2007 Rally Japan - official thread

[kleisj]

Think you mentioned it before, maybe you should mention it to Seb too ;)
He have mentioned it before and the example was Loeb!!! 3-4 years back where Loeb had an off, in Monte or Corsica, car was stuck and couldn't get back on the road!

[bt52b]

He have mentioned it before and the example was Loeb!!! 3-4 years back where Loeb had an off, in Monte or Corsica, car was stuck and couldn't get back on the road!

V8Supercars (http://www.v8supercar.com.au/content/tech/v8_supercar_operations_manual_/?ind=&p=6418&s=6449&t=6451) regs actually require one (not quite 10m) and thats just for race tracks

[malscar]

V8Supercars (http://www.v8supercar.com.au/) regs actually require one and thats just for race tracks

They don't actually have a tow rope. They have two light duty(crap) straps front and rear. The tow point inside the boot is just so we don't run a tow rope past all the fuel tank garbage. Gives a pick up point at the rear edge of the boot which is then attached to the roll cage.

[duff]

wow only just checked the results, what a surprise!!! I gues the championship is well and truly back on with the advantage to Gronholm!

It looks like mikkos pace meant that loeb had to push to hard. Great drive from mikko.

[bt52b]

Any bets on how many stages before Seb is able to SuperRally? SS16 or SS17 anyone?

[J4MIE]

Game on!! :bounce:

[jparker]

...gues the championship is well and truly back on with the advantage to Gronholm!

I hate to tell you this, but this could change.

[J4MIE]

Any bets on how many stages before Seb is able to SuperRally? SS16 or SS17 anyone?

Including SS13 (unlucky for some), there are eight stages that he will miss - so 40 minutes penalty!

[White Sauron]

Well, if Loeb rejoins all he can do is gain 1 manuf point, as Solberg, who's now the last among nominated drivers, is currently 7th.

[SubaruNorway]

Just saw day 1 coverage and i can defenitly say if you haven't seen it yet your realy in for a threat som truely amzing stuff :D

[jparker]

Well, if Loeb rejoins all he can do is gain 1 manuf point, as Solberg, who's now the last among nominated drivers, is currently 7th.

What if Loeb is the only one to finnish the rally?

[Helstar]

Just saw day 1 coverage and i can defenitly say if you haven't seen it yet your realy in for a threat som truely amzing stuff :D
Lol yes, that crest was KILLER !!!

This whole Rally is a killer ! ^^

[bf1_IRL]

Anyone else still here..

[SubaruNorway]

Ahh god it sucks just sleeping for a short while, feel like ****

ya the crest and that fast straight with the jump :D

[jonkka]

What if Loeb is the only one to finnish the rally?

Poland 1973 all over again? :eek:

[jonkka]

There is now 3 Argentine´s in top 8!

Like WRR asked, when has that happened before? Anyone?

[ZequeArgentina]

There is now 3 Argentine´s in top 8!
And one of them (the good one) winning the PWRC, and still having a theorically possibility to win 2007 PWRC crown!!

[malscar]

What are the odds of Wilson ending up on the podium??

[bf1_IRL]

I doubt if he will finish let alone catch & pass Companc & Henning..
Anyway SS16 started..

[jonkka]

Like WRR asked, when has that happened before? Anyone?

It has happened nine times before:

1980, 'Rally Codasur Ultra Movil YPF'
1981, 'Rally Codasur'
1984, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina YPF Cordoba'
1985, 'Rally of Argentina'
1987, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina'
1988, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina'
1989, 'Rally Argentina'
1990, 'Rally Argentina'
1992, 'Rally YPF Argentina'

[Mauri A]

Petter 14 secs faster at split 4 than Mikko on 1st run!

[ZequeArgentina]

It has happened nine times before:

1980, 'Rally Codasur Ultra Movil YPF'
1981, 'Rally Codasur'
1984, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina YPF Cordoba'
1985, 'Rally of Argentina'
1987, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina'
1988, 'Marlboro Rally of Argentina'
1989, 'Rally Argentina'
1990, 'Rally Argentina'
1992, 'Rally YPF Argentina'

Thanks, I was about to look cause I do not remember, I did not knew it happened so many times, I just remember some of them in the 80´s

[jonkka]

And in most of the cases certain Jorge Recalde was involved!

[jonkka]

I wonder where they (WRR) are looking up those longest points scoring streak stats from? :)

[ZequeArgentina]

yes, I am pretty sure he was in all of them (may be not in Codasur 80, and I am not sure about 1992)!!

[SubaruNorway]

I wonder where they (WRR) are looking up those longest points scoring streak stats from? :)

Might be here http://www.juwra.com/stats_driver_points_finish_streaks.html

[jonkka]

Right ho SubaruNorway - though I wouldn't mind them admitting that IF they looked instead of figuring it themselves...

[jonkka]

Sordo missing a split?

[jonkka]

yes, I am pretty sure he was in all of them (may be not in Codasur 80, and I am not sure about 1992)!!

No, he wasn't in every single one 'cause even Jorge had to retire sometimes, unfortunately.

[CABAIO E'LONA]

What are the odds of Wilson ending up on the podium??

and... Perez Companc in the podium??

[pentti]

What was the reason Jari-Matti's retirement? Gearbox(ratas salkku)?

[bf1_IRL]

Sordo missing a split?
Could be, but it also could be a splits transponder problem..

@ Pentti apparently got distracted and just made a small mistake :(

/Edit/ Sordo reappeared on the splits..

[jonkka]

Sordo is still in the game...

