| greg donovan | 11-16-2005 12:29 PM |
[QUOTE=jeisen]outdoor life network, fishing, bullriding, tour de france, and rally america[/QUOTE]
OLN also has Dakar.
OLN also has Dakar.
| leaknoil | 11-16-2005 01:01 PM |
That's the thing that scared me most when I think of WRC on OLN. I just imagined that bald headed guy that did interviews for Dakar last year doing all the WRC stuff and it makes me cringe.
| Craig W | 11-16-2005 01:36 PM |
I'd read that Rally in Europe was like Basketball here in the states as far as popularity. Carlos Sainz was the highest paid athelete in Spain, and so on. If that was the case, I would think companies would be jumping at the chance to sponsor a rally team. But, I guess the proof is in the livery.
Apparently companies sponsor individual drivers too though. Sony Playstation sponsors Loeb, Nikko, the R/C car maker, sponsors Solberg, Nicorette sponsored Burns, etc.
Apparently companies sponsor individual drivers too though. Sony Playstation sponsors Loeb, Nikko, the R/C car maker, sponsors Solberg, Nicorette sponsored Burns, etc.
| WRXedUSA | 11-16-2005 01:52 PM |
Hi leaknoil!, I'm Toby Moody!
[IMG]http://www.tobymoody.co.uk/images/header-4.gif[/IMG]
Battery+, Nikko, Remus, Wurth, PS2, Aquamass, EOS, Dagbladet, Karjala, etc have $$ to sponsor a driver, but not a whole team.
[IMG]http://www.tobymoody.co.uk/images/header-4.gif[/IMG]
Battery+, Nikko, Remus, Wurth, PS2, Aquamass, EOS, Dagbladet, Karjala, etc have $$ to sponsor a driver, but not a whole team.
| leaknoil | 11-16-2005 03:05 PM |
I don't think that's the guy I'm talking about. I'm thinking of the 'Mr. Xtream sports in your face American guy' with a shaved head that was on the first couple of Dakar shows. He seemed to disappear after awhile. I was hoping he got lost in the desert somewhere.
| AdvanSTI | 11-17-2005 06:06 PM |
Pirelli better get their s**t together next year too..... half of the year was horrible
| SlideWRX | 11-18-2005 10:39 AM |
Subaru hopefully will figure out how to NOT destroy a car with a water crossing, so Peter doesn't have to slow to a crawl through them.
Tom
Tom
| nKoan | 11-18-2005 12:19 PM |
Not speculation, but Hirvonen just signed to the second seat at Ford. Looks to not be a shared seat too, as its a three year contract.
[url]http://www.wrc.com/page/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~743209,00.html[/url]
[url]http://www.wrc.com/page/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~743209,00.html[/url]
| WRXedUSA | 11-18-2005 12:51 PM |
Cool. Hirvonen has matured nicely. The word was he was definatley getting a ride with someone.
It's not surprising Ford went with a younger, cheaper driver.
It's not surprising Ford went with a younger, cheaper driver.
| WRX-pilot | 11-18-2005 01:19 PM |
[QUOTE=SlideWRX]Subaru hopefully will figure out how to NOT destroy a car with a water crossing, so Peter doesn't have to slow to a crawl through them.
Tom[/QUOTE]
Why is this such a problem, too much water in the hood scoop?
This is probably why the n00bs always ask if they can allow water in their hoodscoop :D
Tom[/QUOTE]
Why is this such a problem, too much water in the hood scoop?
This is probably why the n00bs always ask if they can allow water in their hoodscoop :D
| scoobyRx | 11-18-2005 03:09 PM |
[QUOTE=WRXedUSA]Not many folks know who MOST of these sponsors are. [/QUOTE]
nobody in the US does, but I'd imagine they're better known in Yurrup where this sport is geared towards.
The Hirvonen news is surprising. I'd think Toni is a better driver. Mikko did well in old Foci, but so have a lot of people. This new Ford may be more difficult to drive with new diff. rules, etc.
As far as new manuf. entering, I really thought Suzuki was doing a WRC car, but no news this late makes me think otherwise. No way Audi is coming back as has been mentioned above, but I'd sure like to see VW on that car rather than Skoda. Pug won't be coming back either, as they are building a sports car for LeMans again. BMW is really picky about their motorsports dollar and with a new F1 team, ALL their money will be going there. Toyota's in the same boat as BMW. How about Opel or Nissan--they don't spend much on racing, do they (unless you count their parent companies)? I'd vote for an AWD version of the SRT4 if they weren't discontinuing the Neon.
nobody in the US does, but I'd imagine they're better known in Yurrup where this sport is geared towards.
