Roar Forgaard (to the left), President of the Norwegian Automobile Sport Association (NBF), and Even Wiger, managing director of Rally Norway think Norway is well positioned to become a regular WRC organiser from 2009. Photo: X. Renauld

Competing for WRC rounds is positive for Rally Norway

Rally Norway relishes the contest to become a regular part of WRC from 2009 onwards and is competing enthusiastically. The contest began after FIA (the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) decided to allow more candidates in 2008. The options are open for Norway from 2009.

– The decision is very positive for us. As this solution was proposed to FIA’s July meeting when the 2007 calendar was settled, we were prepared. While we may regret that there will be no WRC round in Norway in 2008, neither will there be in Portugal or Ireland as all newcomers are treated equally. We think it is to our advantage if FIA wants to examine more candidates, because our event is good enough to bear comparison with the very best. Having organised a successful candidate event in 2006 and making another success as a full WRC round in 2007, we are confident that we will win our place on the WRC circuit. But we are also fully aware that we have to give a 100-percent performance to ensure that we become a regular WRC round from 2009, says Even Wiger, managing director of Rally Norway.

FIA’s World Council has decided on 15 of the 16 2008 WRC rounds. South Africa, Cyprus and Poland will compete for the 16th round; Jordan is in as a 2008 organiser.

– It is important to see this as a continuation of FIA’s discussion in July about rotating WRC rounds. Observers should note that none of the three newcomers in 2007 is in for 2008. Furthermore, three candidates are competing for one WRC round in 2008. For 2009, FIA will evaluate all WRC organisers in 2007 and 2008. This means 20 competing organisers and Norway will attract great interest again to win one of the 16 available rounds. For Norway it is about creating another brilliant event in the coming winter, says Roar Forgaard, President of the Norwegian Automobile Sport Association (NBF).

Even Wiger is confident that rally audiences have never seen special stages like Rally Norway’s, whether they follow the race by walking into the forest or are among far greater number of TV viewers watching each WRC round.

– Norway challenges the drivers with narrow winter roads through forests and mountainous terrain. The Vikingskipet will serve as a unique indoor service park. By being a pairing partner with Uddeholm Rally Sweden, we can offer teams and drivers two very cost efficient rounds. The short distance between the two rounds is one of most important benefits we can offer, says Even Wiger, confident that Rally Norway can achieve a regular WRC round from 2009.