow-depth/1920

[Katvala]

Here we joke that winter is cancelled, because there haven't been snow for quite some time now, and looks to continue that way.

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[EstWRC]

Same in Estonia. No winter at all

For example right now it is +6 degrees and raining in the middle of January!!!

[mknight]

Here is a snow depth map. https://www.smhi.se/en/weather/sweden-weather/snow-depth/1920

Much better to use this one:
http://www.senorge.no/?p=senorgeny&m=bmNVEGrey%3BMapLayer_sd%3B&l=en&d=1579176000000&e=11315%7C6510319%7C661556%7C6863887&fh=0%3B2468

Covers the rally on both sides of the border, can be zoomed and also gives predictions for a few days.

Anyway long term forecast says below zero whole day at end of next week. So guess the last week of January will be crucial, if conditions don't improve from current ones when February comes I think they'll cancel it.

[Portimao]

Another cancelation after Chile?

1902

[masa90]

Another cancelation after Chile?

1902


It would be bad, 3/5 cancellations would be horrible (aus, IF sweden, chile)


Lets hope for the best, but it needs to go to minus degrees and quick.

[denkimi]

Another cancelation after Chile?

1902
Why?

Without snow it would just be a gravel rally. That would be unfortunate, but no reason to cancel it

[Franky]

Why?

Without snow it would just be a gravel rally. That would be unfortunate, but no reason to cancel it

Depends how soft the surface is.

[rallyfiend]

Why?

Without snow it would just be a gravel rally. That would be unfortunate, but no reason to cancel it

The cost to repair the roads may be too much

[Katvala]

Looking to maybe be the warmest January recorded.

But, it's said to be colder towards the end of January/early Februari. Let's hope for some snow and cold temperatures

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[bennizw]

I live in Norway, about 1,5 hours from some of the stages running on this side of the border, and where I live we have green grass. As mentioned, things aren't looking good. Right now the organizers of Rally Finnskog (the second round of the Norwegian rally championship) are looking for a plan B to run the event as many of the stages are pure gravel. Part of this event runs in the same area as the Norwegian stages just two weeks before Rally Sweden.

With no snow or cold temperatures forecasted for the next ten days for a majority of the area where Rally Sweden is to run, I'd say we're in trouble right now.

[masa90]

Wouldn't it be more closer to rally gb than just pure gravel rally? Here in neighbour country it just has rained, rained and kept on plus temps for pretty much the whole winter.

[EstWRC]

is it possible to go even more north or it doesnt make a difference?

[tommeke_B]

On the long term you can do that, if the possibilities are there. But now you cannot quickly move the rally, there's more work than that...

[EstWRC]

i didnt mean this year

i mean they have to do something, the situation aint gettin better...

[tommeke_B]

It depends on a lot of factors I think. At this moment they are sponsored by the Varmland region, and they are already driving in the Northern part of that region... You need the accommodation, money and roads to organize a rally...

[doubled1978]

is it possible to go even more north or it doesnt make a difference?

Seems every year we are on the edge of the conditions not being suitable...
Sorry if this has been asked before, but if the rally was moved further North for weather, is there anywhere suitable to base the rally from?

[er88]

I think we could be in a position where this rally is cancelled, and cancelled in decent time (before teams travel to Sweden etc). That's if things don't dramatically improve weather wise.

Some years we have had stages binned and routes altered at the last minute, but this could be an easy call to cancel the event in advance due to the state of the weather. Would be a disaster to lose another event, but we also don't want a situation of uncertainty where everyone has travelled there in the hope we might get some last minute weather change before Reece begins.

As for the future, either Sweden finds a way to make this event work further north or it dies (imho).

[mknight]

Seems every year we are on the edge of the conditions not being suitable...
Sorry if this has been asked before, but if the rally was moved further North for weather, is there anywhere suitable to base the rally from?

From the top of my head I immediatelly think of Östersund or maybe somewhere around Falun.
Swedish quys would know more.

They'd loose the benefit of co-arrangement with Norway though, not sure how much that matters.

[skarderud]

I don't think its suitable to move rally sweden, because all the clubs, people and valenteers live in this area.
It has been discussed lots of times in both countries and the main problem is to get a new organisation to run the event.
In the mountains North of Lillehammer it is lots if snow, but we cant even get an organisation to run a smal rally here.


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[Wold]

Webcam from Sunne, about 2 mil from Colins Crest:
https://sunne.se/weathercam.html

Weather:
https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/Värmland/Sunne/long.html

This is not looking good :-(

[masa90]

It feels such a shame especially when you see the amazing Arctic Rally with huge snow and proper winter conditions and start to get excited and wait for wrc snow rally.

[cali]

It feels such a shame especially when you see the amazing Arctic Rally with huge snow and proper winter conditions and start to get excited and wait for wrc snow rally.Are you prepared to ditch Jyväskylä for Arctic thou? You can't have 2 rallies...

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[denkimi]

Are you prepared to ditch Jyväskylä for Arctic thou? You can't have 2 rallies...

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We have 2 rally's in france for many years now.

[AnttiL]

We have 2 rally's in france for many years now.

No, one is under the flag of Monaco, although all stages are in France.

Rovaniemi is too far from Sweden to be driven under its flag, and I doubt the organizers would agree with that.

[dupanton]

Don't know if this is realistic but:
You could use Arctic Rally as the Finnish round in the winter.
And then use fe South Swedish rally as the Swedisch round in the summer?

[Allez Andruet]

Maybe Arctic Rally could be organized under the administration of Åland Islands or something? After the ceremonial start the cars would just be shipped from Mariehamn to whatever is the northernmost harbor in Finland and the rally could still take place in Lapland.

Ok, jokes aside, I really hope the Swedish organizers together with the WRC promoter would do something about it and move the rally somewhere else.