[jonkka]

What was the reason Jari-Matti's retirement? Gearbox(ratas salkku)?

Off road

[Mauri A]

What was the reason Jari-Matti's retirement? Gearbox(ratas salkku)?
Yes, vekselisalkku.

[jonkka]

Off road:
http://www.wrc.com/page/News/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~1153191,00.html

[Mauri A]

Off road:
http://www.wrc.com/page/News/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~1153191,00.html

Sorry, I believed in Finnish TV!

[jonkka]

Stohl challenges for 4th overall

[jonkka]

Sorry, I believed in Finnish TV!

Which channel?
http://www.yle.fi/tekstitv/html/P285_02.html

[Mauri A]

Which channel?
http://www.yle.fi/tekstitv/html/P285_02.html
YLE tekstitv sivu 281 on TV-screen.

[jonkka]

Flick four pages forward and the same channel's text-tv shows the story I gave link to... :)

[bf1_IRL]

Arai stopped..

[Langdale Forest]

What a rally it has been so far, Loeb, Gronholm out, Latvala leading the but he went out. Both Munchis in the points, Matthew Wilson in 6th.

[jonkka]

Yes, quite a contrast to extremely uneventful Catalunya.

[Langdale Forest]

sordo fast on 3rd split.

[ZequeArgentina]

Perez Companc speed up to kept Manfred 5th, incredible we are following these fights!!

I am closely follow Pozzo, since he mentioned brake problems, despite being fast in last SS

[Mauri A]

Does Mikko take it too carefully?

[Langdale Forest]

Sordo finished the stage,

[White Sauron]

Hm... Mikko's losing too much time to Sordo((

[jonkka]

Colin suspects that something is wrong with Mikko's car and coupled with the time loss... hmm... :erm:

[Woodeye]

Morning folks. I really almost sh*tted myself when I looked the results from the night.

I guess Marcus would be again the favourite to win the WC... :D

[pantealex]

Group N leader Taguchi ( car number 61) is in 8 place overall, over 1.30 infront of Pozzo.

[Miika]

Just woke up and read the events/results from the night - and I figured there must be a God out there that likes to see amazing final races in motorsports World Champs.

[White Sauron]

Just woke up and read the events/results from the night - and I figured there must be a God out there that likes to see amazing final races in motorsports World Champs.

So where has he been since GB 2003? ;)

[Woodeye]

So where has he been since GB 2003? ;)

He's been french since then. Now, after this years elections he again a Finn. First Kimi, and hopefully in the end of the year also Marcus. :D

[Josti]

Quite a surprise when I saw Loeb not in top eight few minutes ago. This is great for the championship :up:

[malscar]

Does anyone know why BF Goodrich and the zone.ee sites have a difference of 40 seconds in Stohl's overall time and therefore position?

[Brother John]

http://paradise.motorsportforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=376223&postcount=365

Reed my words from yesterday! :rotflmao:
http://paradise.motorsportforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=376223&postcount=365
Much forum members is apparently such as the wind here.....
Yesterday the championship was over an Loeb will win and today have them again a new tale. ;) I have real pleasure this morning......Not only for the results but also with all that forum members which knows always everything before the rally is over. :s mokin:

[John V]

Does anyone know why BF Goodrich and the zone.ee sites have a difference of 40 seconds in Stohl's overall time and therefore position?

Because Stohl was late from Service D (clutch change) ;)

[Corny]

Good news Loeb's out, but it's far from over for Marcus.. I expect Citroen to give Duval a C4 now, which is dangerous for Marcus.

[Brother John]

Good news Loeb's out, but it's far from over for Marcus.. I expect Citroen to give Duval a C4 now, which is dangerous for Marcus.

You already know what will happen in the next rally?...B*llsh!t.
We don´t know yet who will win in Japan ....Wake up and be realistic. :dozey:

[White Sauron]

By the way, Duval was so good cause he's got used to the Xsara. But I doubt he can show comparable results with the C4.

[bennizw]

Oh what a beautiful morning! I'd never thought Loeb would ditch it, when he was in a such great position concerning the championship. But then again, the championship is alive! Sorry to all Loeb fans.

[pentti]

Good news Loeb's out, but it's far from over for Marcus.. I expect Citroen to give Duval a C4 now, which is dangerous for Marcus.Is C4 better than Xsara? I have my doupts.

[Corny]

Is C4 better than Xsara? I have my doupts.

On tarmac yes, like Sebastien admitted ;)

[Magnus]

OK, I know anything may hapen in rallying, but this is almost redicuolus! Interesting surprises this morning!

[CABAIO E'LONA]

On tarmac yes, like Sebastien admitted ;)

Loeb not going to say that the xsara is better than c4!

[noel157]

Is C4 better than Xsara? I have my doupts.

Has Dudu ever tested the C4? The championship is at too crucial a stage to put him in an unfamiliar car. No? Of course if the C4 is better on asphalt..............

[Koppomsbo]

Good morning all, i can see many things have happend during the night !

[Langdale Forest]

When does the next stage start?

[bt52b]

When does the next stage start?

Think it should be now (http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=671), but maybe its in an hour. Just the two super specials.

[noel157]

SS19 is now live.

[Langdale Forest]

Villagra faster than Petter Solberg.

[Salist]

This is a video from Marcus slipping out.

http://www.rallymania.tv/JapFlash1/

[Magnus]

It doesn´t look dramatic at all...

[Langdale Forest]

SS 20 has started. Villagra 2.1 seconds faster than P Solberg.