The Hirvonen news is surprising. I'd think Toni is a better driver. Mikko did well in old Foci, but so have a lot of people. This new Ford may be more difficult to drive with new diff. rules, etc.
As far as new manuf. entering, I really thought Suzuki was doing a WRC car, but no news this late makes me think otherwise. No way Audi is coming back as has been mentioned above, but I'd sure like to see VW on that car rather than Skoda. Pug won't be coming back either, as they are building a sports car for LeMans again. BMW is really picky about their motorsports dollar and with a new F1 team, ALL their money will be going there. Toyota's in the same boat as BMW. How about Opel or Nissan--they don't spend much on racing, do they (unless you count their parent companies)? I'd vote for an AWD version of the SRT4 if they weren't discontinuing the Neon.
| SlideWRX | 11-18-2005 03:13 PM |
[QUOTE=WRX-pilot]Why is this such a problem, too much water in the hood scoop?
This is probably why the n00bs always ask if they can allow water in their hoodscoop :D[/QUOTE]
From what I remember, too much water was hitting the radiator & front mount intercooler. Hitting it hard enough to damage them. The videos from the races with watersplash show the front of the hood getting deformed from the water impact.
Tom
This is probably why the n00bs always ask if they can allow water in their hoodscoop :D[/QUOTE]
From what I remember, too much water was hitting the radiator & front mount intercooler. Hitting it hard enough to damage them. The videos from the races with watersplash show the front of the hood getting deformed from the water impact.
Tom
| chairmandave | 11-18-2005 07:59 PM |
It's official: Hirvonen bags full-ride with Ford.
[url]http://www.wrc.com/page/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~743209,00.html[/url]
Ford has recruited 25-year-old Mikko Hirvonen to drive alongside double world champion Marcus Gronholm in its 2006 World Rally Championship team. Hirvonen has sealed a three-year agreement with the blue oval after impressing in a limited programme with a two-year-old, privately-run Focus this year.
Hirvonen finished fifth in Greece and in Finland - in one-off appearance in a factory Focus - and then took a superb third place on the all-asphalt Rally Catalunya towards the end of the year and put himself in line for a top drive. He undertook his first full WRC season with Ford in 2003, before moving to Subaru for 2004. His performances in the Impreza were disappointing though and he was dropped at the end of the year, before bouncing back with a vengeance this year.
"We've signed Mikko on a three-year contract because we are looking for long-term consistency in our plans," said Ford team director Malcolm Wilson. "Nobody can fail to be impressed by his performances this season. During the last three years he has gained the experience and maturity and is now ready to make the step up to the top level in the world championship. In 2006 I expect him to progress even further.
"He will benefit by having a driver of Marcus' calibre alongside. Marcus is one of the sport's fastest and most reliable drivers and his appetite for success remains as large now as it was at the start of his distinguished career. To have two such drivers committed for the long-term emphasises the belief they have in the new car, and it's a huge confidence boost for us all."
Hirvonen said: "It's a dream come true to join Ford and have the opportunity to drive the new car," he said. "I've learned much in the last three seasons and feel ready to take on this role. The Focus RS is hugely promising and I can't wait to get behind the wheel to work again with my former colleagues."
[url]http://www.wrc.com/page/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10111~743209,00.html[/url]
Ford has recruited 25-year-old Mikko Hirvonen to drive alongside double world champion Marcus Gronholm in its 2006 World Rally Championship team. Hirvonen has sealed a three-year agreement with the blue oval after impressing in a limited programme with a two-year-old, privately-run Focus this year.
Hirvonen finished fifth in Greece and in Finland - in one-off appearance in a factory Focus - and then took a superb third place on the all-asphalt Rally Catalunya towards the end of the year and put himself in line for a top drive. He undertook his first full WRC season with Ford in 2003, before moving to Subaru for 2004. His performances in the Impreza were disappointing though and he was dropped at the end of the year, before bouncing back with a vengeance this year.
"We've signed Mikko on a three-year contract because we are looking for long-term consistency in our plans," said Ford team director Malcolm Wilson. "Nobody can fail to be impressed by his performances this season. During the last three years he has gained the experience and maturity and is now ready to make the step up to the top level in the world championship. In 2006 I expect him to progress even further.
