Rally d'Italia-Sardegna

[Finni]

One reason for the lack of action this year is because Marcus and timo are so strongly sticking on their strategy. They try to catch every point possible which basicly means they ease off and don't risk 8 points for trying to get full 10. Previous years Marcus should have done so but he didn't.

I think that this year C4 has just made one step ahead from Xsara. Marcus scarcely is easing much. In Argentina he attacked even in last day which was ended by hitting to stones (307 would have broken in that case, I guess). And difference to Hirvonen, for instance, was bigger than last year's rally argentina. I suspect that his new maturity has more to do with Ford's reliability and good and predictable behavior of the car. Afterall Marcus has done only two undeniable major mistake in his Ford time.

[Isthmus]

Who knows, Citroën retire ate the end of the year and then, next year, with 3 Focus on podium, everything wil be much better, with great competitiveness and not boring at all.l

[Koz]

Who knows, Citroën retire ate the end of the year and then, next year, with 3 Focus on podium, everything wil be much better, with great competitiveness and not boring at all.l

Only if Loeb gets a crappy car.. Like Petter :D

[Glee]

The window incidence was a car that was not according to spec. at the start of a rally. A missing spear wheel is more of a force majure and should therefore not qualify to more than 5 min penalty.

But 5 min is the same as exclusion regarding championship points....

[Mauri A]

Seppo Harjanne was he a codriver ore something before

With Kankkunen and Mäkinen, World Champion, been rally organizer in Neste Rally, nowadays deputy Clark of the Course. A nice fellow, even though he was Executive Manager of the 1000 Lakes only one year after I left the post.

[SubaruNorway]

With Kankkunen and Mäkinen, World Champion, been rally organizer in Neste Rally, nowadays deputy Clark of the Course. A nice fellow, even though he was Executive Manager of the 1000 Lakes only one year after I left the post.


The one with the wite beard right

[TMorel]

sorry, but should Marcus be excluded then it isn't due to Seb's amazing luck, it's due to a crappy Ford design failing *again* I can't see how people can complain about Loeb/Elena walking away with it next year if their only competition seem hell bent on giving them the bloody championship on a plate!

[Mauri A]

The one with the wite beard right
Unfortunately even young boys can have a beard nowadays!

[Mauri A]

sorry, but should Marcus be excluded then it isn't due to Seb's amazing luck, it's due to a crappy Ford design failing *again* I can't see how people can complain about Loeb/Elena walking away with it next year if their only competition seem hell bent on giving them the bloody championship on a plate!



Agreed 100%

[animrallye]

Seppo Harjanne was he a codriver ore something before
Codriver of Salonen and Mäkinen during 23 years !

[klm-607]

Please, take your pills and go watch Nascar if you think the WRC is very 'lame'.


I HATE NASCAR!!!!!!! It's (WRC) only getting "lame" cuz one a** hole keeps winning all the time. I'd still rather watch the most boring WRC event than any NASCRAP "race". What I was trying to get across is how sad it is that only Loeb ever has any good fortune. Hopefully the stewards will not punish Marcus too harshly if at all.

[klm-607]

I just watched Day1 on tv. Marcus looks much grim-er than usual. :(
The WRC is getting worse and worse everyday.
For some reason I think that in 2004 if Marcus was using his head and the whale was ok, he would have been better than Loeb. Now it just seems hopeless.
Next year, it will be worse. No Marcus. Loeb wins 14 rallies, Mikko and Petter win one each is the best we can hope for; unless by some merical Marcus can be campion this year, and shatter Loeb's confidence. Otherwise we will be stuck with Loeb for another 5 years... Till WRC is bankrupt.

Exactly my fear. Not good for the fans or the sport as a whole.

[Corny]

the only thing you can do is watch your old video-tapes back!

(that's probably more exciting than following a rally nowadays :D )

[Simmi]

I HATE NASCAR!!!!!!! It's (WRC) only getting "lame" cuz one a** hole keeps winning all the time. I'd still rather watch the most boring WRC event than any NASCRAP "race". What I was trying to get across is how sad it is that only Loeb ever has any good fortune. Hopefully the stewards will not punish Marcus too harshly if at all.

I hardly think Loeb's success warrants him being called an ass hole. Its a shame no one is on his level but thats not his fault.

[klm-607]

I hardly think Loeb's success warrants him being called an ass hole. Its a shame no one is on his level but thats not his fault.

For me it would be the same if only Marcus was winning, or only Petter, etc. A one Driver/Team championship isn't very entertaining. Like when Schumacher was winning everything in F1... Yawn. I go back & watch my old DVD's from the later 80's up to about 2002' & they're incredible! Now... not so much. The national championships like the BRC, & ARC are far more wide open w/talent & excitement. As they say "variety is the spice of life".

[ste898]

sorry, but should Marcus be excluded then it isn't due to Seb's amazing luck, it's due to a crappy Ford design failing *again* I can't see how people can complain about Loeb/Elena walking away with it next year if their only competition seem hell bent on giving them the bloody championship on a plate!

Or to put things in terms the Ste might understand ZOMG Ford have built a quick release mechanism that dumps the spare - therefore saving tonnes of weight, the cheating English scum! (well, I've got as much evidence for my claim as the rest have for their Citroën/FIA conspiracies

Who the **** are you calling English scum.

I think you should shut your stupid mouth!!!!!

[jso1985]

I HATE NASCAR!!!!!!! It's (WRC) only getting "lame" cuz one a** hole keeps winning all the time. I'd still rather watch the most boring WRC event than any NASCRAP "race". What I was trying to get across is how sad it is that only Loeb ever has any good fortune. Hopefully the stewards will not punish Marcus too harshly if at all.

shouldn't be the other drivers even bigger a**holes cuz they can't match the speed of an a**hole? :confused:

I know WRC is getting quite boring now but anyone who can prove it's Loeb's fault please respond me!

He's just there doing his job, all the other drivers and specially teams who can't make a decent car that stays in one piece are the ones at fault here.

[kleisj]

the only thing you can do is watch your old video-tapes back!

(that's probably more exciting than following a rally nowadays :D )

This is the best we can do.
I prefer to watch 80s90s rallies than this crap. McRae, Sainz, Makinen, Auriol, Burns, Dele, Juha, the great Allen, Vatanen, Rorhl and all the rest... And in every era we had great names great drivers fighting each other.
Now we see what is left from big names being left out because a youngster brought a better budget.
2 cars per team and drivers in manu teams paying for their drive is not working. And will never work. McRae is still an attraction for the crowds. Wouldn't someone prefer to see him instead of Atkinson? Younger talented guys are left out, Gigi should be a regular within a team to focus on driving not on raising budget..!
Subaru cannot give a competitive drive to Solb. I cant understand that. They dropped so low and the worse is that in this chaos they handicapped one of the drivers who has the speed and talent of the other two world champions.
It wasn't so boring in the past. Lancias where 6times consecutive manu champions, but still was great to watch. Tomi took 4 in a row but it was great to watch..!

[Corny]

BTW; another past story :D

When I was watching a Dutch rally (they are mostly on sunday) for 3 or more years ago, I always asked around if someone knew who was in front of a WRC rally, if it was in the same weekend. Always it was a surprise who had won the rally.. A feeling I'll never get again I'm afraid! :(

[rp]

Great! No any penalty for Gronholm...