[Allez Andruet]

Don't know if this is realistic but:
You could use Arctic Rally as the Finnish round in the winter.
And then use fe South Swedish rally as the Swedisch round in the summer?

No. Simply because that would be utterly wrong.

[Kefdude]

Question. Why can't they just change the tires used? I understand that using spikes on this shoyt is bad for the surface, but why not use regular mud tires instead? At least the rally would happen.

[AnttiL]

Question. Why can't they just change the tires used? I understand that using spikes on this shoyt is bad for the surface, but why not use regular mud tires instead? At least the rally would happen.

1. The summer tyres don't work in the cold temperatures
2. The unfrozen wet roads don't withstand rallying

[Tarmop]

The road would deteriorate then also.

[TypeR]

Question. Why can't they just change the tires used? I understand that using spikes on this shoyt is bad for the surface, but why not use regular mud tires instead? At least the rally would happen.
I bet the roads would be totally killed after morning round of stages... And it would mean multiple times more money to repair/build up the roads again..

[doubled1978]

Presumably the FIA must have had conversations with the Swedish organisers due to close calls that have come before, and with the weather changes that are happening globally (for whatever reason you believe to be right) it seems clear that for an event such as this we need to move further North.
I think everyone wants to keep a genuine winter rally, but the need for a location with more predictable weather seems to be needed.

[Rallyper]

From the top of my head I immediatelly think of Östersund or maybe somewhere around Falun.
Swedish quys would know more.

They'd loose the benefit of co-arrangement with Norway though, not sure how much that matters.

I came to think about Umeå area. Some swedish championships decided there in winters. Could be something serious.

[Alex009]

2. The unfrozen wet roads don't withstand rallying

Interesting. Whats difference between this and other spring or autumn rallies driving in wet conditions?

[AnttiL]

Interesting. Whats difference between this and other spring or autumn rallies driving in wet conditions?

The problem is with the moisture in the low temperatures and/or ground frost melting. In the autumn it's not a problem. In Finland there's usually no rallying in April and May during the thaw time. Roads get usually damaged even without rallying.

[Rallyper]

Interesting. Whats difference between this and other spring or autumn rallies driving in wet conditions?

The gravel is too loose under much wet conditions.

From May onwards gravelroads usually have dried up so surface stays intact. On daily used ones that is.

[Crazy J]

Best bet to keep rally in Sweden might be Ostersund - Are - Trondheim area. That would have good synergies with Alpine skiing, big cities, good connections and everything. Possibility to split stages between Sweden and Norway like currently.

If not in Sweden, other potential options with rally culture could be Hokkaido or Canada. For sure Toyota and Subaru would like to see even two rallies in Japan. More extreme market choices could be Vladivostok area in Pacific Russia or even Northern China.

[BleAivano]

I came to think about Umeå area. Some swedish championships decided there in winters. Could be something serious.

Vännäs yes. However if you look at the snow depth maps very little snow in Umeå. Granö which is 50 km noth-northwest of Vännäs (which is 30 km west of Umeå) only have 38 cm and Vännäs have 24.
So it's not huge amounts of snow there either. It's quite dire along the entire Norrland coastline.

[BleAivano]

Best bet to keep rally in Sweden might be Ostersund - Are - Trondheim area. That would have good synergies with Alpine skiing, big cities, good connections and everything. Possibility to split stages between Sweden and Norway like currently.

If not in Sweden, other potential options with rally culture could be Hokkaido or Canada. Toyota and Subaru for sure would like to see even two rallies in Japan. More extreme market choices could be Vladivostok area in Pacific Russia or even Northern China.

Åre are not interested because hotels would be occupied but much less people would by access to the alpine ski systems = less income.

[Crazy J]

Åre are not interested because hotels would be occupied but much less people would by access to the alpine ski systems = less income.

Is it the same situation for them during the whole snowy season? Might it be that Alpine skiing has only some high season weeks and for less crowded weeks WRC would be welcome?

Or it could skip Are for being 1 day in just in Trondheim and 1,5 days in Ostersund and more far away from Are.

[Rallyper]

Vännäs yes. However if you look at the snow depth maps very little snow in Umeå. Granö which is 50 km noth-northwest of Vännäs (which is 30 km west of Umeå) only have 38 cm and Vännäs have 24.
So it's not huge amounts of snow there either. It's quite dire along the entire Norrland coastline.

However current conditions around Umeå/Vännäs probably well enough for a WRC winterrally.

[BleAivano]

Is it the same situation for them during the whole snowy season? Might it be that Alpine skiing has only some high season weeks and for less crowded weeks WRC would be welcome?

Or it could skip Are for being 1 day in just in Trondheim and 1,5 days in Ostersund and more far away from Are.

I would assume highs during christmas-new year+ during sportloven (https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sportlov_i_Sverige) (weeks 7-10 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_week_date#Dates_with_fixed_week_number))+ easter breaks. So the rally weekend conflicts with the weekend at the start of the first sportlovet week.

[BleAivano]

However current conditions around Umeå/Vännäs probably well enough for a WRC winterrally.

Agreed for Vännas (and further in lands) but probably not Umeå though.

[Rallyper]

I only think UMeå as host city and possible SP/HQ location. Stages could be wherever in a radius of 150K.

[SubaruNorway]

Interesting. Whats difference between this and other spring or autumn rallies driving in wet conditions?

Roads are really soft for a month or two and that can create big holes like where drainage pipes are, Aurskog Høland rally just east of Oslo in Norway which runs in start of June of all things had stages cancelled a few years ago because of it

[jbmarcus21]

Google Earth Map Rally Sweden 2020 is now online ► http://bit.ly/317psHe

[SubaruNorway]

New start of Hagfors today, frozen gravel and -3
https://twitter.com/TorAndreBorrese/status/1218997092208775168

[Rallyper]

Sorry to say, but up to 29th of January there´s not even many nights with minusdegrees... (In Torsby area)

I´m not pessimist, but I think RS is in real danger...

