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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #105 poslato: 08. Jun, 2015. 12:57 »
Rally Italy: Second big test for the ŠKODA Fabia R5 in FIA WRC

​›    ŠKODA out to make a mark again on second WRC outing with the Fabia R5
›    Two Fabia R5s line up on Sardinia; European Champion Esapekka Lappi gunning for second top result, World Championship return for Jan Kopecký
›    Awesome rally: 24 stages, 403 kilometres, and the iconic Micky’s Jump
›    Michal Hrabánek: “Ultimate test of man and machine”

​Mladá Boleslav, 8 June 2015 – After a dazzling WRC debut in Portugal, the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 is now set for its second outing in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) this weekend (11th to 14th June). Two Fabia R5s from ŠKODA Motorsport will once again line up at the Rally Italy on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. At the wheel of ŠKODA’s new rally car will be European champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) and reigning Asia-Pacific champion Jan Kopecký (CZ).

​The Rally Italy is the sixth round of the current WRC 2 season. The three days on Sardinia will be a particularly tough test for the Fabia R5. The rally is notorious for its hard, dry gravel roads and a particularly challenging route. The drivers must tackle a total 402.88 kilometres, spread over 24 special stages. For comparison: the rally in Portugal consisted of “only” 15 stages.

Two weeks ago, the new Fabia R5 made an impressive debut in the FIA World Rally Championship, claiming two podium positions. Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN) finished runner-up at the Rally Portugal, followed by ŠKODA newcomer Pontus Tidemand (S) and his co-driver Emil Axelsson (S) in third place. “We are very happy with the successful WRC debut of the Fabia R5. Both cars ended the rally with a good result,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “Results from the last few weeks show that we are on the right track with the ŠKODA Fabia R5. We want to play a major role again on Sardinia. However, this rally is a completely different beast to Portugal. The demands placed on man and machine are far greater,” said Hrabánek.

Esapekka Lappi is brimming with confidence: “The successful first outing in the ŠKODA Fabia R5 has made me hungry for more. We want to back up the good performances we have had so far, and to keep pace with the top times again. Utmost concentration is paramount, as any mistake is ruthlessly punished at this rally,” said the European Rally Champion from Finland.

The race on the Italian island in the Mediterranean is regarded as one of the most challenging rallies out there. It takes place on dusty gravel roads and narrow streets in the Sardinian capital Cagliari, as well as on a special circuit on the ‘Ippodromo di Chilivani’ racecourse. And there is one more, very special, highlight: the highest jump of the entire WRC season – the legendary Micky’s Jump.
Taking on this unique challenge at the wheel of the second Fabia R5 will be experienced rally driver Jan Kopecký (CZ). The 33-year-old will make his first WRC outing for ŠKODA since 2007 on Sardinia. “I am hugely looking forward to racing in WRC 2 with the new R5 – eight years after my last start in the World Rally Championship. So far, everything has gone entirely to plan with the new car in the Czech Rally Championship. We travel to Italy full of confidence, but aware that the rally will be a far greater challenge,” said Kopecký, who heads to Sardinia with the wind in his sails following two wins from two starts in this year’s Czech Rally Championship (MČR).

ŠKODA lines up with the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 at selected races in this season’s FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2 class). As well as Esapekka Lappi and Jan Kopecký, Sweden’s Pontus Tidemand will also be in action. One week after the Rally Italy, Tidemand will start for ŠKODA at the third round of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). Tidemand will be aiming to successfully defend his lead in the APRC at the Rally Queensland in Australia.


FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event                    Date               
Rally Monte Carlo       22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden             12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico               05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina           23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal             21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy                  11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland                02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland               30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany            20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia             10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France                01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain                  22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain       12.11.–15.11.2015


Did you know …

… reigning World Rally Champion and current WRC leader Sébastien Ogier (F) made rallying history in a ŠKODA on Sardinia in 2012? Driving a Fabia Super 2000 back then, he finished fifth overall. At the time, this was the best result ever by a driver in a car from the S2000 class. Even more impressive was his achievement on the “Tergu-Osilo 1” stage, where the Frenchman made history: Ogier won the stage, leaving the massed elite in their World Rally Cars trailing in his wake. In 2012, Volkswagen used the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 to prepare for entering the FIA World Rally Championship. Since joining the series, Volkswagen has been the car to beat: the team won the Drivers’, Co-Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ titles in the WRC in both 2013 and 2014. This year, Volkswagen once again leads all three competitions in the WRC class.

… ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký (CZ) gained experience of the Italian round of the WRC on Sardinia nine years ago? Back in 2006, he finished 17th in the ŠKODA Fabia WRC.

… the Rally Italy has only been held on Sardinia since 2004? Before then, Sanremo had provided the venue of the Italian round of the World Championship since the WRC was launched in 1973. Incidentally, the iconic Rally Sanremo has been a happy stomping ground for Esapekka Lappi: in 2013, he finished runner-up at the rally, which forms part of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC).

… Pontus Tidemand is currently the best-placed ŠKODA works driver in the overall WRC 2 standings with 25 points to his name? After just one start, Esapekka Lappi currently lies tenth with 18 points. Five rounds into the season, Finland’s Jari Ketomaa leads the class with 55 points.

… ŠKODA already has one victory at the “Rally Italia Sardegna” to its name? Back in 2010, Juho Hänninen of Finland triumphed in the Fabia Super 2000. That year, the rally was making a one-off appearance in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC). Come the end of the season, Hänninen won the title ahead of fellow ŠKODA driver Jan Kopecký. Incidentally, Kopecký finished third that year, in his only start on Sardinia to date.

… Michèle Mouton (F) made history at the WRC round in Italy? It was here that she became the first and only woman to win a round of the World Rally Championship.

… the service park will reside in Alghero on the west coast of Sardinia for only the second time? The teams were previously housed in Olbia on the other side of the island. The rally gets underway on Thursday in Cagliari, in the south of the island.

… fewer than a third of the kilometres against the clock are the same as last year’s route? A large part of the stages around Oristano on Friday are new to the itinerary. 212.58 kilometres of special stage are scheduled for Saturday, making it the longest WRC leg since 2012. The competitors must also conquer the legendary Micky’s Jump on this day.

… Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily? Almost 1.7 million people live in an area of 24,000 km². The north of Sardinia is 202 kilometres from the Italian mainland – however, the south of the island is just 184 kilometres from Tunisia. The capital is Cagliari.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #106 poslato: 13. Jun, 2015. 00:23 »
Hard Rally Italy: Kopecký in fifth place in WRC 2

​› Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler win their first special stage in WRC 2 at the Rally Italy in the ŠKODA Fabia R5 – but are awarded a time penalty
› European Champion Esapekka Lappi crashes into a stone while in the lead

› Many top teams fail to survive Friday unscathed
› Record Saturday has an abundant 212 km and the legendary 'Micky’s Jump' in store
​Alghero, 12 June 2015 – The hard Rally Italy also took its toll on ŠKODA works drivers Jan Kopecký (CZ) and Esapekka Lappi (FIN). Eight years after his last appearance in the FIA World Rally Championship for the Czech car manufacturer, Kopecký won his first special stage in WRC 2, but ended the second day of rallying in just fifth place in the WRC 2 overall standings after receiving a time penalty. European Champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) was even in the lead on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, but lost a lot of time after colliding with a stone.

​Nothing is decided yet: Only about a third of the approximate 400 kilometres of special stages have been mastered at the most difficult WRC event of the year, which many top teams failed to survive unscathed on Friday. The most difficult stages await the best drivers in the world on Saturday and Sunday.

"We will go on the attack again over the remaining two days. It's simply awesome to be on the great world championship stage once again. The Rally Sardinia has proved to be the difficult test we expected," said Jan Kopecký. The reigning Asia-Pacific Champion and current front-runner in the Czech Rally Championship got his first best time in WRC 2, alongside co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) on Special Stage 4 "Montiferru 1". Despite this, a time penalty sees him start the final weekend with a deficit of 2:58.9 minutes to front-runner Paolo Andreucci (I) in the overall standings.