[Josti]

You already know what will happen in the next rally?...B*llsh!t.
We don´t know yet who will win in Japan ....Wake up and be realistic. :dozey:

What will happen then BJ? You know everything ;)

[Magnus]

Well BJ, from a realistic point of view, read statistically, Loeb should not have gone out as he did. When was the last rally where both Loeb and Bosse went of? Mathematically speaking though you are right of course, but the incidents of day one and two bear all the attributes of the non- plausible. It was very unexpected, and theorizing over Loeb possibly ditching, I belive would have been even more farfetched than believing that the championship was abt. to end in favour of Loeb.
IMHO!

[COD]

What a rally, seems to be survival game that benefits the slow drivers. But this is what is needed, surprises and dramatic turns :up: . This reminds me of old time rallying where speed was not all that was needed, but also survival skills.

So happy that the championship stays very much alive. Hope Marcus learned his lesson.

[pettersolberg29]

Anyone notice that Petter Solberg would be second without his gearbox problem!

[Addicted]

Anyone notice that Petter Solberg would be second without his gearbox problem!

Did you notice that Grönholm would be leading the rally without his off!

[Corny]

Anyone notice that Petter Solberg would be second without his gearbox problem!

I think if Petter would've got a chance on winning, then it would've been here in Japan..

[Magnus]

I would so like for Solberg to come back to the top, I am quite shure he has the skill, the only thing he lacks is the car. I doubt he will ever get it though...

[GigiGalliNo1]

hello! just got into the hotell....... good day made it to a few stages.... still have to get my photos up sorry :( it takes some time and always running arounD! will do soon.

=)

/// a t t

[noel157]

Thanks to Itcht for finding these:

Loeb and Latvala damage:

http://www.rally-live.com/wrc/photos/2007/japon/diapo_208.jpg

http://www.rally-live.com/wrc/photos/2007/japon/diapo_220.jpg

[yosssi]

here videos http://es.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=yossidlr

[Mauri A]

So, the off wasn´t Loeb´s fault at all! His co-driver read a wrong note.

[Mauri A]

Just looking at the in-camera films from Japan. Quite interesting. Henning and Cato discuss on stages, I heard many times Henning saying that very famous Norwegian word "akkurat".
What I liked was J-M´s words after his off, "thats it", no swearing.

[Erki]

Nice driving from JML. Sideways all the time. :up:

[Tom206wrc]

Gutted for Sébastien Loeb ;(


But the championship isn't over with 4 points difference and two rallies to go :)

[Tomi]

yes nice incar stuff again, did you guys notice any spectators by the stages?

[Glee]

haha i got marcus's bumper!!! :D :D i ran onto the stage haha and japanese marshals yelling at me! everyone in shock! haha

You didn't get this one...

http://www.rally-live.com/wrc/photos/2007/japon/diapo_220.jpg

[klm-607]

Back to square one...
Japan - Citroën Sport - Leg 2
[27/10/07 - 14:22]

Really not an easy event...

For Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, the second leg of the 2007 Rally Japan turned out to be just as troubled as the weather that had moved in over the Obihiro region during the night.

The morning's third stage saw their challenge come to a halt when their Citroën C4 WRC left the road, an incident that puts them back into the situation they had been in prior to the start of the Rallye Catalunya.

There was a comforting ray of sunshine in the Citroën Sport camp, however, since Spaniards Dani Sordo and Marc Martí are up to second overall with their Citroën C4 WRC.

With a programme of 146.68km of competitive action, today's leg was the longest of the 2007 World Rally Championship's 14th round. It essentially comprised of a loop of four stages to be contested twice each, although the afternoon's run was shortened by 17.76km after the length of Sipirkakim 2 was reduced.

The day concluded with two more visits to the Obihiro superspecial which started at 6:00pm and 6:10pm respectively to bring an end to the marathon day which had begun at 3:30am for the Citroën Sport squad!

On paper, the day's first attempt at the Niueo stage (SS13) did not appear to be that difficult and Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, who were in second place just 10.5s behind the leader, still had every chance of securing a good result to boost their chances in the chase for the 2007 Drivers' title. However, an off shortly after the start of the test decided otherwise...

"After Marcus Grönholm's retirement yesterday, even finishing second would have given us enough points to regain the lead in the Drivers' championship," explained Sébastien. "I felt very confident following the changes we made to the set-up of my Citroën C4 yesterday and, although I wasn't taking any undue risks, I hadn't given up the idea of trying to take the lead."

"Then, approaching a right-hand corner, Daniel got a note wrong and we were too quick into the turn. We swiped a tree with the rear left of the car and fell down a bank. The front end of the car came to a stop in some branches but the rear wheels were still on the stage. The car was practically unscathed and we did all we could to manhandle it back onto the road, but to no avail. It's a tremendous disappointment of course but we are still in contention for the title. The idea of now having to win both the remaining rounds is quite stimulating," Sébastien said.

In the service park, Guy Fréquelin had trouble concealing his disappointment: "Sébastien and Daniel went off following a wrongly announced pacenote. If they had finished second here, they could have settled for second in Ireland and Wales. As it is, they will now need to win both these events. We're back to where we were before the Rallye Catalunya, except there are now just two rounds remaining instead of five! Mistakes are human. The time difference, the timing of this event and the challenging nature of the stages all contribute to making this sort of incident possible. It's Daniel's first mistake in 10 years. I've told him to put it behind him and concentrate on the important job that lies ahead."

In the second Citroën Total car, Dani Sordo and Marc Martí enjoyed a successful second day.

"With so much mud about it certainly wasn't easy," reported Dani. "The amount of grip available changed all the time but I managed to find a quick pace that enabled us to set some good times. There's still a day left for me to gain more experience of this type of conditions while at the same time trying to defend second place..."

