INDIA in F1

Tag: M-Sport Ford World Rally Team

  • Hyundai’s Dani Sordo takes lead after Day 1: WRC

    Hyundai’s Dani Sordo takes lead after Day 1: WRC

    Sardinia, 9 October 2020: At the end of the first day of Rally Italia Sardinia, Hyundai’s Dani Sordo, the winner of the 2019 edition, continues to lead, ahead of M-Sport Ford’s Teemu Suninen and Hyundai driver Thierry Neuville, who moved ahead of Toyota’s Sébastien Ogier.

    Sordo, on his first FIA WRC round since Mexico in March, won both afternoon stages to extend his lead to 17.4 seconds overnight from Suninen. The Finn wasn’t happy with his tyre choice in the afternoon, as he expected the conditions to be warmer – so he couldn’t use his two hard tyres.

    It was a better afternoon for Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville, despite two stalls on hairpins during the day. The Belgian went past Ogier in the overall classification with a second-fastest time on the final stage. This meant that he is now a provisional third – by less than a second though.

    Ogier struggled with road-sweeping in the afternoon, which also affected his team mate, Championship Leader Elfyn Evans, who called the situation “impossible”. The Toyota duo finished Friday in fourth and fifth places respectively, and are looking forward to a better day tomorrow.

    Behind them was the M-Sport Ford Fiesta of Gus Greensmith, who was happy enough with his progress throughout the day but felt that he still had a lot more to learn.

    Reigning champion Ott Tänak resolved his suspension problems from the morning at service midday service, with his Hyundai back to full fitness in the afternoon. He finished the day in eighth overall, one place ahead of Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä.

    The Finn dropped nearly two minutes in the afternoon with an unidentified technical problem that affected him on both stages. He ended the day nearly 40 seconds behind Tänak.

    The FIA WRC2 standings are now led by Toksport WRT driver Pontus Tidemand with his Škoda, after previous leader Adrien Formaux of M-Sport Ford WRT dropped time with a puncture on his Fiesta in SS5, hitting a rock in a corner cut. The Frenchman is second in the provisional standings, with Tidemand’s team-mate Eyvind Brynildsen in third.

    Norway’s Oliver Solberg continues to lead FIA WRC3 in another Škoda Fabia, with his advantage in the class now standing at half a minute, ahead of Frenchmen Yohann Rossel and Nicolas Ciamin.

    There was no change in the FIA Junior World Rally Championship classification either, with Sweden’s Tom Kristensson carrying on his impressive progress from the morning, 50 seconds clear of Finland’s Sami Pajari and almost 4 minutes over Paraguay’s Fabrizio Zaldivar.

    Tomorrow’s action takes in six more demanding stages, starting with Monte Lerno at 07:37. The rally finishes on Sunday, covering 16 stages in total.

    2020 Rally Italia Sardegna – Unofficial results after Section 3:

    1. Dani Sordo (ESP) / Carlos Del Barrio (ESP)Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC1 hr 12min 40.9sec
    2. Teemu Suninen (FIN) / Jarmo Lehtinen (FIN) Ford Fiesta WRC1 hr 12min 58.3sec
    3. Thierry Neuville (BEL) / Nicolas Gilsoul (BEL) Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC1 hr 13min 16.1sec
    4. Sébastien Ogier (FRA) / Julien Ingrassia (FRA) Toyota Yaris WRC1 hr 13min 16.9sec
    5. Elfyn Evans (GBR) / Scott Martin (GBR)Toyota Yaris WRC1 hr 13min 32.8sec
    6. Gus Greensmith (GBR) / Elliott Edmondson (GBR)  Ford Fiesta WRC1 hr 13min 48.0sec
    7. Pierre-Louis Loubet (FRA) / Vincent Landais (FRA)Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC1 hr 14min 14.4sec
    8. Ott Tänak (EST) / Martin Järveoja (EST)Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC1 hr 14min 34.6sec
    9. Kalle Rovanperä (FIN) / Jonne Halttunen (FIN) Toyota Yaris WRC1 hr 15min 13.2sec
    10. Oliver Solberg (SWE) / Aaron Johnston (IRL)Škoda Fabia Evo1 hr 15min 42.1sec
  • Young and ambitious team for 2020 WRC: M-Sport Ford World Rally team

    Young and ambitious team for 2020 WRC: M-Sport Ford World Rally team

    Photo by M-Sport World Rally team

    Esapekka Lappi will join forces with Teemu Suninen and Gus Greensmith this season as the M‑Sport Ford World Rally Team put youth at the head of their FIA World Rally Championship campaign.

    Taking to the wheel of the EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRCs, the three drivers have an average age of 25 and will be led by a similarly young and ambitious team – the average age of the engineers just 30, and Team Principal Richard Millener a mere 35 years young!

    As a proven rally winner, Lappi will lead the team alongside compatriot co-driver Janne Ferm. The Finns last took to the wheel of a Fiesta in 2012 when they stormed to Finnish Championship success with a clean-sweep of victories behind the wheel of the Ford Fiesta S2000. Eight years later, the popular duo are now regularly challenging for top results on the world stage.

    Securing their maiden win on home soil in 2017, Lappi and Ferm have gone on to secure seven FIA World Rally Championship podiums and claimed the runner-up spot on three occasions last year. Competitive on all surfaces, the Finns have speed in abundance and the team are keen to see what they can do when reunited with the Blue Oval.

    Teemu Suninen and Jarmo Lehtinen continue their partnership as the young Finn contests his second full season at the sport’s highest level. Developing at pace, Suninen made his world rally car debut in 2017, secured his first podium in 2018, and led his first rally in 2019 – so the team are eager to see what he can do in 2020.

