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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #60 poslato: 05. Maj, 2014. 12:49 »
Luck deserts ŠKODA at its home rally in Český Krumlov: Kopecký and Lappi fail to finish

› European Champions Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ) retire on the final stage of their return on home soil in the Czech Republic
› Lappi/Ferm(FIN/FIN) win the first three special stages on their guest start in South Bohemia, but are then forced to retire
› Kopecký/Dresler next in action at the APRC event in New Caledonia in two weeks

Český Krumlov, 3 May 2014 – Good performance, but without the result to match: ŠKODA failed to finish the 42nd Rally Český Krumlov with both works duos – Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) and Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) – in the Fabia Super 2000. European Champion Kopecký, who will do most of his racing in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) this season, was running second before crashing out in wet conditions on the final stage. Lappi, who tops the standings in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), had won Friday’s opening three stages, but then had to retire with technical problems.

“We are really pleased that we were able to appear in front of our home fans again this weekend – thanks in no small part to the support of our sales department here in the Czech Republic,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “We saw a captivating battle. At this point I would like to congratulate the winners Václav Pech and Petr Uhel. You have to congratulate them on a performance like that. I can well imagine that we will line up with our works drivers at more rallies in the Czech Republic this year. However, Jan Kopecký and Gaurav Gill first head to New Caledonia in two weeks, where they will contest the next round of the APRC. Our next outing in the ERC will be in Belgium, where our young drivers Esapekka Lappi and Sepp Wiegand will be in action at the Ypres Rally.”

“It was a great battle for the victory, but Václav Pech really flew on the second day,” said Kopecký, who had not dropped out of the top three until his crash, and led the rally at the halfway point. “We did our very best and made a few changes to the set-up, but we could not close the gap on Václav. I congratulate him, he deserved the win.”

Speaking after his retirement, Lappi, who was making his first appearance at the Rally Český Krumlov, said: “It is a real shame, as we felt really good on this route. To be honest, we were positively surprised that we were so quick at the first attempt. Unfortunately the technology let us down this time, but that is all part and parcel of motorsport. We will do our best again next time.”
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #61 poslato: 12. Maj, 2014. 11:18 »
ŠKODA sets sights on more top results in New Caledonia
5/12/2014

Goal for 2014: Successful title defence in the APRC for Manufacturers.

Following the one-two at the opening rally of the season, the works-assisted ŠKODA MRF team now heads to the second round of the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) in New Caledonia full of confidence. Defending champions and APRC leaders Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ) are hungry to repeat last year’s victory, and thus to extend their lead in the overall standings. And European Champions Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) also believe they have a good chance of securing their first win of the season, having finished runner-up at the opening round in New Zealand. The Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie will take place on 17 and 18 May. The event is a gravel rally, featuring 17 special stages and a total 235.78 kilometres against the clock.

“We are really looking forward to the rally and have fond memories of New Caledonia. We obviously want to repeat last year’s win,” said Gaurav Gill. The experienced ŠKODA driver is actually looking for his third victory in a row in New Caledonia. However, he warns against underestimating the difficult conditions on the group of islands in the South Pacific, which belong to France: “The weather can play a vital role here, as conditions can change very quickly on the islands. The route can get very slippery if it rains.”

Jan Kopecký is yet to gain his first experience of the unique conditions on the archipelago at the other end of the world. The 2013 European Champion and his co-driver Pavel Dresler finished an impressive second when New Zealand hosted the opening round of the APRC in April, pushing the more experienced Gill all the way. His goal for the second APRC is to continue on his learning curve.

“Every rally in the APRC is a challenge for us. However, we recently did well in New Zealand, which was uncharted territory for us. That makes me optimistic that we can also be among the front-runners in New Caledonia,” said Jan Kopecký. Both rally crews share the same goal of defending the title in the Manufacturers’ Championship, which ŠKODA leads after its successful outing at the season-opener.

The starts in the APRC are of strategic importance to the Czech automobile manufacturer. The goal is to further raise awareness of the brand on international markets. ŠKODA aims to increase its global sales to at least 1.5 million units per year over the coming years, with particular emphasis on growth in the emerging Asian markets.

Did you know that...
... the Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie was held for the first time in 1967? Back then, the event was known as the “New Caledonia Safari”. The winner of the inaugural rally was Australian John Keran in a Volvo 122S.

... the Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie was first included in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) in 1999? Since 2001, it has been a permanent fixture on the APRC calendar, although it had to be cancelled in 2003 due to heavy rain.

... ŠKODA has already triumphed on two occasions at the Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie? Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ) won in a Fabia Super 2000 in 2012 and 2013.

... ŠKODA claimed a one-two in New Caledonia in 2012? Victorious duo Gill/Macneall were followed in second place by Chris Atkinson/Stéphane Prévot (AUS/B) in the second Fabia Super 2000, run by the ŠKODA MRF team. The Australian/Belgian pairing won the Drivers’ and Co-Drivers’ Championship in the APRC that year.

... New Caledonia is a group of islands in the South Pacific, which are owned by France? About 246,000 people live on the islands, which have a total area of 18,575 km².

... the New Caledonia Barrier Reef is the second-longest double-barrier reef in the world, after Australia’s “Great Barrier Reef”? UNESCO named the coral reef a World Heritage Site in 2008.

... France was the eighth-largest sales market for the ŠKODA brand in 2013? Last year, the manufacturer supplied 20,400 vehicles to French customers.

The number for the Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie: 6
Six special stages had to be cancelled at last year’s Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie due to heavy rainfall. After it was not possible to start the final stage on the opening day of two, only three of the scheduled eight special stages could be completed on the final day. This reduced the total distance of the rally to 174.72 kilometres.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #62 poslato: 18. Maj, 2014. 22:35 »
Second one-two of the APRC season for ŠKODA
5/18/2014

Total domination with the ŠKODA Super 2000, despite miserable conditions in exotic New Caledonia.
The works-assisted ŠKODA MRF team overcame the miserable conditions to claim another one-two at the second round of the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). European champions Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) picked up their first win in the APRC in exotic New Caledonia, ahead of team-mates Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ). Gill had previously triumphed ahead of Kopecký at the opening round in New Zealand. The two drivers are now tied at the top of the overall standings after two of six races in the APRC, while ŠKODA also holds a commanding lead in the Manufacturers’ Championship.

“We had quite a big lead on day two, so I just wanted to avoid making any mistakes on the muddy roads. I was under no pressure, and could relax in the Fabia Super 2000, which was perfect – as always,” said Jan Kopecký, who was delighted with his first win at only his second start in the APRC: “We are now level with Gaurav, which is good for the championship. It is always better when there is such a close battle.”

The Czech driver finished a full 6:12.8 minutes ahead of his ŠKODA team-mate Gill in New Caledonia. The Indian had initially led the rally on day one, but then damaged his car when he came off the road and consequently dropped a crucial amount of time. The drivers were once again faced with the trickiest of conditions on the French island in the South Pacific, with most of the route transformed into mud bath by the heavy rain. So bad were the conditions that six of the 17 special stages scheduled had to be cancelled.

Safety concerns meant that the two ŠKODA MRF drivers started the penultimate stage later than expected. This resulted in a time penalty from the jury, but this was subsequently reduced after an appeal from the ŠKODA MRF team. As such, Kopecký and Gill had to wait several hours to celebrate their one-two. “We were a victim of the conditions with our crash on day one. However, we still managed to make the most of the situation for ourselves and the team in the end,” Gaurav Gill commented. The two ŠKODA MRF drivers clocked the fastest times on all eleven special stages.