[N.O.T]

Any news on Gronholm and his exclusion?

[rp]

I replied already... No any penalty for Gronholm...

[N.O.T]

why ?

[jonas_mcrae]

really? great! at least something good

[xavier]

I replied already... No any penalty for Gronholm...

In one hand i am glad about it, Marcus got penalized in the last SS enough.
but again why the rules are not the applied?

btw, Seb said that he neraly missed Marcu's spare wheel lying right on the trajectory! Will next time Ford will drop land mine ?

[rp]

No information available, but this time the panel of judges used their intelligence...

[ste898]

What a pity Loeb did'nt hit it...I'm gutted!!!!!!

Good to see there is some common sense at the FIA still!!

[DonJippo]

why ?

Because :bandit:

[N.O.T]

ok....nice to see Seppo is doing what he was sent to do.....

[xavier]

What a pity Loeb did'nt hit it...I'm gutted!!!!!!

Good to see there is some common sense at the FIA still!!

Sickennig... who would want any driver to have an accident...

You don't like the current WRC ste, so just watch something else and spare us your comments.

[Simmi]

Looking at the coverage the wheel was in a really dangerous place and I think Seb swerved a bit to avoid it. I had a few reservations about this type of things happening when I first saw the design as did a few others. I think the FIA know that penalising the main challenger and only remaining hope to stop the one man show would be negative for the sport. It gave Marcus a weight advantage which was probably negated by the loss of stability at the rear he received due to its loss. So no need for a penalty.

By the way the forum has become dire at the moment. Petty fighting, arguments and frustration. It's a shame the championship is doing nothing to keep us occupied.

[ste898]

Sickennig... who would want any driver to have an accident...

You don't like the current WRC ste, so just watch something else and spare us your comments.

Whatever!!!!

[Sladden]

Wow.. I have never seen the forum in such a bad shape. Noone is happy with anything it seems..
And I dont blame you! Just watched the WRC 2000 review.. nice looking cars, good fights and optimistic atmosphere :)

I think Grönholm is getting fed up.. that old spark in the eye is lost. But he must also remember he was in Loebs shoes with the 206 WRC.. With stronger competition thou.
Anyways nice he is still in the rally. Better luck next rally

[A.F.F.]

I can't imagine what should Loeb do to get all people happy ?? He is not jumping on the bonnet after every win. he is not bashing his rivals. He is very humble and nice guy.

And you know what, I'm pretty sure Loeb is one of those who would like the competition be more tight as it seem he enjoys good battles on stages.

But at the same time, he is a professional and a pretty damn good one. So, he wins and that's it.

It is not going to happen for aeons, mark my word. Hopefully then, he gets the respect he deserves.

Should Marcus or any other Finn dominate rallyes like he does, I wouldn't whine at all :D

[1LM1]

I can't imagine what should Loeb do to get all people happy ?? He is not jumping on the bonnet after every win. he is not bashing his rivals. He is very humble and nice guy.

And you know what, I'm pretty sure Loeb is one of those who would like the competition be more tight as it seem he enjoys good battles on stages.

But at the same time, he is a professional and a pretty damn good one. So, he wins and that's it.

It is not going to happen for aeons, mark my word. Hopefully then, he gets the respect he deserves.

Should Marcus or any other Finn dominate rallyes like he does, I wouldn't whine at all :D


:up:


That's exactly it.
And I can confirm that Loeb wouldn't mind even more competition. In fact, fierce competition motivates him. The guy needs big challenges. I remember comments from him: he said that he is afraid of Marcus' decision about next year. He really enjoys his fights with Marcus and doesn't want him to retire at the end of the year. He said he is scared to get bored once Marcus at home.
What Loeb loves are big fights like in Japan 2006 for example.

[pino]

What a pity Loeb did'nt hit it...I'm gutted!!!!!!



Gutted ? you should be ashamed, not matter how successfull is a driver, you don't wish him any harm :down:

[SubaruNorway]

According to Hennings blog the car weight was 1236kg lucky! why don't they just strap it up better if the only thing holding it is just that thiny orange strap

http://www.vgb.no/6339/

[jonas_mcrae]

that pic with henning looking at the c4 looks like hes thinking "how do they make it so fast?" LOL

[Glee]

Looking at the coverage it was just luck that Sebastien didn't hit the missing wheel from Marcus car. That would be something: Sebastien retired after hitting a wheel, and Marcus excluded for driving an underweight car...

(luckily that didn't happened)

[Simon Speichert]

I wonder if it is Marcus or Timo that pushes the Spare Wheel Release button? Is it next to the button that releases an oil slick? Between this and his tuxedoed entrance at the Autosport awards, I'm beginning to think Marcus might be the next James Bond!

[xavier]

By the way the forum has become dire at the moment. Petty fighting, arguments and frustration. It's a shame the championship is doing nothing to keep us occupied.

Sorry about that, the guy gets on my nerves....

My appologies in fueling any conterversy on the forum.

[xavier]

Also, even being a Seb' fan (I am french, even though living in the US.. but we are known for a very strong and biased position regarding any sport) I would prefer a more chalenging championship.

But that's the way things are now, Seb is dominating the WRC... and luck has nothing to do with it (or little at least).

We had a great 1st day, and that's the way it has been in past years, until it get boring for 1st place... Though people memory is short. Besides a few rare occassions it was the same way 10 year ago. Look at Jonka stats site, you will see that the 2 of the closest win came in the past 4 years!

WRC is great, the best of motorsport! These are most adaptable drivers in the world! nothing like running on a oval or making 75 lap on the same track that you have memorized!

let's keep our spirit up!

WRC RULES!!!!

[kleisj]

I can't imagine what should Loeb do to get all people happy ?? He is not jumping on the bonnet after every win. he is not bashing his rivals. He is very humble and nice guy.

And you know what, I'm pretty sure Loeb is one of those who would like the competition be more tight as it seem he enjoys good battles on stages.

But at the same time, he is a professional and a pretty damn good one. So, he wins and that's it.

It is not going to happen for aeons, mark my word. Hopefully then, he gets the respect he deserves.

Should Marcus or any other Finn dominate rallyes like he does, I wouldn't whine at all :D

Loeb has to keep up on what he is doing right now! Noone can blame him for being professional , noone can blame him for braking the records noone can blame for being best at what he does!
All the others have to raise their game! Speaking for teams and drivers.
The only drivers who could give him hard time is Gron and Peter. And Peter lacks equipment for the moment so he can't deliver according to his potential.
And this is what is very troubling and makes us bored and disappointed . The current state of WRC lacks teams, number of cars and ofcourse drivers in the level of the 3 world champions.
I just wish that Gron doesn't retire next year. Would be another blow to the sport.

[klm-607]

I replied already... No any penalty for Gronholm...

Great news!! Now I can only hope he reels in the amazing Loeb for a close fought Rally win. That's what makes my blood pump!!!

[klm-607]

Also, even being a Seb' fan (I am french, even though living in the US.. but we are known for a very strong and biased position regarding any sport) I would prefer a more chalenging championship.

But that's the way things are now, Seb is dominating the WRC... and luck has nothing to do with it (or little at least).