The conditions were unexpected as 33-year-old Kopecký made his return. The overnight rain meant that the tracks on Sardinia weren't as dusty as feared - and the mostly cloudy sky kept the feared oppressive heat at bay. However, it was incredibly slippery on sections of the narrow gravel tracks on the 133.50 kilometres of special stages on Friday, which put paid to Esapekka Lappi's chance of winning. "The boulders at the edge of the track really are massive - and unfortunately one of them was my downfall. I'm really annoyed about making that mistake. After all, the Fabia R5 was in perfect form once again and has great potential," said Lappi.

Almost 212 kilometres are scheduled for Saturday - this is the longest WRC leg since 2012. On this day, on the 42.22 kilometres of the longest special stage "Monto Lerno", the legendary "Micky's Jump" must also be mastered. It's the highest jump in the WRC circus - the drivers also jump distances of up to 40 metres.

Three weeks ago, the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 celebrated an impressive WRC debut with two podium positions at the Rally Portugal. Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN) finished second ahead of ŠKODA newcomer Pontus Tidemand (S). A ŠKODA Fabia R5 is also on track to finish on the podium at the Rally Italy: Armin Kremer (D) is second in the interim standings of WRC 2.


Number of the day for the Rally Italy: 3

To date, a ŠKODA Fabia R5 has topped the timesheet three times in WRC 2 at the Rally Italy. Esapekka Lappi was the fastest on the first special stage on Thursday evening and was also number 1 on the fifth stage. WRC home comer Jan Kopecký got his first best time in WRC 2 on Special Stage 4 "Montiferru 1". When the new Fabia R5 made its world championship debut at the Rally Portugal, Esapekka Lappi won five special stages in WRC 2.


Rally Italy  – Intermediate standings WRC 2

1. Andreucci/Andreussi (I/I), Peugeot 208 T16              1:39:16.3 hrs.
2. Kremer/Winklhofer (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia R5              + 1:26.3 min.
3. Al Rajhi/Orr (SA/GB), Ford Fiesta RRC                  + 1.33,4 min.
4. Protasov/Cherepin (UKR/UKR), Ford Fiesta     RRC            + 2:05.6 min.
5. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia R5              + 2:58.9 min.
... Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5                  + 31:15.5 min.


FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event                    Date               
Rally Monte Carlo            22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden                12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico                05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina                23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal                21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy                11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland                02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland                30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany                20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia                10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France                01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain                22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain            12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #107 poslato: 13. Jun, 2015. 23:49 »
ŠKODA drivers flying at the front at the Rally Italy

​› Jan Kopecký (CZ) fights his way into third place in the WRC 2 overall standings on Sardinia and is fighting for a podium finish on his WRC return
› European Champion Esapekka Lappi wins three special stages in the ŠKODA Fabia R5 on Saturday – victory on the legendary "Micky's Jump"
› After the record Saturday, a further 45.80 km are in store on the final day

​Alghero, 13 June 2015 – ŠKODA works drivers Jan Kopecký (CZ) and Esapekka Lappi (FIN) flew forward on the "flight day" at the Rally Italy. Asia-Pacific Champion Kopecký worked his way up into third in the overall standings of WRC 2 and is fighting for a podium finish on his comeback to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). European Champion Esapekka Lappi won three special stages in the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 on the longest leg of the WRC season, which covered more than 212 kilometres of stages - including the two stages with the legendary "Micky's Jump".

​"Loads of spectators, great tracks, spectacular leaps - it was a great Saturday at the Rally Italy. We showed the potential of this ŠKODA Fabia R5," said Lappi. On the first pass of the 42.22 kilometres of the longest special stage "Monte Lerno", the 24-year-old and co-driver Janne Ferm (FIN) distanced themselves from second-placed Ukrainian Yurii Protasov by 25.7 seconds. Lappi was also by far the fastest driver in WRC 2 on the second pass. As he hurtled around the stage, the "Flying Finn" also mastered "Micky's Jump" successfully, where the drivers in their rally cars fly distances of up to 40 metres.

Lappi, who missed out on any chance of winning after colliding with a stone on Friday, flew up the field from position 26 in the WRC 2 overall standings at the start of the day into tenth place. Jan Kopecký and co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) were also quick in temperatures of up to 40 degrees. "We tried to drive fast without taking any major risks. It wasn't easy since there were lots of big stones on the track," said the 33-year-old old hand. "My aim is to go home with a good position after my appearance in Sardinia."

The final four special stages on Sunday see just 45.80 kilometres left to go on the feared gravel tracks of the Mediterranean island of Sardinia.

Number of the day for the Rally Italy: 16

Esapekka Lappi moved up 16 positions in the overall standings of WRC 2 on Saturday. After the Finn lost almost half an hour on Friday, he was one of the fastest drivers on Saturday. Lappi got the best time on special stages 13 (Coiluna – Loelle 1), 14 and 19 (Monte Lerno 1 and 2). This makes it ten special stages that the Finn has won in WRC 2 this year.


Rally Italy  – Intermediate standings WRC 2

1. Protasov/Cherepin (UA/UA), Ford Fiesta RRC            4:08:16.3 hrs.
2. Andreucci/Andreussi (I/I), Peugeot 208 T16              + 0:07.0 min.
3. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia R5              + 1:58.4 min.
4. Al Rajhi/Orr (SA/GB), Ford Fiesta RRC                  + 2:56.4 min
5. Fuchs/Misano (CH/RA), Ford Fiesta R5                  + 6:06.5 min.
10. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5                  + 31:15.5 min.


FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event/Date               
Rally Monte Carlo: 22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden: 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico: 05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina: 23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal: 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy: 11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland: 02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland: 30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany: 20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia: 10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France: 01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain: 22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great BritaiN: 12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #108 poslato: 15. Jun, 2015. 10:26 »
Rally Italy: Third place for Jan Kopecký in the ŠKODA Fabia R5

​› Third podium in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) for ŠKODA’s new rally car
› Esapekka Lappi wins seven special stages on Sardinia and finishes ninth to pick up more World Championship points
› Michal Hrabánek: “Team put up a great fight at a tough rally”

​Alghero, 14 June 2015 – Second rally, third podium: Jan Kopecký (CZ) continued the new ŠKODA Fabia R5’s successful run in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). The works driver overcame a time penalty to finish third at the demanding Rally Italy. European champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) won seven special stages on the gravel roads of the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, demonstrating the huge potential of ŠKODA’s new, high-tech four-wheel drive car.

​“The team put up a great fight at what was perhaps the toughest rally of the year on the WRC calendar. The podium is just reward for the effort. However, I am equally pleased that we successfully came through this tough test with both ŠKODA Fabia R5s,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. He reserved special praise for the pairing of Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN): “We really appreciate that they were able to repair the damage to their car by themselves on Friday, and then to continue the fight. That allowed us to demonstrate how competitive our ŠKODA Fabia R5 is.”

Just short of 400 kilometres against the clock on stony gravel roads, in scorching heat and with massive jumps – unlike a number of rival cars, ŠKODA’s new rally car was up to this huge challenge. Jan Kopecký (CZ) and his co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) shrugged off a 1:40-minute penalty on Friday to fight their way back into third place. That made 33-year-old Kopecký the third ŠKODA works driver to earn a place on the WRC 2 podium with the new Fabia R5. Lappi and Puntus Tidemand (S) had previously finished second and third on the new car’s WRC debut at the Rally Portugal three weeks ago.

“A lot of stones on the road, dust, high temperatures – that really was an extremely demanding rally. That makes me even more pleased to have claimed a spot on the podium here on Sardinia. However, it could have been an even better week for us – the time penalty was our mistake,” said Kopecký. He claimed his first stage win in WRC 2.