Following the latest one-two, Jan Kopecký is already looking forward to the next APRC Rally in Australia from 20 to 22 June: “I have never been to Australia, so the rally will be completely new territory for me. It will be exciting again.”

The starts in the APRC are of strategic importance to the Czech automobile manufacturer. The goal is to further increase awareness of the brand in international markets. ŠKODA is looking to increase its global sales to at least 1.5 million units per year over the coming years, with particular emphasis on the emerging markets in Asia.

The number for the Rally New Caledonia: 6

Like last year, a total of six special stages had to be cancelled due to heavy rain, which made the roads undriveable. As such, only eleven of the 17 scheduled special stages were actually held. After stages five and eight were cancelled on days one and two of the rally, only four of the eight special stages scheduled for the final day could actually be completed. The last three stages were all abandoned completely.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #63 poslato: 16. Jun, 2014. 12:18 »
50th Ypres Rally: ŠKODA drivers looking forward to anniversary in Belgium

› Lappi/Ferm and Wiegand/Christian line up in the ERC in Belgium
› Lappi leads the European Championship going into the race
› ŠKODA has won the last four editions of the iconic rally

Mladá Boleslav, 16 June 2014 – The Ypres Rally is taking place for the 50th time – and the ŠKODA drivers have their sights set on playing a major role at the anniversary event. After the one-two at the Circuit of Ireland Rally, Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) and the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland team of Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D) now move on to their next challenge. The sixth round of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) takes place in Belgium from 19 to 21 June.

“The Ypres Rally is new territory for me, but so was the Circuit of Ireland Rally. I hope things work out just as well this time too. One thing is certain: you have to be alert at all times on the slippery asphalt,” said Lappi. The Finn dominated in Northern Ireland on his way to victory number two of the season, having previously won in Latvia. These two wins, plus a fourth place in Greece, have taken Lappi to the top of the overall standings in the ERC with 98 points. Despite this, the 23-year-old warns against writing off the strong opposition.

“Victories from Freddy Loix and Juno Hänninen in recent years have shown that the Fabia Super 2000 can be successful in Belgium. However, this is definitely not a forgone conclusion, as our opposition is also very strong and will be going all out to end ŠKODA’s winning run,” said the Finn. ŠKODA drivers have emerged triumphant from the iconic Ypres Rally for the last four years in a row. With this in mind, the manufacturer from Mladá Boleslav is obviously looking to mix it with the front-runners again at this year’s anniversary rally.

And fellow ŠKODA driver Wiegand is also keen to get in on the act, having produced an impressive fightback to finish an excellent second at the Circuit of Ireland Rally. “Claiming my first podium in the ERC is a weight off my shoulders. I obviously want to back that performance up in Belgium, although it is new terrain for me. The pace notes, which I will write together with my co-driver ahead of the rally, must be one hundred per cent right,” said the 23-year-old ŠKODA driver. With 48 points to his name, Wiegand currently lies fourth in the ERC standings.

Also lining up for the ŠKODA motorsport family: last year’s winner Freddy Loix (B) – this time in a privately run ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000. The 42-year-old rally legend from Belgium is a force to be reckoned with at his home rally: Loix won at the wheel of a ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 in 2010, 2011 and 2013. Loix is joined at the start by Neil Simpson (GB), another experienced driver in the 270-hp four-wheel drive car from Mladá Boleslav. The 41-year-old authorised ŠKODA dealer from Clitheroe in Lancashire has
returned to professional rallying this season after a break of twelve years. Simpson
finished fifth at the Circuit of Ireland Rally in a Fabia Super 2000. Good omen: Simpson’s
first appearance in Ypres will be at the wheel of the very same car Loix triumphed in last
year.

The Ypres Rally begins on Thursday evening with the 4.88-kilometre qualifying stage.
This is followed by 20 special stages, consisting of 298.79 kilometres against the clock on
slippery, narrow asphalt roads. This makes the anniversary edition of the Ypres Rally the
longest on this year’s ERC calendar.

Did you know that …

... the Ypres Rally was held for the first time in 1965? Back then it was known as the
“Eerste Interstallen Criterium”. Since then, the iconic event has established itself as one
of the best-known rallies on the continent. This year it forms part of the FIA European
Rally Championship, having previously featured in the Intercontinental Rally
Challenge (IRC).

... the Ypres Rally is celebrating its 50th anniversary? As such, this year’s rally will be
accompanied by an exhibition, which features unique exhibits from the rally’s early years
to the present.

… the Ypres Rally has always been a stomping ground for the very best drivers? In 1976,
for example, Walter Röhrl’s (D) name went down in the list of winners. Over the years,
the big names who have lined up at the rally include World Champions Juha
Kankkunen (FIN), Colin McRae (GB), Didier Auriol (F) and current FIA President Jean
Todt (F).

... the man with the most wins to his name at the Ypres Rally is Freddy Loix? The Belgian
with the nickname “Fast Freddy” triumphed eight times between 1996 and 2013,
including three victories at the wheel of the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000.

… the iconic rally is new territory for both ERC championship leader Esapekka Lappi and
ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland driver Sepp Wiegand? The German was in action in the 2012
IRC, but did not compete in Belgium.

… the longest stage on the Ypres Rally is “Hollebeke”? It is 28.82 kilometres long and will
be tackled twice on Saturday.

... ŠKODA is growing in popularity in Belgium? 1,900 cars were delivered to customers in
April 2014 alone. That is a rise of 28.9 per cent compared to the same period last year.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #64 poslato: 17. Jun, 2014. 11:18 »
APRC: ŠKODA teams out to continue
winning run in Australia

› One-twos at the previous two rallies in New Zealand and New Caledonia
› ŠKODA victories at the last two International Rallies of Queensland
› ŠKODA drivers Gill and Kopecký joint leaders in the overall standings

Mladá Boleslav, 17 June 2014 – After back-to-back one-twos in the opening two
rallies of the season, the works-assisted ŠKODA MRF team now has its sights
set on continuing its winning run at round three of the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally
Championship (APRC). When the International Rally of Queensland takes place
in Australia on 21st and 22nd June, it will feature an all-ŠKODA battle for the
lead in the overall standings: defending champion Gaurav Gill (IND) and
European Champion Jan Kopecký (CZ) are tied at the top.

“The beautiful Pacific, average temperatures above 20 degrees, and endless sandy
beaches – unfortunately my co-driver Pavel Dresler and I will have no time to take in any
of this when we travel to Australia’s Sunshine Coach as rally drivers for the first time.
Quite the opposite: we will be made to work very hard, as the demanding gravel routes
away from the tourist attractions will pose the ultimate test to us drivers and the cars. As
well as pure speed, we will also have to be clever if we want to win again. We are ready,”
said Kopecký.

The 32-year-old travels to Australia full of confidence, having finished ahead of Gill to
claim his first APRC victory at the second round of the season in exotic New Caledonia.
The opening rally in New Zealand produced the reverse of that finish for the two Fabia
Super 2000s: Gill was victorious, followed by Kopecký.

“The duel with Gaurav will be exciting again. It is good that we are pushing ourselves this
way within the team,” said the Czech driver. Gill and his co-driver Glenn Macneall (NZ)
once again have greater experience of the International Rally of Queensland. The duo
was in contention for long periods last year, before having to retire on day two. “We
obviously want to do better this time. However, the rally is very technically demanding
and the weather can also play a major role,” said Gill.