"He will benefit by having a driver of Marcus' calibre alongside. Marcus is one of the sport's fastest and most reliable drivers and his appetite for success remains as large now as it was at the start of his distinguished career. To have two such drivers committed for the long-term emphasises the belief they have in the new car, and it's a huge confidence boost for us all."
Hirvonen said: "It's a dream come true to join Ford and have the opportunity to drive the new car," he said. "I've learned much in the last three seasons and feel ready to take on this role. The Focus RS is hugely promising and I can't wait to get behind the wheel to work again with my former colleagues."
| ralliharri | 11-18-2005 09:39 PM |
Wasnt Hyunday talking of a comeback also? Surprised that no more word of Suzuki's WRC plans, after their 1600 programme they wanted to expand but like other ppl said, kinda late now for 2006. Happy to hear about Hirvonen, wonder what Gardemeister will do?
| WRXedUSA | 11-18-2005 10:42 PM |
[QUOTE=ralliharri]Wasnt Hyunday talking of a comeback also? Surprised that no more word of Suzuki's WRC plans, after their 1600 programme they wanted to expand but like other ppl said, kinda late now for 2006. Happy to hear about Hirvonen, wonder what Gardemeister will do?[/QUOTE]
I think Suzuki was hedging on a drastic rules change so they didnt have to shake down a turbo and an AWD system.
I think Suzuki was hedging on a drastic rules change so they didnt have to shake down a turbo and an AWD system.
| psg | 11-18-2005 11:21 PM |
So why didn't Ford want to keep Gardemeister? I thought he would've ended up as the logical #2 to Gronholm in 06. Sucks for him.
| Anibalz | 11-19-2005 01:57 AM |
Well, there goes Ford, also Subaru and Mitsu are keen to keep their lineups the way they are and skoda hasn't confirmed their plans for 2006. So far Markko Martin, Toni Gardemeister and Roman Kresta have no drives. Duavl will likely be driving a privateer Citroen... I wonder where these drivers will end up.
| ralliharri | 11-20-2005 10:49 PM |
Subaru confirmed y-day they resigned Atkinson (why, what has he done besides Aus and Jap?), they should've picked up Gardemeister now when it looks he's without a ride IMO.
| WagonMonster | 11-20-2005 10:55 PM |
[QUOTE=ralliharri]Subaru confirmed y-day they resigned Atkinson (why, what has he done besides Aus and Jap?), they should've picked up Gardemeister now when it looks he's without a ride IMO.[/QUOTE]
Because Subaru recognizes that Atkinson has a bright future.
Remember, it was Subaru that nurtured Petter Solberg, Richard Burns and Colin McCrae's careers.
Because Subaru recognizes that Atkinson has a bright future.
Remember, it was Subaru that nurtured Petter Solberg, Richard Burns and Colin McCrae's careers.
| nKoan | 11-21-2005 12:25 AM |
[QUOTE=ralliharri]Subaru confirmed y-day they resigned Atkinson (why, what has he done besides Aus and Jap?), they should've picked up Gardemeister now when it looks he's without a ride IMO.[/QUOTE]
Atkinson won more stages this year then Gardermeister. But Gardermeister was much more consistent (as seen by 58 points compared to Atkinson's 13). To make a world champion, do you make a faster driver more consistent? Or a consistent driver faster?
I really hope Gardermeister finds a ride, as he would be a perfect 2nd driver for Manufacturer points, but unless he steps up his speed he might never be a champ.
I think Subaru see's the posibility of losing Solberg after 2006, so they need to nurture Atkinson to be a world champion for 2007 or 2008 (possibly sign him to a 2 or 3 year contact at the end of 2006). Subaru's aim has always been the drivers championship over the manufacturers championship.
Atkinson won more stages this year then Gardermeister. But Gardermeister was much more consistent (as seen by 58 points compared to Atkinson's 13). To make a world champion, do you make a faster driver more consistent? Or a consistent driver faster?
I really hope Gardermeister finds a ride, as he would be a perfect 2nd driver for Manufacturer points, but unless he steps up his speed he might never be a champ.