    This also marks the first time an all-Finnish line-up has led the team since Mikko Hirvonen was partnered with Marcus Grönholm in 2006 and 2007, and Jari Matti Latvala from 2008 to 2011. Over those six years the Finns delivered two championships, 31 victories, 99 podiums and 592 stage wins; and M-Sport Ford are now looking forward to promoting the next generation of Flying Finns.

    Joining the Finns in the third Ford Fiesta WRC on nine events are British talents Gus Greensmith and Elliott Edmondson. The Brits will get their season underway in Monte-Carlo before events in Mexico, Argentina, Portugal, Sardinia, Finland, Turkey, Germany and Wales.

    The youngsters made a strong debut when they took to the wheel of the top-specification Fiesta for the first time last year – bettering the time of both Sébastien Loeb and Sébastien Ogier on their very first speed test; and the team are keen to see them continue their development at the highest level this year.

    Managing Director, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said:

    “We’re going back to our roots in more ways than one this year – fielding a young team and welcoming two sets of Finns back to the family. We enjoyed some fantastic results with Marcus, Mikko and Jari-Matti, and now I’m looking forward to seeing how the next generation of Flying Finns develop.

    “But our core philosophy has always been the promotion and progression of young talent, and in Esapekka, Teemu and Gus we have three talented youngsters who are all capable of delivering some strong results.

    “The team may be a young one, but they have the experience and ambition to go far – and I’m keen to see what they can achieve in 2020.”

    Team Principal, Richard Millener, said:

    “There’s a lot of potential in our 2020 line-up and our aim is to continue challenging for the top results. A rally win is the ultimate goal, and I think we have every chance of achieving that. Everyone is determined to deliver, and we can’t wait to get stuck in.

    “Esapekka is a proven winner and there is no doubting his speed. He finished second three times last year so I’m looking forward seeing how he gets to grips with the Fiesta. And if it’s anything like the last time he got behind the wheel of a Ford then we’re in for one hell of a season!

    “I think a lot of people will be keen to see what Teemu can do too. He and Jarmo work really well together and I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw them challenging for the top results on quite a few events this year.

    “It’s also great to see Gus back with nine events in the Fiesta WRC. He had a really strong debut last year and he’s only going to get stronger and more confident as the season progresses. This is very much a learning year for him, but if I know Gus he’ll want to make his mark too!”

    Esapekka Lappi said:

    “I’m really looking forward to this new adventure and I’m excited to see what we can achieve. M‑Sport Ford has a real passion for rally and there were a lot of talented drivers available for this seat, so I’m very happy they put their trust in us – giving myself and Janne an opportunity to show what we can do in 2020.

    “We start testing this week, and I’m really looking forward to discovering the Fiesta. The last time I drove a Ford we had a lot of success and it would be great to see that continue this year. I can’t wait to get started, and hope we can push for some strong results.”

    Teemu Suninen said:

    “I’m really grateful to Malcolm and the team for their belief in me. I feel as though I learnt a lot over the past 12 months, and I’m looking forward to seeing what Jarmo and I can do in 2020. Last year taught me that I need to give everything in all of the rallies if I want to reach the top results – and that’s what I hope to do this year.

    “It’s also really great to be in a team with Esapekka because he was something of a hero to me in my childhood. When I started go-karting as a teenager in Finland, he was in the same team and winning the championship. Three years later I was able to do the same, and now we’re both in rally and both back in the same team!”

    Gus Greensmith said:
    “I have been waiting for this opportunity my whole life, and now I have it. I’ve progressed through M-Sport Ford’s, ‘Ladder of Opportunity,’ from R1, to R2, to R5 and now WRC. I owe a lot to everyone at M-Sport and Ford who has helped me progress as a driver, but there is still a lot more to come.
    “The team may be young, but we’re all ultra-competitive and together I’m sure we can deliver some strong performances. During the off season I have made some big improvements to myself outside of the rally car. I have never been fitter, and I have never been faster, and when the light turns green for the first stage of 2020 I will be ready.”

     

  • ‘Super Seb’ makes it six in WRC with Ingrassia; Gaurav Gill finishes fifth in RC2 class

    ‘Super Seb’ makes it six in WRC with Ingrassia; Gaurav Gill finishes fifth in RC2 class

    Sebastien Ogier completes a “Super Six” WRC title in Australia. Photo: M-Sport

    Coffs Harbour, 18 November 2018: M-Sport Ford World Rally Team’s Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia secured their sixth FIA World Rally Championship for Drivers and Co-drivers, respectively, this weekend – coming out on top after a dramatic final-day showdown at Kennards Hire Rally Australia. A composed drive to fifth was in marked contrast to the heartbreak suffered by Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak, who both crashed whilst trying to keep their hopes alive.

    Ogier’s calmness shone through after heavy rain transformed the gravel forest roads into a muddy mess. He was faultless while both Neuville and overnight leader Tänak escaped brushes with the scenery during the morning’s opening three speed tests. Worse was to follow. Neuville parked his Hyundai i20 three stages from the finish after swiping a bank and ripping a rear wheel from his Hyundai i20. In the next test, Tänak slithered into a tree and his Toyota Yaris ground to a halt with no drive.

    Ogier could afford a celebratory drive through the final Power Stage in the knowledge the championship was already secured in his final appearance in M-Sport’s Ford Fiesta before switching to Citroën in 2019.

    This year’s championship has been the most exciting in years, but Ogier, Ingrassia and M-Sport Ford produced something special once again – speed, determination and outstanding team spirit all contributing to another very successful year for the Cumbrian squad.