We had a great 1st day, and that's the way it has been in past years, until it get boring for 1st place... Though people memory is short. Besides a few rare occassions it was the same way 10 year ago. Look at Jonka stats site, you will see that the 2 of the closest win came in the past 4 years!

WRC is great, the best of motorsport! These are most adaptable drivers in the world! nothing like running on a oval or making 75 lap on the same track that you have memorized!

let's keep our spirit up!

WRC RULES!!!!

Very true! Loeb is the best now & probably the best ever. Congrats to him for that for sure! If he drove a Ford or a Subie... he'd probably still be amazing!
Loeb in a Citroen is like Schumacher in a Ferrari... unstoppable. I guess alot of us just suffer from the "sour grapes" syndrome. LOL!!

[jparker]

I replied already... No any penalty for Gronholm...

I'm glad that Marcus will continue without any penalties, but at the same time why the rules apply for Toni in Portugal and not for Marcus now?
Not fare

[Wim_Impreza]

We had a great 1st day, and that's the way it has been in past years, until it get boring for 1st place... Though people memory is short. Besides a few rare occassions it was the same way 10 year ago. Look at Jonka stats site, you will see that the 2 of the closest win came in the past 4 years!

It is really normal that the 2 closest wins came in the past 4 years. The rallies in the last years were much shorter than in the past. 10 years ago, you had legendary drivers like Mäkinen, McRae, Sainz, Kankkunen, Eriksson, Liatti, Auriol, Burns and Grönholm in a few rallies. Now we have only Loeb and Grönholm as great drivers (maybe Petter Solberg too for some people) smaller startlists and that stupid SupeRally.

[KKS]

SS13 start

[KKS]

at SS13 Stohl faster then Petter О_о
Manfred push hard

[Mauri A]

Marcus in trouble again?

[jonkka]

What what what - now?

[KKS]

Marcus in trouble again?

looks like a little spin

[jonkka]

A mistake, I take. He didn't lose that much afterwards.

[Mauri A]

Spin?

[jonkka]

Hmmm.... no second split for Loeb

[KKS]

Where is Seb?

[KKS]

Urmo Aava finished, but Seb not yet.... fu*k

[jonkka]

Aava finished but no time for the champ... Can it be?

[KKS]

Can it be?

Marcus drop a bomb at stage, like spare whell :D

[jonkka]

PG through and still no sign of Seb... ?? :eek:

[jonkka]

At times like these one really misses the WRR. They were shait otherwise but these rare chances were golden.

[Mauri A]

Can´t believe that Seb´s luck has ended.

[jiipee64]

Errare Humanum (seb/Citroen) est?

[Glee]

It looks like we now will have a real fight for 3. place.

[Glee]

I just got a SMS "Loeb stopped on stage", but no why. It is thereby confirmed as a stop, not a timing error...

[KKS]

It looks like we now will have a real fight for 3. place.

only for 3rd, but for 1st and 2nd same situation like Seb on 1st

[pucky54]

Loeb crashed

[Glee]

And if Petter find the right spirit he can do a "make or brake" attempt for the podium...

[jonkka]

break

[Mauri A]

And if Petter find the right spirit he can do a "make or brake" attempt for the podium...
46 secs, no way!

[Glee]

Is 44,59km enough to make something to the leader board?

[Waldrons11]

Loeb crashed


He slid wide off the road and got stuck in a ditch

[Waldrons11]

looks like a little spin


Marcus overshot a junction and lost 15 seconds, luckily for him it didn't matter in the end!

[jonkka]

And that against Sordo, who is outpacing even Henning's Ford at the moment. That is a fight, Malcolm would love 1-2-3 for Ford.

[WRXedUSA]

The French Robot has finally broke.

[jonkka]

This makes championship look interesting, if result stays as it is now:
Marcus 55
Seb 48
Mikko 44
Sordo 28
Solbergs 20 each
Atko 12
Latvala 12
Hanninen's maiden point (1)

Ford 99
Citroen 78
Stobart 37
Subaru 33
OMV 25
Muchi's maiden point (1)

[Mauri A]

He slid wide off the road and got stuck in a ditch
Heard Marcus´spin in radio and lost concentration?

[Wim_Impreza]

It would be great if Ford takes 1-2 and maybe 3 too. The suspense is back in the world rally standings between Loeb and Grönholm.

[Glee]

This makes championship look interesting, if result stays as it is now:
[...]
Muchi's maiden point (1)

Not if Chris can catch him...

[Mauri A]

It would be great if Ford takes 1-2 and maybe 3 too. The suspense is back in the world rally standings between Loeb and Grönholm.
Let´s measure the windows first!

[jparker]

I guess now is the time for Sordo to show what he's made off :)

[jonkka]

I wrote, if it stays as it is now. It's long way to go and much can happen. Henning and Sordo have a fight that Henning seems to be losing at the moment. Villagra's and Chris' duel can hardly be called a fight but result of that is at least as clear.

[jonkka]

I guess now is the time for Sordo to show what he's made off :)

And go... off? :eek:

[Wim_Impreza]

Let´s measure the windows first!
Indeed and there can more things happen in the next 5 stages too.

[WRXedUSA]

And go... off? :eek:

He's probably french canadian.

[jparker]

And go... off? :eek:

Maybe. I guess that's what I want to see :)

[Wim_Impreza]

Does someone know the reason for retirement from Pérez Companc? Thanks.

[GigiGalliNo1]

I will sign for 3 Focus on podium and Loeb out. ;) Unfortunately it will not happen.

Thats right! And then I said:


You never know! :D

So good news :p

[Wim_Impreza]

Thats right! And then I said:



So good news :p

We must say that more. ;)

[GigiGalliNo1]

Well, now with a hang over I'm lost with the rally!! haha too much dancing and drinking last nite! :p

[Ranger]

That's 2 rally-ending accidents for Seb in seven rallies...

Something must be very wrong here.

But, variety is the spice of life! :D

[jonkka]

And the other was?

[GigiGalliNo1]

That's 2 rally-ending accidents for Seb in seven rallies...

Something must be very wrong here.

How is it wrong? Wrong for Loeb I know that but good for the other drivers.... I haven't checked on it, but is he re-entering?

[Catiocha7]

Did Kopecky crash too ? :(

[jonkka]

I haven't checked on it, but is he re-entering?

Can't, it's final leg.

[jparker]

Did Kopecky crash too ? :(

I have the feeling that Kopecky is competing in its own class :)

[jonkka]

SS14 underway

[Wim_Impreza]

Did Kopecky crash too ? :(

He goes off yesterday and retired also with a lot of mechanical problems.

[Glee]

8 sec for Chris in 4 stages to catch Vilagra

[grugsticles]

Holy mother of god... do I read that right?

Loab's out!?!?!?!?!?
Now the man has fantastic skill, and as a Petter fan Im jealous of that so forgive me when I say..
WOOHOOO!!!!!

Does that mean we REALLY have a championship battle on our hands?

[Catiocha7]

I have the feeling that Kopecky is competing in its own class :)
:angryfire

[jonkka]

Henning faster than Sordo?! :eek:

[jonkka]

Or is Sordo under strict orders to bring points (6 or 5, not a big difference) than to risk it all with a fight against Henning?