[AnttiL]

It will be sad for Latvala, who had planned a private entry for this rally. Hopefully the rally is cancelled early enough so he won't have to pay for shipments and other arrangements like Paddon for Australia (although shipping from Finland to Sweden will be cheaper anyway)

[DocMS]

Up until 29th doesnt look good but from 29th onwards looks promising. I know its very hard to predict so far ahead but still time to be positive. We may lose some stages but should still be enough to run the rally. Even the pictures today of the likenas stage look ok. 19091910

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[Rallyper]

Up until 29th doesnt look good but from 29th onwards looks promising. I know its very hard to predict so far ahead but still time to be positive. We may lose some stages but should still be enough to run the rally. Even the pictures today of the likenas stage look ok. 19091910

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That would be good!

Haven´t seen forecasts after 29th myself.

[tommeke_B]

Let's wait to worry until Monte has passed... By then we'll have a more detailed view on the weather tendency towards the rally. I guess it can't stay so warm for very long anymore, for this time of the year. It changed in a negative way very quickly a few times, maybe it can change in a positive way this time.

[pantealex]

I have paid my trip
so cancelation is not option for me.

[masa90]

I have paid my trip
so cancelation is not option for me.

I have reserved days off from my work too, so if they just drive it I will be there :D

[mknight]

I'd say they will have to make a decision around 1st February at the latest.

[tommeke_B]

Impossible. Sponsors have paid, spectators have paid, drivers have put together a project, the local economy is relying on the rally to happen... The rally can only be cancelled if they are 100% certain that the conditions will not allow the rally to take place. If they cancel, and it turns out the rally could have taken place, it could have much more serious consequences than cancelling too late. Such as losing sponsors or losing support from the local government and community.

[Allez Andruet]

For the reasons you mentioned, I guess nothing will be called off before the absolute deadline. Just like they did in Australia.

[Entertainer]

Different weather sites say different things - so please don't start with the doomsday predictions quite so soon...

For instance - Klart.se predicts minus degrees from 29th down to -5 degrees at night and only touching +/- 0 during the days. 5 days of that and we have a solid ice base and with snow every day (a couple of mm each day according to the weather site) things are looking gooood.
Remain positive guys.

[Luis Pacheco]

I have paid my trip
so cancelation is not option for me.

+1

[BleAivano]

That would be good!

Haven´t seen forecasts after 29th myself.

Doesn't matter. Long term forecasts aren't very reliable anyway, especially not 10-14 days forward.

[Rallyper]

Kind of relief:

Weather seems to be minusdegrees in whole Värmland from Sunday and onwards for next week. Some snow at end of next week. And some rain starts the cold period.

If we are lucky, the rally looks more safe after todays forecast.

[Katvala]

Yeah the weather is taking an unexpected turn from the previous estimates. Let's hope

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

This forecast gives rain on Monday and then minus degrees from Wednesday onwards. That is good for making some ice base.

https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Torsby/long.html

[Rallyper]

Forecast changed for Torsby area; Much snow but temperatures around zero, means no icy surface, meaning big ruts or no rally at all...

[EstWRC]

At least Ott has nice starting pos for it if the rally goes ahead :D

[Myrvold]

At least Ott has nice starting pos for it if the rally goes ahead :D

Eh. I remember the last few Rally Sweden before the new WRC cars, they had conditions that might be similar to this, little snow, but temperature below zero and a bit of ice, then it was advantage to be first on the road, as the road was quite clean, the more cars that went through, the more "ice dust" got thrown up on the road, making it slippery for the ones behind.
So it might not be good in the end.

[Tauri_J]

Weather's not gonna change next week. BIG storms coming in from west which bring warm air.

[linni]

When is the deadline for the rally cancellation?
I have until 29.01. to cancel my accommodation without any fees.

[tc10a]

When is the deadline for the rally cancellation?
I have until 29.01. to cancel my accommodation without any fees.

IF there would be a cancellation it would be for sure at the very last minute - days prior to the event, but much more likely is then a scenario like 2016 with a new and reduced itinerary.

But still quite positive everything will sort out in the remaining weeks, looks as it is going in the right direction.

[BleAivano]

IF there would be a cancellation it would be for sure at the very last minute - days prior to the event, but much more likely is then a scenario like 2016 with a new and reduced itinerary.

But still quite positive everything will sort out in the remaining weeks, looks as it is going in the right direction.

Still 2,5 weeks to go and weather can change rapidly in a matter of days. However long time forecasts still says no snow and temps above zero.

[linni]

IF there would be a cancellation it would be for sure at the very last minute - days prior to the event

This is very unlikely. Nobody lets teams to travel there just to make cancellation decision in the last minute. These things must be somehow regulated I guess.
Australia was force majeure, Swedish weather isn`t.

Reduced route - this is likely going to happen. Southern from Torsby will be cancelled and northern ones used.

Abou weather predictions - I remember few years ago forecast to indicate +5 for the first day, but in fact we faced - 17 in the same morning.

[EstWRC]

The #RallySweden looks bad for now (no snow). Toyota and Hyundai canceled their scheduled tests next week. FIA to release statement tomorrow to clarify situation #WRC

https://twitter.com/RallyeSport/status/1221129376022106112?s=20


12 event calender in the end it seems

[mknight]

Seems strange to cancel 3 weeks before based on weather, would expect them to wait until next weekend.

[tc10a]

Quite sure they will wait for any final decision until at least 10 more days. Will probably be a statement like "we are monitoring the situation and are in close contact with the organiser....etc." PR stuff to calm down some hyper nervous people.

[SubaruNorway]

Where was Hyundai going to test?
Looks like there's enough snow in Åre where they usually are so...