    Ogier (right) and Ingrassia. Photo-M-Sport

    “It’s been an incredible season, so close. Not so long ago, we were thinking it was going to be tough to grab this title, but we never gave up. We gave everything, with a fantastic team behind us who kept fighting and in the end we grabbed it in the last rally. It’s so emotional,” said Ogier.

    Ingrassia said: “We had a beautiful journey with M-Sport over these two years, and everything we achieved we achieved together. We wanted to end our time with Malcolm and the team in a special way, and that is what we did. There have been a lot of ups and downs during the season and the rally, and we gave it everything to achieve this amazing result. Hopefully I have a little energy left to celebrate with the team tonight!”

    Tänak’s first trip into the trees handed the lead to team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala and the Estonian’s early exit confirmed a first victory since February 2017 for the Finn. It also preserved his record of winning a WRC round in every season since 2008. His win also secured the manufacturers’ title for Toyota Gazoo Racing in its second season back in the WRC after a 17-year absence.

    Latvala. Photo: Alan MacDonald

    “It has been too long, almost two very long years. I was losing hope that I would win a rally but these tricky conditions went my way,” said Latvala, who triumphed by 32.5sec.

    Hayden Paddon survived Sunday’s carnage to claim second in an i20, with first leg leader Mads Østberg filling the podium in a Citroën C3, despite hitting a tree and peeling the rear right door panel off his car. The Norwegian was a further 19.7sec back. Esapekka Lappi finished fourth in another Yaris with Elfyn Evans filling the top six behind team-mate Ogier.

    Craig Breen visited the scenery a remarkable five times in six stages but survived to finish seventh after Teemu Suninen retired his Fiesta before the final test following an impact in the previous stage. WRC 2 winner Alberto Heller, Australian champion Steve Glenney and Jourdan Serderidis completed the leaderboard.

    Ogier (left) and Wilson. Photo – M-Sport

    M-Sport Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “It’s been an emotional day and I can tell you that this championship really does mean a lot. Two months ago it wasn’t looking good, but when you have Sébastien and Julien in your team you know that anything is possible. The way they fought back over the last three events was incredible and I am so proud of all we have achieved together. We will certainly miss them next year, but this was a proper team effort and I have to say that every single member of the team played their part in the result. I would also like to congratulate Ott and Thierry on such a fantastic championship battle over the course of the season. We know first-hand how competitive they are and it really was a pleasure to watch the world’s three best drivers do battle right down to the wire. The sport is in fantastic shape at the moment, and I think everyone involved should be proud.”

    Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsport, Mark Rushbrook, said: “Huge congratulations to Sébastien and Julien on winning a remarkable sixth FIA World Rally Championship title – they’re second in the fantastic Ford Fiesta WRC. This achievement was the result of a great team effort throughout the whole season and everyone at both M-Sport and Ford should be immensely proud.”

    EVANS AND BARRITT FINISH SIXTH

    Eli Evans. Photo: M-Sport

    Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt have been rightly heralded ‘team mates of the year’ – playing a significant role as Ogier and Ingrassia defended their FIA World Rally Championships today. The Brits played their part selflessly this weekend – handed the Frenchmen a more advantageous road position at detriment to themselves, and showing good speed despite the looser conditions they had to contend with as a result. When road cleaning wasn’t a contributing factor, Evans showed his pace and set a string of top times through the super special stages. It’s not been the season the Welshman had hoped for, but he has shown his speed and played his role admirably – helping the team defend two of their FIA World Rally Championships.

    Elfyn Evans said: “Congratulations to Seb, Julien and the whole team. I’m glad they were able to secure this one and – even though it wasn’t always easy – I’m glad we were able to help them where we could. Obviously for various reasons our season didn’t go the way we wanted it to, but the speed was there and hopefully we’ll have a chance to prove that again next year.”

    OVERALL CLASSIFICATION

    1. Jari-Matti Latvala / Miikka Anttila (Toyota Yaris WRC) 2:59:52.0
    2. Hayden Paddon / Sebastian Marshall (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +32.5
    3. Mads Østberg / Torstein Eriksen (Citroen C3 WRC) +52.2
    4. Esapekka Lappi / Janne Ferm (Toyota Yaris WRC) +1:02.3
    5. Sébastien Ogier / Julien Ingrassia (Ford Fiesta WRC) +2:30.8
    6. Elfyn Evans / Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta WRC) +3:05.1
    7. Craig Breen / Scott Martin (Citroen C3 WRC) +8:59.0

    DRIVERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS

    1. Sébastien Ogier – 219
    2. Thierry Neuville – 201
    3. Ott Tänak – 181
    4. Jari-Matti Latvala – 128
    5. Esapekka Lappi – 126
    6. Andreas Mikkelsen – 84
    7. Elfyn Evans – 80
    8. Hayden Paddon – 73
    9. Dani Sordo – 71
    10. Mads Østberg – 70

    MANUFACTURERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS

    1. Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC – 368
    2. Hyundai Motorsport – 341
    3. M-Sport Ford World Rally Team – 324
    4. Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team – 237

    Gaurav Gill very much on pace in RC2. Photo: Alan MacDonald

    GAURAV GILL QUICKEST ON FINAL DAY, BUT FINISHES 5TH IN RC2

    India’s Gaurav Gill (co-driver Glenn Macneall, Australia) of Team MRF Tyres and piloting the M-Sport prepared Ford Fiesta R5, though finishing 5th in the RC2 class, showed that he had the pace to be among the best.