The stages in the forest can be particularly slippery should it rain. The route often takes
in very narrow gravel tracks in the outback behind the beautiful Sunshine Coast. The
16 special stages, totalling 236.97 kilometres, around the Service Park are a test of
endurance for man and machine. Victory in Australia would be ŠKODA’s third in a row in
the APRC. Both crews also have the same goal in the Manufacturers’ Championship: to
defend the title. ŠKODA currently holds a healthy lead here, courtesy of its successful
start to the season.


The starts in the APRC are of great strategic importance for the Czech automobile manufacturer. The goal is to further increase awareness of the brand on international markets. ŠKODA has set its sights on increasing worldwide sales to at least 1.5 million units per year in the coming years, with particular emphasis on the growth markets in Asia.

Did you know that …

... the origins of the International Rally of Queensland date back to 1968? It was then that the rally’s predecessor, the Rally Queensland, was held for the first time. The race has also formed part of the Australian Rally Championship since then, making it the longest-standing event in the championship.

... the International Rally of Queensland made its debut in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) in 2009?

… the International Rally of Queensland was originally held in the area around Brisbane? In 1997 it moved to the outback behind the beautiful Sunshine Coach, over 150 kilometres north of the city. The motto this year: “Sun, Sea, Speed”.

... ŠKODA has already won the APRC class at the International Rally of Queensland on two occasions? Australian Chris Atkinson won in a Fabia Super 2000 in 2012, while Finland’s Esapekka Lappi repeated the feat in 2013.

... ŠKODA went on to win the title in the APRC after both successes at the iconic rally in Australia? Chris Atkinson triumphed in 2012, with Gaurav Gill crowned rally king of the Asia-Pacific region in 2013.
... Australia is the sixth largest country on earth, with an area of around 7.7 million km²? The coastline itself is 35,876 kilometres long.

... the Australian Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, is the largest reef in the world? It is 2,300 kilometres long and the largest living structure on the planet.

... the six rounds of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) is held in regions with a total population of over 2.5 million?
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #65 poslato: 20. Jun, 2014. 21:11 »
Kopecký on promotional tour in Australia
6/20/2014

Czech rally expertise on Australian roads. Rally success helps ŠKODA on the Australian market.
Jan Kopecký is in Australia for the first time, but the land down under has already earned itself a place in his heart. “The people here are extremely friendly and the scenery is simply breath-taking,” said the thrilled Czech driver. As European Champion, he is the perfect ambassador for ŠKODA at the other end of the world – and his outing at the “International Rally of Queensland” on Saturday and Sunday is set to give the brand an extra boost on the Australian market. The second top crew in the Fabia Super 2000 are defending champions Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ).

“The two wins for ŠKODA in the APRC class at the rally in Australia in recent years created a lot of positive headlines and really helped the brand,” said Pavel Hortek, Team Principal of ŠKODA MRF.

Obviously keen to make the most of any spare time, Kopecký and his Czech co-driver Pavel Dresler went on a discovery tour in beautiful Queensland – over 14,000 kilometres from Mladá Boleslav. The tour included a trip to an animal park, where the duo saw kangaroos and other exotic animals, such as koalas and wombats. The two top drivers also admired the coast from the water on a sea kayak tour. “They were nice trips in the middle of the stressful rally schedule,” said a delighted Jan Kopecký. “However, we are not here on holiday.”

With their minds focussed on the third round of the season in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), he and his co-driver undertook an tough fitness regime during their first few days in Australia. In comfortable temperatures not exceeding 20 degrees – it is currently winter in Australia – he and Pavel Dresler jogged an eight-kilometre route on the Sunshine Coast every day. “Every other runner greeted us with a friendly ‘G’day’,” said Kopecký, who was visibly impressed by the friendliness of the Australians.

Next up on Wednesday was a photo and TV session, during which the drivers posed for the cameras with their national flags and the boat on Caloundra beach. On Thursday, the European Champion and his co-driver Pavel Dresler switched into rally mode. After a win and a second place in the previous rounds, they have their sights on another good result for ŠKODA come the end of the weekend. That would be another good reason to take Australia to their hearts. 

Did you know that...
...ŠKODA has been active on the Australian market since 2007? The first model for sale Down Under was the Octavia. Nowadays, the Octavia, Octavia Combi, Fabia, Fabia Combi, Superb, Superb Combi, Yeti and Rapid Spaceback are available.

...well-equipped models with powerful engines are most popular Down Under? For example, 40 per cent of the Octavias sold are RS models.

...ŠKODA sold 3,555 cars in Australia last year?

...the origins of the International Rally of Queensland date back to 1968? It was then that the rally’s predecessor, the Rally Queensland, was held for the first time. The race has also formed part of the Australian Rally Championship since then, making it the longest-standing event in the championship.

...ŠKODA went on to win the title in the APRC after both successes at the iconic rally in Australia? Chris Atkinson triumphed in 2012, with Gaurav Gill crowned rally king of the Asia-Pacific region in 2013.

...Australia is the sixth largest country on earth, with an area of around 7.7 million km²? The coastline itself is 35,876 kilometres long.

...the Australian Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, is the largest reef in the world? It is 2,300 kilometres long and the largest living structure on the planet.

The number for the International Rally of Queensland: 20
At last year’s International Rally of Queensland, the two ŠKODA drivers clocked the fastest time by an APRC river on all 20 special stages. Esapekka Lappi was the quickest man on 13 stages and went on to win the APRC class at the rally. Gaurav Gill, who was to be crowned APRC Champion, notched up seven stage wins.

FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), overall standings manufacturers’ championship after 2 of 6 events:
1. ŠKODA, 75 points; 2. Proton, 36; 3. Mitsubishi, 32; 4. Renault, 25; 5. Subaru, 13

FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), overall standings drivers’ championship after 2 of 6 events:
1. Gaurav Gill, 66 points; 1. Jan Kopecký, 66; 3. Michael Young 36, 4. Mark Pedder, 32; 5. Tom Wilde 25

The 2014 APRC calendar:
11–13 April: Rally of Whangarei – New Zealand
16–18 May: Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie – New Caledonia
20–22 June: Rally of Queensland – Australia
15–17 August: Malaysian Rally – Malaysia
26–28 September: Rally Hokkaido – Japan
7–9 November: China Rally – China
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #66 poslato: 21. Jun, 2014. 09:25 »
Good start for ŠKODA at the 50th Ypres Rally

› Four ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000s in the top ten after day one
› Last year’s winner Loix and ERC leader Lappi on course for podium
› 13 special stages covering 190 kilometres scheduled for Saturday at the iconic asphalt rally in West Flanders

Ypres, 20 June 2014 – Impressive display from the ŠKODA drivers on the opening day of the Ypres Rally: four Fabia Super 2000s are currently placed in the top ten at the sixth round of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC). Eight-time winner Freddy Loix (B), making his 17th appearance at the demanding asphalt rally in Belgium, is second in his Fabia Super 2000 after the first 104.77 kilometres against the clock. ERC leaders Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) of the ŠKODA Motorsport team are hot on their heels in third place.

“The first day was quite ok. I am happy with that,” said Lappi, who opened the route on the first three stages on Friday. “You have to cut a lot of corners on the narrow asphalt streets in order to be really quick here in Belgium. We did not make any mistakes and our speed was good. I will continue the same way on Saturday and try to reach the finish without any problems.”
Also on course for a points finish after the first seven of 20 special stages are Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D). The ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland duo is fifth going into the final day of the Ypres Rally. “I struggled to find the right rhythm at first,” said Wiegand. “But everything came together in the end, particularly on the final stage. Let’s hope for more of that tomorrow.”