“Flying Finn” Esapekka Lappi topped the times list on Sardinia on no less than seven occasions – including twice on the “Monte Lerno” stage, which, at 42.22 kilometres, was the longest stage of the rally and featured the legendary “Micky’s Jump”. The drivers fly up to 40 metres through the air after this crest, and Lappi left many of the higher-spec WRC cars in his wake on the second run of “Monte Lerno”, finishing fifth overall. “The ŠKODA Fabia R5 is very quick and we are still yet to tap into its full potential. That makes it all the more bitter that a collision with a stone cost us any chance of a top position in the overall standings,” said the 24-year-old.

Lappi and his co-driver Janne Ferm lost almost half an hour as a result of necessary repairs. However, they then launched a captivating fightback from 26th place to finish an impressive ninth in the WRC 2 standings at the Rally Italy. That was sufficient to earn ŠKODA’s regular driver in the World Championship another two points towards the overall WRC 2 standings.

The next challenge on the grand WRC 2 stage comes in the form of the Rally Poland on 2nd to 5th July. Before then, Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler will be back in business on Friday and Saturday: the Czech duo lines up on home soil at the Rally Hustopeče. Having previously claimed two wins from two races in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR), they have their sights set on adding the next chapter to the new ŠKODA Fabia R5’s success story.


The number for the Rally Italy: 3

Three ŠKODA Fabia R5s were in action at the Rally Italy, and all three finished in the top nine of the WRC 2 standings. Works driver Jan Kopecký finished third to claim a spot on the podium despite a time penalty. Armin Kremer (D) ended the rally in sixth place in a customer racing car. Esapekka Lappi recovered from a huge loss of time to fight his way back into ninth place.


Rally Italy  – WRC 2 Results

1. Protasov/Cherepin (UA/UA), Ford Fiesta     RRC            4:40:52.0 hrs
2. Andreucci/Andreussi (I/I), Peugeot 208 T16              + 0:05.6 min
3. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia R5              + 2:44.0 min
4. Al Kuwari/Clark (Q/GB), Ford Fiesta RRC                  + 6:34.7 min
5. Al-Attiyah/Baumel (Q/F), Ford Fiesta RRC                 + 6:42.6 min
9. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5                  + 26:30.3 min



FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event, Date               
Rally Monte Carlo: 22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden: 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico: 05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina: 23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal: 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy: 11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland: 02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland: 30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany: 20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia: 10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France: 01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain: 22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain: 12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #109 poslato: 16. Jun, 2015. 14:33 »
Rally Hustopeče: Jan Kopecký after home win number three in the ŠKODA Fabia R5

​› Two wins from two starts so far in the Czech Rally Championship
› Michal Hrabánek: “Our aim is to follow on from good results so far”
› New ŠKODA Fabia R5 proves to be both fast and reliable

​Mladá Boleslav, 16 June 2015 – Third outing for the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 on home soil: ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký (CZ) is aiming to continue his winning streak at the Rally Hustopeče (19/20 June). On the back of taking third place at the FIA World Championship races in Sardinia, the 33-year old is heading to the third round of this year’s Czech Rally Championship (MČR). The first two MČR races in Klatovy and Český Krumlov were both won by Kopecký and his co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) in the Fabia R5.

​Although the 2015 rally season is still in its early stages, the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 has already proven to be both fast and reliable, with two wins in the MČR and three podiums in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2 class) currently to its name. ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek: “Our aim in Hustopeče is to follow on from the good results we have achieved so far. The rally will obviously also help us to find out more about how the Fabia R5 behaves in demanding race conditions.”

Jan Kopecký and the Fabia R5 were both in excellent form on their victorious outing at the Rally Český Krumlov. A breath-taking finale saw Jan Kopecký pull ahead of his rival Václav Pech (CZ) shortly before the end of the race. The Rally Hustopeče could see a repeat of the thrilling duel between the two Czech rally legends. “I hope we are able to put on another good show for the fans with a real battle and, of course, our ŠKODA Fabia R5,” said Jan Kopecký. “Pavel and I want to show what we are capable of again. The Rally Hustopeče has been a happy stomping ground for us.”

Kopecký/Dresler won the rally three times in a row between 2011 and 2013, making them the record winners of the event in the wine-growing district in southern Moravia. This year, the competitors face 150.02 kilometres on narrow and often slippery roads. They must negotiate ten special stages in total, two of which are held in the dark. The winner will be crowned early on Saturday afternoon.


Czech Rally Championship (MČR)

Event / Date
Rally Šumava Klatovy   24.04.–25.04.2015
Rally Český Krumlov   22.05.–23.05.2015
Rally Hustopeče   19.06.–20.06.2015
Rally Bohemia    10.07.–12.07.2015
Barum Czech Rally Zlín   28.08.–30.08.2015
Rally Příbram    02.10.–04.10.2015


Did you know …

… The Rally Hustopeče will be held for the eleventh time on Friday and Saturday? The first victory for ŠKODA came courtesy of Leoš Flidr/Bohumil Ehl (CZ/CZ) who won at the wheel of a ŠKODA Octavia WRC, ahead of a certain Jan Kopecký.

… Jan Kopecký holds a commanding lead in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR) with 153 points to his name? His closest rival is Pavel Valoušek (CZ), with 98 points, in a ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000. Kopecký’s big rival Václav Pech (CZ) is currently fourth with 67 points.

… the Horní Bojanovice/Diváky stage is the longest on the Rally Hustopeče at 17.43 kilometres? The competitors must tackle it twice on Friday – once after nightfall.
 
… the service park is located in the town of Hustopeče, which gives the rally its name? The coat of arms of the town in southern Moravia, which has a population of about 6,000, features bunches of grapes. A reference to its location in the heart of a well-known wine-growing district.

… vintage rally cars will also be in action at the Rally Hustopeče? The rally also forms part of the Czech Historic Rally Championship (MČRHA).
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #110 poslato: 21. Jun, 2015. 09:47 »
Third win: Jan Kopecký victorious after pursuit in the ŠKODA Fabia R5

​› ŠKODA works driver remains unbeaten in the Czech Rally Championship
› Table leader Kopecký reduces large deficit after tyre damage and wins seven special stages in a row
› Michal Hrabánek: "Potential of the Fabia R5 proven"

​Hustopeče, 20 June 2015 – After a spectacular pursuit in the new ŠKODA Fabia R5, works driver Jan Kopecký (CZ) celebrated his third win in the third event of the Czech Rally Championship (MČR). The old hand made up the large deficit to his arch-rival Václav Pech (CZ) at the Rally Hustopeče and won seven special stages in a row. This sees Kopecký and his co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) well on their way to winning the title at the halfway stage of the national championship.

​"Jan delivered a fantastic battle and proved the potential of our new Fabia R5. Naturally we are delighted with the reliability and the perfect results of our new rally car in the first half of the season of the Czech Rally Championship. But we still have a lot of work to do," said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek.

Jan Kopecký finished in third at the Rally Italy on demanding gravel tracks last weekend, but quickly got used to the asphalt tracks in his home country. However, the 33-year-old lost a lot of time on the second stage of the Rally Hustopeče when he suffered tyre damage and at one point trailed his fiercest rival Pech by 49 seconds.

Just like at the Rally Český Krumlov, in which the ŠKODA works driver overtook Pech on the final special stage, Kopecký proved to be a great fighter. He won all of the special stages in the wine-growing region of Southern Moravia with a big lead on Saturday. This saw him take the lead in the overall standings at midday and then get his commanding fourth win at the Rally Hustopeče.

After 150.02 kilometres of special stages and wins on seven of the ten stages, Kopecký finished with a lead of 45.1 seconds over Pech and remains unbeaten at home in the ŠKODA Fabia R5. "The first day didn't go according to plan. But we chose the perfect tyres on Saturday. This allowed us to show just how fast our new ŠKODA Fabia R5 is, even in the most difficult of conditions," said Kopecký.