I think Subaru see's the posibility of losing Solberg after 2006, so they need to nurture Atkinson to be a world champion for 2007 or 2008 (possibly sign him to a 2 or 3 year contact at the end of 2006). Subaru's aim has always been the drivers championship over the manufacturers championship.
| Gethin | 11-21-2005 02:19 AM |
You forgot
Petter hits a Sheep in Wales
;)
[QUOTE=WagonMonster]Petter hits a Kiwi Fruit in New Zealand
Petter hits a Sushi Bar in Japan
Petter hits a Swedish Meatball in Sweden[/QUOTE]
And Nicky drives a Porsche and a 22b
Petter hits a Sheep in Wales
;)
[QUOTE=WagonMonster]Petter hits a Kiwi Fruit in New Zealand
Petter hits a Sushi Bar in Japan
Petter hits a Swedish Meatball in Sweden[/QUOTE]
And Nicky drives a Porsche and a 22b
| fenix | 11-21-2005 03:57 AM |
ok i didnt read the whole thread but is Richard Burns coming back anytime soon?
| WRXedUSA | 11-21-2005 10:29 AM |
[QUOTE=fenix]ok i didnt read the whole thread but is Richard Burns coming back anytime soon?[/QUOTE]
There is another thread in Motorsports keeping tabs on Burns. He is not coming back. No news usually means bad news in situations like this.
Atkinson was signed by SWRT today for 2006.
There is another thread in Motorsports keeping tabs on Burns. He is not coming back. No news usually means bad news in situations like this.
Atkinson was signed by SWRT today for 2006.
| AdvanSTI | 11-21-2005 11:07 AM |
[QUOTE=ralliharri]Subaru confirmed y-day they resigned Atkinson (why, what has he done besides Aus and Jap?), they should've picked up Gardemeister now when it looks he's without a ride IMO.[/QUOTE]
Nay.
Atkinson is fast. it was his first season in the WRC and he has a confidence problem it seems like. but when he was at home he was REALLY FAST. i think by next year ihe should be doing better stage times and crashing less.
Nay.
Atkinson is fast. it was his first season in the WRC and he has a confidence problem it seems like. but when he was at home he was REALLY FAST. i think by next year ihe should be doing better stage times and crashing less.
| bjorn240 | 11-21-2005 11:18 AM |
[QUOTE=nKoan]To make a world champion, do you make a faster driver more consistent? Or a consistent driver faster?
[/QUOTE]
A faster driver more consistent.
Richard Burns was consistent and got faster (slogging away in the APRC among other things). He's the only one.
Everyone else was fast and got consistent.
- Christian
[/QUOTE]
A faster driver more consistent.
Richard Burns was consistent and got faster (slogging away in the APRC among other things). He's the only one.
Everyone else was fast and got consistent.
- Christian
| leaknoil | 11-21-2005 12:31 PM |
Atkinson is a hugely popular driver that isn't European and can drive pretty well. I'm sure his signing was as much about marketing as winning. He'll grab a lot of media attention in some places and that's always nice. The women seem to like him too.
| Mopho | 11-21-2005 01:44 PM |
Atkinson had to pay for his ride this year, so it may be that he came up with the money again for 06
| St205gt4 | 11-21-2005 06:35 PM |
Nah, he had a number of other rally teams trying to poach him from Subaru. After his good last part of the season on the rallys he'd done before, plus his obvious speed he has become hot property as a promising young star.
| Mopho | 11-21-2005 06:39 PM |
[QUOTE=St205gt4]Nah, he had a number of other rally teams trying to poach him from Subaru. [/QUOTE]
Really? which teams?
Really? which teams?
| quadturbowrxgtr-s | 11-21-2005 07:43 PM |
Subaru needs to quit programming their cars to crash :) must be '02 ecu's :lol:
I think gardemeister is a great driver so I hope he gets in where he fits in
I think atkinson kicks ace and will be Subarus next big news (or is already)
skoda could make it if they tried :p
audi isn't coming back, now that they've taken a shower and gotten dressed they don't want to get dirty again.
+10 for Nissan entering the field but it will be hard convincing the younger generation that they make other cars besides the 350z :lol:
SPEED better not drop WRC coverage! that is all :furious:
I need to get to work making a DVD of all the rallies this year, my Tivo looks like a pregnant sow. :)
I think gardemeister is a great driver so I hope he gets in where he fits in
I think atkinson kicks ace and will be Subarus next big news (or is already)
skoda could make it if they tried :p
audi isn't coming back, now that they've taken a shower and gotten dressed they don't want to get dirty again.
+10 for Nissan entering the field but it will be hard convincing the younger generation that they make other cars besides the 350z :lol:
SPEED better not drop WRC coverage! that is all :furious:
I need to get to work making a DVD of all the rallies this year, my Tivo looks like a pregnant sow. :)
| nKoan | 11-21-2005 07:50 PM |
[QUOTE=Mopho]Really? which teams?[/QUOTE]
That is private information that I doubt will be released to the public, but in an article from crash.net, Subaru Australia managing directory Nick Senior said that other teams were talking to him. I know its probably not the answer you are looking for, but I think its the only one we'll have (at least officially).