[Wim_Impreza]

I must go now, hopefully I see a 1-2-3 for Ford when I come back. Enjoy the last stages of this rally guys. :)

[jonkka]

Looks that way, it'll be second Ford 1-2-3 in five rallies...

[KKS]

Looks that way, it'll be second Ford 1-2-3 in five rallies...

and this no boring? its too boring!

[raybak]

Stage win to Henning!!!!

[Mauri A]

Rally report in Finnish TV in 10 minutes. Hopefully we can see Seb´s ditching1

[A.F.F.]

I c-a-n-t b-e-l-i-e-v-e Loeb hit the stone :eek:

To this rally I have consistently put my pickems in order where Marcus wins. Here in Sardinia I finally accepted the fact Loeb is faster and did put him as winner.

Look what happened. Unbelieveble.

[René]

Rally report in Finnish TV in 10 minutes. Hopefully we can see Seb´s ditching1

Which chanel ?

[Corny]

Is there still a chance Marcus gets penalized for losing his spare wheel? 'cause that would be too bad!

[Mauri A]

Which chanel ?
MTV Max

[Magnus]

Wow... at first long discussions regarding Loebs dominance, then a dramatic change in the attitude. This goes for me as well... Anything can happen in rallying, and it is as true as ever before. And no, Loeb is no machine.

I must admit though that I am very glad that he went of, I would be much glader though if Ford could find the remaining speed so that we could se proper battles between the two! As I have said before, there is ar risk that Bosse will be remebered as the one guy who occ. could compete with Loeb.

[jparker]

Looks that way, it'll be second Ford 1-2-3 in five rallies...

Don't rush it jonkka :)
I assume Henning's tires are gone by now

[Sulland]

Henning and Petter in 1st and 2nd - impressive (even with team tactics started)

Has that happened in the Rally history before, that two brothers took the double on a stage ?

[jparker]

I c-a-n-t b-e-l-i-e-v-e Loeb hit the stone :eek:

To this rally I have consistently put my pickems in order where Marcus wins. Here in Sardinia I finally accepted the fact Loeb is faster and did put him as winner.

Look what happened. Unbelieveble.

Does that mean Loeb will be your favorite in pickems from now on? :)

[René]

MTV Max

Thanks a lot !

[A.F.F.]

Does that mean Loeb will be your favorite in pickems from now on? :)

LOL

I guess it is. :D

[ShiftingGears]

Henning and Petter in 1st and 2nd - impressive (even with team tactics started)

Has that happened in the Rally history before, that two brothers took the double on a stage ?

I think Alister and Colin McRae achieved that once, I may be wrong though.

[Glee]

Henning and Petter in 1st and 2nd - impressive (even with team tactics started)

Has that happened in the Rally history before, that two brothers took the double on a stage ?

Yes, they shared the 1.st place some rallies ago.

[jonkka]

Rally Argentina 2006:
SS16 Las Bajadas - Villa del Dique 16.35 km Solberg, Petter 8:50,5 110.95 km/h
Solberg, Henning

[GigiGalliNo1]

Hope JM-L wins this stage :D

[jonkka]

Exactly the same time, that is, even.

[jonkka]

Sordo isn't going to give up? Hmmm... :eek:

[MHjerpe]

Please.. Explain to me why Atkinson still is a payed driver at SWRT ?

[Waldrons11]

Heard Marcus´spin in radio and lost concentration?

Seb clipped a bank a few k's before the big off and damaged his steering slightly. Then had an optimistic call in his notes for the corner in question and ran too wide and off the road.

[GigiGalliNo1]

What radio you listening to Mauri A?

I don't think Atkinson should be with SWRT anymore. Period.

[jparker]

Sordo isn't going to give up? Hmmm... :eek:

Isn't that fun? :D

[jonkka]

Heh, wrc.com is on par with the times - again. Homepage story says Mikko is settling for third behind Loeb and Marcus.

[jonkka]

Now they realized their mistake... :eek:

[Mauri A]

[quote="GigiGalliNo1"]What radio you listening to Mauri A?
Finnish MTV Max. No video from Seb´s retirement yet, have to wait two hours!

[Waldrons11]

Seb clipped a bank a few k's before the big off and damaged his steering slightly. Then had an optimistic call in his notes for the corner in question and ran too wide and off the road.

Sorry, alomst right! ..

Seb clipped a bank and damaged his steering after an optimistic call in his notes. Then a few k's later, it broke completely and he ran wide and off the road.

[Mauri A]

Hope that there are two Finnish winners today. Marcus and Mika Häkkinen in DTM, starting from 2nd position.

[René]

Sorry, alomst right! ..

Seb clipped a bank and damaged his steering after an optimistic call in his notes. Then a few k's later, it broke completely and he ran wide and off the road.

:p That does not change anything ! Seb and Daniel stay sited on the same stone ! :laugh: :laugh:

[Waldrons11]

Just noticed - 2 hours of WRC on ITV4 this eve!

Rally Sardinia highlights at 6, then a repeat of that WRC Crash programme at 7

[René]

Just noticed - 2 hours of WRC on ITV4 this eve!

Rally Sardinia highlights at 6, then a repeat of that WRC Crash programme at 7

I was just kidding !

[Koz]

OMG!!! Loeb out??? How can this be? Sabotage?

[kleisj]

OMG!!! Loeb out??? How can this be? Sabotage?

Well I think with all our nagging we managed to put the bad eye on the guy!!!
Anyway nothing is over yet, we still have 3 SS to go.

[grugsticles]

For the Atkinson bashers:

Although I agree that there should be no excuse for his results (car or not) but remember he is sweeping the road today... isnt he????

[jonkka]

No, Wilson is

[jonas_mcrae]

I c-a-n-t b-e-l-i-e-v-e Loeb hit the stone :eek:

To this rally I have consistently put my pickems in order where Marcus wins. Here in Sardinia I finally accepted the fact Loeb is faster and did put him as winner.

Look what happened. Unbelieveble.

LOL happened the same to me in the pickems haha, but I dont care now, Gooo Marcus!!

[Woodeye]

Wow. I cannot remember the last time when Loeb has crashed. Now it should be easy for Marcus to pick up full points. I hope.

And now, if you'll excuse me, I'll go back to the sofa and enjoy my hangover. :arrows:

Where's N.O.T btw... ;)

[jonas_mcrae]

and this no boring? its too boring!

oh shut up and dont ruin the moment please, might be boring after a few rallyes but not now!

[GigiGalliNo1]

its a great rally now haha just because of loeb out! but then again can you see that we hav all gone "yiipee! loeb is out what a great rally!" ??? :p

[jacko]

For the Atkinson bashers:

Although I agree that there should be no excuse for his results (car or not) but remember he is sweeping the road today... isnt he????


yep, he's cleaning but also on the second runs it's far from impressive, like the whole season (except MC) and 2006. He's still to far from his teammate and i think when Pons will drive his times it's goodbye Chris and hopefully Subaru will take Duval, Garde or Galli as the no2 driver to push Petter also a bit in the team. With Pons as the no3 driver Subaru will shine again!

[jacko]

[quote="Woodeye"]Wow. I cannot remember the last time when Loeb has crashed. QUOTE]

Norway ;)

It looks like the (new) tacticts works for Marcus, when he can't match the speed for whatever the reason he's taken the steady second place. There's not much between Loeb and Gronholm, as we all seen today Loeb must still pushing. This is good for the championship, thinks everyone is happy about this :)

[MJW]

today my telephone ring tone is U2's "what a beautiful day"! - WRC comes alive again.