As well as three season wins in the MČR, the ŠKODA Fabia R5 also has three podium finishes in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) to its name. The next challenge in store for Kopecký is the Rally Bohemia from 10 to 12 July. ŠKODA's home race just outside the headquarters in Mladá Boleslav is the highlight of the season of the Czech Rally Championship.


The number of the Rally Hustopeče: 4

The Rally Hustopeče is good ground for Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler. After a hat-trick of wins from 2011 to 2013, they won the event on Saturday for the fourth time. This makes the ŠKODA duo record winners of the rally, which was held for the eleventh time this year.


Rally Hustopeče – Final result

1. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia R5: 1:26:03.8 hrs. 
2. Pech/Uhel (CZ/CZ), Mini John Cooper Works S2000: + 0:45.1 min.
3. Odložilík/Tureček (CZ/CZ), Ford Fiesta R5: + 1:04.0 min.
4. Valoušek/Havelková (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000: + 1:19.9 min.
5. Jelínek/Machů (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000: + 3:00.8 min.


Czech Rally Championship (MČR)

Event/Date
Rally Šumava Klatovy; 24.04.–25.04.2015
Rally Český Krumlov; 22.05.–23.05.2015
Rally Hustopeče; 19.06.–20.06.2015
Rally Bohemia; 10.07.–12.07.2015
Barum Czech Rally Zlín; 28.08.–30.08.2015
Rally Příbram; 02.10.–04.10.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #111 poslato: 30. Jun, 2015. 13:26 »
Rally Poland: ŠKODA sets sights on another top result with the new Fabia R5

​› Two ŠKODA Fabia R5s line up in Poland, with Esapekka Lappi and Pontus Tidemand at the wheel
› Michal Hrabánek: “Real challenge for the new Fabia R5”
› ŠKODA Fabia R5 impresses with three WRC podiums to date

​Mladá Boleslav, 30 June 2015 – Two starts in the World Championship, three podiums: ŠKODA has made quite a mark so far on the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) with the new Fabia R5. ŠKODA is now hungry for another top result on the new rally car’s third appearance in the WRC. Two ŠKODA Fabia R5s will start at the Rally Poland, driven by European champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) and Sweden’s Pontus Tidemand. Round seven of this year’s WRC 2 season takes place from 2nd to 5th July.

​“Very demanding, extremely fast sections are what the Rally Poland is known for. That will be a real challenge for the new Fabia R5. We want to show that our new car is also capable of following on from the good results we have enjoyed so far in high-speed conditions,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. 19 tough special stages and 313.53 kilometres against the clock await the drivers in Poland.

With three podiums from two starts in the World Rally Championship, the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 boasts an excellent record so far. ŠKODA duo Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) finished third at the Rally Italy. Prior to that, reigning European champions Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN) and Swedes Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson had guided the Fabia R5 to second and third place on its WRC debut in Portugal.

Lappi/Ferm and Tidemand/Axelsson line up in the ŠKODA Fabia R5 again at the Rally Poland. Esapekka Lappi has fond memories of the rally, which he won in 2012. “The Rally Poland ought to suit me, as the gravel roads are not that different to the routes at home in Finland,” said the Finnish ŠKODA driver. “We want to drive courageously but without taking too many risks. We are looking forward to exhausting the potential of the ŠKODA Fabia R5 again, and want to finish without making any mistakes this time.”

ŠKODA newcomer Pontus Tidemand is also looking forward to his second race with the new Fabia R5: “Our first outing with the Fabia R5 in Portugal went really well, and we finished third. We want to follow on from that in Poland and, if possible, do even better. The rally will be extremely fast, so we will have to put our foot down whilst at the same time keeping a cool head,” said Tidemand, who recently claimed his second win of the season in the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) at the Rally Queensland in Australia, thus extending his lead in the APRC.

ŠKODA will line up with the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 at selected races in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2 class) this season. As well as Esapekka Lappi and Pontus Tidemand, Czech driver Jan Kopecký will also be in action as a ŠKODA works driver. Kopecký also drives the new high-tech powerhouse in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR), in which he has a flawless record so far: three wins from three starts.


FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2)

Rally Monte Carlo: 22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden: 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexiko: 05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina: 23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal: 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italia: 11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland: 02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland: 30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Deutschland: 20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia: 10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France: 01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain: 22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain: 12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #112 poslato: 04. Jul, 2015. 00:15 »
Dream start for ŠKODA at festival of top speed in Poland

​› Works drivers Esapekka Lappi and Pontus Tidemand lead the WRC 2 standings of the Rally Poland
› Lappi shines with five stage best times: "Great feeling in the ŠKODA Fabia R5"
› 158.49 kilometres remain at the weekend

​Mikolajki, 3 July 2015 – ŠKODA got off to a dream start in the new Fabia R5 at the Rally Poland. European Champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) in the clear lead and Pontus Tidemand (S) head into the decisive weekend with a one-two lead in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) event. Lappi and his co-driver Janne Ferm (FIN) shone at the festival of top speed with five best times on the nine stages so far in glorious sunshine.

​"There were no dramas, no problems, everything went superbly. It feels great in the ŠKODA Fabia R5," enthused Esapekka Lappi. "The tracks in Poland are incredibly fast, it reminds me of my home country of Finland." Around two thirds of the gravel tracks with short sections of asphalt in the Masurian Lake District really are driven at top speed.

Perfect for Lappi: The 24-year-old seized the lead with the best time on the first special stage on Friday and consistently extended this lead. At the end of the day, Lappi/Ferm had built up an advantage of 50.1 seconds over their team-mates Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S). The front-runners of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) got their first two WRC 2 best times for ŠKODA Motorsport on special stages eight and nine.

"Naturally that rounds off a successful day. The roads are so fast, Emil's pace notes are perfect. It's just so much fun," said Tidemand. The reliable Fabia R5 was also fun on a day on which the cars had to survive more than 150 kilometres of special stages without a single service.

158.49 timed kilometres across ten special stages are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Then it will be confirmed whether after three podium finishes in two WRC starts to date, ŠKODA can celebrate their first win with the Fabia R5 in the WRC 2 category. Lappi/Ferm won the Rally Poland once before back in 2012.

The new turbo four-wheel drive Fabia R5 enjoys success around the world: ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký already has three wins to his name after just three events in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR). The ŠKODA Fabia R5 has also long been known as a winning car in customer sport competitions. "Fast" Freddy Loix was victorious on his debut in the new car in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) in his home country of Belgium. Raimund Baumschlager is unbeaten in the Austrian championship after two starts. In the German Rally Championship (DRM), Fabian Kreim (D) and Mark Wallenwein (D) recently celebrated a one-two win in the R5.


Number of the day for the Rally Poland: 4 in the top 5

No less than four ŠKODA are in the top 5 of the WRC 2 interim standings in the Rally Poland. Alongside the two front-runners Esapekka Lappi and Pontus Tidemand of the ŠKODA works team, former European Champion Armin Kremer (D) in the third Fabia R5 was ranked fourth. Finland's Teemu Suninen in a Fabia Super 2000 is in fifth place.
 

Rally Poland – Intermediate standings WRC 2

1. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5, 1:20:06.0 hrs.
2. Tidemand/Axelsson (S/S), ŠKODA Fabia R5, + 0:50.1 min.
3. Kruuda/Jarveoja (EST/EST), Citroën DS3 R5, + 1:47.1 min.
4. Kremer/Winklhofer (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia R5, + 3:05.4 min.
5. Suninen/Markkula (FIN/FIN) ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000, + 3:05.7 min.


FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event / Date               
Rally Monte Carlo: 22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden: 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexiko: 05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina: 23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal: 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italia: 11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland: 02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland: 30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Deutschland: 20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia: 10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France: 01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain: 22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain: 12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #113 poslato: 05. Jul, 2015. 12:36 »

One-two lead defended: ŠKODA drivers keep a cool head in the heat

› Works drivers Esapekka Lappi and Pontus Tidemand head into the final day of the Rally Poland as front-runners in the WRC 2
› Lappi: "We managed to control the race"
› 29.20 kilometres until the first WRC win in the Fabia R5

Mikolajki, 4 July 2015 – ŠKODA heads into the final day of the Rally Poland with a one-two lead. The works teams Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) and Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) kept their nerve in the heated battle and defended their leading positions in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2) event on Saturday. Only the final 29.20 timed kilometres stand between the Czech car manufacturer and their first WRC win in the new Fabia R5.