    Gill led the field on Friday and early on Saturday before going off the road in SS-11 when enjoying a lead of 38.9 seconds over eventual winner Alberto Heller. The mishap ended Gill’s campaign, but he continued under Super Rally Format to finish fifth, having won 11 of the 24 Special Stages. Being a non-priority entry, Gill was not eligible for any points or official classification in WRC2 category.

  • Ogier, Ingrassia in sight of sixth WRC crown; disaster stalks Gaurav Gill, squanders big lead

    Ogier, Ingrassia in sight of sixth WRC crown; disaster stalks Gaurav Gill, squanders big lead

    All about holding position for Sebastien Ogier. Photo: M-Sport

    Coffs Harbour, 17 November 2018: M-Sport Ford World Rally Team’s three EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRCs have made it through the second day of competition at Kennards Hire Rally Australia – ready to play their part in an epic title fight that is set to go down to the wire. The FIA World Rally Championship for Manufacturers may be all but gone, but a sixth crown for Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia is within sight and the Cumbrian squad will be giving their all to defend their driver and co-driver titles tomorrow.

    Meanwhile, India’s Gaurav Gill (co-driver Glenn Maneall of Australia) of team MRF Tyres, driving the M-Sport prepared Ford Fiesta R5 in the RC2 class, went off the road to squander his seemingly winning lead. Gill, leading overnight, increased his lead at the start of Saturday’s Stages, but in the day’s third test, he slid off the road which undid all the earlier good work. He eventually finished the day sixth Overall in the class after rejoining the Rally under the Super Rally format.

    Six is the magic number, and all Ogier needs to do is remain in sixth place with Thierry Neuville behind in the standings – do that and the crown belongs to Ogier once more; regardless of what fellow rival Ott Tänak can do at the head of the field or what either contender can muster in the Power Stage.

    Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “We are witnessing a truly golden age of rallying and it is fantastic to watch – albeit pretty nerve-wracking too! Whoever comes out on top tomorrow will be a deserving champion, and everyone in the service park can consider themselves winners for providing such a spectacular show.

    “It was a bit of a frustrating day with all three of our drivers clearing the loose gravel, but we saw some good times in the Super Specials and – most importantly – Sébastien and Julien are where they need to be to clinch the title. Anything can happen over the closing stages, but it’s looking good at the moment.”

    OGIER AND INGRASSIA SIXTH AFTER 18 STAGES

    Ogier and Ingrassia are doing exactly what they need to do. Having to contend with the worst of the road cleaning this weekend, it hasn’t been possible to fight for the victory –but that is not the main objective. The main objective is the defence of their championship, and they’re on course to achieve that through tomorrow’s closing stages.

    Ogier said: “The loose gravel has made it a difficult rally for us so far, but it’s been a positive day in terms of the championship and I’m very happy with that. First on the road yesterday was really tough. Fifth on the road today was a little bit better, but we still lost a lot of time compared to the guys starting further back. It was a bit frustrating sometimes, but the main target is the championship and scoring the points we need. That’s what we’re doing at the moment, but tomorrow’s final kilometres will feel pretty long and we’ll need to be focused.”

    EVANS AND BARRITT PLACED SEVENTH

    lfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt are the team players of the year and continue to aid Ogier and Ingrassia in their quest for a sixth FIA World Rally Championship title. Handing Ogier a more advantageous road position yesterday evening, Evans continued to push hard through today’s stages – keeping Neuville behind and showing his speed through both passes of Raleigh (SS12 and SS16).

    Evans said: “We all knew it would be difficult being early on the road today. The gravel was really loose and you could see how much it was cleaning and how much faster the road was getting with every car. Still, we delivered a clean and tidy drive and it was nice to show some speed through both passes of the Raleigh stage.”

    SUNINEN AND MARKKULA IN NINTH SPOT

    Teemu Suninen and Mikko Markkula are contesting Rally Australia for the first time this weekend and showed their potential with some quick times though yesterday’s stages. But the young Finn couldn’t find the same rhythm today and struggling to harness the same level of performance through the loose gravel. A quick learner, Suninen improved over the second pass and will be keen to further his experience tomorrow.

    Suninen said: “Today has been more difficult for me and I still have a lot to learn about how to drive in this loose gravel. I didn’t have the best rhythm, but we got a bit better in the afternoon and now there is just one more day to go.”

    OVERALL CLASSIFICATION

    1. Ott Tänak / Martin Järveoja (Toyota Yaris WRC) 2:07:52.0
    2. Jari-Matti Latvala / Miikka Anttila (Toyota Yaris WRC) +21.9
    3. Hayden Paddon / Sebastian Marshall (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +26.3
    4. Mads Østberg / Torstein Eriksen (Citroen C3 WRC) +46.6
    5. Esapekka Lappi / Janne Ferm (Toyota Yaris WRC) +50.4
    6. Sébastien Ogier / Julien Ingrassia (Ford Fiesta WRC) +1:44.8
    7. Elfyn Evans / Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta WRC) +2:04.6
    8. Thierry Neuville / Nicolas Gilsoul (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +2:35.2
    9. Teemu Suninen / Mikko Markkula (Ford Fiesta WRC) +2:49.0
    10. Craig Breen / Scott Martin (Citroen C3 WRC) +6:26.8
  • Ogier, Ingrassia manage to stay ahead in the battle for WRC crown: Kennards Hire Rally Australia

    Ogier, Ingrassia manage to stay ahead in the battle for WRC crown: Kennards Hire Rally Australia

    Sebastien Ogier in action in Kennards Rally Australia. Photo: M-Sport

    Coffs Harbour, 16 November 2018: Fighting to defend their FIA World Rally Championships, M-Sport Ford World Rally Team’s Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia have taken the advantage through a thrilling opening day of competition at Kennards Hire Rally Australia. Going into the final round just three points ahead of Thierry Neuville, Ogier had to keep his rival in sight and was doing just that when Neuville dropped 40 seconds through the second pass of Sherwood (SS6) – giving the M-Sport man the upper hand.