D.B. © CAPSIS International
Source Citroën Sport

[J4MIE]

Great looking stages.... very very VERY fast and tricky, I'm not surprised there are so many retirements!

[pettersolberg29]

Did you notice that Grönholm would be leading the rally without his off!


Yeah, but as you can see from my name, I'm a bit of a Petter fan!!!

As for him getting near winning rallies again, let's see in GB this year, and then next year with the Concept Impreza and gronholm out!! :)

[MJW]

Just seen day 2 television report and I was disappointed at how obvious Sebastien blamed his co-driver. Sure it may have been a "wrong call on the notes" but to me driver and co-driver should be loyal team, even if it was Elena's mistake Loeb was quite cruel in the way he dumped all of it on his co-driver. Still tensions and recriminations in the Citroen could be good for Marcus' chances. I get the feeling Ireland in the wet / fog may not be the foregone conclusion that as it is tarmac that Loeb will win.

[tmx]

double post

[tmx]

Just seen day 2 television report and I was disappointed at how obvious Sebastien blamed his co-driver. Sure it may have been a "wrong call on the notes" but to me driver and co-driver should be loyal team, even if it was Elena's mistake Loeb was quite cruel in the way he dumped all of it on his co-driver. Still tensions and recriminations in the Citroen could be good for Marcus' chances. I get the feeling Ireland in the wet / fog may not be the foregone conclusion that as it is tarmac that Loeb will win.

^ that is stupid. elana made very few mistakes in his career. they should had let it go. i know loeb has made more mistakes.

[Glee]

Henning Solberg did preform a "war-dance" this morning to help his Ford team mate to clinch the title.

http://www.vg.no/pub/vgart.hbs?artid=177115

- I do hope that Marcus wins. I said to him this morning that Loeb would crash and danced a "war-dance" this morning, Marcus did only shook his head. But id did work!

He don't wont the honor for that his team mate now keeps the championship lead, but he said that he should pay him and Cato Menkerud a trip on the town... (and he laughs...)

[COD]

Just seen day 2 television report and I was disappointed at how obvious Sebastien blamed his co-driver. Sure it may have been a "wrong call on the notes" but to me driver and co-driver should be loyal team, even if it was Elena's mistake Loeb was quite cruel in the way he dumped all of it on his co-driver. Still tensions and recriminations in the Citroen could be good for Marcus' chances. I get the feeling Ireland in the wet / fog may not be the foregone conclusion that as it is tarmac that Loeb will win.

Well, the mistake goes to the one who made it. I'm sure Daniel is the first to admit his mistake. The drivers sure make 100 times more mistakes than co-drivers and they admit theirs. Nobody almost ever asks the co-drivers anything, so they can not blame the drivers when they make mistakes.

My question to you is: Why should Loeb have take the blame for Daniels mistake?????

[MJW]

Well, the mistake goes to the one who made it. I'm sure Daniel is the first to admit his mistake. The drivers sure make 100 times more mistakes than co-drivers and they admit theirs. Nobody almost ever asks the co-drivers anything, so they can not blame the drivers when they make mistakes.

My question to you is: Why should Loeb have take the blame for Daniels mistake?????

Sure it was Elena's mistake and I dont expect Loeb to take the blame, point I am trying to make was that Loeb could have been a bit more diplomatic rather than the "ask the co-driver, and it was his wrong call" comments, maybe he should have said less.

[pentti]

Sure it was Elena's mistake and I dont expect Loeb to take the blame, point I am trying to make was that Loeb could have been a bit more diplomatic rather than the "ask the co-driver, and it was his wrong call" comments, maybe he should have said less.I have newer ever blaimed my co-driver.I just would say I heard it wrongly.Same goes with mechanics.It's different matter if it is repeated. It is important to keep the team happy.

[Glee]

Well, the mistake goes to the one who made it. I'm sure Daniel is the first to admit his mistake. The drivers sure make 100 times more mistakes than co-drivers and they admit theirs. Nobody almost ever asks the co-drivers anything, so they can not blame the drivers when they make mistakes.

My question to you is: Why should Loeb have take the blame for Daniels mistake?????

It almost always seams that Loeb and Elena have a very clear explanation to their mistakes, witch is a good thing since they then will be able to learn from their mistakes.

[René]

Nothing as blame for Daniel inside the comment of Sebastien ! ;) Only Talk with French/Latin temper about the call nothing more. :D

[Halvard]

SS starts in 20 min...is that correct??

[jparker]

SS starts in 20 min...is that correct??

Yes, that's correct. 3 min now

[White Sauron]

Yes, that's correct. 3 min now

Do we change time one hour back after this stage?

[Halvard]

in norway it is at 3 am, back to 2..

No splits om the nuclear site

[Erki]

I see Armindo won a stage. :)

When was the last time a group N car won a stage?

[Halvard]

in norway it is at 3 am, back to 2..



And that is 3 hours from now

[jparker]

Do we change time one hour back after this stage?

Don't know about your local time, but no changes in terms of rally timing.

[White Sauron]

in norway it is at 3 am, back to 2..

No splits om the nuclear site

Ok, I got it)))

[White Sauron]

double post, sorry

[jparker]

Wow, Loeb pushes immediately.

[Halvard]

Wow, Loeb pushes immediately.

where?

[jparker]

where?