​"With the advantage on our side we don't need to push. We managed to control the race. It worked well, in particular, our Fabia R5 was perfect once again," said European Champion Esapekka Lappi. With five best times on eight stages on Friday, the Finn was the outstanding driver of the day. On Saturday, ŠKODA team-mate Pontus Tidemand took on the role of main protagonist in the Masurian Lake District, getting five best times in the WRC 2.

The front-runner of the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) won each of the stages eleven to 13 ahead of Lappi, on fast gravel tracks running past beautiful lakes. Then stage 14 "Mazury 2" was cancelled by the organisers for safety reasons because too many fans were obstructing the track. After the enforced break, the ŠKODA duel continued with one best time each for Lappi and Tidemand. Then, on the closing stadium stage, Tidemand was just a miniscule tenth of a second faster than his team-mate Lappi.

"We made a few more changes to the set-up and the car felt fantastic," said Tidemand. "This meant we were able to make up a few seconds on Esapekka here and there. But the advantage he built up on Friday is just too big." Lappi heads to the special stage "Baranowo", which will be driven twice on Sunday, with a buffer of 37.7 seconds. "We just need to continue to keep a cool head in this heat," said Lappi.

Then it will be confirmed whether after three podium finishes in two WRC starts to date, ŠKODA can celebrate their first win with the Fabia R5 in the WRC 2 category. Lappi/Ferm won the Rally Poland once before back in 2012.

Meanwhile, the new Fabia R5 continues to enjoy success elsewhere. At the Rally Niedersachsen, the seventh event of the German Rally Championship (DRM) season, ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland driver Fabian Kreim (D) and Mark Wallenwein (D) celebrated the second one-two win in a row with ŠKODA's turbo four-wheel drive.


Number of the day of the Rally Poland:

13The ŠKODA Motorsport team has won 13 of the 16 special stages of the Rally Poland so far with the Fabia R5 in the WRC 2 classification. Pontus Tidemand was the fastest driver seven times, overall front-runner Esapekka Lappi was in first place six times.


Rally Poland –  Intermediate standings WRC 2

1. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5,      2:17:16.6 hrs.
2. Tidemand/Axelsson (S/S), ŠKODA Fabia R5,     + 0:37.7 min.
3. Kruuda/Jarveoja (EST/EST), Citroën DS3 R5,   + 2:04.2 min.
4. Ketomaa/Lindstrom (FIN/FIN), Ford Fiesta R5,   + 4:35.3 min.
5. Kremer/Winklhofer (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia R5,     + 4:52.8 min.


FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event / Date               
Rally Monte Carlo: 22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden: 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexiko: 05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina: 23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal: 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italia: 11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland: 02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland: 30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Deutschland: 20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia: 10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France: 01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain: 22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain: 12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #114 poslato: 05. Jul, 2015. 21:14 »
Special day for ŠKODA: Lappi claims maiden WRC 2 victory in new Fabia R5

​› Esapekka Lappi and Janne Ferm win the WRC 2 class at the Rally Poland
› Second works duo Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson complete one-two
› Michal Hrabánek: “Reward for the hard work put in by the ŠKODA Motorsport team”

​Mikolajki, 5 July 2015 – Special day for ŠKODA: Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) claimed a historic first win for the new Fabia R5 in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). The European champions produced a commanding display to triumph at the Rally Poland. The second works crew of Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) finished runner-up to complete a one-two at the flat-out festival in the Masurian lake district. The dominant ŠKODA drivers won 14 of 18 special stages in the Fabia R5. The maiden win came at the perfect location: ŠKODA has been the top-selling car brand in Poland for the last six years in a row.

​“What a day for ŠKODA! We claimed our first win in only the third WRC 2 start with the new Fabia R5. Compliments to both teams – Esapekka Lappi and Janne Ferm, and Pontus Tidemand and Emil Axelsson. They were flawless for four days, even in that heat,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek, beaming with joy. “We had seen indications of the potential of our new rally car with three podiums from the first two WRC 2 starts. The first victory is a great reward for the hard work put in by everyone at ŠKODA Motorsport. It also gives us extra incentive to continue doing everything we can to achieve success.”

The two ŠKODA drivers, Lappi and Tidemand, dominated the race on fast gravel roads with short asphalt sections, seemingly at will. About two thirds of the almost 300 kilometres against the clock were taken flat-out. The “Flying Finn” Esapekka Lappi moved into the lead on stage two, “Gorklo”, courtesy of the stage win and a spectacular average speed of 126.45 km/h, and never looked back. This was win number two at the Rally Poland for Lappi/Ferm. Back in 2012, when the event still belonged to the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), the duo had triumphed on their debut for ŠKODA Motorsport.

“What an amazing win! Thank you to the ŠKODA team for doing a perfect job. The Fabia R5 was just brilliant,” said Lappi. “The win is also reward for a learning process. On Saturday and Sunday I managed to keep a cool head and control the race.” At the end of the 18 special stages, the 24-year-old had a 56.1-second lead over team-mate Tidemand. The speedy Swede won seven special stages at the Rally Poland, as did his team-mate Lappi. “Congratulations to Esapekka! He was in a class of his own at this rally. We did as well as we possibly could, claiming our second podium on our second outing with the new Fabia R5,” said Tidemand.

Lappi and Tidemand had previously guided the four-wheel drive turbo powered car to second and third place when the Fabia R5 made its WRC debut in Portugal. ŠKODA duo Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) finished third in the WRC 2 class at the Rally Italy. Although ŠKODA has only competed at three of the season’s seven rounds so in the FIA World Rally Championship, the top two drivers are already within striking distance of WRC 2 leader Jari Ketomaa (FIN/67 points) who had to settle for fourth place in Poland. Lappi is currently fifth on 45 points, ahead of Tidemand on 43. Former European champion Armin Kremer, who finished fifth at the wheel of a ŠKODA Fabia R5 at the Rally Poland, has 34 points to his name already.

Lappi/Ferm have little time to celebrate their win in Poland. The successful pair are set to make a guest appearance in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR) next weekend. The Rally Bohemia is ŠKODA’s home event in the region around the company headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. After three wins from three starts in the national championship, ŠKODA works driver Jan Kopecký (CZ) and co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) have their sights set on continuing the Fabia R5’s winning run.

The new car tasted more success this weekend in the German Rally Championship (DRM): ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland driver Fabian Kreim (D) triumphed ahead of fellow ŠKODA driver Mark Wallenwein (D). This was the second one-two in a row for the new ŠKODA Fabia R5.


Number of the day at the Rally Poland: 1

Esapekka Lappi and Janne Ferm presented ŠKODA with win number 1 for the Fabia R5 in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). The first success came at express speed: the new rally car was presented to the public for the first time on 15th April 2015. It has now taken its place on the very top step of the podium on only its third appearance in the WRC.


Rally Poland  –WRC 2 result

1. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5      2:32:02.6 hrs.
2. Tidemand/Axelsson (S/S), ŠKODA Fabia R5     + 0:56.1 min.
3. Kruuda/Jarveoja (EST/EST), Citroën DS3 R5   + 2:05.3 min.
4. Ketomaa/Lindstrom (FIN/FIN), Ford Fiesta R5   + 4:54.1 min.
5. Kremer/Winklhofer (D/D), ŠKODA Fabia R5     + 5:11.9 min.

FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2)
Event     Date   
Rally Monte Carlo   22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden    12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico    05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina    23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal    21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy    11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland    02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland    30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany    20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia    10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France    01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain    22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain   12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #115 poslato: 08. Jul, 2015. 12:06 »
Home outing at the Rally Bohemia: Two ŠKODA works teams start in the new Fabia R5

​› Jan Kopecký sets sights on fourth win; guest appearance from European champion Esapekka Lappi after the historic first win for the new Fabia R5 in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2)
› Michal Hrabánek: “We are pleased to present the new Fabia R5 live on our doorstep”
› Rally Bohemia forms a highlight of the Czech Rally Championship for ŠKODA

​Mladá Boleslav, 8 July 2015 – Emotional home event for the new ŠKODA Fabia R5: Two ŠKODA works teams will line up in the new rally car at the Rally Bohemia, in the region around the ŠKODA headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. After three wins from three starts in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR), ŠKODA driver Jan Kopecký (CZ) and co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) are looking to continue their winning run. European champions Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) will make a guest appearance in Bohemia after her maiden win for the ŠKODA Fabia R5 in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). The 42nd Rally Bohemia takes place from 10th to 12th July.

​“We are delighted the ŠKODA employees and fans at home, in the heartland of our company, can finally watch our new Fabia R5 in rally action,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. “The Rally Bohemia is a special rally for ŠKODA. This is reason enough to line up with two works teams. We want to back up the success the Fabia R5 has enjoyed so far, and to squeeze a bit more potential out of the car,” Hrabánek continued.
ŠKODA is unbeaten since 2009 at the Rally Bohemia. This year, the teams face 151.65 kilometres, the majority of which are on narrow asphalt roads. Its biggest threat ought once again to be arch rival Václav Pech (CZ), as he was at the first MČR races.
Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) arrive in Bohemia at the top of the MČR table, undefeated after an impressive hat-trick of wins. “We are hugely looking forward to the Rally Bohemia. It will be a hard-fought battle with Václav Pech, but I am sure Esapekka Lappi will also have a say in who wins,” said Kopecký. “There will be a lot of ŠKODA employees watching the race, so we obviously want to put on a really good display.” The 33-year-old and co-driver Pavel Dresler could complete a hat-trick of wins at the Rally Bohemia.
European champion Esapekka Lappi can hardly wait to get started in Bohemia. “We want to put on a good show for the many ŠKODA fans. After a lengthy spell away from asphalt, these will be an exciting couple of days for us and a welcome change from our WRC starts so far, which have been on gravel,” said Lappi. Last year, Lappi tested the new 1.6-litre turbo engine for the new Fabia R5 under race conditions for the first time at the Rally Bohemia.
As well as top-class rallying, the Rally Bohemia also offers an extensive side programme for fans. As in previous years, ŠKODA is main sponsor of the event.
This season, the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 has proven to be both fast and reliable. The car currently has three wins in the MČR and five podiums from three starts in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2 class) to its name. The works crews Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN) and Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) claimed a one-two for ŠKODA at Rally Poland last weekend.


Czech Rally Championship (MČR)
Event / Date
Rally Šumava Klatovy : 24.04.–25.04.2015
Rally Český Krumlov: 22.05.–23.05.2015
Rally Hustopeče: 19.06.–20.06.2015
Rally Bohemia: 10.07.–12.07.2015
Barum Czech Rally Zlín: 28.08.–30.08.2015
Rally Příbram: 02.10.–04.10.2015


Did you know ...

... ŠKODA has enjoyed five wins in a row at the Rally Bohemia recently? Finland’s Juho Hänninen triumphed in a Fabia Super 2009 and 2010, while Belgian Freddy Loix won in 2011. There was no official final result in 2012, before Jan Kopecký was victorious in 2013 and 2014.
 
... ŠKODA actually finished one-two-three last year? Kopecký finished first, ahead of Italy’s Umberto Scandola and Sepp Wiegand (D).
 
... the Rally Bohemia was initially called the Rally ŠKODA, from 1974 to 1985? The Czech automobile manufacturer launched the rally in order to test the quality and stamina of its models under extreme conditions. The first rally, 40 years ago, was 1,800 kilometres long. The special stages were spread throughout the whole of Czechoslovakia. 152 teams took part, 72 of which were from abroad.
 
... 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, won the event in 2004, 2005 and 2013.
 
... the Rally Bohemia also features a competition for vintage rally cars? The race is making its first appearance in the FIA European Championship for Historic Cars.
 
... former ŠKODA works driver Juho Hänninen (FIN) is making a special comeback in Mladá Boleslav? He will appear in the Rally Bohemia Legend event, which is hugely popular with spectators. Among Hänninen’s successes for ŠKODA were titles in the 2010 Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC), 2011 Super 2000 World Rally Championship (SWRC), and the 2012 FIA European Rally Championship (ERC).
 
... rally fans can find fascinating information online at www.skoda-motorsport.com ? ŠKODA’s innovative offering combines interesting facts and background stories with great photos and social media content.
 
... Mladá Boleslav is not only the home of the headquarters of ŠKODA, but also has a tower that leans like the one in Pisa nearby? The emblem of the castle ruins in Michalovice was once knocked off balance by treasure seekers.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #116 poslato: 12. Jul, 2015. 21:52 »
Rally Bohemia: ŠKODA continues winning streak with the Fabia R5 at home event

​› Jan Kopecký wins at the Rally Bohemia for the third time in a row
› Kopecký unbeaten in the Fabia R5 in four races in the Czech Rally Championship (MČR)
› Esapekka Lappi wins five stages on guest appearance in the national championship
› Michal Hrabánek: “It's great that we were able to make our fans happy”

​Mladá Boleslav, 12 July 2015 – Home advantage exploited, thousands of fans delighted: ŠKODA continued its winning streak with the new Fabia R5. Jan Kopecký (CZ) and co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) celebrated an acclaimed victory at the 42nd Rally Bohemia in the region of ŠKODA's headquarters in Mladá Boleslav. This sees the duo remain unbeaten in the fourth race of the Czech Rally Championship (MČR) and extend their lead at the top of the table even further. The second ŠKODA works team Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) was convincing with five stage wins just one week after the historic victory for the Fabia R5 in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2).

​“It's great that we were able to make so many fans happy with the Fabia R5 right on our doorstep! The Rally Bohemia is always a special race for ŠKODA – which makes the win even more special,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. This makes ŠKODA unbeaten at its home race since 2009. Hrabánek: “Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler have proved once again that they are real experts at this rally.

The experienced duo won at the Rally Bohemia for the third time in a row, Kopecký has now won ŠKODA's home race a total of five times. But the victory didn't come easy to him at the start; until the fifth special stage he was embroiled in a dramatic duel for tenths of a second with his team-mate Lappi. However, on the sixth stage, the Finn suffered tyre damage and lost over two minutes while he changed the tyre

“Esapekka really didn't make it easy for me. It's a shame that we couldn't continue our duel,” said Kopecký, who had his arch-rival Václav Pech (CZ) firmly under control this time. 33-year-old Kopecký was delighted that he was able to give something special to the thousands of fans with his third win in a row at the highlight of the Czech Rally Championship: “It's so great to feel the enthusiasm of the fans at ŠKODA's home event. It's even better that we won again with our new Fabia R5.

ŠKODA's new turbo four-wheel drive was the fastest car on all twelve special stages. Kopecký got seven best times and Lappi got four. On the final stage, both ŠKODA works drivers shared the best time. Despite his tyre damage, European Champion Lappi worked his way up into fourth place in the overall standings by the end of the rally. “It's a shame, without the problems, we would have been able to do better. But it was so much fun driving on asphalt in our Fabia R5 in front of these fans once again,” said Lappi.

After ŠKODA's home rally comes his personal home event: The Rally Finland will be held from 30 July to 2 August in the FIA WRC. Another chance to continue the run of success for the new Fabia R5. To date, the works team has already amassed four wins in the MČR and five podium positions, including one win, in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2 classification).


The number of the Rally Bohemia: 6

ŠKODA has now won the Rally Bohemia six times in a row. In 2009 and 2010, Finland's Juho Hänninen won in the Fabia Super 2000, Belgium's Freddy Loix was victorious in 2011. Since there was no official final result in 2012, Jan Kopecký's wins followed at the events in 2013, 2014 and this weekend.