Neil Simpson/Claire Mole (GB/GB), who line up in the very same Fabia Super 2000 with which Loix won the Belgian rally classic last year, are ninth overall, rounding off a fine opening-day result for ŠKODA.
The 50th anniversary of the Ypres Rally continues on Saturday, when the route includes a 9.76-kilometre detour over the French border. At the end of Saturday’s 13 stages and 190.02 kilometres against the clock, the winner of the 50th Ypres Rally will be known at about 22:15.

The number of the day: 4

Four Fabia Super 2000s in the top ten: the ŠKODA drivers impressed on the opening day of the Ypres Rally. Luca Rossetti/Matteo Charcossi (I/I) came close to making it five Fabia Super 2000s in the top ten. However, the Italian duo, who won Friday’s qualifying and were running second overall at times, were forced to change a tyre on the sixth special stage and subsequently dropped back into 14th place.

Ypres Rally – Overall classification after day 1

1. Abbring/Marshall (NL/GB), Peugeot 208T16 R5 56m 30.7s
2. Loix/Gitsels (B/B), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 + 24.8s
3. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 + 39.1s
4. Cherain/Leyh (B/B), Ford Fiesta R5 + 53.8s
5. Wiegand/Christian (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 + 1m 32.0s
6. Kobus/De Wild (NL/NL), Ford Fiesta S2000 + 1m 33.2s
7. Breen/Martin (IRL/GB), Peugeot 208T16 R5 + 1m 58.9s
8. Vanneste/Snaet (B/B), Peugeot 207 S2000 + 2m 40.8s
9. Simpson/Mole (GB/GB), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 + 2m 45.4s
10. Pons/Haro (E/E), Ford Fiesta R5 + 2m 48.1s
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #67 poslato: 22. Jun, 2014. 17:40 »
Kopecký on promotional tour in Australia
6/20/2014

Czech rally expertise on Australian roads. Rally success helps ŠKODA on the Australian market.
Jan Kopecký is in Australia for the first time, but the land down under has already earned itself a place in his heart. “The people here are extremely friendly and the scenery is simply breath-taking,” said the thrilled Czech driver. As European Champion, he is the perfect ambassador for ŠKODA at the other end of the world – and his outing at the “International Rally of Queensland” on Saturday and Sunday is set to give the brand an extra boost on the Australian market. The second top crew in the Fabia Super 2000 are defending champions Gaurav Gill/Glenn Macneall (IND/NZ).

“The two wins for ŠKODA in the APRC class at the rally in Australia in recent years created a lot of positive headlines and really helped the brand,” said Pavel Hortek, Team Principal of ŠKODA MRF.

Obviously keen to make the most of any spare time, Kopecký and his Czech co-driver Pavel Dresler went on a discovery tour in beautiful Queensland – over 14,000 kilometres from Mladá Boleslav. The tour included a trip to an animal park, where the duo saw kangaroos and other exotic animals, such as koalas and wombats. The two top drivers also admired the coast from the water on a sea kayak tour. “They were nice trips in the middle of the stressful rally schedule,” said a delighted Jan Kopecký. “However, we are not here on holiday.”

With their minds focussed on the third round of the season in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), he and his co-driver undertook an tough fitness regime during their first few days in Australia. In comfortable temperatures not exceeding 20 degrees – it is currently winter in Australia – he and Pavel Dresler jogged an eight-kilometre route on the Sunshine Coast every day. “Every other runner greeted us with a friendly ‘G’day’,” said Kopecký, who was visibly impressed by the friendliness of the Australians.

Next up on Wednesday was a photo and TV session, during which the drivers posed for the cameras with their national flags and the boat on Caloundra beach. On Thursday, the European Champion and his co-driver Pavel Dresler switched into rally mode. After a win and a second place in the previous rounds, they have their sights on another good result for ŠKODA come the end of the weekend. That would be another good reason to take Australia to their hearts. 

Did you know that...
...ŠKODA has been active on the Australian market since 2007? The first model for sale Down Under was the Octavia. Nowadays, the Octavia, Octavia Combi, Fabia, Fabia Combi, Superb, Superb Combi, Yeti and Rapid Spaceback are available.

...well-equipped models with powerful engines are most popular Down Under? For example, 40 per cent of the Octavias sold are RS models.

...ŠKODA sold 3,555 cars in Australia last year?

...the origins of the International Rally of Queensland date back to 1968? It was then that the rally’s predecessor, the Rally Queensland, was held for the first time. The race has also formed part of the Australian Rally Championship since then, making it the longest-standing event in the championship.

...ŠKODA went on to win the title in the APRC after both successes at the iconic rally in Australia? Chris Atkinson triumphed in 2012, with Gaurav Gill crowned rally king of the Asia-Pacific region in 2013.

...Australia is the sixth largest country on earth, with an area of around 7.7 million km²? The coastline itself is 35,876 kilometres long.

...the Australian Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, is the largest reef in the world? It is 2,300 kilometres long and the largest living structure on the planet.

The number for the International Rally of Queensland: 20
At last year’s International Rally of Queensland, the two ŠKODA drivers clocked the fastest time by an APRC river on all 20 special stages. Esapekka Lappi was the quickest man on 13 stages and went on to win the APRC class at the rally. Gaurav Gill, who was to be crowned APRC Champion, notched up seven stage wins.

FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), overall standings manufacturers’ championship after 2 of 6 events:
1. ŠKODA, 75 points; 2. Proton, 36; 3. Mitsubishi, 32; 4. Renault, 25; 5. Subaru, 13

FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), overall standings drivers’ championship after 2 of 6 events:
1. Gaurav Gill, 66 points; 1. Jan Kopecký, 66; 3. Michael Young 36, 4. Mark Pedder, 32; 5. Tom Wilde 25

The 2014 APRC calendar:
11–13 April: Rally of Whangarei – New Zealand
16–18 May: Rallye de Nouvelle-Calédonie – New Caledonia
20–22 June: Rally of Queensland – Australia
15–17 August: Malaysian Rally – Malaysia
26–28 September: Rally Hokkaido – Japan
7–9 November: China Rally – China
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Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #68 poslato: 22. Jun, 2014. 17:41 »
Ypres Rally: ŠKODA claims fifth win in a row
6/21/2014

​Record winner Freddy Loix triumphs for ŠKODA at the Belgian asphalt classic.
Record win for ŠKODA on golden anniversary of the Ypres Rally: victory marks the first time in the 50-year history of the asphalt rally around the town of Ypres in West Flanders that one manufacturer has won the event five times in a row. Freddy Loix (B), who is supported by ŠKODA Belgium, won the rally classic for the ninth time in his career – another record. Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D) of the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland team finished third to pick up their second podium of the season and climb to second place overall in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) – level on points with Craig Breen/Scott Martin (IRL/GB).

“That is incredible, something nobody has done before,” said Freddy Loix. The Belgian rally legend and his co-driver Johan Gitsels (B) ended the sixth round of the ERC with a lead of over a minute. “Nine wins – this record will stand for a while, I hope. A huge compliment goes to the many fans out on the route and in the Service Park in Ypres, as the atmosphere at this rally was once again fantastic. I would also like to thank ŠKODA Belgium and the entire ŠKODA Motorsport family for the great support. The Fabia Super 2000 ran perfectly again.”

Wiegand, who produced a flawless drive on his Ypres debut, was also overjoyed. The 23-year-old kept a cool head, particularly on day two of the rally, which was dominated by numerous crashes. “My second podium in the ERC – I am over the moon,” said Sepp Wiegand, who had previously finished runner-up in Northern Ireland: “I never thought I would end up on the podium at the end of my first attempt at this difficult rally. I would like to thank the whole team and all the folks at home who have had their fingers crossed for me all weekend.”