What do you mean where? SS21, Split 1

[Halvard]

What do you mean where? SS21, Split 1

that I understood, but which site. I can`t se any splits on the nuclear site

[jparker]

Here are the times for the 4 Super Rally entries today after SS21
1 P. SOLBERG 2:57:11.0
2 S. LOEB +13:50.0
3 J. LATVALA +14:59.3
4 X. PONS +24:13.1

[A.F.F.]

http://www.zone.ee/wrcmasters/analyzer.php?rally=14&stage=21&results=1

Try this one Halvard.

[Tomi]

http://www.zone.ee/wrcmasters/analyzer.php?rally=14&stage=21&results=1&jwrc=
this seems to work

[jparker]

that I understood, but which site. I can`t se any splits on the nuclear site

Go to www.zone.ee (http://www.zone.ee), their splits are on

[Halvard]

thank you...all three

[pentti]

http://www.zone.ee/wrcmasters/analyzer.php?rally=14&stage=21&results=1

Try this one Halvard.Thanks. Why this better than wrc?

[jonkka]

Just seen day 2 television report and I was disappointed at how obvious Sebastien blamed his co-driver. Sure it may have been a "wrong call on the notes" but to me driver and co-driver should be loyal team, even if it was Elena's mistake Loeb was quite cruel in the way he dumped all of it on his co-driver. Still tensions and recriminations in the Citroen could be good for Marcus' chances. I get the feeling Ireland in the wet / fog may not be the foregone conclusion that as it is tarmac that Loeb will win.

Obviously I did not see the same coverage as interview with Loeb in Finnish TV was made by Finnish crew, not ISC team. In that Loeb simply said how it was, wrong note, did not make any accusations at all and did not seem to feel bad towards Daniel. Since I don't know Seb personally, making judgements is precarious but I don't expect this to have no effect at all on their relationship - Seb has come across as a very decent guy so I don't expect any tensions or Duvalish co-driver-swap-orgy at all. It's Daniel's first such mistake in ten years of partnership with Seb, afterall.

[jparker]

SS22 is on. Pons and Latvala on the road.

[Halvard]

I have a feeling that the most exiting thing that could happen today (or tonight) is if I remember to turn back the time.. or maybe Stohl could climb a place or two?

[White Sauron]

For sure, Loeb didn't accuse Elena at all. Afterall, they are good friends in reality. PLus, don't forget that drivers make much more mistakes, and Seb understands it.

[jparker]

Problems for Pons on SS22, he lost more then 2 min

[Addicted]

I hope that Companc can keep his fourth place against Wilson and Stohl.

[SubaruNorway]

Don't think Loeb was cruel in any way against Elena on the interview, sounded very upset just as they went off of course.

Is it just me ore does Japan look like a totaly different event with the late calendar slot.

[jonkka]

Is it just me ore does Japan look like a totaly different event with the late calendar slot.

At least the slippy conditions have cought surprising number of drivers out. That's uncommon.

[jonkka]

And the most experienced of the lot too...

[Halvard]

I don`t understand why Henning is going so slow. I understand that he wants to secure the third (and in my opinion he did very well on day one). But all drivers are talking about the risk by safing too much. Loosing consentration and going off.

He could atleast beat Wilson jr.....

[bt52b]

Sapporo, Japan
Sunday, October 28, 2007 at 7:51:05 AM
http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=622

[A.F.F.]

Hmmm I think I'm off to bed and enjoy that extra hour of sleep. This third day doesn't seem too exciting... unless another retirement spree hits them.

[miksu]

i dunno if you have heard of it, but Loeb sent Marcus an sms:
"Thanks for the points you were offering. Nevertheless we decided to give them up. The fight continues."

[Addicted]

Stohl is trying to catch Wilson and propably will do so.

[Halvard]

I belive Stohl will catch both willson and companc....

[jparker]

Sordo's retirement = 1 point for Loeb. Is that going to happen?

[DonJippo]

Sordo's retirement = 1 point for Loeb. Is that going to happen?

Takes a bit more than Sordo to retire for Loeb to get to the points...

[White Sauron]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/oversauron/Japansplits.jpg

Haha, I like those splits! Go go go Vertu, our Champion!

[jonkka]

I see Armindo won a stage. :)

When was the last time a group N car won a stage?

Can't answer that now, I don't have all SQL tools on my laptop but can find out later today if needed.

[jonkka]

i dunno if you have heard of it, but Loeb sent Marcus an sms:
"Thanks for the points you were offering. Nevertheless we decided to give them up. The fight continues."

Yeah, that was super! Proves again how friendly the atmosphere in WRC is, compared to circuit racing where egomaniacs don't even speak to each others.

[jparker]

Takes a bit more than Sordo to retire for Loeb to get to the points...
And what's that? All he needs is to finish as he's now.

[jonkka]

Some speculations championship-wise if result will be this. Ford's advantage over Citroen would be 34 points and virtually making sure of the makes title, the maximum Citroen could gain is 36 points and that requires 1-2 in both remaining rallies and Ford shouldn't score more than two points.

[J4MIE]

Sordo's retirement = 1 point for Loeb. Is that going to happen?

...no points for finishing waaaaaaaaaaay down there? :confused:

[jonkka]

And what's that? All he needs is to finish as he's now.

Loeb is something like 22nd overall so besides Sordo retiring, there should be dozen others who should retire before Loeb would get drivers points.

[DonJippo]

All he needs is to finish as he's now.

And what's that?

[jparker]

And what's that?
Well, correct me if I'm wrong, but WRCars have its own classification, is it? A8?

[DonJippo]

Well, correct me if I'm wrong, but WRCars have its own classification, is it? A8?

Yes but World Rally Championship for drivers is open series so first eight regardless of their group/class will get drivers points.