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url]
[quote]Subaru Australia managing director, Nick Senior meanwhile is equally pleased that Atkinson will remain with them.
"After crossing the globe in 2005, Chris has achieved a remarkable record and is regarded as a phenomenon in world motorsport," he added.
"It's no secret that in recent weeks Chris has been courted by leading World Rally teams. We're delighted that in 2006 he will once again drive for Subaru. He's a great ambassador for the brand, but also for his sport and, importantly, his country, and we look forward to sharing in his success in 2006."[/quote]
That is private information that I doubt will be released to the public, but in an article from crash.net, Subaru Australia managing directory Nick Senior said that other teams were talking to him. I know its probably not the answer you are looking for, but I think its the only one we'll have (at least officially).
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url]
[quote]Subaru Australia managing director, Nick Senior meanwhile is equally pleased that Atkinson will remain with them.
"After crossing the globe in 2005, Chris has achieved a remarkable record and is regarded as a phenomenon in world motorsport," he added.
"It's no secret that in recent weeks Chris has been courted by leading World Rally teams. We're delighted that in 2006 he will once again drive for Subaru. He's a great ambassador for the brand, but also for his sport and, importantly, his country, and we look forward to sharing in his success in 2006."[/quote]
| leaknoil | 11-21-2005 08:23 PM |
[QUOTE=nKoan]That is private information that I doubt will be released to the public, but in an article from crash.net, Subaru Australia managing directory Nick Senior said that other teams were talking to him. I know its probably not the answer you are looking for, but I think its the only one we'll have (at least officially).
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url][/QUOTE]
Isn't like there are a lot of teams to talk to. Only people I see asking might be Skoda and I don't think he wants that ride. Maybe they are including privateer teams. I just dont see Mitsubishi or Ford asking.
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url][/QUOTE]
Isn't like there are a lot of teams to talk to. Only people I see asking might be Skoda and I don't think he wants that ride. Maybe they are including privateer teams. I just dont see Mitsubishi or Ford asking.
| nKoan | 11-21-2005 08:34 PM |
[QUOTE=leaknoil]Isn't like there are a lot of teams to talk to. Only people I see asking might be Skoda and I don't think he wants that ride. Maybe they are including privateer teams. I just dont see Mitsubishi or Ford asking.[/QUOTE]
Its all speculation at this point, but I bet Ford and Mitsubishi were at least talking to him, even if it was only preliminary talks with no formal offers. Ford, much like Subaru, has a history of recognizing top talent early on. Plus, Chris would be really cheap to go alongside the probably rather expensive Gronholm. And, even though Mitsubishi seems content with Galli/Rovanpera/Panizi, I think they would have dumped Rovanpera and/or Panizi for Atkinson after his late season performance.
Besides, like you mentioned earlier, Atkinson has a lot of other qualities that make him a good factory driver. He is a great marketing tool for Subaru in Australia and worldwide.
Its all speculation at this point, but I bet Ford and Mitsubishi were at least talking to him, even if it was only preliminary talks with no formal offers. Ford, much like Subaru, has a history of recognizing top talent early on. Plus, Chris would be really cheap to go alongside the probably rather expensive Gronholm. And, even though Mitsubishi seems content with Galli/Rovanpera/Panizi, I think they would have dumped Rovanpera and/or Panizi for Atkinson after his late season performance.
Besides, like you mentioned earlier, Atkinson has a lot of other qualities that make him a good factory driver. He is a great marketing tool for Subaru in Australia and worldwide.
| Mopho | 11-21-2005 09:11 PM |
[QUOTE=nKoan]That is private information that I doubt will be released to the public, but in an article from crash.net, Subaru Australia managing directory Nick Senior said that other teams were talking to him. I know its probably not the answer you are looking for, but I think its the only one we'll have (at least officially).
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url][/QUOTE]
All the drivers have "Reps" whose job it is to get teams to "talk" to the driver they are representing. Just because a driver is talking with other teams does not necessarily mean that the driver is in high demand.
Atkinson has the fact that he speaks English, is not from Europe and is relatively charismatic going for him, but I would not be surprised at all if he still had to pay (with other sponsors money) for the seat
[url]http://www.crash.net/uk/en/news_view.asp?cid=4&nid=122459[/url][/QUOTE]
All the drivers have "Reps" whose job it is to get teams to "talk" to the driver they are representing. Just because a driver is talking with other teams does not necessarily mean that the driver is in high demand.