ERC leader Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm was lucky things didn’t turn out worse. The Finnish duo started the final day of the rally in third place and clocked the fastest time on the eighth special stage on Saturday morning. However, shortly afterwards, on the “Vleteren-Krombeke 1” stage, Lappi skidded off the road in a right-hander and was forced to retire. “A stupid mistake, which cost us a place on the podium and important points in the championship,” said Esapekka Lappi. “It just goes to show that this rally does not forgive even the slightest mishap. Janne and I feel incredibly bad for the team – our guys once again did a perfect job, but we have to apologise to them this time.” Despite the mistake, Lappi continues to lead the Drivers’ Championship.

In total, three ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000s finished in the top five, with Luca Rossetti/Matteo Chiarchossi (I/I) producing a stunning fightback to climb nine places on Saturday. The next round of the European Rally Championship takes place from 17th to 19th July in Estonia.

The number for the Ypres Rally: 5
Five wins in succession for ŠKODA at the Ypres Rally – no other manufacturer had ever achieved a winning run of this length in the history of the Flemish high-speed classic. And all with the same type of car too: the successful ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000. As in 2010, 2011 and 2013 it was Belgian rally legend Freddy Loix who took his place on the top step of the podium at this year’s anniversary event. In 2012, Juho Hänninen (FIN) triumphed in the quick and reliable, four-wheel drive powerhouse from Mladá Boleslav.

Ypres Rally – Final result
1. Loix/Gitsels (B/B, ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000) 2h 43m 13.7s
2. Cherain/Leyh (B/B, Ford Fiesta R5) + 1m 09.9s
3. Wiegand/Christian (D/D, ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000) + 2m 14.2s
4. Kobus/De Wild (NL/NL, Ford Fiesta S2000) + 2m 32.5s
5. Rossetti/Chiarchossi (I/I, ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000) + 3m 44.5s
6. Vanneste/Snaet (B/B, Peugeot 207 S2000) + 5m 25.4s
7. Lefevere/Vangheluwe (B/B, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X-R4) + 6m 11.5s
8. Duquesne/Cuvelier (B/B, Ford Fiesta R5) + 6m 53.2s
9. Debackere/Cokelaere (B/B, Peugeot 207 S2000) + 6m 59.7s
10. Hadik/Kertesz (H/H, Subaru Impreza R4) + 9m 01.6s
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Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #69 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:35 »
40 years of ŠKODA RS at the Rally Bohemia: Two ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000s line up in 1974 race livery

​› Two ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000s in the 1974 ŠKODA 180 RS/200 RS colours
› ŠKODA drivers Kopecký and Wiegand set sights on victory at ŠKODA’s home race
› ERC leader Lappi tests new turbo engine for new ŠKODA Fabia R 5
› In 1974 the “original” RS models – the ŠKODA 180 RS/200 RS – heralded the successful era for ŠKODA Motorsport in the 1970s and 1980s

Mladá Boleslav, 8 July 2014 – Homage to 40 years of ŠKODA RS speed: ŠKODA lines up at the Rally Bohemia with two current ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000s in the same livery as sported by the historic ŠKODA 180 RS and ŠKODA 200 RS rally cars. The two ŠKODA drivers Jan Kopecký and Sepp Wiegand have their sights set on victory in their retro ŠKODA powerhouses. The Rally Bohemia takes place this coming weekend (11/12 July 2014) in the region around the city of Mladá Boleslav - home of the headquarters of the Czech car manufacturer.
​The occasion that has prompted the historic outfit for the Fabia Super 2000 is the 40th birthday of the ŠKODA 180 RS and ŠKODA 200 RS. The two spectacular rally cars made their first official race outings in June 1974. Their debut came at the Rally ŠKODA, the predecessor of today’s Rally Bohemia. Exactly 40 years later, the current Fabia Super 2000s driven by ŠKODA drivers Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler and Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian will feature the 1974 livery.

The ŠKODA 180 RS and ŠKODA 200 RS are seen as the founders of ŠKODA’s successful RS history, in which the iconic ŠKODA 130 RS was instrumental in shaping the company’s motorsport activities in the 1970s and 1980s. Since 2000, the manufacturer has resurrected this tradition with RS versions for end user models. The short-term highlight is the new ŠKODA Octavia RS – the fastest and most powerful production Octavia of all time. The RS stands for ‘Rally Sport’.

“For 40 years the acronym RS has been synonymous with particularly sporty ŠKODA cars full of spirit, class and verve,” said ŠKODA Dr. Frank Welsch, Board Member for Technical Development. “Our emotional outing at the Rally Bohemia sees us underline the importance of the RS model for our brand and building bridging the gap between the past and the brand’s current motorsport success,” said Dr. Welsch.

Jan Kopecký and Sepp Wiegand are looking to challenge for victory in their retro cars at the Rally Bohemia. “It is awesome to compete in a rally around my home and the headquarters of ŠKODA, and to evoke memories of the brand’s outstanding RS history at the same time. I am particularly looking forward to contesting a rally on tarmac again – I usually find myself on gravel routes in the APRC,” said Jan Kopecký. The reigning European Rally Champion won the Rally Bohemia in 2013. In 2014 the ŠKODA works driver primarily lines up in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). With two wins and a second place to his name, Kopecký currently leads the overall standings in the APRC.

The second ŠKODA driver, Sepp Wiegand, also rates his chances in Bohemia: “Recent podiums in Northern Ireland and Belgium have shown that I am getting into my stride. I obviously want to show that in ŠKODA’s backyard.” As well as Kopecký and Wiegand, Italian driver Umberto Scandola will also line up in a Fabia Super 2000 at the Rally Bohemia, with the support of ŠKODA Italy.

As well as its historic significance, this year’s Rally Bohemia is also important to ŠKODA in terms of the brand’s future motorsport activities. The current European Championship leader and ŠKODA works driver Esapekka Lappi will test the new 1.6-litre turbo engine for the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5 under race conditions for the first time. This is the car, with which ŠKODA will compete in the R5 category at international rallies as of 2015. Lappi will complete the test on selected stretches of the Rally Bohemia route in a ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 fitted with the new engine.

In accordance with FIA regulations, the new R5 rally car is equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine. “The development of the Fabia R 5 is progressing nicely. We are on schedule,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “The first test under competitive conditions is a big step towards achieving homologation by mid-2015,” said Hrabánek.

The Rally Bohemia takes place this weekend (11/12 July 2014). Twelve special stages over an entire distance of exactly 150.66 kilometres await the competitors. Saturday’s finish is on Václav-Klement street in Mladá Boleslav, just in front of the ŠKODA Museum. The Rally Bohemia forms part of the International Czech Championship. As it was last year, ŠKODA is the main sponsor of the event in 2014.



Did you know that…

... the Rally Bohemia was called the Rally ŠKODA from the first time it was staged until 1985? The Czech car manufacturer founded the rally in order to test the quality and resilience of its models under extreme conditions. The first rally, 40 years ago, was a proud 1,800 kilometres long, with the special stages spread out across the whole of Czechoslovakia. 152 teams took part, 72 of them from abroad.

… the 200 RS, with which the success story of the RS models began back in 1974, had a 163-hp two-litre engine? It reached a top speed of 210 km/h and had a Porsche gearbox.

… the positive experiences with the 200 RS  resulted in the 130 RS being built shortly after? The racing car also known as the “Porsche of the East” presented ŠKODA with spectacular success in rallying and on the circuit racing scene, including a class victory at the Rally Monte Carlo in 1977 and victory in the 1981 European Touring Car Championship.