[jonas_mcrae]

great fight beteen henning and dani!

[jonkka]

With Pons as the no3 driver it will be the Subaru shine again!

Say what? :eek:

[Finni]

Wow. I cannot remember the last time when Loeb has crashed.

You already forgot norway?

I just noticed that in last three ss Hänninen was par with Gardemaister who is driving similar car. I think that afterall Hänninen's performance is quite good granted that this is his second gravel rally with wrc-car and first in slow roads.

[GigiGalliNo1]

yep, he's cleaning but also on the second runs it's far from impressive, like the whole season (except MC) and 2006. He's still to far from his teammate and i think when Pons will drive his times it's goodbye Chris and hopefully Subaru will take Duval, Garde or Galli as the no2 driver to push Petter also a bit in the team. With Pons as the no3 driver Subaru will shine again!

I'm not "bashing" atkinson but what jacko said should become the truth..

[jacko]

Is there still a chance Marcus gets penalized for losing his spare wheel? 'cause that would be too bad!


No, he took no advantage, the weight of the car was okay and everthing was discuss yesterday evening. Only thing i can think about is when Citroen will take some protest with this decision. But than i think it will be a war with Ford and no good for the rally sport general.

[N.O.T]

Gronholms strategy paid off finally...if everything go well he will be ahead by 7 points, and with the rough acropolis rally around the corner and Finaland coming he could build a margin good enough to enter the tarmac rounds of the championship.

[jacko]

I think Alister and Colin McRae achieved that once, I may be wrong though.

the were the first, i think UK back in 1998.

[Mauri A]

You already forgot norway?

I just noticed that in last three ss Hänninen was par with Gardemaister who is driving similar car. I think that afterall Hänninen's performance is quite good granted that this is his second gravel rally with wrc-car and first in slow roads.
Plus the illness of his co-driver, who had to spend a night in hospital on Friday!

[jacko]

Heard Marcus´spin in radio and lost concentration?

don't think the teams will call for this kind of reasons the driver full in action...
Only thing i can think about is when Ford is screaming to Marcus; drive steady, Loeb is out..

[GigiGalliNo1]

congrats sordo stage win :)

[Mauri A]

don't think the teams will call for this kind of reasons the driver full in action...
Only thing i can think about is when Ford is screaming to Marcus; drive steady, Loeb is out..
Marcus heard of Loeb at the stage finish said Timo Rautiainen.

[Finni]

Subaru's sad situation: Atkinson is setting similar times with Mitsu drivers Hänninen and Gardemaister and Solberg is almost as fast as Sordo.. I would tend to infer that Petter would be faster/as fast even with Lancer than with his current vehicle.

[jacko]

Marcus heard of Loeb at the stage finish said Timo Rautiainen.

Must be the case because it was a short stage, when Loeb had no split time Marcus was almost by the finish..

[Fang]

I'm not "bashing" atkinson but what jacko said should become the truth..

Really? Do you think any of the non works drivers could do any better in the suburu? I already pity the next SWRT 2nd driver!!

[jacko]

Subaru's sad situation: Atkinson is setting similar times with Mitsu drivers Hänninen and Gardemaister and Solberg is almost as fast as Sordo.. I would tend to infer that Petter would be faster/as fast even with Lancer than with his current vehicle.


it's a bit strange indeed the still far to big gap between Subaru and Ford & Citroen, mainly because Petter told they had found something and really thought he would fight for the win.. but it looks like the gap is even bigger..

[GigiGalliNo1]

Really? Do you think any of the non works drivers could do any better in the suburu? I already pity the next SWRT 2nd driver!!

I think so yes

[GigiGalliNo1]

And now, if you'll excuse me, I'll go back to the sofa and enjoy my hangover. :arrows:



Ahhhhh the life of a hang over! :p same with me today haha from last nite :D

:arrows:

[Fang]

Subaru's sad situation: Atkinson is setting similar times with Mitsu drivers Hänninen and Gardemaister and Solberg is almost as fast as Sordo.. I would tend to infer that Petter would be faster/as fast even with Lancer than with his current vehicle.

Maybe the 2005 Lancer WRC a lot better than many thought!

[jacko]

Say what? :eek:

Dear jonkka, quote the whole please, i told when Subaru takes Garde, Duval or Galli for the no2 seat and Pons for the no3 (which is not the most important seat) i think they will shine more yes!

[Mauri A]

Ahhhhh the life of a hang over! :p same with me today haha from last nite :D

:arrows:
I´ll have it tomorrow!!!

[GigiGalliNo1]

I´ll have it tomorrow!!!

On a monday?! Wahhh :p

[GigiGalliNo1]

ahh gotcha Mauri :p

[jacko]

Maybe the 2005 Lancer WRC a lot better than many thought!

i think indeed it was a good car, a good example was Sweden 2006. But as the car is standing still you can see the big difference between the updated works-cars and the "oldie" ones.
But the Lancer 05 is for sure no competition for Subaru normally.

[Mauri A]

On a monday?! Wahhh :p
Hangover + monday + fetching a trailer full of soil for my wife´s flower beds + restoring my old car in my garage = a perfect day!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Its also a very beautiful car to sit in as well :D hehe

nice work Mauri :p LoL

[animrallye]

it's a bit strange indeed the still far to big gap between Subaru and Ford & Citroen, mainly because Petter told they had found something and really thought he would fight for the win.. but it looks like the gap is even bigger..
Everytime Sub go to tests, Petter say that they find someting and that the Impreza will be better for next rally ;)

[grugsticles]

Lancer '05 = top notch car. With Mitsu's further development it would have been the car to beat IMO.
If I was a privateer on a smaller budget, it would be my car of choice.

[KKS]

oh shut up and dont ruin the moment please, might be boring after a few rallyes but not now!

BTW, motorsportforums.com is a second domain of Marcus site?

[René]

BTW, motorsportforums.com is a second domain of Marcus site?

Could be ! :laugh:

[jonkka]

Dear jonkka, quote the whole please, i told when Subaru takes Garde, Duval or Galli for the no2 seat and Pons for the no3 (which is not the most important seat) i think they will shine more yes!

Quote just what is needed and replied to, I hate mega-quotes with just two lines of one's own text at the end of it. Very amateurish.

But to the matter: you have a lot of faith to Pons? I would too if first name was Fabrizia but Xavi... nay

[Finni]

Interesting to see how Pons will survive with Subie. When some people are saying that he is better than Atkinson they have no perception of Subaru's current state. My guess is that in his first races he will be somewhere near to Matt Wilson. If he ever can challenge Atkinson I am surprised.

[animrallye]

But to the matter: you have a lot of faith to Pons? I would too if first name was Fabrizia but Xavi... nay
:rotflmao: :up:

[Buzz Lightyear]

Maybe the 2005 Lancer WRC a lot better than many thought!

i think the Lancer is a good 'mechanical' car, as it was very quick immeidately when active gizmos were banned, but I feel the car is gradually falling behind, like the xsara, with no development.

The Lanceer would indeed suit atkinsons natural driving style. To be fair, I think atkinson is a good driver, and I would like to see him in a an 06 focus..