Atkinson has the fact that he speaks English, is not from Europe and is relatively charismatic going for him, but I would not be surprised at all if he still had to pay (with other sponsors money) for the seat
| WagonMonster | 11-23-2005 12:48 PM |
Looks like the NZ Rally might move
[quote]
Event organisers are also discussing a move of host town for the New Zealand event from its current base in Auckland, with Hamilton favourite to pick up the role to open up the Whangaa coast stages to the south. These are some of the rally's most popular roads, but currently require a long road liaison to be included in the schedule.
[/quote]
This really sucks, because Hamilton is a ****-hole. It would be like moving an event from San Francisco to Sacramento. :lol:
[quote]
Event organisers are also discussing a move of host town for the New Zealand event from its current base in Auckland, with Hamilton favourite to pick up the role to open up the Whangaa coast stages to the south. These are some of the rally's most popular roads, but currently require a long road liaison to be included in the schedule.
[/quote]
This really sucks, because Hamilton is a ****-hole. It would be like moving an event from San Francisco to Sacramento. :lol:
| Ice racer | 11-23-2005 01:36 PM |
Any word from Markko Martin? During the Corsica rally Nikki Grist said he is available for 2006. Is he signed to run for any of the teams yet?
| nKoan | 11-23-2005 02:34 PM |
[QUOTE=Ice racer]Any word from Markko Martin? During the Corsica rally Nikki Grist said he is available for 2006. Is he signed to run for any of the teams yet?[/QUOTE]
He hasn't signed with anyone yet.
His options are dwindling fast, though, as Subaru & Ford have finalized their lineup already. Mitsubishi is likely to keep their current lineup, and Skoda hasn't comitted yet to 2006.
He hasn't signed with anyone yet.
His options are dwindling fast, though, as Subaru & Ford have finalized their lineup already. Mitsubishi is likely to keep their current lineup, and Skoda hasn't comitted yet to 2006.
| Ice racer | 11-23-2005 02:47 PM |
[QUOTE=nKoan]He hasn't signed with anyone yet.
His options are dwindling fast, though, as Subaru & Ford have finalized their lineup already. Mitsubishi is likely to keep their current lineup, and Skoda hasn't comitted yet to 2006.[/QUOTE]
Thanks, I didn't know that Ford had finalized their lineup. Did they keep Gartermiester then?
His options are dwindling fast, though, as Subaru & Ford have finalized their lineup already. Mitsubishi is likely to keep their current lineup, and Skoda hasn't comitted yet to 2006.[/QUOTE]
Thanks, I didn't know that Ford had finalized their lineup. Did they keep Gartermiester then?
| nKoan | 11-23-2005 08:13 PM |
[QUOTE=Ice racer]Thanks, I didn't know that Ford had finalized their lineup. Did they keep Gartermiester then?[/QUOTE]
Nope. Gronholm and Hirvonen. Reported earlier in this thread.
Nope. Gronholm and Hirvonen. Reported earlier in this thread.
| WRXedUSA | 11-25-2005 06:04 PM |
Skoda appears to be going private as the rumors on wrc.com and rallyforum.com say.
Armin of all people is trying to back his ride with Red Bull. Richards has been a VAG trying to convice them to keep Skoda in. Probably pushing McRae while he was at it. If Skoda hasnt decided by now, thier R&D on passive diffs and Swedish and Monte tire choices are out the window.
I wouldnt be shocked by now to see Duval skidding over to Skoda.
Armin of all people is trying to back his ride with Red Bull. Richards has been a VAG trying to convice them to keep Skoda in. Probably pushing McRae while he was at it. If Skoda hasnt decided by now, thier R&D on passive diffs and Swedish and Monte tire choices are out the window.
I wouldnt be shocked by now to see Duval skidding over to Skoda.
| quadturbowrxgtr-s | 11-25-2005 07:49 PM |
hmmmm. Gardemeister in a skoda might be interesting. ha ha well maybe ;)
| WRXedUSA | 12-02-2005 09:21 AM |
WRC.COM is reporting that Skoda has been testing the passive differentials in today's article. Looks like the private entry scenario is shaping up.
| WRXedUSA | 12-13-2005 06:33 PM |
Mitsubishi has withdrawn as of today from 2006 WRC.
| Jtree | 12-13-2005 06:49 PM |
[url]http://www.paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=25167&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0&POSTNUKESID=f8c2c1215c7bd22ffee6545fe4bb8807[/url]
| doghauler | 12-13-2005 07:00 PM |
Gee, Ford vs. Subaru. How exciting. :( :mad:
I hope that there will be enough privateer teams to keep the makes involved somewhat interesting, but with the rules on driver elegibility, it doesn't seem likely.