… ŠKODA won the Rally Bohemia with the 130 RS five times in a row between 1976 and 1980? Norway’s John Haugland was responsible for three of these victories.

…. the Rally Bohemia formed part of the European Rally Championship and the European Rally Cup for many years? Jan Kopecký, now a ŠKODA works driver, was victories on three occasions – 2004, 2005 and 2013.

… ŠKODA has won the last four Rally Bohemias in a row? Finland’s Juho Hänninen won in a Fabia Super 2000 in 2009 and 2010, while Belgian Freddy Loix triumphed in 2011. Jan Kopecký won last year, after there had been no official final result in 2012.

… the turn of the millennium heralded the renaissance of RS models? The Octavia RS, which was launched in 2000, was immediately a resounding success due to its powerful engine, outstanding handling and sporty charisma. In 2001, the 100th anniversary of ŠKODA Motorsport was marked with the exclusive ŠKODA Octavia RS WRC Edition, of which only 100 models were made.

… the third generation of the Octavia RS is the fastest production ŠKODA Octavia of all time, achieving a top speed of 248 km/h?


The number for the Rally Bohemia: 12

This year’s Rally Bohemia has been compressed significantly compared to last year, and now features twelve special stages. The 150.66 kilometres include a stretch in the foothills of the Iser Mountains. The first and final stages are attractive city stages in Mladá Boleslav, with the grand finale taking place around the rally headquarters at the ŠKODA Museum.
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Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #70 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:37 »
ŠKODA on course for podium at home rally

​› European Champion Kopecký second after day one
› 40 years of RS: Fabia Super 2000 thrills fans with retro livery
› ERC leader Lappi tests new turbo engine for the ŠKODA Fabia R 5

​Mladá Boleslav, 11 July 2014 – European Rally Champion Jan Kopecký (CZ) is on course for a podium finish for ŠKODA after the opening day of the Rally Bohemia. The local favourite is embroiled in a battle with Czech champion Václav Pech (CZ) for victory at the Czech automobile manufacturer’s home event around the company’s headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. As well as this enthralling duel, fans on day one were also taken by the ŠKODA works team’s Fabia Super 2000s, which are sporting a retro look. To mark the 40th anniversary of the launch of the first RS model, the two rally cars took to the route in a historic livery similar to that adorning the cars back in 1974.

​“It is not easy, the roads are slippery. I would obviously like to be first, but there is still a long way to go. It is going to be an exciting duel at the top,” said Kopecký. The current leader of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) and his co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) are 18.0 seconds behind their compatriots Václav Pech and Petr Uhel after the first five special stages. In third place at the rally, which forms part of the International Czech Championship, is the Italian pair of Umberto Scandola/Guido d’Amore, whose performance in a Fabia Super 2000 has given the ŠKODA family even more reason for optimism.

Another ŠKODA duo still with their sights set on the podium is that of Sepp Wiegand and Frank Christian (D/D), who are currently fifth for the ŠKODA Motorsport works team. “The conditions were changing constantly. In some places we had a lot of grip, in others very little. We still have room for improvement, and are working hard to do precisely that. We can go faster,” said 23-year-old Wiegand. Like Kopecký, he too tackled the three stages in the daylight and two at night behind the wheel of a Fabia Super 2000 in the colours of the first RS models from back in 1974. That was when the ŠKODA 180 RS and 200 RS models made their first official appearances in a race. The spectacular models made their rally debuts at what was then the Rally ŠKODA, the predecessor to today’s Rally Bohemia.

And there was another first this year, which has also created a bit of a stir in Mladá Boleslav. The current ERC leaders Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) took to selected parts of the route for the first time with the 1.6-litre turbo engine, which has been developed for the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5. From 2015, ŠKODA will line up with the new rally car in the R5 category at international rallies. “It is a great honour for us to be able to test the engine for the R 5 for the first time at a rally, and at ŠKODA’s home rally. We are thrilled,” explained Lappi.

Saturday features seven special stages, with 89.37 kilometres against the clock. Saturday’s finish is on Václav-Klement Street in Mladá Boleslav, right in front of the ŠKODA Museum. As in previous years, ŠKODA is the main sponsor of the event.


Number of the day: 4

Four Fabia Super 2000s in the top ten: the ŠKODA drivers put on an impressive display on day one of the Rally Bohemia. As well as works drivers Jan Kopecký in second place and Sepp Wiegand in fifth, a further two drivers made it into the top ten in the high-tech four-wheel drive car from Mladá Boleslav: Umberto Scandola (I) is third, while Martin Vlček (CZ) currently lies eighth.


Rally Bohemia – Overall classification after day 1

1. Pech/Uhel (CZ/CZ), Mini John Cooper Work S2000            35m 8.1s
2. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000        + 18.0s
3. Scandola/D’Amore, ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 45.2s
4. Odložilík/Tureček (CZ/CZ), Ford Fiesta R5                + 53.6s
5. Wiegand/Christian (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 1m 1.2s
6. Jakeš/Novák (CZ/CZ), Citroen DS3 R5                + 1m 7.2s
7. Sýkora/Škardová (CZ/CZ), Ford Fiesta R5                + 1m 15.9s
8. Vlček/Lasevič (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 2m 41.2s
9. Vágner/Kučera (CZ/CZ), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX            + 2m 56.5s
10. Votava/Synáč  (CZ/CZ), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX            + 3m 11.4s
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Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #71 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:40 »
Kopecký wins to crown triple success at ŠKODA’s home race
12.7.2014 | category: Motorsport

​› European Champion repeats last year’s success at the Rally Bohemia
› Fabia Super 2000 monopolises the podium: Scandola second, ahead of Wiegand
› Fans celebrate 40th anniversary of the ŠKODA RS
› Historic rally cars, two Fabia Super 2000s in retro design and a test version of the Fabia R 5 bridge the gap between the past and the present

​Mladá Boleslav, 12 July 2014 – European Rally Champion Jan Kopecký (CZ) ahead of Umberto Scandola (I) and Sepp Wiegand (D): the ŠKODA family tasted triple success at its home rally. Thousands of fans packed the finish area in front of the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav to celebrate the local manufacturer’s victory at the Rally Bohemia, which this year also marked the 40th anniversary of the iconic ŠKODA RS. Vintage rally cars from back then, the two works Fabia Super 2000s in retro livery, and the first test of the 1.6-litre turbo engine for the new Fabia R 5 under competitive conditions bridged the gap between the past and the future.

​“Congratulations to Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler on repeating last year’s success. And I am obviously delighted with the great result for ŠKODA,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. He was full of praise for the “compact format” of the Rally Bohemia, which he saw as a “model for the future”. Since the Fabia Super 2000 made its first outing at the iconic event in 2009, the Czech automobile manufacturer has been unbeaten at the asphalt rally around the company headquarters.

Successful defending champions Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler came home 43.9 seconds ahead of Umberto Scandola/Guido d’Amore (I/I), who were supported by ŠKODA Italia. In winning, Kopecký completed a hat-trick of victories, having previously won the last two rounds of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) in New Caledonia and Australia. Third place went to Germans Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian in the works team’s second Fabia Super 2000, which also sported a stunning retro design. After two top-three results in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), this recent success also marked the German duo’s third podium in a row.