[linni]

This test cancellation is a bit rumours, as I understand. There was a quote from AnttiL twitter, but now it`s gone.
Could`t find anything from Toyota`s twitter either.
@AnttiL maybe he adds comment himself.

[AnttiL]

This test cancellation is a bit rumours, as I understand. There was a quote from AnttiL twitter, but now it`s gone.
Could`t find anything from Toyota`s twitter either.
@AnttiL maybe he adds comment himself.

My tweet was based on same source as EstWRC's, but as it seemed too much of a sourceless rumor, I deleted it.

[EstWRC]

any news about this today?

[Rallyper]

Well, weather forecast tips over more to minusdegrees again. It will be a nailbiter (say in swedish) and depends on how cool the organizer can stay. And if they can work out a plan B, I would believe.

[EstWRC]

i really hope they pull it together.

yes we had just Monte but if the next one is Mexico in March the gaps are just so huge, then after Mexico there is again long gap between it and Argentina.

[SubaruNorway]

Glenn Olson is not worried, still 20-30cm of thaw left in the road and the teams weather prognosis is saying colder and snow.
They might get more tires if there's a lot of gravel and after how well the roads held up in 2016 it should be fine if it just stays cold.

https://parcferme.no/rally/gladmelding-fra-rally-sweden-ingen-tegn-til-avlysning-over-hodet/

[pantealex]

Facts from inside: (team people from Monte servicepark)
Teams will built their "villages" normally.
Final decicions about driving or not will be made monday-tuesday rallyweek.

[EstWRC]

thanks for the info guys...so Hyundai and Toyota just moved their tests one week then?

[AnttiL]

thanks for the info guys...so Hyundai and Toyota just moved their tests one week then?

Most likely that's the case, to get some decisions made before testing.

[linni]

My tweet was based on same source as EstWRC's, but as it seemed too much of a sourceless rumor, I deleted it.


Thanks for clearing that.

2,5 weeks to go - I doubt there will be any cancellation.

[linni]

To Norwegian guys: if rally is cancelled at the last moment, what to do in Norway. I am staying in Sweden but been there too many times. Time to explore Norway. 90 km to Oslo from hotel.

[AnttiL]

Hof-Finnskog

https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/83996536_2768168816562627_1508779538153209856_n.jp g?_nc_cat=110&_nc_ohc=d_Xt5QQ1dlYAX8pPRof&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=0fe0f305beb0bb1d50ac13aad5f1c76a&oe=5ED91677

Torntorp
https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/83635288_2776753312371647_4914330699961466880_n.jp g?_nc_cat=103&_nc_ohc=SkgRJqSbt64AX8Hl5lx&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=c29a119677a25c03699712d1e3cab703&oe=5ED49B59

From Facebook Group Enthusiasts Rally Sweden

[DocMS]

Whats the most reliable app for Sweden/Norway weather?

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

[Fast Eddie WRC]

So maybe a low amount of snow for Neuville opening the road ? It could be another pointer to it being his year...

He certainly needs to take as many early points as possible here while the other contenders adapt.

[pantealex]

This morning there were 2 usable stages.
1 in both countries.

[AnttiL]

If there's little snow but a thin icy layer on the road, it's good to be first on the road? The later runners will have slush reducing grip and gravel eating their studs?

[mknight]

Whats the most reliable app for Sweden/Norway weather?

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

The Swedish and Norwegian meteorological institutes (and Finland) use common weather model. So the results are the same. It's just the visualisation that is different.

One option is this:
https://www.yr.no/place/Norway/Innlandet/Grue/Svullrya/long.html
https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Torsby/long.html

For snow on the ground and snow depth predictions use this:
http://www.senorge.no/index.html?p=senorgeny&st=snow
(covers whole rally area)

[karen266]

Does anyone have access to this article and can translate it to me?
https://www.vf.se/2020/01/26/olsson-lugnade-wrc-teamen-prognosen-ser-battre-ut/

[Rallyper]

Hof-Finnskog

https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/83996536_2768168816562627_1508779538153209856_n.jp g?_nc_cat=110&_nc_ohc=d_Xt5QQ1dlYAX8pPRof&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=0fe0f305beb0bb1d50ac13aad5f1c76a&oe=5ED91677

Torntorp
https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/83635288_2776753312371647_4914330699961466880_n.jp g?_nc_cat=103&_nc_ohc=SkgRJqSbt64AX8Hl5lx&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=c29a119677a25c03699712d1e3cab703&oe=5ED49B59

From Facebook Group Enthusiasts Rally Sweden

Well, we have Safari later this year, so why worry about this road?

[AnttiL]

@Mollysport announced on norwegian Eurosport today that Sweden wil run as planed..the organizer for rally sweeden and FIA had a meeting, and the forecast looks better tha waited����

https://twitter.com/JonFisk1/status/1221475592295657475

[EstWRC]

this is excellent news!

[erikli2]

Translated from an article in a Swedish newspaper who has interviewed the head of Rally Sweden, Glen Olsson this afternoon:

"Rally Sweden will take place as planned"

"Glen Olsson has had meetings with rally teams, FIA and the promotor"

"We have together with the teams studied everyone´s weather forecast services,. The coming weeks are going towards colder temperatures and also some snow, so we´re all looking forward to hard and fast roads."

"The teams might get access to additional tires in order to compensate for higher amount of tire wear. At minus degrees, the roads are frozen and there´s no concern for road damages, especially not regarding the circumstances in 2016"

[EstWRC]

this site againt tweeting and its like this


Rallye Sport
@RallyeSport
Info from Timo Rautiainen, FIA vice-present #WRC
@RallySweden maintained for the moment Special watering scheduled every evening Final decision in 8 days (Monday, February 3)

https://twitter.com/RallyeSport/status/1221478128293490693?s=20

[T16]

So which is it? Definitely going ahead or decision later?