So, Group N anyone?
I hope that there will be enough privateer teams to keep the makes involved somewhat interesting, but with the rules on driver elegibility, it doesn't seem likely.
So, Group N anyone?
| WRXedUSA | 12-13-2005 08:23 PM |
Group N is what it should be in the first place.
I have been following it since 2003 and it's been a great battle.
Sad part is, Mitsubishi is non-existant in PCWRC nowdays too. The only GroupN Mitsubishi's that do well are local driver entries.
I have been following it since 2003 and it's been a great battle.
Sad part is, Mitsubishi is non-existant in PCWRC nowdays too. The only GroupN Mitsubishi's that do well are local driver entries.
| solo2wrx | 12-13-2005 08:39 PM |
Next year is going to be boring in the WRC class. Looks like I will be following the Group N cars much more closely. Just when the Mitsubishis were starting to get fast too.
| leaknoil | 12-13-2005 08:56 PM |
I've always had a good time cheering for the privateers. We may actually see the factory teams getting beat once in awhile. Without the huge advantage of full factory $$$ the whole thing may end up being more about driving skills then secret technology and huge budgets
| nKoan | 12-13-2005 09:14 PM |
[QUOTE=doghauler]Gee, Ford vs. Subaru. How exciting. :( :mad:
I hope that there will be enough privateer teams to keep the makes involved somewhat interesting, but with the rules on driver elegibility, it doesn't seem likely.
So, Group N anyone?[/QUOTE]
To quote Petter Solberg "To say that Sebastien Loeb is not in a factory car is bull****. Guy Frequelin is still there, you know, engineers, mechanics, full-spec Michelin tyres, everything."
Kronos racing should be competitive in WRC spec, and also the Red Bull Skoda's are about 70% ex-factory engineers and techs. Hopefully the Red Bull team should be able to continue their dramatic end of season improvement with some solid results.
WRC class should still be interesting. Can't be any worse then the Group A seasons during Toyota's ban, or last years Citroen-take-all season.
What I am excited about, though, is seeing privateer teams mixed in with the big boys. Hopefully some of these guys will get their dues finally.
I hope that there will be enough privateer teams to keep the makes involved somewhat interesting, but with the rules on driver elegibility, it doesn't seem likely.
So, Group N anyone?[/QUOTE]
To quote Petter Solberg "To say that Sebastien Loeb is not in a factory car is bull****. Guy Frequelin is still there, you know, engineers, mechanics, full-spec Michelin tyres, everything."
Kronos racing should be competitive in WRC spec, and also the Red Bull Skoda's are about 70% ex-factory engineers and techs. Hopefully the Red Bull team should be able to continue their dramatic end of season improvement with some solid results.
WRC class should still be interesting. Can't be any worse then the Group A seasons during Toyota's ban, or last years Citroen-take-all season.
What I am excited about, though, is seeing privateer teams mixed in with the big boys. Hopefully some of these guys will get their dues finally.
| WRXedUSA | 12-13-2005 10:05 PM |
You can guarantee that Loeb will be jousting for the lead. Look at Stohl.
| leaknoil | 12-14-2005 01:28 AM |
I wonder what a 2 manufacturer teams WRC will mean to the US tv coverage. Speed has just been looking for a reason to drop it and this seems like they could use this. The US audience has no connection with the sponsors of the privateer teams even when they are actually more factory team then not. OMV, Kronos, Olsbergs, BP, etc etc. They aren't anything Americans can relate to. Not that Citroen, Skoda, and Pugeot were but, at least they may have actually heard of them before. Well maybe not Skoda.
Still I think this could make for an exciting season. Especially if they give those lancers to a private team . Too bad I'll probably only have my WRC radio and downloaded clips to experience it thru.
Still I think this could make for an exciting season. Especially if they give those lancers to a private team . Too bad I'll probably only have my WRC radio and downloaded clips to experience it thru.
| Mopho | 12-14-2005 01:34 AM |
[QUOTE=leaknoil]I wonder what a 2 manufacturer teams WRC will mean to the US tv coverage. Speed has just been looking for a reason to drop it and this seems like they could use this. .[/QUOTE]
As long as Subaru continues to pay for the show to be on Speed, it will most likely continue to be on Speed
As long as Subaru continues to pay for the show to be on Speed, it will most likely continue to be on Speed
| leaknoil | 12-14-2005 01:48 AM |
Well, I'd think the Mitsubishi team had the most impact on US/Japan sales vs. Subaru. Not sure they were all that worried about Ford. Right now, I think there is a good chance Ford has the better WRC car and maybe a bit of a jump start. They also have their pick of the worlds best drivers.