[Halvis]

OMG, what's petters's problem now? +10 on first split...

[René]

Interesting to see how Pons will survive with Subie. When some people are saying that he is better than Atkinson they have no perception of Subaru's current state. My guess is that in his first races he will be somewhere near to Matt Wilson. If he ever can challenge Atkinson I am surprised.

Maybe he all ready know he's Subaru adventure is over for next year and maybe before ????

[Halvis]

Fast 1st split for henning - it's gonna be very interesting to see sordo's split!

[jonkka]

Sordo 0.1s faster still...

[jonkka]

Seven seconds and 16.5 km's to close the gap.

[jonkka]

Now 0.2 to Sordo's favour... urgh...

[jonkka]

0.1s... It's over barring mistakes

[SubaruNorway]

Why do they have so short stages at the end much more fun like with the 44.27km long Elverum stage in Rally Norway

[Halvis]

0.1s... It's over barring mistakes

yes, it's too short to make those secs in the last stage. But just a teeny, weeny mistake could be enough!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Maybe he all ready know he's Subaru adventure is over for next year and maybe before ????

I think even with a team like Subaru, some saying their bad atm but then some saying Pons will shine, if Pons already has seen since the beginning of the year that Subaru are performing un-well, it seems that Pons wants a seat and has the money to compete which is what is his no.#1 priority atm, in a seat/competing!

[grugsticles]

OMG, what's petters's problem now? +10 on first split...

Looking at his other splits for the stage, Id say stalled at the start line.

[GigiGalliNo1]

1 M. GRÖNHOLM 3:44:09.4
2 M. HIRVONEN +30.5
3 D. SORDO +1:22.7
4 H. SOLBERG +1:29.6
5 P. SOLBERG +2:28.5
6 T. GARDEMEISTER +4:55.8
7 M. STOHL +5:22.1
8 J. HANNINEN +9:27.5
9 J. LATVALA +11:25.7
10 C. ATKINSON +16:03.0
11 F. Villagra +16:39.1
12 M. WILSON +23:15.2
13 S. LOEB +23:49.2

Will Loeb outshine Wilson on the final stage?

[GigiGalliNo1]

SS17

1 M. GRÖNHOLM 3:44:09.4
2 M. HIRVONEN +30.5
3 D. SORDO +1:22.7
4 H. SOLBERG +1:29.6
5 P. SOLBERG +2:28.5
6 T. GARDEMEISTER +4:55.8
7 M. STOHL +5:22.1
8 J. HANNINEN +9:27.5
9 J. LATVALA +11:25.7
10 C. ATKINSON +16:03.0
11 F. Villagra +16:39.1
12 M. WILSON +23:15.2
13 S. LOEB +23:49.2

Will Loeb outshine Wilson on the final stage?

[grugsticles]

Oh, thats quite a possibility!

Go Seb :D

[GigiGalliNo1]

Oh, thats quite a possibility!

Go Seb :D

If true I will laugh out loud! LoL

[GigiGalliNo1]

If true I will laugh out loud! LoL

SS18 START!! :D

[grugsticles]

/ cue Jaws theme :P

[Kamikaze]

Will Loeb outshine Wilson on the final stage?

I bet, Wilson wil be around 4:30 Minutes faster then Seb on the last Stage :D

[SubaruNorway]

Oh, thats quite a possibility!

Go Seb :D

Then he would have to complete the stage witout retiring, if he retires Loeb will still be behind, so if wilson losses 6min i gues he will retire to not let Loeb past :rotflmao:

[GigiGalliNo1]

Amazing, anyone still think or ever thought Wilson will become a star?.... or shall it take a few more years? as in a lot more few more years :rotflmao:

[jonkka]

Amazing, anyone still think or ever thought Wilson will become a star?.... or shall it take a few more years? as in a lot more few more years

Malcolm Wilson does. For nepotistical reasons.

[Mauri A]

Seb´s interwiew:
"My fault, too optimistic note. You have to drive on the limit all the time, it is not easy to compete with Marcus. The incident with Marcus´spare wheel was okay for me, it was not his fault."

A real gentleman!!!

[jonkka]

Indeed! Good Seb!

[GigiGalliNo1]

gentleman :)

[jonkka]

Mikko wanted the final stage win, it would have been 9-9 Ford-Citroen... :eek:

[Wim_Impreza]

Mikko wanted the final stage win, it would have been 9-9 Ford-Citroen... :eek:

He did it.

[jacko]

[quote="jonkka"]

it's better you read some post good before some silly reply's. I told the no3 car, wich is destinated for Pons, isn't that all important, the main issue for Subaru is to take Duval, Galli or Garde (in that order). Xavier Pons is a good driver but so far my impressions not a future champion. Nowadays besides the top 5 only Duval and Latvala are my potential champions..

[jacko]

we've got a winner, congratz Marcus!

[Mauri A]

So, let´s wait for the measuring of windows etc and see the DTM!

[Waldrons11]

[quote="Woodeye"]Wow. I cannot remember the last time when Loeb has crashed.


And interesting both incidents were on new stages (here and Norway), with mistakes in Loeb's pace notes, bit of a trend developing here!!

[Koz]

Seb´s interwiew:
"My fault, too optimistic note. You have to drive on the limit all the time, it is not easy to compete with Marcus. The incident with Marcus´spare wheel was okay for me, it was not his fault."

A real gentleman!!!

Yeah...
It would have been much more interesting if he wasnt such a gentleman and was angry about it or something. The biggest problem with him, other than him beating everyone all the time, is that there is nothing dramatic. If he would bitch about everything like Marcus, WRC would be more interesting too. But I guess its not his fault he doesnt have anything to bitch about :P

[A.F.F.]

Yeah...
It would have been much more interesting if he wasnt such a gentleman and was angry about it or something. The biggest problem with him, other than him beating everyone all the time, is that there is nothing dramatic. If he would bitch about everything like Marcus, WRC would be more interesting too. But I guess its not his fault he doesnt have anything to bitch about :P

:down:

Go for F1 if you look for yellow press and bitching.

I like the spirit of sportsmanship in WRC. It's a big part of rallying.

[Woodeye]

Congrats to Marcus and Timo! Great result!

And now back to hangover, good day to all! :)

[Mauri A]

Yeah...
If he would bitch about everything like Marcus :P
?????

[jacko]

Amazing, anyone still think or ever thought Wilson will become a star?.... or shall it take a few more years? as in a lot more few more years :rotflmao:

we will it know in 2/3 years, but so far his second year is not that impressive when you look at the progression. Hopefully all the bashers will satisfied about his results, i don't care so much, it's good we got some WRC field. If you look 10 years back there weren't so many top-cars as today.

But more i'm upset is the way i saw Wilson Jr. was a bit agressive to M. Ostberg in the Subaru after stage 7, he came to him as he was saying Ostberg has moved his car beside the road and let pass Wilson Jr because he was setting so good times.. come on Wilson Jr. now you're making a real fool of yourselfs.. no respect for your (privat-) collegues and for sure on this level is really disgraceful.

[jacko]

:down:

Go for F1 if you look for yellow press and bitching.

I like the spirit of sportsmanship in WRC. It's a big part of rallying.

well said, these guys have respect for eachother because they are the best of the best!