    Aided by his two team-mates, Ogier gained a further two places when Elfyn Evans and Teemu Suninen strategically dropped behind their comrade, and goes into the second day of competition three places and 33.7 seconds ahead of rival Neuville.

    The championship pendulum may be swinging in Ogier’s favour at the moment, but the team knows that this fight is far from over and will continue to push hard through the weekend.

    Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “It feels strange to say that it’s been a good day when we’re sitting in seventh, eighth and ninth, but we’re in a good position when it comes to the driver and co-driver championships which are our main objectives this weekend. Sébastien and Julien had a tough day opening the road, but they didn’t let the frustration distract them from the main objective. They pushed hard, didn’t put a foot wrong, and when Thierry [Neuville] lost time they were able to take the advantage.

    “We were then able to strengthen that advantage by strategically moving Elfyn and Teemu behind – which shows just how much of a team sport this can be come the end of the season. Both our young drivers have driven well today, and it was great to see their support. We’re all competitors and it’s never easy to concede a position, but everyone has worked together to give Sébastien and Julien the best possible chance going into the weekend. A second drivers’ title is the goal, but this fight is far from over and a lot can still happen over the next two days!”

    Ogier and Ingrassia had their work cut out through the opening day of competition at Rally Australia – leading the championship and therefore tasked with the arduous job of sweeping a clean line through some of the loosest gravel of the year.

    But the defending World Champions have been here before and overcame the frustration with a note-perfect performance. Pushing hard, the French pairing gave it everything and didn’t put a foot wrong – crucially ending the day ahead of their main championship rival.

    “Every stage has been like a Power Stage for us today. Opening the road is really tough here and we had to push really hard through every stage. It’s always a little frustrating when you’re not in a position to fight for the top results, but that’s the way it is.

    “Unlike our rivals, we didn’t make any mistakes and we’re in a good position for the championship which is the main objective this weekend. A big thanks to my team mates also for their help this afternoon which should make our road position better for tomorrow.”

    Ely Evans. Photo: M-Sport

    Evans and Barritt delivered a solid drive through the first day of competition at Rally Australia. In a tight fight for the top positions, the Brits were rarely more than a handful of seconds adrift of the fastest stage times, and ended the penultimate gravel stage less than 20 seconds adrift of the lead.

    Heading into the final loose-surface test of the day, Evans and Barritt proved once again why they should be dubbed team-mates of the year – dropping behind Ogier and Ingrassia to give the Frenchmen the best possible road position as the title fight continues into the weekend.

    “We focused on delivering a clean and tidy drive through today’s stages. The competition was really close and I think we did a pretty good job – not far from the lead before the last gravel stage of the day. But this is a team sport as well as an individual one and we had to play our part to give Seb the best possible position going into the weekend. We’re all competitors and we all want to compete, but we’re also here to do a job for the team and we have to respect that.”

    Teemu Sunninen. Photo: M-Sport

    Suninen and Markkula have quickly got to grips with Rally Australia. Contesting the event for the first time this weekend, the pairing are under strict instruction to learn the stages and gain as much experience as possible, but that didn’t stop them showcasing their speed.

    Building his knowledge and confidence with every kilometre, Suninen continues to prove his potential and set the second fastest time through the second pass of Coldwater (SS5) – just 0.1 seconds adrift of the stage win. The young Finn was also the second fastest man through the following speed test (SS6) – continuing to demonstrate his speed before playing the team game and slowing to fall behind Ogier in the overall standings.

    “I think we’ve had a good day. The pace has been good and we were able to improve a lot over the second pass – just 0.1 seconds away from a stage win on the middle one this afternoon [SS5]. On the next stage we had to give the position to Seb, but that’s part of the game – he’s fighting for the championship and we need to play our part to help him.”

    Overall classification (WRC):

    1. Mads Østberg / Torstein Eriksen (Citroen C3 WRC) 53:37.4
    2. Craig Breen / Scott Martin (Citroen C3 WRC) +6.8
    3. Jari-Matti Latvala / Miikka Anttila (Toyota Yaris WRC) +8.7
    4. Hayden Paddon / Sebastian Marshall (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +12.5
    5. Ott Tänak / Martin Järveoja (Toyota Yaris WRC) +16.9
    6. Esapekka Lappi / Janne Ferm (Toyota Yaris WRC) +28.3
    7. Sébastien Ogier / Julien Ingrassia (Ford Fiesta WRC) +38.2
    8. Elfyn Evans / Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta WRC) +45.2
    9. Teemu Suninen / Mikko Markkula (Ford Fiesta WRC) +47.2
    10. Thierry Neuville / Nicolas Gilsoul (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +1:11.9
  • M-Sport, Seb Ogier gird up for a battle royal in Australia; WRC title battle poised on a knife edge

    M-Sport, Seb Ogier gird up for a battle royal in Australia; WRC title battle poised on a knife edge

    Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia seeking another WRC crown. Photo: M-Sport

    Cumbria, 10 November 2018: The FIA World Rally Championships are all to play for and M-Sport Ford World Rally Team will fight to defend their crowns at next week’s season finale – Kennards Hire Rally Australia. Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia are in prime position and hold a three-point advantage going into the title decider. The team also have a mathematical chance of defending their manufacturers’ title – albeit somewhat more challenging with a 25-point deficit overcome. The EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRCs are ready for the battles ahead, and the stage is set for a thrilling final showdown.

    Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “I can’t remember the last time we went into the final round with the championship as close as it is at the moment. This is rallying at its best and I’m excited to see how the action unfolds. Sébastien and Julien are in prime position – leading the standings by a slender three points but leading the standings nonetheless.

    “They know how to win championships and they know what it takes to win in Australia. The whole team are behind them, and we are determined to see them end their time with us in the best possible way. We also have a mathematical chance in the manufacturers’ championship. It’s a harder task for sure, but anything is possible and Elfyn and Teemu are both keen to play their part and deliver another strong result. I don’t think we’ve seen the end of the drama just yet, and rally fans are surely in for a treat whatever the outcome next week.”

    The stage is set and Rally Australia is ready to host the 2018 FIA World Rally Championship title decider. Nestled on the Gold Coast between Brisbane and Sydney, the coastal town of Coffs Harbour will provide a stunning backdrop for the most exciting finale in years!

    Dusty tracks are the order of the rally and the region’s shire roads are combined with those in the surrounding rainforest and bush. There are a number of new stages this year, but the route continues to offer a variety with a mix of tight, twisty sections and those more fast and flowing. When dry, the loose terrain presents some of the worst road cleaning of the year; and when wet, it becomes treacherously slippery.

    The three championship rivals will be watching the skies with intent over the next few days, but there is more than just the weather to contend with – many stages are lined by trees mere millimetres from the road and visibility can often be a challenge as the low sun creates a strobe effect through the trees.

    Needless to say, the eventual winner – and the eventual World Champion – will have faced the challenge head-on and come out on top as the best the rallying world has to offer!

    SEBASTIEN OGIER, JULIEN INGRASSIA POISED FOR WRC GLORY

    Sebastien Ogier….well-placed for WRC crown

    Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia are on the verge of securing a sixth FIA World Rally Championship for Drivers and Co-Drivers – heading into the final round with a slender three-point lead at the head of the standings.

    Opening the road on Australia’s loose gravel is notoriously difficult, but they remain in prime position – leading the championship and thus putting the burden firmly on the shoulders of their rivals. Having won Rally Australia on three previous occasions, Ogier and Ingrassia know what it takes to tame the unique terrain and another win will see them retain their crown – regardless of what their opponents achieve in the rally or the Power Stage!

    Ogier said: “The Championship could not be closer and we head to the final round in Australia with a slender three-point lead at the head of the standings. It’s a very positive place to be compared to where we were when we were 23 points behind two rallies ago, and the pressure is now on our rivals to overhaul the deficit.

    “Of course we’re aware that opening the road will not be an easy task, but anything can happen and we are ready for the challenge. We’ve enjoyed a lot of success in Australia over the years and our goal is to add to that success next week.

    “We’re ready to do our best, ready to push for a sixth world title, and hopeful of ending what has been an enjoyable and rewarding two years with Malcolm and his team in the best possible way.”

    ELFYN EVANS, DANIEL BARRITT HOPE TO FINISH ON A HIGH

    File photo of Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt. Photo: M-Sport

    Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt will be looking to end their season on another high next week – aiming to fight for the top positions and secure their best result at Rally Australia.The British pairing have endured a tough season with their fair share of bad luck, but are determined to close the year on a positive and help the team secure the best possible result.

    Evans said: “I’ve always enjoyed Rally Australia and we’ll be aiming to bring our season to a close with another strong result next week. Following our podium in Spain, it would be great to end the year with another personal best in Australia.

    “There’s a friendly and relaxed atmosphere at this event and we’re made to feel welcome from the second we arrive in Coffs Harbour. But the event itself is a real challenge; and totally different from anything else we encounter throughout the year.

    “Visibility is often an issue and you have to have complete trust in your notes. Hanging dust isn’t uncommon and when the sun is low it can create a strobe effect through the trees which makes it difficult to read the road. The trees themselves also cast unfamiliar shadows and you really do need to be fully focused and concentrated throughout the weekend.

    “I can’t remember a more exciting time in the sport and I think everyone is excited to see what happens next week – ourselves included. We’re ready to give our best and will work hard to deliver the best possible result for the team.”

    TEEMU SUNINEN, MIKKO MARKKULA SET FOR DEBUT

    File photo of Teemu Suninen and Mikko Markkula. Photo: M-Sport

    Teemu Suninen and Mikko Markkula will make their Rally Australia debut next week, and the Finnish pairing will need to be fully focused from the word go if they are to compete on the same level as their rivals. Despite his inexperience, Suninen should never be discounted and the young Finn will be determined to end his season with a positive result for both himself and the team.

    Suninen said: “This will be my first time competing at Rally Australia, but my preparation is the same and I’ve been watching the videos to make sure we’re as prepared as we can be. I did the recce in 2016 but don’t have all the notes for this year’s stages. We’ll need to be concentrated on the recce to be ready to compete on the same level as everyone else.

    “As the last round of the season and with the championships being so close, this is also going to be a really interesting and exciting rally. Seb is still in with a strong chance of taking his sixth world title, and the team also have a chance in the manufacturers’ championship. I am ready to give everything in order to be a part of those fights and to end my season on a high.”