If Ford starts beating up on Subaru every rally I wonder how long they'll stick with it. I'm not sure last year did them much good. On a positive point maybe they'll have some more money to put into US rally and sponsorships if they do stop paying for the Speed coverage. I'd think the money would be better spent in the US anyway. I've never met anyone in the US that driving a Subaru that bought it because of rally. They usually don't even know what rally is.
If Ford starts beating up on Subaru every rally I wonder how long they'll stick with it. I'm not sure last year did them much good. On a positive point maybe they'll have some more money to put into US rally and sponsorships if they do stop paying for the Speed coverage. I'd think the money would be better spent in the US anyway. I've never met anyone in the US that driving a Subaru that bought it because of rally. They usually don't even know what rally is.
| WRXedUSA | 12-14-2005 09:16 AM |
Ford's car is completely new with completely new drivers to the team. Expect delays on gelling the team together. Given a good car, Gronholm is unbeatable.
If Solberg & Atkinson can 'finish' the rally, it seems they well be guaranteed at least a 5th or 6th. Skoda will be a non-factor with thier noob drivers.
The only thing I fear is the pace. If a rally driver 'gets out of the zone' he had a better likely hood of crashing. ie Loeb Australia, 2003.
If Solberg & Atkinson can 'finish' the rally, it seems they well be guaranteed at least a 5th or 6th. Skoda will be a non-factor with thier noob drivers.
The only thing I fear is the pace. If a rally driver 'gets out of the zone' he had a better likely hood of crashing. ie Loeb Australia, 2003.
| leaknoil | 12-14-2005 01:33 PM |
Everyones car is basically new for 2006. Ford got a jump start and got theirs into a rally this year. An actual rally can give the engineers a lot more to work with then a weekend of testing.
| Ice racer | 12-14-2005 01:58 PM |
I thought Mitusbishi was going to be a leg up this year, as they ran their Lancer without the active diffs for a long time. Now they're out? :(
| WRXedUSA | 12-15-2005 09:19 AM |
Another twist. OMV is now backing Bozian's semi-factory team sporting 307's. The chose drivers are Manfred Stohl and Henning Solberg. They will compete in most of the European rounds.
This is interesting because:
1. Henning just landed an alternate sponsor 10 days ago
2. More proof OMV follows Manfred
3. Confirms suspicions that rallyforum.com had about a OMV backed team rising.
This is interesting because:
1. Henning just landed an alternate sponsor 10 days ago
2. More proof OMV follows Manfred
3. Confirms suspicions that rallyforum.com had about a OMV backed team rising.
| Mopho | 12-15-2005 12:36 PM |
[QUOTE=leaknoil]. On a positive point maybe they'll have some more money to put into US rally and sponsorships if they do stop paying for the Speed coverage. I'd think the money would be better spent in the US anyway.[/QUOTE]
If the rally is not on TV there is no point for them to sponsor anyone.
[QUOTE]I've never met anyone in the US that driving a Subaru that bought it because of rally. They usually don't even know what rally is.[/QUOTE]
I bought mine entirely because of rally. I would not have even considered a Subaru otherwise
If the rally is not on TV there is no point for them to sponsor anyone.
[QUOTE]I've never met anyone in the US that driving a Subaru that bought it because of rally. They usually don't even know what rally is.[/QUOTE]
I bought mine entirely because of rally. I would not have even considered a Subaru otherwise
| WagonMonster | 12-15-2005 12:55 PM |
[QUOTE=Mopho]If the rally is not on TV there is no point for them to sponsor anyone.
I bought mine entirely because of rally. I would not have even considered a Subaru otherwise[/QUOTE]
I bought my Subaru because I'm a Lesbian.
I bought mine entirely because of rally. I would not have even considered a Subaru otherwise[/QUOTE]
I bought my Subaru because I'm a Lesbian.
| Mopho | 12-15-2005 12:57 PM |
[QUOTE=WagonMonster]I bought my Subaru because I'm a Lesbian.[/QUOTE]
A cross dressing lesbian with a 5 o'clock shadow no less
A cross dressing lesbian with a 5 o'clock shadow no less
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