[Josti]

Surprising result. Very good for Ford :up:

Shame Petter could not take much advantage of this...

[jonas_mcrae]

anyone knows where to find pics? besides ewrc and rally italy oficial site

[GigiGalliNo1]

good rally :)

[Mauri A]

Two winners today, Marcus and Mika!

[Isthmus]

So now, after a CRASH(not a battle), the rally has became an..interesting rally :s mokin:

After reading all the posts, i get the conclusion that the majority of you doesn´t want a competitive rally, but, first of all, Citroën Loeb do not win. Thats what i see when seeing so much posts like " 1,2,3 Fords...so good :D " , waiting for a Sordo´s out or beeing outpaced by HSolberg. And thats hard to believe because in that case, all the competitiveness you´re allways talking, would make no sense because for tha manufacter´s title, it would have a too big gap for a whatever competitive champ.

Next time come camplain that is getting a boring rally :o

[A.F.F.]

Two winners today, Marcus and Mika!

Mika won ? :eek:

What's the proper drink of celebration for this ?? Sisu-viina? :)

[Mauri A]

Mika won ? :eek:

What's the proper drink of celebration for this ?? Sisu-viina? :)

Unfortunately not, have to drink that Argentinean gin I brought home. Named Hiram Walker. 45 % vol, cost 2 euros á litre, you can guess the taste!

Now you can understand my monday hangover.

Cheers ZequeArgentina!

[A.F.F.]

That reminds me of that Scottish cider I bought from Edinburgh, cost half a quid / 2 ltrs and tasted like vehkeelle. Next morning I felt a bit after bitter.

DTM comes from urheilukanava ?? I have to check that out.

[Mauri A]

DTM comes from urheilukanava ?? I have to check that out.
Don´t know, I haven´t it. I followed the race trough ARD internet "live ticker"

[ste898]

Thankyou Mr Loeb for making such an arse of stage 13 ............and making it a fantastic win for Ford!!!

[Isthmus]

Thankyou Mr Loeb for making such an arse of stage 13 ............and making it a fantastic win for Ford!!!

Enjoy it till you can. But please, next time, don´t start with that boring stuff, and those conspiracy theories.

Your prays had been listened, Loeb had an accident, so you may enjoy.

[N.O.T]

Good to see a different winner...bad to see him win like that...but thats the sport...and Marcus sure is a guy who knows how it feels to have an accident while you lead, so i guess he kind of deserves a win like that.

[Mauri A]

Good to see a different winner...bad to see him win like that...but thats the sport...and Marcus sure is a guy who knows how it feels to have an accident while you lead, so i guess he kind of deserves a win like that.

Strange things happen! A tomato can won, and you tell us that he deserved it!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Strange things happen! A tomato can won, and you tell us that he deserved it!

have a good drink Mauri!!!! :D :p

[Mauri A]

have a good drink Mauri!!!! :D :p
Mr. Hiram Walker is creeping into my head, so I´ll finish this for tonight!

[Zico]

The focus/Gronholm... a tomato can???

[ste898]

Oh yes I will enjoy.........but I dont understand the tomato can I think you are getting confused its the Citroen that is RED like a tomato!!!

[klm-607]

Grönholm wins and leads Championship *(HELL YEAH!!!)
Sardinia: Finish - Summary
[20/05/07 - 16:30]

One-two for Ford in Sardinia!

Rally d'Italia Sardegna started the morning with quite a surprise: leader Sébastien Leob slid into a ditch during the very first stage, leaving his car on its side.

His retirement from the rally allowed the Ford Team to mark a one-two score, thanks to Marcus Grönholm's victory and Mikko Hirvonen's second place. Even without Loeb's presence, a Citroën made it to the podium thanks to Dani Sordo's winning struggle against Henning Solberg.

At the outcome of this seventh event of the season, Marcus Grönholm reclaims the championship lead, seven points ahead of Sébastien Loeb and 11 ahead of team-mate Mikko Hirvonen.

Ford accomplished a great job in regards to the constructors' championship by pushing its lead to 21 points. Whatever happens at the Rally Acropolis, Ford is guaranteed to leave for summer vacation at the head of the championship.

One-two for Ford
Things were tense last evening in the Ford camp. The Focus drivers seemed unable to take on Loeb's dominance. Furthermore, Marcus Grönholm and team principals were summoned to meet the stewards in regards to an incident in which Grönholm himself became a victim.

The facts are that Grönholm lost his spare tyre right in the middle of a special stage. Firstly, the rules stipulate that cars must return to the service area with five tyres. Secondly, the stewards wanted to ensure that Ford had not intentionally lost the tyre.

Doubts had started setting in when it was considered that Grönholm might have dropped the wheel in order to lighten his car's weight, and also dampen Loeb's efforts. The Frenchman was driving further back and found the tyre right on the racing line as he was coming out of a bend, but managed to slow down and avoid it.

The Ford Team principal's arguments were very convincing and the stewards recognized that Grönholm had lost more time than he could have gained since he drove prudently afterwards, avoiding any risk of tyre puncture, quite aware that he no longer carried a spare wheel if he needed one and that such a happening would mean retirement.

This morning, after a short night's sleep, Marcus took to the trails with consolidating a second place finish as his only goal. The Finn knew very well that it would be impossible to overcome the 36-second gap behind Loeb.

But Loeb is not infallible. The World Champion hit a rock, damaged a tyre, and ended up sideays in a ditch. With his retirement, the Frenchman left the victory door wide open for his rival Grönholm.

All Marcus had to do was sail in towards Olbia's final podium, where he signed his second success of the season alongside Rally Sweden's.

Mikko Hirvonen had a relatively easy day. The young Finn was solidly secured to the podium and all he had to do was roll on to the finish. Loeb's withdrawal allowed him to move up a step.

Sordo on the podium
If everything seemed said and done in regards to the final trio last evening, the positions that followed were still up for grabs. Dani Sordo was in fourth place but under pressure from the Solberg clan: Henning was only 10 seconds behind, while Petter was closer to 40. Sordo therefore had to fight in order to keep his position, which would transform into a podium spot after his Citroën team-mate's retirement from the race.

Petter Solberg would quickly lose contact, penalised as he was by a less-than-perfect Subaru Impreza WRC. Henning however was ready for a fight behind the wheel of his Focus and showed it by attempting to overtake the Spaniard's C4.

Both men would duke it out by exchanging a few tenths of a second over today's six stages, but the advantage remained with Sordo.

Stobart settles in to third place
The Stobart Team is showing excellent results for this Rally d'Italia Sardegna, with two of its drivers shining over this rally. Jari-Matti Latvala would be the first leader of the event and would remain so at the end of Friday's first loop over the stages. He would however get caught in an incident during the afternoon. Pushing his way back up on Saturday and Sunday, he would eventually land in the ninth overall place.

Henning Solberg had trouble getting into pace on the rally's first stages, but the Norwegian would land in fourth place before being moved aside by Dani Sordo late on Saturday.

Folllowing Loeb's dropping out, Henning engaged in a podium combat with Sordo. The Norwegian would give a good fight, taking two stages in the process, but Dani held his position. Henning ends the rally in fourth place and brings five points to the Stobart team, allowing it to stand on its third-place status in the constructors' championship.