[mknight]

So which is it? Definitely going ahead or decision later?

Nothing is definite until the first car start driving...or at least until Wednesday before the rally.

[SubaruNorway]

If Hof-Finnskog looks like that in 2.5 weeks it won't run, ruts like that which froze was what made Lesjöfors not run in 2016

[mknight]

The swedish guy who posted it said it was only a short distance that looks like that. But indeed they need to level it with a tractor before it freezes... or hope for 15cm of snow.

[Humber]

Can the organisers get the more water trucks (than in 2016) out at the end of the recce, to put some ice on all the roads or is it more likely stages be cancelled like in 2016?

[PLuto]

Can the organisers get the more water trucks (than in 2016) out at the end of the recce, to put some ice on all the roads or is it more likely stages be cancelled like in 2016?

Currently the problem is not with water, but with temperature.

[SubaruNorway]

To Norwegian guys: if rally is cancelled at the last moment, what to do in Norway. I am staying in Sweden but been there too many times. Time to explore Norway. 90 km to Oslo from hotel.

"Closest" to the border and should have snow is Røros, northern lights is sometimes visible there, Trysil for downhill skiing or Lillehammer and try the bobsleigh, I've only tried in summer and 3G's was enough for me, 5G's in winter I think!

[AnttiL]

https://twitter.com/SaariJarno/status/1221530527724908545

According to this the decision is made next week

https://twitter.com/F_Gustavsson/status/1221534258940071939

Tyre quotes could be increased

And finally my route preview, with some photos from the route gathered together

http://itgetsfasternow.com/2020/01/27/route-preview-rally-sweden-2020/

[linni]

"Closest" to the border and should have snow is Røros, northern lights is sometimes visible there, Trysil for downhill skiing or Lillehammer and try the bobsleigh, I've only tried in summer and 3G's was enough for me, 5G's in winter I think!

Yeah, I`m too old for 5G - s :)
Was looking for more cultural events.
But thanks anyway.

[Rallyper]

Some 10 cm wet snow coming this Wednesday in Torsby area. After that several minusdegrees at nights as long as forecast stretches. Will make it possible to get a proper ice or frozen gravel/ice surface. Maybe not much of snowbanks...

[Luis Pacheco]

I have booked and paid my trip 7 months ago...

[DocMS]

Craig Breen in for Rally Sweden

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2999830780082785&id=501750213224200

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

[BigWorm]

And not Mikkelsen, interesting.

[bassist]

Craig Breen in for Rally Sweden

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2999830780082785&id=501750213224200

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

Great news!

[AnttiL]

And not Mikkelsen, interesting.

Perhaps still reserved for the satellite team?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

And not Mikkelsen, interesting.

Adamo based the decision on Breen's 2nd place here in 2018 with Citroen.

[pantealex]

https://rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/approved-entry-list-sweden-2020-0127-b.pdf

Official entry-list.

55 crews.

Historic entries are still open (23 crews now)

[mknight]

Adamo based the decision on Breen's 2nd place here in 2018 with Citroen.

That's just a random explanation to justify a decision made on different grounds.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

That's just a random explanation to justify a decision made on different grounds.

Even if that's true its not random, its a fair reason.

[mknight]

Even if that's true its not random, its a fair reason.

Nope, it's a "reason" found afterwards to have something to put in the PR release.

If you follow the "picks" he has made for last year they are not consistent at all.
- Breen over Paddon for Finland cause Breen was on podium 3 years before
- pick Breen over Mikkelsen for Australia, while Mikkelsen has 1st from 3 years before and an additional podium and Breen 7th as best
- now again pick Breen based on 2nd place 2 years ago, while Mikkelsen has 2nd, 2x 3rd and 2x 4th

[Norm75]

Well, if the rumours at the time were true that Mikklesen got lawyers involved for Hyundai to honour his contract a year ago, I think Andreas has taken his foot off with a shotgun and won't be driving a Hyundai again any time soon.

[mknight]

Well, if the rumours at the time were true that Mikklesen got lawyers involved for Hyundai to honour his contract a year ago, I think Andreas has taken his foot off with a shotgun and won't be driving a Hyundai again any time soon.

Yet they dropped him for 4 rounds, so I guess the rumors were just that, rumors.

[Norm75]

Yet they dropped him for 4 rounds, so I guess the rumors were just that, rumors.

Maybe, maybe not. If he did agree to be sidelined for the four rallies but got lawyers involved earlier in the year the damage is done, as it would look like he was driving for himself not the team. Whether he was persuaded otherwise for those four rallies, I can see Adamo as the sort of character that would not respond well to being undermined by his drivers.

[dimviii]

Well, if the rumours at the time were true that Mikklesen got lawyers involved for Hyundai to honour his contract a year ago, I think Andreas has taken his foot off with a shotgun and won't be driving a Hyundai again any time soon.

i was thinking the same yesterday,and cant find any other reason except that.

[Norm75]

Neither can I Dimviii, as mknight points out his results haven't been that bad so can only assume he has rubbed Adamo up the wrong way

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nope, it's a "reason" found afterwards to have something to put in the PR release.

If you follow the "picks" he has made for last year they are not consistent at all.
- Breen over Paddon for Finland cause Breen was on podium 3 years before
- pick Breen over Mikkelsen for Australia, while Mikkelsen has 1st from 3 years before and an additional podium and Breen 7th as best
- now again pick Breen based on 2nd place 2 years ago, while Mikkelsen has 2nd, 2x 3rd and 2x 4th

2nd in 2018 was a great result and this year he will have the good road position.

What do you think the real reason is ?

[mknight]

2nd in 2018 was a great result and this year he will have the good road position.