[J4MIE]

Well, correct me if I'm wrong, but WRCars have its own classification, is it? A8?

Yes but you don't get points for class/group positions, but overall...

[jparker]

Yes but World Rally Championship for drivers is open series so first eight regardless of their group/class will get drivers points.

I see. Never mind then.

[jonkka]

Which means that the final Driver's championship point will be scored by Gabriel Pozzo in N4 car.

[jonkka]

More championship speculations - or rather, just a curiosity. Stobart Ford closes the gap to Subaru to almost nothing, underlining the blue team's miserable season.

[jonkka]

Had Latvala not retired, Stobart would have moved to third overall in makes championship.

[White Sauron]

Which means that the final Driver's championship point will be scored by Gabriel Pozzo in N4 car.

Pozzo? Not Taguchi?

[dimviii]

last point is going tobe for pozzo or taguchi??
he is currently 8th

[jonkka]

I might have looked at results that had no Taguchi yet, my bad.

[dimviii]

very good rally for taguchi 1.10 sec in front of pozzo and still doing fastest times!

[White Sauron]

Next stage in 1.5 hours or 2.5 hours?

[SubaruNorway]

1.5

[White Sauron]

1.5

Thanks!

[ZequeArgentina]

very good rally for taguchi 1.10 sec in front of pozzo and still doing fastest times!

Pozzo aproach today is only to keep the car safe and manege a big adevantage.
Taguchi is not part of the PWRC, and Pozzo still has a chance of getting the championship (he needs to win japan, UK, and finish second in Ireland, or the other way round).

Yesterday he started very fast closing to Nutahara, then he got the lead (Nuta off) andkept an excellent rithm, today very carefull.

[J4MIE]

Is this a round of the Asia-Pacific championship too?

[SubaruNorway]

Is this a round of the Asia-Pacific championship too?

No, next one is 11-13.11.2007 APRC China

[White Sauron]

Argh... Henning is driving so cautiously that making it very boring.

[Camelopard]

Loeb stopped in stage 26. Although he is now continuing slowly.

[SubaruNorway]

Loeb stoped on stage! :D

[bt52b]

Congrats to Mikko, just the SSS to go

[White Sauron]

What happened to Kamada? Why did he lose so much time?

[White Sauron]

What happened to Kamada? Why did he lose so much time?

Brake problems, Frodo!

[White Sauron]

Brake problems, Frodo!

Oh, thank you, mate! I find it quite boring over there, and you? ;)

[René]

Loeb stopped in stage 26. Although he is now continuing slowly.

Problem with oil pressure

[N]

What a rally, :o
Overall results
1 M. Hirvonen 3:23:57.6
2 D. Sordo +37.4
3 H. Solberg +4:33.7
4 M. Wilson +6:37.9
5 L. Perez Companc +6:40.4
6 M. Stohl +7:04.3
7 F. Villagra +11:15.3
8 G. Pozzo +21:53.0

[pentti]

Well done Mikko and Jarmo. I also feel for Jari-Matti.

[White Sauron]

Congratulations, Mikko&Jarmo! And hopefully Marcus will learn from you and take the title!))

[AlfaWRC]

Congratulations Mikko & Jarmo!!!

[N]

This is gonna be the most screwed up pickems result ever, :D

Congrats to Mikko and Jarmo, also, it's good to see Sordo perform well on gravel.

[Woodeye]

Congrats to Mikko and Jarmo. :up: They were the only top pair that managed to get through this rally and thus the result is justified. :D

[Magnus]

Interesting rally! Not what I expected...or anyone else either... Glad for Hirvonen, but it would have been nice to se Latvala taking it to the finish, but he has done a descent job anyway.
Regarding Loeb and Bosse. I know there are stories abt fat singing ladies, but this is almost rediculous. As some one spoke abt earlier, this ought to be called the Räikönnen-syndrome.

[Glee]

What a rally, :o
Overall results
1 M. Hirvonen 3:23:57.6
2 D. Sordo +37.4
3 H. Solberg +4:33.7
4 M. Wilson +6:37.9
5 L. Perez Companc +6:40.4
6 M. Stohl +7:04.3
7 F. Villagra +11:15.3
8 G. Pozzo +21:53.0

Somehow I think that nobody will get a good score in the pickems...

[gloomyDAY]

Lame! I expected more out of Rally Japan. BORED just skimming through the information and articles.

Well I am drunk from the Halloween parties. Night everybody.

P. Solberg will rise again, WILL rise again.

[Tom206wrc]

Excellent result for Matthiew Wilson on this event(and I'm sincere!!) at least he stayed on the road unlike many others !!! :up:


I feel deeply gutted for Emma Gilmour !!! ;(
If she hadn't have the mechanical failure she could have entered in tthe top 10 I believe(she was 14th of GrN yesterday) :(

[Tom206wrc]

Also great performance by portuguese driver Armindo Araujo !! I think it's his first PWRC podium :)

[ITC55]

Anyone know how the PWRC stands now, with Arai having problems, Pozzo winning and Higgins scoring?

[nightracer]

Anyone know how the PWRC stands now, with Arai having problems, Pozzo winning and Higgins scoring?

Higgy is out of it sadly, he needed 5th place miniumum.

If Pozzo won both Ireand and GB he could be champion, but any other result and Toshi has it.

[Bruno Portela]

Great result from my countryman, Armindo Araujo, although all the problems he faced during this difficult rally.

For the first time in his short career, he won a special stage overall, as he managed to be faster than all the other guys, including the WRC's, on stage 9.