Good start, bad finish for Subaru
Once again, Petter Solberg fought at the front with the onset of the rally, but he would fall prey to a few problems along the way – most notably the brakes – and could no longer keep up with the other leaders. He parks his Impreza in the fifth slot, his only satisfaction being that he accumulated valuable information that will help in the car's development.

Chris Atkinson had to retire during the 1st Leg. Back on the road Saturday morning, he transformed the rally into a full-scale test session in preparation for Greece.

In the points
Following Petter Solberg, we find Toni Gardemeister at the wheel of his Mitsubishi Lancer, geared as it was with an inconvenient set-up.

Manfred Stohl searched far and wide for the optimal set-up that would allow his OMV Kronos Citroën Xsara to handle as he wanted it to. He nonetheless leaves Olbia with a few points: two for himself and three for his team.

Juho Hanninen takes the last available point with his Mitsubishi, while Jari-Matta Latvala and Chris Atkinson finish the top ten list in Sardinia.

On the Junior Rally Championship side, Urmo Aava took the honours aboard his Suzuki Swift, ahead of Per-Gunnar Andersson's. Martin Prokop placed his Citroën C2 on the third step of the podium.

The next WRC rally will be held in Greece, from 1 to 3 June.

Daniel BASTIEN
© CAPSIS International

[N.O.T]

Strange things happen! A tomato can won, and you tell us that he deserved it!


don't mix things up....i never called Marcus a tomato can....the fact that he deserves it is true as the fact that he is a has been...and the way things led him into this win proves me right.

[Zico]

Marcus a "has-been"? How can you say such a crazy thing... it implies he has LOST his once formidable pace which is clearly not the case, we can all see that. The Loeb/Citroen combination is merely superior for now..

[N.O.T]

merely ?? check results so far again again....

[Zico]

Yes... but it doesnt mean hes lost his pace as the term "has been" means.. at least to me?

The Citroen is the superior car.. and shouldnt detract from Marcus's capability.

[N.O.T]

Yes... but it doesnt mean hes lost his pace as the term "has been" means.. at least to me?

The Citroen is the superior car.. and shouldnt detract from Marcus's capability.

I fail to see why is the C4 superior than the focus.....

[Zico]

I fail to see why is the C4 superior than the focus.....

According to certain sources (As per the Focus's straight line speed thread) it has more Bhp, torque and has less drag, it also has an extra gear which should further improve its acceleration at the expense of some drivability.

[N.O.T]

Ait has more Bhp, torque and has less drag, it also has an extra gear which should further improve its acceleration at the expense of some drivability.

Wow...its amazing amazing what you can learn from forum experts* nowadays...






* Forum Expert - A life form who tries to find excuses beacause his favourite driver gets beaten like a sick dog everywhere.

[Waldrons11]

don't mix things up....i never called Marcus a tomato can....the fact that he deserves it is true as the fact that he is a has been...and the way things led him into this win proves me right.


Thats the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. I think you'll find Sebastien has won his fair share of rallies through other drivers' misfortune. Gronholm a 'has been'?!!! Give me strength!!

[kleisj]

Well for the moment Loeb can only be beaten from Gronholm's pace. That's the truth I am afraid.
And C4 looks superior car. Only if you consider that from day one was fast and reliable with almost no teething problems speaks for it self. Otherwise Ford wouldn't be eager to present the '07 version of Focus. http://img104.exs.cx/img104/6503/wink9qa.gif

[N.O.T]

Thats the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. I think you'll find Sebastien has won his fair share of rallies through other drivers' misfortune. Gronholm a 'has been'?!!! Give me strength!!

name some of those rallies....

[Zico]

Wow...its amazing amazing what you can learn from forum experts* nowadays...






* Forum Expert - A life form who tries to find excuses beacause his favourite driver gets beaten like a sick dog everywhere.

Im not a forum expert nor claim to be, I like Loeb as much as I like Gronholm and favour none over the other.. but like to see an open championship not a 1 horse race. If you want to descend to sarcasm and name calling, fire away if it makes you feel better. Its widely acknowledged on here that the C4 is faster than the 06 Focus through info derived from quite a few sources and something I also believe to be the case. The teams official websites data is the strongest case I can provide... unless you can provide better sources that prove otherwise?

[JAM]

Thankyou Mr Loeb for making such an arse of stage 13 ............and making it a fantastic win for Ford!!!

Fantastic? Where? :rolleyes:

It's a very good victory to the championship but not a fantastic win to Ford. A fantastic win to Ford would be only after a big fight without problems or retirements.

[N.O.T]

Im not a forum expert nor claim to be, I like Loeb as much as I like Gronholm and favour none over the other.. but like to see an open championship not a 1 horse race. If you want to descend to sarcasm and name calling, fire away if it makes you feel better. Its widely acknowledged on here that the C4 is faster than the 06 Focus through info derived from quite a few sources and something I also believe to be the case. The teams official websites data is the strongest case I can provide... unless you can provide better sources that prove otherwise?

The term forum expert wasn't directed to you...it referes to all the guys wich draw conclusions out of vague sources.....most of them are bitter because of Nationalistic reasons which i must say are very close to rasism in some cases.

the fact that the C4 is considered the fastest IN HERE doesn't say much. I mean we all compare Loeb to the Has been and we say that the C4 is faster.....why not compare Hirvonen with Sordo and say that the Ford is faster then ?

the fact that the Ford team leads the championship by a significant margin doesn't show any superiority of the citroen team.

[bowler]

someone earlier lamented the loss of quality on this forum.

since when did we need to call each other names, and belittle another's opinion.

We all have our own view, and this forum has been one of the best to discuss them on.

Some of the recent postings leave much to be desired.

Quality please

[Finni]

why not compare Hirvonen with Sordo and say that the Ford is faster then ?

Because Hirvonen is driving his fifth wrc-season whereas Sordo is in his second... If my memory serves at all Hirvonen was not utterly fast in his second wrc-season with Subaru.

I think that none of us have certain information whether C4 is faster than the Focus. We cannot simply infer it from Grönholm vs Loeb pattern. Altough it's reasonable supposition that C4 is little faster because it has the best engine in the field and we have no reason to suppose that its driveability is lower than Ford's. It's very natural to suppose that C4 is fastest on asphalt and in rallies where acceleration is important.

[Zico]

The term forum expert wasn't directed to you...it referes to all the guys wich draw conclusions out of vague sources.....

Fair enough.. but I wouldnt call the teams official website as a vague source.


the fact that the C4 is considered the fastest IN HERE doesn't say much. See my statement above.

I mean we all compare Loeb to the Has been and we say that the C4 is faster.....why not compare Hirvonen with Sordo and say that the Ford is faster then ?

Good point.. I see Sordo as a tarmac expert whos not so hot on the loose surfaces and is yet a WRC spring chicken in comparison to Miko, who simply has more experience.


the fact that the Ford team leads the championship by a significant margin doesn't show any superiority of the citroen team.

Not neccesarily... again, see my statement on Sordo above. Ford just have a stronger driver line-up for gravel rallies.

Im not saying Gronholm is better or quicker than Loeb but that Marcus is certainly not a "has-been" as you put it, which implies he has lost his speed... The whole reason this debate started.

Lets have a vote-count, hands up all those who think Marcus is past it..