What do you think the real reason is ?
Mikkelsen would have had same road position and has consistent good results from Sweden. (to be precise it's actually not sure starting late will be an advantage if there is little snow)

Real reason is he doesn't "trust" Mikkelsen. He said as much indirectly while in C. Clarks kitchen before rally GB.

[AnttiL]

Finally, we can speculate on the satellite team. The rules specified that the same driver may not drive in the satellite and the main team during one season. But will there be a satellite team at all? Maybe testing Pirelli gravel tyres in the European gravel rallies?

[dimviii]

Rallirinki / Teemu
@HartusvuoriWRC
Hyundai press release: "The team has been forced to postpone its planned pre-event test in Sweden, due to take place this week, because of a lack of snow and ice. A revised test is being considered for February 5-7 in the area close to the rally with all three crews."

[RS]

Jocius not nominated for manufacturers points?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Mikkelsen would have had same road position and has consistent good results from Sweden. (to be precise it's actually not sure starting late will be an advantage if there is little snow)

Real reason is he doesn't "trust" Mikkelsen. He said as much indirectly while in C. Clarks kitchen before rally GB.

Adamo is Mr Ruthless. Why does he have to make up a story about why he prefers Breen ? Its his team and he can pick who he likes. If he says Breen will make the team stronger thats it. If Mikkelsen would he'd pick him.

[Myrvold]

https://rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/approved-entry-list-sweden-2020-0127-b.pdf

Official entry-list.

55 crews.

Historic entries are still open (23 crews now)

While I am sure the WRC guys will be a bit more happy, the Historic class is suffering badly from having to run after the 2nd WRC run.
And to be fair, so are we spectators, Rally Sweden have been awesome with the historics in between the WRC runs. Almost always cars on the stage, and really fun. Now it will be hours of waiting with nothing happening. Too bad.

[mknight]

Adamo is Mr Ruthless. Why does he have to make up a story about why he prefers Breen ? Its his team and he can pick who he likes. If he says Breen will make the team stronger thats it. If Mikkelsen would he'd pick him.

"I like Breen better", does not look like a good PR release. Takes 2 mins to find something positive about a given driver and a rally he has driven before. Besides it doesn't have to be Adamo making the explanation up at all, just some PR person.

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


Finally, we can speculate on the satellite team. The rules specified that the same driver may not drive in the satellite and the main team during one season. But will there be a satellite team at all? Maybe testing Pirelli gravel tyres in the European gravel rallies?

They could have just as well "kept" Breen for that and used Mikkelsen for main team points. One would think that main team points are more important than the (remote?) possibility of taking team points from others.

Anyway I agree that if the team is going to happen (which I doubt) it will be first from Portugal and onwards.

The whole situation of "keeping Mikkelsen" is rather special. They "keep" him and he drives around in I30 N and does Monte Recce in Hyundai BMW-1 recce car, but skip him even for the obvious pick. I said already mid-last year that he should just go pay for a season at MSport no matter how the car is. (he'd still have Suninen/Lappi to compare with). But Mikkelsen doesn't want that.

[SubaruNorway]

While I am sure the WRC guys will be a bit more happy, the Historic class is suffering badly from having to run after the 2nd WRC run.
And to be fair, so are we spectators, Rally Sweden have been awesome with the historics in between the WRC runs. Almost always cars on the stage, and really fun. Now it will be hours of waiting with nothing happening. Too bad.

That's only on Friday, after 1st run on Saturday.
https://rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/inbjudan-eng-2020.5.pdf

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Jocius not nominated for manufacturers points?

You think he'll finish and finish in the points ?

[RS]

You think he'll finish and finish in the points ?

It’s a long shot but if one of the two main M-Sport guys retires and Jocius finishes then why not? After all there are only six scoring manufacturer cars this year, or am I missing something about how the manufacturers points system works?

[mknight]

You think he'll finish and finish in the points ?

If one of the other 2 Fiestas don't finish (for example due to technical issues or crash the makes them unable to do superrally (Suninen had one last year), then he will automatically score points, no matter what position he is on.

Therefore I don't really see any clear downside, but there might be some limits on "available parts" that will be affected.

EDIT: RS was faster.., there is something about those parts though. Remember how multiple teams retired their 3rd non-scoring cars previously (Hyundai in Portugal and Mexico last year, Citroen multiple times in 2017 and 2018), to enable use of more replacement parts.

[AnttiL]

M-Sport probably don't care about manufacturer points this season anyway

[mknight]

Well they like to point out their "points scoring" series.

[deephouse]

Isn't there a rule that explicit says that team must nominate at least 2 and no more than 3 drivers who can score points at the rally.

If I remember corectly Sordo was kind a fourth driver and score best but was not nominated for points (or it was Paddon, don't know exactly).

[Tarmop]

Yes. Max. number of drivers nominated is 3 per team, out of whom 2 best will count. So in RMC for example, Evans and Ogier scored points for TGR, Loeb scored 5. position points ( as Rovanperä didn`t count, being the third best Yaris).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Loeb:
As you may have read since yesterday, we will not be putting in the nails this year. After discussions with the team, we decided not to go to Rally Sweden.

Thanks to them for understanding me. I tell you more in my column very quickly.

Loeb is lying & more PR, mknight ?

[linni]

Meanwhile let`s talk about weather.
yr.no predictions starting from Monday: tempratures well below the zero up to -9 C by mornings in Torsby area.

[mknight]

Loeb:
As you may have read since yesterday, we will not be putting in the nails this year. After discussions with the team, we decided not to go to Rally Sweden.

Thanks to them for understanding me. I tell you more in my column very quickly.

Loeb is lying & more PR, mknight ?

WTF are you talking about?

I was saying Adamo picked Breen over Mikkelsen for other reasons than just because he finished second 2 years ago (ref. press release).