  • Loeb snatches dramatic WRC win in Spain; Ogier regains championship lead after finishing second

    Loeb snatches dramatic WRC win in Spain; Ogier regains championship lead after finishing second

    Sebastien Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena on the podium after their win in Spain. Photo: rallyracc.com

    Salou, 29 October 2018: Sébastien Loeb (co-driver Daniel Elena) claimed his first WRC victory for more than five years in a pulsating finale to RallyRACC Catalunya – Rally de España, the penultimate round of the FIA World Rally Championship on Sunday. The 44-year old nine-time World champion, making his final guest appearance of the season with Citroën Racing, edged defending title holder Sébastien Ogier by 2.9sec in an intense finale to the four-day mixed surface event.

    Ogier’s consolation was that he regained the championship lead by three points from Thierry Neuville with one round remaining. The Belgian was relegated from third to fourth, and missed out on crucial bonus points, after hitting a stone near the finish.

    After winning every year from 2005 to 2012, Loeb (Citroën C3 WRC) achieved his ninth victory at the RallyRACC, an amazing feat, as he is not currently participating in this season and had chosen the Spanish round as one of the three in which he competed this season. This victory is also the second consecutive achieved by Citroën at the Catalan round, after the one Meeke-Nagle took last year.

    Loeb, who retired from full-time competition in 2012, last stood on the winners’ podium in Argentina in 2013. He lay third overnight but charged into the lead by winning Sunday’s opening two speed tests as an inspired tyre choice reaped rewards. Loeb threw away vital seconds with a spin in the penultimate test to allow Ogier to close in his Ford Fiesta. He held on through the final 14.50km test for his ninth Spanish win.

    “The information we had from the weather team was right. The roads were drying and I knew if I used hard tyres in these conditions I could be fast,” he said. “To win after almost six years is incredible, but to do so in a battle like this, where you only discover after the finish line that you have won, is amazing. I never believed I would win again.”

    Tyre choice errors early in the event cost Ogier dear, but this season’s remarkable title fight swung back in his favour when Neuville hit a stone close to the finish. The impact broke his Hyundai i20’s right rear wheel and allowed Elfyn Evans, team-mate to Ogier, to snatch third and aid his colleague’s title bid. Evans ended 0.5sec clear of Neuville.

    Spain’s Dani Sordo was a further 1.6sec behind in fifth, while early leader Ott Tänak recovered to sixth after yesterday’s puncture. The Estonian is 23 points adrift of Ogier and with a maximum 30 available at the last round, his hopes hang by a thread.

    Esapekka Lappi finished seventh ahead of Toyota Yaris team-mate and overnight leader Jari-Matti Latvala. The Finn remained second until he hit a barrier in the penultimate stage, punctured his front left tyre and dropped nearly 50sec. Craig Breen and Andreas Mikkelsen completed the top 10.

    The championship showdown takes place at Kennards Hire Rally Australia. The gravel event is based in Coffs Harbour on 15-18 November.

    Sebastien Ogier….back at the top of the championship. Photo: M-Sport.

    Ogier said; “It’s been an eventful weekend but we’re feeling good at the end of it. We knew that it would be difficult starting second on the road and the wet conditions made it really challenging as well. But we never gave up and gave it everything we had. You’re always a little frustrated when you miss the victory by such a small margin, but we tried everything we could and it’s still been a positive weekend as we regained the lead of the championship. Starting first on the road in Australia will be difficult, but I prefer to have the points in hand. It will be a tough rally and we will have to give it everything we have if we want to regain the title.”

    The day started with a first pass through the Riudecanyes (16.35 km) and Santa Marina (14.50 km) stages, where Loeb set the fastest time, taking the lead after this first loop and leaving Latvala Miikka (Toyota Yaris WRC), 7.1 seconds behind, and Ogier (Ford Fiesta WRC) at 10.8.

    With all options open before the second loop over the same two stages, Riudecanyes had a surprising winning duo, Elfyn Evans-Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta WRC), who took the fifth place overall ahead of the Spanish Dani Sordo-Carlos del Barrio (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC). Nevertheless, the highlight in that stage was a spin by Loeb at the Coll de la Teixeta roundabout, where he lost some seconds but kept the lead, as well as a puncture for Latvala, this time in the left front tyre, that took him definitively out of the fight for victory.

    At Santa Marina, the Power Stage, Loeb and Ogier met for the final duel and the last stage could not be more exciting: Ott Tänak was the fastest and took the 5 extra points. But the drivers fighting for victory were right behind him, Ogier second and Loeb third, which allowed the Citroën driver to take the win, for the ninth time at the RallyRACC, a historical feat that no one else had achieved in the 54 editions held.

    Thierry Neuville lost the third final position in the last few meters, as he damaged his rear tyre, so Elfyn Evans, who was fourth in the Power Stage, completed the overall podium. Dani Sordo, who took one additional point in this last stage, was not able to do any better than the sixth place, ahead of Ott Tänak, who is now definitively out of the fight for the drivers’ title.

    Teenager Rovanpera leads 1-2 WRC 2 finish for Skoda

    Kalle Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen celebrating their WRC 2 category. Photo: Skoda Motorsport

    Exactly on the day of the 100 years celebration of the country Czechoslovakia, Czech ŠKODA factory crew Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler celebrated their WRC 2 championship win with a second place behind team-mates Kalle Rovanperä-Jonne Halttunen. Before the event, ŠKODA Motorsport also had secured the WRC 2 Championship for Teams, making the 2018 season the most successful in its history.

    After the rally switched from gravel to tarmac for the Saturday leg, 18-year old Rovanperä stormed into the category lead, unimpressed by heavy rain. Finally, he secured his second WRC 2 win of the season, which made them climb up to third overall in the WRC 2 championship standings behind teammates Jan Kopecký and Pontus Tidemand.

