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Thread: [WRC] News & rumours (part III)
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1st November 2015, 20:14 #11
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I'd like to see Kubica joining M-Sport for 2016. And before everyone dismisses the idea altogether because of its improbability, let's take a look at why it actually might just make sense for both Kubica and M-Sport.
It's no secret that Wilson is not happy with the overall performance of Evans and Tänak. It's not unlikely to see one (or perhaps both of them) not driving for M-Sport next year. With the drivers' market being pretty much set in stone (VW have all of their drivers signed, same with Hyundai, Citroën likely keeping at least Meeke), it's not a long list of names that Wilson can choose from. Most contenders in WRC2 have either signed for manufacturers such as VW and Toyota, others simply don't have enough upside to warrant a seat at the sport's highest level.
Enter Kubica. Yes, he's very prone to mistakes, which is something that most people would use as an excuse to overlook his talent altogether. However, it's easier (and more likely) to make a fast driver consistent than turning a consistent driver into a fast one. Evans being the opposite of Kubica has been mentioned previously in this thread, and I believe it is an excellent point. Using the two here, which is more likely -- turning Evans into someone who is consistently setting fastest stage times and challenging for rally wins, or helping Kubica overcome his troubles staying on the road?
Natural talent is hard to come by, but Kubica seems to possess just that. And with the help of a WRC manufacturer he could get the support needed to gain consistency. It's not just about not having to pay for the car and staff yourself, it's also about Kubica getting Wilson & Co. as trusted and experienced partners who could help him in the areas where he lacks certain things. Not being "on your own" could make a massive difference.
Simply being able to get into a car that is paid for, not having to find sponsorships all by yourself and worrying about having to use refurbished rims (see the Corsica thread where this was discussed) could help him tremendously. He would focus on simply driving and nothing else.
Kubica would be a gamble for M-Sport. A big one at that. But really, with no other drivers available (and even if Østberg becomes available I wouldn't pick him) isn't Kubica your best option?
Imagine Kubica being consistent in the WRC and how much damage he could do to his opponents. The skill and raw talent is certainly there, not to mention that M-Sport would have a likable and popular character driving their Fiesta, which would boost their image. Worst case scenario, M-Sport finish last in the manufacturers' championship, which is exactly where they are now with Evans/Tänak anyways. Best case scenario? Kubica finds consistency. And then things could get really interesting in the WRC...
So really, what do they have to lose?
- Likes: maciotacio (2nd November 2015),Rally Power (1st November 2015),WUff1 (2nd November 2015)
If Hyundai haven't achieved that in 10 year, they can't do it in next 6 months either.. People laugh st M-Sport that they are rally1.5 or whatever so funny hahaha. But Hyundai has basically infinite...
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