Now he's 4th in the championship 23 pts behind Arai. The best he can managed is to become 2nd in the championship, that is quite good, as he is driving for the first time in PWRC, having no International Rally experience.

I'm sorry for the retirement in the Acropolis Rally, that for sure compromised his title chances.

1st Arai 39 pts (6 of 6 events)
2nd Pozzo 22 pts (4 of 6 events)
3rd Higgins 18 pts (4 of 6 events)
4th Araujo 16 pts (4 of 6 events)
5th Sohlberg 12 pts (4 of 6 events)

[Waldrons11]

Araujo has been excluded post event for a technical irregularity related to his roll cage ..

So Higgins does finish 5th, and he's back in the championship after all!!!

Amazing! (Although not for Armindo obviously!)

[Waldrons11]

Higgy is out of it sadly, he needed 5th place miniumum.

If Pozzo won both Ireand and GB he could be champion, but any other result and Toshi has it.

And technically thats not true, a win and a second place finish for Pozzo would give him the title.

[jonkka]

About Araujo's stage win. The last time stage was won with other than A8/WRCar was 2001 Monte Carlo SS2 by Hermann Gassner in Proton Pert (N4).

[Jordib]

Yes, I remember the stage, I was there. All the WRC's started the stage with studded tyres as there was snow on the road, but with the sun and the temperatures warming up all the cars coming were reducing times, and a GrN made the scratch. I also remember that Panizzi crashed on the same stage, on the second run.

[fastboy]

Well done Mikko a good win and another confidence boost for next year hopefully.Probably the most interesting rally this year and i hope the organizers don't move this event.
From a British point of view if Higgy is moved up to fifth then i'm pretty confident he will win Ire and RAC and take the PWRC.
And Matt will go away from here having made another step up the ladder and a big confidence boost.He is still a couple of seasons away from being near the top end but i'm sure he has got what it takes.Patience is required.

[Waldrons11]

Well done Mikko a good win and another confidence boost for next year hopefully.Probably the most interesting rally this year and i hope the organizers don't move this event.
From a British point of view if Higgy is moved up to fifth then i'm pretty confident he will win Ire and RAC and take the PWRC.
And Matt will go away from here having made another step up the ladder and a big confidence boost.He is still a couple of seasons away from being near the top end but i'm sure he has got what it takes.Patience is required.

Higgy should be favourite for the final two rounds, lets just hope his shoulder heals in time!

[DonJippo]

Problem with oil pressure

Was it for real or does this enable Citroen to have a fresh engine for next event?

[AlfaWRC]

New engine for the next event - that is the reason!
But, it won't help him in the end...

[COD]

Sure it was Elena's mistake and I dont expect Loeb to take the blame, point I am trying to make was that Loeb could have been a bit more diplomatic rather than the "ask the co-driver, and it was his wrong call" comments, maybe he should have said less.


Loeb said that they have rallied 10 years together and this is the first time something like this has happened, so I think it was quite fair statement from him.

[White Sauron]

"ask the co-driver, and it was his wrong call"

C'mon, people, it's a standard drivers joke for such cases. Just remember Germany 2002 and Colin's (R.I.P.) "You'd better ask the Welsh Wizard".
By this comment Loeb just pointed on the fact, nothing more.

[A.F.F.]

If you want drama, just go to F1 forum. :rolleyes:

Sebastien didn't accuse Daniel, quite opposite frankly, at least what I saw and heard from MTV3 footage.

[Jaanus]

Was it for real or does this enable Citroen to have a fresh engine for next event?


3.15 Sealing of the engine to the chassis
For Rallies listed below, the engine and the chassis of
cars entered by a Manufacturer will be sealed
together and it is not permitted to separate the engine
from the chassis except under the supervision of the
FIA.

Sweden & Norway.
Mexico & Argentina.
Italy & Greece.
New Zealand & Japan.
Spain, France & Ireland.

The engine and the chassis of cars entered by a
Manufacturer Team will be sealed together as
described above. A schedule of joined rallies will be
compiled in association with the FIA Technical
Department at the time of team registration,
Any infraction may result in a penalty imposed by the
Stewards.

http://www.fia.com/sport/Regulations/rallyregs.html

[DonJippo]

3.15 Sealing of the engine to the chassis
For Rallies listed below, the engine and the chassis of
cars entered by a Manufacturer will be sealed
together and it is not permitted to separate the engine
from the chassis except under the supervision of the
FIA.

Sweden & Norway.
Mexico & Argentina.
Italy & Greece.
New Zealand & Japan.
Spain, France & Ireland.

The engine and the chassis of cars entered by a
Manufacturer Team will be sealed together as
described above. A schedule of joined rallies will be
compiled in association with the FIA Technical
Department at the time of team registration,
Any infraction may result in a penalty imposed by the
Stewards.

http://www.fia.com/sport/Regulations/rallyregs.html

Yes I know this rule but there is more in this as an example paragraph 3.12.1.1. ...

[Mauri A]

Yes I know this rule but there is more in this as an example paragraph 3.12.1.1. ...
So, could somebody explain what happens if Citroen has to change the engine for Seb´s car?

[Erki]

C'mon, people, it's a standard drivers joke for such cases. Just remember Germany 2002 and Colin's (R.I.P.) "You'd better ask the Welsh Wizard".
By this comment Loeb just pointed on the fact, nothing more.

And who co-drove Colin only a few rallies after? :)

Just for kicks... :)

[White Sauron]

And who co-drove Colin only a few rallies after? :)

Just for kicks... :)

Mmm... They split after the off in NZ if I'm not mistaken... But anyway, I suppose Seb was more like a mother scolding the child for his behavior than a boss critisizing an employee.