Why Loeb didn't go and whether it was his own decision, Adamo's or "discussion", wasn't even the topic.

[masa90]

Meanwhile let`s talk about weather.
yr.no predictions starting from Monday: tempratures well below the zero up to -9 C by mornings in Torsby area.

Finnish sites are showing much more gloomier situation. They say that during the daytime it will only go to minusdegrees on 4-6.2

Before that they predict plusdegrees and rain. I think there is trouble ahead, but if there is people who can get a rally done on hard weather is Rally Sweden Crew.

Was it 3.2 when they announce if the event will go ahead or not? Asking for personal reasons, I hope that they announce it in time so I can cancel my travelplans if they wont run.

[DocMS]

Yr.no show Hof-Finnskog area with highs of +3 and low of - 10 which looks promising

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

Meanwhile let`s talk about weather.
yr.no predictions starting from Monday: tempratures well below the zero up to -9 C by mornings in Torsby area.

There's no snowfall predicted, but I think frozen roads are enough, they can generate ice by watering the roads.

https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Torsby/long.html

[DocMS]

There's no snowfall predicted, but I think frozen roads are enough, they can generate ice by watering the roads.

https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Torsby/long.htmlAt this stage frozen roads ill take. Anything to keep the rally running.

Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk

[linni]

There's no snowfall predicted, but I think frozen roads are enough, they can generate ice by watering the roads.

Exactly. Hard road base is what we need most.

[AnttiL]

www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/ruotsin-mm-rallin-kohtalo-on-vaakalaudalla-suomalaisasiantuntija-nostaa-esiin-kaksi-suurinta-huolenaihetta-moni-asia-muuttuu/7703908

Insights from Kai Tarkiainen, clerk of the course of Rally Finland

- If there is no snow, the safety areas for the spectators must be thought over, because snow banks won't stop cars if they go off
- Similarly, drivers could cut more so the road comes "straighter" and "wider", but there could be stones in the ditches.

[tommeke_B]

It is an interesting subject to think about. However last couple of years we've had more Rally Sweden's with very small snowbanks that don't stop a rally car either. Been to Sweden 6 times in the last 7 years, from my experience it's one of the safest WRC rallies.

[AnttiL]

It is an interesting subject to think about. However last couple of years we've had more Rally Sweden's with very small snowbanks that don't stop a rally car either. Been to Sweden 6 times in the last 7 years, from my experience it's one of the safest WRC rallies.

2018 had excess of snow. Small snow banks in 2017, lack of snow in 2016. "Normal" snow banks in 2019?

[Katvala]

2018 had excess of snow. Small snow banks in 2017, lack of snow in 2016. "Normal" snow banks in 2019?Some stages had good coverage of snow, but there wasn't much. A couple stages got canceled. I remember walking to watch the Torsby stage and I was walking in mud and gravel. Not very winter-ish.

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[AnttiL]

Some stages had good coverage of snow, but there wasn't much. A couple stages got canceled. I remember walking to watch the Torsby stage and I was walking in mud and gravel. Not very winter-ish.


This is 2016?

[katxal]

Little compilation in an article about no or little snow Rally Sweden past editions

Like 87, 90, 97,2000, 2005 and for sure 2016 (with youtube videos)

https://www.laregion.es/articulo/mas-motor/rally-suecia-coquetea-cancelacion-otras-ocasiones-sucedio/20200128201354921654.html

[Rallyper]

Crucial is below zero with several degrees during nights.
If dry winds daytime or no wind at all, it can be +2-3 degrees without melting.
With moisture and plusdegrees surface can change rapidly from frozen to mud.
However below zero most of night before rally will make it run, even maybe with shortened stages/runs.

[Katvala]

This is 2016?2019

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[AnttiL]

2019

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No canceled stages in 2019. It was warm and slushy though.

[Katvala]

This is 2016?Apparently I remember it to be worse than it was, looking at photos. In the heights, it was plenty of snow and the road kept well.
Lower stages was OK but the roads got quite muddy. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200128/5e161a2d21b167efd641d113e30b313a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200128/0ed462d2dc5fd02201590a873253ec57.jpg

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[Katvala]

Right, I've been there so many years that I mix them up! Warm and slushy it was for sure.
Looked it up and stages got canceled indeed, but that was only for historic, and not for WRC
:)

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[EstWRC]

https://rallysweden.com/en/rally-sweden-preparation-continues-as-planned/?fbclid=IwAR2BgqXqcjZ0dRYAb3OtNuJWibfivEjUsw18e9HO Nwce426_N3CxPjTWft4

[AnttiL]

https://rallysweden.com/en/rally-sweden-preparation-continues-as-planned/


The organisation behind Rally Sweden are running at full speed in preparation for the second round of the FIA World Rally Championship, which is to be held in the Värmland region of Sweden and across the border in Norway, between the 13-16 February.

Despite the recent unseasonably warm weather, the rally organisers are confident that the current forecasts of colder weather ahead, will bring frozen roads and also some snow before the event.

Rally Sweden CEO Glenn Olsson spent last week at the WRC season opener Rallye Monte Carlo consulting with key stakeholders, the FIA and WRC Promoter, as well as with the manufacturer teams, over the current conditions and the various scenarios foreseen. Both the FIA and WRC Promoter gave their unanimous support for Rally Sweden to continue, provided the weather conditions allow the safe running of the event.

“We will continuously report and consult with the FIA and WRC Promoter and if the weather develops as the forecast, we don’t see any problems in running the event as planned. The weather is unfortunately one aspect of the rally we can’t control, but our entire organisation is working hard to prepare for another great edition of Rally Sweden for both competitors and fans.” he said.