Rally Bohemia – Final result

1. Kopecký/Dresler (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia R5; 1:20:33.0 hrs 
2. Pech/Uhel (CZ/CZ), Mini John Cooper Works S2000; + 0:51.0 min.
3. Vojtěch/Michal (CZ/CZ), Peugeot 206 WRC; + 2:15.0 min.
4. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5;  + 2:20.3 min.
5. Valoušek/Havelková (CZ/CZ), ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000; + 2:24.5 min.


Czech Rally Championship (MČR)

Event / Date
Rally Šumava Klatovy: 24.04.–25.04.2015
Rally Český Krumlov: 22.05.–23.05.2015
Rally Hustopeče: 19.06.–20.06.2015
Rally Bohemia: 10.07.–12.07.2015
Barum Czech Rally Zlín: 28.08.–30.08.2015
Rally Příbram: 02.10.–04.10.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #117 poslato: 20. Jul, 2015. 14:36 »
Real rarities: Nine outstanding ŠKODA classics at the 'Schloss Bensberg Classics'

​› Exhibition: ŠKODA presented nine unique gems of the vintage car scene
› Iconic design: faithfully restored streamlined prototype ŠKODA 935 on show 80 years after its spectacular world premiere in Bensberg
› Special ŠKODA exhibition to mark company’s 120-year anniversary

​Mladá Boleslav, 20 July 2015 – ŠKODA AUTO presented nine outstanding classic cars from the company’s 120-year history at the seventh 'Schloss Bensberg Classics'. One highlight of ŠKODA’s appearance was the special exhibition to commemorate 120 years of ŠKODA, where six of the brand’s pre-war vehicles never before seen were put on show.  The unique, streamlined prototype ŠKODA 935 – a design icon of the 1930s – also made an appearance. The 'Schloss Bensberg Classics', supported by the Volkswagen Group, took place from 17 to 19 July in Bergisch Gladbach near Cologne, Germany.
​ŠKODA has participated in the ‘Schloss Bensberg Classics’ since the first year of the event. The baroque castle Schloss Bensberg and the picturesque countryside surrounding Cologne form the magnificent setting for one of the most prestigious events for classic cars. Exclusivity and the highest quality are the focus of the event, held under the motto ‘Very Important Cars Only’.

And the vehicles ŠKODA presented certainly lived up to this claim. Six classics from the brand’s pre-war era served as a special exhibition to mark 120 years of ŠKODA. Three vehicles started in the one-day 'Rallye Historique' on Saturday. “In keeping with the event's motto, we selected nine 'Very Important Cars'. Fantastic cars that we had never before shown to the public,” said Andrea Frydlová, Director of the ŠKODA Museum.

One true highlight of ŠKODA’s special exhibition was the streamlined prototype ŠKODA 935 dating back to 1935. The concept vehicle, which was faithfully restored by ŠKODA, is the world’s only surviving example, and had not been seen by the public since October 1935. The now road-worthy ŠKODA 935 is representative of pioneering vehicle design in the 1930s, and in its time, served ŠKODA as an innovator in terms of aerodynamics, weight and drive technology.

The streamlined concept vehicle was first introduced in October 1935 at the Motor Show in Prague. At that time, ŠKODA was one of the pioneers in optimizing aerodynamics in car construction. With its low drag coefficient (Cd value) and bionic shape, the ŠKODA 935 proved the brand’s expertise in aerodynamics in a special way. The innovative mid-engine concept and the vehicle body made from an aluminium/steel composite also drew lots of attention at its premiere. With its sophisticated overall concept, the ŠKODA 935 Dynamic demonstrated ŠKODA brand’s innovative power and engineering expertise in the design of groundbreaking one-off models.

The ŠKODA 935 Dynamic represents the progressive vehicle design of the 1930s. The teardrop or streamlined shape with the rapidly declining tail and the distinctive tail fin would improve stability at high speeds of up to 140 km/h, and the empty weight of the vehicle stands at only 1.170 kg. The ŠKODA 935 Dynamic is 4.86 meters long, 1.68 meters wide and 1.54 meters high. The long wheelbase of 3.20 meters and 1.25 (front) and 1.30 meters (rear) wide track emphasize its elegant appearance, and also allow space for up to five passengers. The spare wheel positioned horizontally in the boot serves as an additional bumper.

The brand’s innovative power in the 1930s is also demonstrated in the engine concept of the ŠKODA 935 Dynamic. The water-cooled, 40 kW (54 hp) four-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 1995 cm3 and two Zenith carburettors is located in the rear in front of the rear axle. The developers promised better dynamic response for uphill driving and fewer vibrations in the rear outer section. The passengers were also to be better protected from unpleasant odours and heat from the engine compartment. The drive force of the ŠKODA 935 Dynamic is transferred to the rear wheels via an electromagnetic, semi-automatic four-speed transmission from the French supplier 'Cotal'. Another innovation came in the placement of the fuel tank, which is located in the support tube of the central tube frame with a capacity of 40 litres.

The vehicles presented as part of ŠKODA’s special exhibition in addition to the unique ŠKODA 935 created an arc from the automotive beginnings of the company up to ŠKODA’s luxury cars of the 1930s. The legendary Voiturette type A from 1905 was the first car built by ŠKODA’s founding fathers Laurin and Klement (L & K). A milestone in the early days of L & K automobile production was the open-top touring car Laurin & Klement type S, built in 1911. In the year 1925, L&K merged with the Plzen-based engineering company ŠKODA. It was also in that year that production began on the Laurin & Klement 110. The model featured the logo of both L&K and ŠKODA, and 3000 of them were built. In the 1930s, ŠKODA made a name for themselves producing prestigious luxury class vehicles. These were best represented at Schloss Bensberg by the ŠKODA Rapid Cabrio De Luxe built in 1937 and the ŠKODA Superb OHV saloon, dating back to 1939.

In addition to their special exhibition, ŠKODA also raised the flag high during the 'Rallye Historique' at the 'Schloss Bensberg Classics', with three ŠKODA vintage cars takin part in the event on. The impressive ŠKODA 645 built in 1930 is among the outstanding representatives of ŠKODA’s prestigious touring saloons of the 1930s. Only 758 of the ŠKODA 645 were built between 1929 and 1934. The number 645 refers to the engine performance: The first digit '6' indicates the number of cylinders, '45' stands for the horsepower.

ŠKODA’s trio in the Rallye Historique was rounded off by two iconic ŠKODAs built in the 1960s. The beautifully shaped convertible ŠKODA Felicia was a real crowd pleaser with its distinctive tail fins and balanced proportions. Almost 15,000 ŠKODA Felicias were produced between 1959 and 1964. The convertible is highly sought after among collectors. The same is true of the ŠKODA 1100 MBX – an elegant two-door model based on the ŠKODA 1000 MB. Only 2,517 of the 1100 MBX were produced between 1966 and 1969.

ŠKODA AUTO will be celebrating the company’s 120th anniversary this year, making the brand one of the longest established vehicle producers in the world. The roots of the company lie in 1895. 120 years ago, bicycle mechanic Václav Laurin and bookkeeper Václav Klement founded a bicycle-production company together (L&K) in Mladá Boleslav, Bohemia.  Automobile manufacturing began in 1905: L&K’s first car was the ‘Voiturette A’. What Laurin and Klement began in 1895 has since grown into an internationally successful volume manufacturer with 7 model series and 35 model versions.  Producing more than 17 million vehicles since 1905 proves the strength of the ŠKODA brand.