“I am proud to have lived up to the huge expectations here in front of the ŠKODA headquarters. It is a shame that my rival Václav Pech retired so early on the final day,” said Kopecký. “I would like to thank the entire team for the outstanding job they have done. Like the thousands of fans lining the route, we were also thrilled by the Fabia Super 2000 in its 1974 look.” Sepp Wiegand was also satisfied with his place on the podium, having fought back from fifth place: “I am pleased to have made it onto the podium again after the two recent top-three results in the European Rally Championship. I sensed that the team believes in me, and wanted to pay them back for that trust.”
After more rain on the final morning, the skies cleared later on. Iconic ŠKODA models like the 200 RS, which made its first official appearance at this rally back in 1974, were presented in glorious sunshine in the finish area on Václav-Klement Street. The 200 RS heralded the start of a success story for the RS models, which have also proven to be extremely popular production cars.

The car charged with writing the next chapter in ŠKODA’s 113-year motorsport history in 2015 is the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5. ERC leaders Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) put its 1.6-litre turbo engine through its paces under rally conditions for the first time at this year’s Rally Bohemia. “I’d like to thank the entire team for making it possible to test the new Fabia R 5 under competitive conditions, whilst at the same time completing its standard rally operations. We have reached another milestone in the development of our car,” said Hrabánek.

The victorious team will have no time for a breather after the successful outing at their home event: ŠKODA heads to Estonia for the next round of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) as soon as Monday. Lappi and Wiegand will be in action for the Czech automobile manufacturer from Thursday to Saturday. After six of the season’s eleven races, Lappi holds a 33-point lead over both Wiegand and Craig Breen (IRL) at the top of the overall standings. Kopecký returns to the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), which he leads at the halfway point of the season. His next appearance will be at the Rally Malaysia from 15 to 17 August.


Number of the day: 9

ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 drivers clocked the fastest time on nine of the twelve special stages at the Rally Bohemia. Winner Jan Kopecký won two of the opening day’s five stages – setting exactly the same time as fellow ŠKODA driver Umberto Scandola on one of the stages. The final day saw Kopecký claim another six stage wins, while Scandola guided the high-tech four-wheel drive car from Mladá Boleslav to victory on SS 10.


Rally Bohemia – Final result

1. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000        1h 30m 36.1s
2. Scandola/D’Amore, ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 43.9s
3. Wiegand/Christian (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 1m 10.8s
4. Odložilík/Tureček (CZ/CZ), Ford Fiesta R5                + 1m 26.9s
5. Vlček/Lasevič (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 5m 24.0s
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Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #72 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:41 »
No time for a breather: ŠKODA out to shine as ERC debuts in Estonia
14.7.2014 | category: Motorsport

​› ERC leader Lappi looking forward to quick gravel roads “like in Finland”
› German rally ace Wiegand sets sights on another podium
› Rally Estonia makes its debut in the European Rally Championship (ERC)

​Mladá Boleslav, 14 July 2014 – Next stop: Estonia. There is no time for ŠKODA to take a breather this week. The Czech car manufacturer follows its successful home race, the Rally Bohemia, with its next outing from 17 to 19 June – this time in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC). “Extremely quick gravel routes and massive jumps – it is almost like being at home,” said Esapekka Lappi, describing the Rally Estonia. The high-speed specialist in ŠKODA Motorsport colours leads the biggest continental rally championship as the teams head to the seventh round of the season, which takes place in the region around Estonia’s second largest city, Tartu.

​The Rally Estonia is a new addition to the ERC calendar. As such, it is the greatest unknown factor in this summer of rallying. 231.55 high-speed kilometres, the majority on bumpy gravel roads, await the 63 competitors. As well as Lappi, who lines up alongside co-driver Janne Ferm (FIN) in the Fabia Super 2000, the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland duo will also be in action in the second works-assisted car: Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D) arrive in Estonia as one of the closest rivals of their fellow ŠKODA duo from Finland. Wiegand, who finished third at ŠKODA’s home rally last weekend, is 33 points behind Lappi in the ERC standings – level on points with second-placed Craig Breen (IRL).

“I really want to get a good result and pick up plenty of points towards the championship. However, the importance of experience cannot be underestimated at these high-class ERC rallies. We saw that with Freddy Loix’ victory in Belgium recently. In Estonia, all eyes will be on the local heroes, like Ott Tänak,” said Lappi. “At first I will have to get used to the quick gravel roads again, as I was driving on tarmac at the Rally Bohemia last weekend. However, gravel is my absolute favourite surface. That is what I grew up on as a rally driver,” said Lappi.

Lappi’s home may only be separated from Estonia by the Gulf of Finland, but the largest rally event in the Baltics is new territory for him – just as it is for the entire ŠKODA Motorsport team and top German rally driver Sepp Wiegand. “I have heard it is like Finland, but I’ve never driven there either,” said Wiegand. “Estonia will once again be a big challenge for us, but I will do my best – as always. The recent ERC podiums in Northern Ireland and Belgium show that I am getting into my stride.” The 23-year-old impressed at the Circuit of Ireland Rally, where he finished runner-up behind Lappi, and on his first appearance in Belgium, where he came home third.

With three wins from five starts, ŠKODA has enjoyed a successful 2014 ERC season so far. Freddy Loix (B) recently won his home rally in West Flanders at the wheel of a Fabia Super 2000, after Lappi had previously won the rallies in Latvia and Northern Ireland.

When ŠKODA started its home event – the Rally Bohemia – around the Czech automobile manufacturer’s headquarters in Mladá Boleslav last weekend, it also celebrated the 40th birthday of its sporty RS models. As a homage to the successful history of the RS, Sepp Wiegand and ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký (CZ), who won the rally, lined up in two Fabia Super 2000s sporting a red and white retro look. Lappi also tested the turbo engine for the new Fabia R 5 outside of the actual competition. The R5 class is the successor to the current Super 2000 class. The new R5 rally car is equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine, in accordance with FIA regulations.


Did you know that …

... the Rally Estonia is being held for only the fifth time? The gravel rally made its debut in 2010. The winner of the inaugural event was local favourite Markko Märtin. Mads Østberg (N), who is currently fourth in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), triumphed in 2011 and 2012.

… the Rally Estonia is the largest rally event in the Baltic states? In total, 169 teams from 19 different countries are registered in the entry list, including 63 cars in the ERC category. The event also forms part of the Estonian national rally championship and the FIA European Historic Sporting Rally Championship.

… the winner of the Rally Estonia traditionally receives a trophy helmet designed by Estonian artists? This year, the helmet is mostly blue with a red number 1.

…  Otepää, which hosts the rally headquarters, is primarily known as a winter sports venue? Races in the cross-country skiing world cup have been held here every year for many years. The next is scheduled for 2015.

… Estonia has been an independent state since 1991? The country joined the Eurozone in 2011, meaning the currency is the Euro.

… ŠKODA is one of the bestsellers in the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania? In the first half of 2014, sales figures rose by 34.5 per cent.


The number for the Rally Estonia: 6

ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 drivers have already made six appearances on the podium in this season’s FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), three of which were on the very top step. Raimund Baumschlager finished third at the season-opener, his home event in Austria, back in January. Works driver Esapekka Lappi (FIN) was victorious in Latvia and Northern Ireland. ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland driver Sepp Wiegand (D) came home second in Northern Ireland and third in Belgium, where local favourite Freddy Loix triumphed in the Fabia Super 2000.


FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), overall standings drivers’ championship after 6 of 11 events:

1. Esapekka Lappi, 103 points; 2. Craig Breen, 70; 3. Sepp Wiegand, 70; 3. Vasily Gryazin, 53; 5. Kajetan Kajetanowicz, 48; 6. Robert Kubica, 39; 7. Kevin Abbring, 38; 8. Bernardo Sousa, 37; 9. Freddy Loix, 37; 10. Robert Cosani, 37.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #73 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:43 »
Long straights, big jumps: ŠKODA on course for points at its debut in Estonia
18.7.2014 | category: Motorsport

​› ERC leader Lappi ends the opening day of the Rally Estonia in fifth place in the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000
› German rally ace Wiegand starts final day in sixth place
› 107.88 kilometres of gravel special stage scheduled for Saturday

​Otepää, 18th July 2014 – ŠKODA is on course to finish in the points after day one of the high-speed Rally Estonia. Finnish duo Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm currently lie fifth in their Fabia Super 2000 at the seventh round of the FIA European Rally Championship. The championship leaders are just ahead of Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D): the two youngsters in the ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland team are sixth in the second works car.

​The Rally Estonia is a new addition to the ERC calendar, making it the great unknown of this summer of rallying. Neither the ŠKODA Motorsport works team nor the two pairs of drivers have ever competed in the gravel rally around the winter sport centre of Otepää in the south of Estonia. As such, the ŠKODA  drivers have taken a tactical approach to the first of the two rally days.

“We are dealing with extremely fast roads here in Estonia, on which even the slightest error can result in retirement immediately,” said Lappi. “The stages are even quicker than those in my home of Finland. I could definitely drive faster, but I would then cross the line to a point where I could no longer justify the risks. When it comes down to it, I also have to think about the overall championship standings and to score as many points as possible. Furthermore, the ‘local heroes’, who play no role in the overall ERC standings, have a clear advantage here when it comes to experience – and they took full advantage of that on Friday. One thing is clear though: we want more on Saturday.”

Indeed, the top four at the Rally Estonia consists solely of all-Estonian duos going into the final day. “Compliments to the local guys. We were not quite able to match their pace,” said Wiegand. “I have never driven on such fast special stages. But I’ll tell you one thing: it is incredibly good fun! We can certainly go faster, but the most important thing is not to make any mistakes. I really want to reach the finish on Saturday and head to the next rally in second place overall.”

The second day of the Rally Estonia – the biggest motorsport event in the Baltic states – features a further 107.88 kilometres on gravel, spread over six special stages. The finish lies in Estonia’s second largest city, Tartu, where the presentation ceremony will take place at 20:45 local time (19:45 CET) on Saturday.


Number of the day: 8,250

The maximum engine speed of the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 is 8,250 rpm – then the engine electronics in the 279-hp power unit in the high-tech four-wheel drive vehicle from Mladá Boleslav automatically regulates the engine speed. At no other rally on the ERC calendar does this happen as often as on the extremely quick gravel roads of the Rally Estonia. On Friday, the two ŠKODA duos achieved an average speed of over 126 km/h on some of the stages. For comparison: the top average speed at the traditionally fast gravel rally in Ypres two weeks ago was 115 km/h.


Rally Estonia – Overall classification after day 1

1. Tänak/Mõlder (EST/EST), Ford Fiesta R5                58m 18.1s
2. Kõrge/Pints (EST/EST), Ford Fiesta R5                + 44.2s
3. Lukyanuk/Arnautov (RUS/RUS), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X        + 47.4s
4. Aus/Koskinen (EST/EST), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX            + 1m 07.0s
5. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 1m 25.9s
6. Wiegand/Christian (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 1m 48.7s
7. Kruuda/Järveoja (FIN/FIN), Peugeot 208 T16            + 1m 56.1s
8. Plangi/Sarapuu (EST/EST), Peugeot 208 T16            + 2m 01.7s
9. Murakas/Adler (FIN/FIN), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X            + 2m 05.7s
10. Chardonnet/De La Haye (F/F), Citroën DS3 R5            + 2m 06.7s
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #74 poslato: 21. Jul, 2014. 10:45 »
Rally Estonia: ŠKODA drivers extend their lead in the European Rally Championship
19.7.2014 | category: Motorsport

​› ŠKODA works driver Lappi finished fifth at the high-speed rally in Estonia to extend his lead in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC)
› ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland driver Wiegand finished seventh in Estonia and is now second in the overall standings
› ŠKODA travels to their ERC home rally in Zlín at the end of August with a one-two lead

​Otepää, 19 July 2014 – The ŠKODA drivers picked up valuable championship points at the high-speed Rally Estonia. Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) finished in fifth place at the seventh race of the season in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), which sees them extend their lead in the overall standings. Their closest rivals are brand mates from the team ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland: Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D) finished seventh in the factory Fabia Super 2000 and are in second place in the championship. ŠKODA now travel to their ERC home rally in the city of Zlín (29-31 August 2014) in the east of the Czech Republic with a one-two lead in the drivers' and co-drivers' standings.

​The Rally Estonia was added to the ERC calendar for the first time this year. The two ŠKODA driver duos were excited to see what the gravel tracks around the winter sports resort of Otepää in southern Estonia had in store for them. Obviously it was going to be fast: the fastest special stages of the ERC. Average speeds of more than 127 km/h were achieved regularly across the two rally days, in which the participants had to tackle a total of 231.55 kilometres of special stages. The winners were local heroes Ott Tänak/Raigo Mõlder (EST/EST).

“It really was an incredibly fast rally. We pretty much drove in sixth gear the whole time. I'm not even used to that in my Finnish home town,” said Lappi. “To keep up with the 'local heroes' we had to take even more risks in some difficult conditions. At the end of the tenth special stage, for example, it was raining so much that we could hardly see anything. Looking at the ERC overall standings, it was sensible not to take any unnecessary risks. The positive is that we have extended our lead in the championship ahead of the ŠKODA home rally in Zlín.”

Talking of the ŠKODA home rally: German rally ace Wiegand will take part in the legendary Barum Czech Rally as the new number two in the championship. “We didn't make it onto the podium this time, but it was still the coolest rally I've ever driven in,” said Wiegand. “I can say that I've gained valuable experience in Estonia, since there aren't such quick gravel tracks anywhere else in Europe. I'm also delighted to have picked up important championship points.”

The next ERC race takes place from 29 to 31 August in ŠKODA's home country of the Czech Republic. Two weeks before this, ŠKODA will take part in the Malaysian Rally as the leader in the manufacturers' standings in the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). European champion Jan Kopecký (CZ) travels to Malaysia at the top of the APRC standings after two victories in three rallies. Team-mate Gaurav Gill (IND), who won the season opener in New Zealand ahead of Kopecký, is in second place in the championship.


The number of the Rally Estonia: 8,250

The maximum number of revolutions per minute of the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 is 8,250 r/min – after that the engine electronics of the 279 hp unit in the high-tech four-wheel drive from Mladá Boleslav reduce automatically. This doesn't happen as frequently at any other rally on the ERC calendar as it does on the extremely fast gravel tracks of the Rally Estonia. The highest speed measured by the organizers was 230 km/h.


Rally Estonia – Provisional results

1. Tänak/Mõlder (EST/EST), Ford Fiesta R5                1h 49m 36.4s
2. Lukyanuk/Arnautov (RUS/RUS), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X        + 47.1s
3. Kõrge/Pints (EST/EST), Ford Fiesta R5                + 55.4s
4. Aus/Koskinen (EST/EST), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX            + 2m 11.7s
5. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 2m 17.2s
6. Kruuda/Järveoja (FIN/FIN), Peugeot 208 T16            + 2m 56.8s
7. Wiegand/Christian (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000            + 3m 24.1s
8. Murakas/Adler (FIN/FIN), Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X            + 3m 41.8s
9. Chardonnet/De La Haye (F/F), Citroën DS3 R5            + 4m 27.7s
10. Sohlberg/Flythström (FIN/FIN), Ford Fiesta R5            + 5m 59.0s
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