[SubaruNorway]

3.15 Sealing of the engine to the chassis
For Rallies listed below, the engine and the chassis of
cars entered by a Manufacturer will be sealed
together and it is not permitted to separate the engine
from the chassis except under the supervision of the
FIA.

Sweden & Norway.
Mexico & Argentina.
Italy & Greece.
New Zealand & Japan.
Spain, France & Ireland.

The engine and the chassis of cars entered by a
Manufacturer Team will be sealed together as
described above. A schedule of joined rallies will be
compiled in association with the FIA Technical
Department at the time of team registration,
Any infraction may result in a penalty imposed by the
Stewards.

http://www.fia.com/sport/Regulations/rallyregs.html

So that means he will have a new engine in Wales not Ireland, but wont Grönholm aswell?

[Magnus]

Anyone who knows why public isn´t allowed alongside the road/stages in rally japan?

[Tomi]

Anyone who knows why public isn´t allowed alongside the road/stages in rally japan?

I have been wondering the same, whats the point to take rallies to places where people wont or are not allowed to spectate.

[Erki]

I have been wondering the same, whats the point to take rallies to places where people wont or are not allowed to spectate.

Because there are good roads?

[Brother John]

Was it for real or does this enable Citroen to have a fresh engine for next event?

I think he don´t want to have a bad result beside his name. :p :

[jparker]

So, could somebody explain what happens if Citroen has to change the engine for Seb´s car?

They can't change the engine for Rally Ireland, they have to use the engine from Spain and France. Japan is irrelevant in this case.

[Barry_]

Anyone who knows why public isn´t allowed alongside the road/stages in rally japan?

so no pictures then

[Corny]

just seen the day 3 coverage of Eurosport, and have to say that Loeb's not only a master in handling a rallycar, he's also a master in handling a scooter, haha!
Was Mikko laughing about Loeb being out BTW?

[A.F.F.]

Was Mikko laughing about Loeb being out BTW?

No, he was happy he got out of the forest and there was only one stage left.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Anyone who knows why public isn´t allowed alongside the road/stages in rally japan?

Not sure why....?

Out of the whole day, about 2 stages were public access! made it hard, but with media was ok, but still not that well,

shall get some shots in up the next few days..... sorry haven't had time to it's been hard in japan.... not going back next year either I don't think....

Im in thailand right now, heading back to australia so soon they'll be up! =) i never made it to the SSS either.... :|

[Corny]

No, he was happy he got out of the forest and there was only one stage left.

No, I mean during a stage

[A.F.F.]

No, I mean during a stage

No that either. His co-driver made a joke.

[c4]

Ford only require 3 points to win manufacturers' title.

[ZequeArgentina]

wrc.com confirms that Araujo has been excluded from PWRC due to technical reasons.

This gives Higgins an extra point, and with Britain and UK left he can still dream of the title, of course he would need to win both events (Pozzo, theother candidate needs to win one event and could get a 2nd position in the other rally. He has chances in UK, but very, very few in Ireland, but anything can happen)

[Waldrons11]

i told you all that on sunday evening!

[Magnus]

Anyone who no the technincal issues regarding Araujos car?

[euskalteam]

In his webpage, Armindo says that a tube was removed from the car, but I can't understand what tube is. Any portugues forumer can translate it?

http://www.armindoaraujo.com/press_07/japao_04/press4_japao07.htm

[Erki]

Read somewhere that something had been removed from the doors.

[GigiGalliNo1]

hello guys! back at home now and will get some photos up soon!! well i hope in the next few days so stay tuned!! :D

[ZequeArgentina]

The potuguese article says that a tube was remove from a crossmember of the vehicle.

They mentioned that this has no impact in performance and that the modification was made by Ralliart Italy. They aaccept the fautl is very severe and that Ralli Art Italy should answer for this serious mistake. They mention taht this does not have any impact on performance but accept it is part of the homolgation.

Pitty for Araujo, but altering the chassis (I guess it is a reinforcement of the body) is not something made without noticing it, it isa serious mistake by the one who made/allow that modification.

[Kaps]

Does anyone know who was the co-driver for Federico Villagra, his regular Jorge Perez-Companc, or Jose Luis Diaz, like it says on official Rally Japan's website?

[c4]

Jose Luis Diaz was co driver for Japan as Jorge Perez Companc couldn't due to personal reasons.

[Kaps]

Thanks c4!

[COD]

They mentioned that this has no impact in performance .

These things never seem to have an impact on performance after they have been caught. The question then remains, why have they done it then :?:

[L5->R5/CR]

The potuguese article says that a tube was remove from a crossmember of the vehicle.

They mentioned that this has no impact in performance and that the modification was made by Ralliart Italy. They aaccept the fautl is very severe and that Ralli Art Italy should answer for this serious mistake. They mention taht this does not have any impact on performance but accept it is part of the homolgation.

Pitty for Araujo, but altering the chassis (I guess it is a reinforcement of the body) is not something made without noticing it, it isa serious mistake by the one who made/allow that modification.



A single piece of tubing, or cross member, should have a noticeable amount of weight to it, between 5 and 25 pounds. That has the potential to effect performance in a variety of small but meaningful ways.

[kobefly]

And technically thats not true, a win and a second place finish for Pozzo would give him the title.Sadly Pozzo has almost no chance in a tarmac rally.

[Langdale Forest]

I have been wondering the same, whats the point to take rallies to places where people wont or are not allowed to spectate.

If spectators are not allowed to see any stage they want to, the WRC should not go to Japan because WRC is a spectator sport. :)