The 'Schloss Bensberg Classics' is one of the most exclusive events for historic cars. The main programme includes the star-studded Rallye Historique and a FIVA-A Concours d'Elegance with some of the most beautiful and rare classic automobiles in the world. The ‘Schloss Bensberg Classics’ is one of the events under the ‘Louis Vuitton Classic Concours Award’, and is thus on par with renowned competitions, such as Pebble Beach, California and Villa d’Este, Italy.
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #118 poslato: 28. Jul, 2015. 11:24 »

“Formula 1 in the forest”: ŠKODA Fabia R5 to contest the fastest rally of the year

​› Rally Finland: Average speed well above 100 km/h
› After the first WRC 2 victory for the Fabia R5, Esapekka Lappi is looking forward to his home rally – Pontus Tidemand at the wheel of the second ŠKODA rally car
› Michal Hrabánek: “Rally Finland enthrals fans and drivers”

​Mladá Boleslav, 28th July 2015 – Next stop, Rally Finland: ŠKODA is hoping to add another chapter to the success story of the new Fabia R5 at the “Formula 1 in the forest”. Three and a half weeks after the historic first WRC 2 victory for the new high-tech rally car, the ŠKODA works duos Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) and Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) take on the fastest rally in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). In addition to a perfectly tuned car, the 319.38 kilometres of this rally demand courage and driving precision.

​“The Rally Finland is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year. It enthrals fans and drivers alike, because it has everything that rallying is about,” said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. Its high average speed of well over 100 kilometres per hour and large sections driven at full throttle mean that the Rally Finland is also dubbed “Formula 1 in the forest”. Ideal terrain for the new ŠKODA Fabia R5 and the two works drivers Lappi and Tidemand, who brought home an acclaimed one-two victory at the Rally Poland, which is also extremely fast.

“This victory confirmed that we are on the right track with our new ŠKODA Fabia R5. But the success is no reason for us to rest on our laurels. Naturally we want to be up there fighting for podium spots again at the Rally Finland,” said Hrabánek. European Champions Lappi/Ferm are particularly motivated, after all the Rally Finland is an emotional home event for them. Many Finnish rally drivers became national heroes on legendary stages such as 'Mökkiperä' and 'Myhinpää'.

After a year off, the legendary 'Ouninpohja' stage is back on the rally schedule this year; some of the drivers jump further than 50 metres in their cars on this stage. “Plenty of full throttle and long jumps: I love this rally in my home country,” said Lappi. “You need a lot of courage at the Rally Finland and can't afford to make even a minor error. We are really looking forward to our home rally and want to delight the fans,” he said, with his sights set on another win: “Naturally we will try to bring home the next victory. The last rally in Poland demonstrated that the Fabia R5 has all the important qualities of a winning car.”

Pontus Tidemand is also a fan of the fast gravel tracks through the Finnish forests and past the proverbial 1000 lakes. “I drove onto the podium here as a junior, the high-speed passages and jumps are just magnificent. There probably won't be much of a gap between the drivers. That means you need to find just the right mix of calculated risk and clever driving,” said ŠKODA's second Scandinavian driver.

Both Lappi and Tidemand could continue to make up ground in the WRC overall standings with another top result at the Rally Finland. Although the two ŠKODA drivers have only contested three of the seven events of the season so far, they are already in fifth and sixth place. The new Fabia R5's success rate is also impressive: In the WRC 2 classification of the FIA WRC, ŠKODA has already bagged five podium positions, including one win, in three starts.

In the Czech Rally Championship (MČR), Jan Kopecký (CZ) and co-driver Pavel Dresler (CZ) have celebrated four wins in four races with the new car so far. The most recent chapter in the success story: An acclaimed home victory at the 42nd Rally Bohemia in the region around ŠKODA headquarters in Mladá Boleslav.

FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2)

Event / Date

Rally Monte Carlo; 22.01.–25.01.2015
​Rally Sweden; ​12.02.–15.02.2015   
​Rally Mexiko; ​05.03.–08.03.2015 
​Rally Argentina; ​23.04.–26.04.2015   
​Rally Portugal; ​21.05.–24.05.2015   
​Rally Italia​; 11.06.–14.06.2015
​Rally Poland; 02.07.–05.07.2015  ​
​Rally Finland; ​30.07.–02.08.2015 
​Rally Deutschland​; ​20.08.–23.08.2015   
​Rally Australia; 10.09.–13.09.2015
​Rally France​; ​01.10.–04.10.2015
​Rally Spain; ​22.10.–25.10.2015
​Rally Great Britain; ​12.11.–15.11.2015
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Van mreže KarlheinzZapočeo temu

Odg: ENG: Škoda Official MotorSport news
« Odgovor #119 poslato: 01. Avg, 2015. 21:59 »
ŠKODA teams extend their lead at the Rally Finland

​› One-two: Esapekka Lappi continues to hold a commanding lead over Pontus Tidemand
› ŠKODA Fabia R5 proves to be the best WRC 2 rally car at the fastest rally of the year
› Only 28.26 kilometres stand between the team and their second WRC 2 win

​Jyväskylä, 1st August 2015 – ŠKODA put on a strong showing with the Fabia R5 on the penultimate day of the Rally Finland, winning all eight special stages and consolidating their position at the top of the overall standings.

Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) go into the final day of their home event in a strong position, having built up a commanding lead over their team-mates Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) at the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2). Only 28.26 kilometres stand between the ŠKODA works team and their second successive World Championship victory.
​“We were able to stay in control. There was no need to take any risks but we kept up the fast pace. I really like our Fabia R5 and everything about it worked perfectly,” noted Lappi. He was involved in a fascinating duel with his team-mate Tidemand, as the two drivers competed for the best times for each stage. The Swedish driver recorded the fastest time on four occasions, just bettering the achievement of reigning European champion Lappi. In special stage 12, both drivers clocked a time of 10:30.0 to share first place.

“This duel with Esapekka was a lot of fun and the results were often really tight. We also didn’t give it 100 per cent but it’s all about keeping a cool head,” said Tidemand. Despite their composed driving styles, the two ŠKODA works duos in their Fabias were able to increase their lead over the competition. The most surprising event of the day was not the rain showers falling from the grey skies above Jyväskylä, but the appearance of a bear with her two cubs. She was in the vicinity of the Horkka special stage and had to be led away to safety by a helicopter.
 
Sunday’s stages on the gravel are expected to be even more exciting, as the fastest rally of the year comes to a conclusion with two attempts at the Myhinpää special stage. ŠKODA is in the perfect position to repeat the historic achievements at the Rally Poland four weeks ago, by celebrating another one-two victory.  

Number of the day for the Rally Finland: 15

18 special stages have taken place so far at the Rally Finland, and ŠKODA has emerged victorious on 15 of these. This rally is providing clear proof that the Fabia R5 is the fastest car taking part in WRC 2. Esapekka Lappi posted the best time on ten stages, and Pontus Tidemand did so on four occasions. The ŠKODA works drivers also shared one  first place, finishing with identical times.

Rally Finland  – WRC 2 standings

1. Lappi/Ferm (FIN/FIN), ŠKODA Fabia R5                  2:26.53.2 hrs
2. Tidemand/Axelsson (S/S), ŠKODA Fabia R5              + 1.23.3 min
3. Lefebvre/Prevot (F/B), Citroën DS3 RRC                + 3.03.3 min
4. Protasov/Cherepin (UA/UA), Ford Fiesta S2000              + 4.31.3 min
5. Pedder/Moscatt (AUS/AUS), Ford Fiesta R5                + 6.12.9 min

FIA World Rally Championship (WRC 2)

Event                    Date               
Rally Monte Carlo            22.01.–25.01.2015
Rally Sweden                 12.02.–15.02.2015
Rally Mexico                   05.03.–08.03.2015
Rally Argentina               23.04.–26.04.2015
Rally Portugal                 21.05.–24.05.2015
Rally Italy                      11.06.–14.06.2015
Rally Poland                   02.07.–05.07.2015
Rally Finland                30.07.–02.08.2015
Rally Germany               20.08.–23.08.2015
Rally Australia                10.09.–13.09.2015
Rally France                   01.10.–04.10.2015
Rally Spain                     22.10.–25.10.2015
Rally Great Britain          12.11.–15.11.2015
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