[tc10a]

Some snow during the night in the northern region - pictures from Facebook "Enthusiasts of Rally Sweden":

https://scontent-vie1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s960x960/82555407_10212965896020991_6196396223277039616_o.j pg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_ohc=MxbMVY5xRxMAX-mpuyN&_nc_ht=scontent-vie1-1.xx&oh=10b5055ad67950094b5f40c8e27b896c&oe=5ECE2AF5 https://scontent-vie1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/83097739_10159357501949745_7658646173099491328_o.j pg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_ohc=_U9VaxdGpUIAX-7Rllt&_nc_ht=scontent-vie1-1.xx&_nc_tp=6&oh=4ab706ac6b184c9590e97aac938ab037&oe=5E9047C3

[AnttiL]

https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/82902106_10156524280252016_1108055344224927744_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_ohc=8_Z3rLpKr9kAX-DD-Uj&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=8d4c85fe4d2c984695417d4b020974b4&oe=5E8E1355

Hagfors stage yesterday, +5 C

[tc10a]

https://scontent-hel2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/82902106_10156524280252016_1108055344224927744_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_ohc=8_Z3rLpKr9kAX-DD-Uj&_nc_ht=scontent-hel2-1.xx&oh=8d4c85fe4d2c984695417d4b020974b4&oe=5E8E1355

Hagfors stage today, +5 C

Yesterday

[linni]

Road base seems to be quite solid.

[Myrvold]

Road base seems to be quite solid.

That's why they feel sure that the rally will go ahead. The ground is frozen, so even with little to no snow, as long as it keeps below 0, it won't get muddy, slushy etc. They probably will need more tyres though.

[EstWRC]

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

[pantealex]

Very stupid to drive on those stages now...

[Tauri_J]

Seriously? Those Are public roads.

Compressed snow + watering makes a nice thick ice layer.

[Rallyper]

Very stupid to drive on those stages now...

My friend. I think you are completely wrong. Keeping the loose snow means no ice will appear if it gets temperatures + zero.

By stamping the surface with wheels you help it being icesurface if some melting going on. Also if bottom is around zero or more, it will help turning the snow into ice in combination with minusdegrees over night.

So, driving on snow here (I hope it´s not fake pics) will mean a better surface well suited for winterrally in the end.

[DocMS]

Pictures from Hof-Finnskog stage today. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200129/aeeed452929028737788edde8d12b5bd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200129/8dab2a8d86261060065d423c1ee5ba9c.jpg

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[BleAivano]

Very stupid to drive on those stages now...

Well if you want to forge a sword you need to hammer it. This is the same principle. When temps are around 0 compress (hammer) the snow so that it will be harder once it cools down (freeze).

[AnttiL]

Maybe pantealex cannot imagine driving without revving the wheels :D

[pantealex]

Maybe pantealex cannot imagine driving without revving the wheels :D

Is there some other way ???



I´m talking about fans not organization.

What I mean is: If road has only one tyre marks, next driver will drive in those = exatly same spot = big ruts

Stage should be flat not with ruts before it begins

I understand what Per and BleAivano means. I´m sure that organization knows what to do = same thing you are saying.

But I don´t think that fans which are driving stages are help at all

[tommeke_B]

Of course it depends on when and how many. If it's an occasional "fan", like one car every hour, it shouldn't harm, especially like now a few weeks before the event. But indeed, if you'd have similar situations to this right now, a few days before the event, and you get all the spectators to drive on the stages the day(s) before they should run it, things could turn ugly...

[Rallyper]

Is there some other way ???



I´m talking about fans not organization.

What I mean is: If road has only one tyre marks, next driver will drive in those = exatly same spot = big ruts

Stage should be flat not with ruts before it begins

I understand what Per and BleAivano means. I´m sure that organization knows what to do = same thing you are saying.

But I don´t think that fans which are driving stages are help at all

I should say it doesn´t matter.

Other side of the coin (?) might be: how does the recce affect the stages...?

[denkimi]

What I mean is: If road has only one tyre marks, next driver will drive in those = exatly same spot = big ruts

Stage should be flat not with ruts before it begins

Even if these roads where virgin before the rally, by the time recce is finished there will be ruts.

[AnttiL]

People also live along those roads, you cannot close them for three weeks now.

[linni]

The more traffic on this snow, the better. Snow gets packed to almost an ice.

[TanaKa]

According to prediction, the thing looks bad ,,,, but for now ,,, as I said that ,, A plate of Cement ... greetings
..

[AnttiL]

Actually Accuweather's prediction is giving -5 to -13 °C for Friday 14th when the rally properly starts, and snowfall for Saturday.

[Rallyper]

Looks like several minusdegrees over nights for coming 10 days, will be enough. If rally week will be cold maybe problems decreases.

[BleAivano]

Actually Accuweather's prediction is giving -5 to -13 °C for Friday 14th when the rally properly starts, and snowfall for Saturday.

Too far ahead to say, It was supposed to have snowed "allot" this week too and very cold.

Seems like it will be warm the next couple of days and then colder from Sunday evening with possible warmer again towards the end of next week but too early to be certain.

[Myrvold]

Actually Accuweather's prediction is giving -5 to -13 °C for Friday 14th when the rally properly starts, and snowfall for Saturday.

Isn't accuweather's predictions a bit of "avg. during x-amount of years" ? Felt like that when I checked it for a holiday, wasn't until 5-6 days before I was going it changed to be in line with all the other forecasts.

[EstWRC]

lol

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

[Tauri_J]

Russian forecast isnt that optimistic...

1922

[Myrvold]

But the russians doesn't agree with yr https://www.yr.no/place/Sweden/V%C3%A4rmland/Torsby/long.html

[linni]

Gismeteo hasn`t been reliable for long years now.

[AnttiL]

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

Torntorp today

[cali]

Gismeteo hasn`t been reliable for long years now.I can say the same for yr.no - have received nothing but false forecasts for years. It used to be very reliable service but changed many years ago.

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