    Kopecký said:  “This is a very special day for me. On the date today, my home country celebrates its 100th birthday. We are delighted to become WRC 2 champions and so could crown a fantastic season!”

    One of the first to congratulate was Christian Strube, Head of Technical Development ŠKODA AUTO. ŠKODA Motorsport boss Michal Hrabánek added: “Now it is time to celebrate! Kalle and Jan did a great job. The whole team made it possible, that we enjoy the most successful year in the history of ŠKODA Motorsport!”

    Overall Classification:

    1. Sébastien Loeb / Daniel Elena (Citroen C3 WRC) 3:12:08.0
    2. Sébastien Ogier / Julien Ingrassia (Ford Fiesta WRC) +2.9
    3. Elfyn Evans / Daniel Barritt (Ford Fiesta WRC) +16.5
    4. Thierry Neuville / Nicolas Gilsoul (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +17.0
    5. Dani Sordo / Carlos del Barrio (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +18.6
    6. Ott Tänak / Martin Järveoja (Toyota Yaris WRC) +1:03.9
    7. Esapekka Lappi / Janne Ferm (Toyota Yaris WRC) +1:16.6
    8. Jari-Matti Latvala / Miikka Anttila (Toyota Yaris WRC) +1:26.4
    9. Craig Breen / Scott Martin (Citroen C3 WRC) +2:07.0
    10. Andreas Mikkelsen / Anders Jaeger (Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC) +2:48.2
    11. Teemu Suninen / Mikko Markkula (Ford Fiesta WRC) +3:52.0

    Drivers’ Championship Standings:

    1. Sébastien Ogier – 204
    2. Thierry Neuville – 201
    3. Ott Tänak – 181
    4. Esapekka Lappi – 110
    5. Jari-Matti Latvala – 102
    6. Andreas Mikkelsen – 84
    7. Dani Sordo – 71
    8. Elfyn Evans – 70
    9. Craig Breen – 61
    10. Hayden Paddon – 55
    11. Teemu Suninen – 54

    Manufacturers’ Championship Standings:

    1. Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC – 331
    2. Hyundai Motorsport – 319
    3. M-Sport Ford World Rally Team – 306
    4. Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team – 216
  • Wales Rally GB: M-Sport pair Ogier, Ingrassia eyeing a strong result on home turf

    Wales Rally GB: M-Sport pair Ogier, Ingrassia eyeing a strong result on home turf

    All WRC photos courtesy M-Sport

    Wales, 3 October 2018: Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia are no strangers to the taste of champagne, and especially not in Wales where the World Rally Champions have four victories to their name. Currently locked in an intense three-way battle for a sixth World title, the M-Sport Ford Fiesta pairing will be looking to challenge for victory once again this weekend.

    M-Sport Ford’s fleet of EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta WRCs will be chasing a strong result when the FIA World Rally Championship ventures to the team’s home event this week.

    Elfyn Evans and Daniel Barritt know what it takes to tame the tricky Welsh stages and secured their maiden victory on home soil last year. The Brits will have home support on their side this week, and Evans even has a corner named after him on the Myherin stage! Keen to close the latter half of the season with some strong results, the British pairing will be ones to watch.

    Teemu Suninen and Mikko Markkula have come to prove that they cannot be discounted at any event. Wales Rally GB might be one of the most challenging events on the calendar, but the young Finn seems to thrive when the going gets tough. Having secured the WRC 2 victory on his first ever appearance in Wales, Suninen took an instant liking to the Welsh forests and could spring a surprise or two next week.

    Sébastien Ogier said: “Wales Rally GB is one of the classics and an event that everyone wants to win. The stages are steeped in motorsport history and the early starts and late finishes make it a true test of focus and endurance. Win in Wales, and you know that you have mastered the challenge.

    “It’s one of the most challenging rallies on the calendar and there is a real art to judging the grip through the forests. The demanding weather conditions can take a bit of getting used to, but we could see a dry rally this year which would be interesting for sure!

    “This time 12 months ago, the Welsh forests played host to an incredible story as we claimed all three championships with Malcolm and his team. The title fight could not be closer this year, but the team can rest assured that we will give our very best in pursuit of the strongest possible result to keep our championship hopes alive!”

    To best prepare for Wales Rally GB’s notoriously challenging stages, the team completed four days of testing – both at home in Cumbria as well as on-location in the Welsh forests. And with the event’s past five winners all behind the wheel of the Fiesta this week, the team have high hopes of once again challenging for victory.

    Last year’s victory was particularly special as the Welsh fixture played host to an incredible weekend for the Cumbrian squad who secured the win as well as the FIA World Rally Championships for Manufacturers, Drivers and Co-drivers.

    The Championships can’t be secured on Welsh soil this year, but the victory will be hotly contested and could well prove pivotal as the season draws to a close; and M-Sport Ford will be giving their all in pursuit of a repeat performance.

    Wales Rally GB is one of the classics – an iconic event that every rally driver wants to win. Steeped in motorsport history, the British round has it all and provides one of the biggest challenges of the year.

    Mud, rain, fog, even snow and ice – anything can be expected in Wales. Glorious sunshine could even be a possibility this year and the crews could face a dry Wales Rally GB for the first time in a number of years.

    Whatever the conditions this weekend, the challenge remains. Focus and endurance are key and the crews will be tested to the maximum. Make no mistake, a win in Wales will have been hard fought and that’s why every driver wants to add this one to their repertoire.

    Team Principal, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “The competition could not be closer and we’ll be hoping for another strong result on home soil. Nothing will ever top last year when we secured all three titles as well as the rally win, but we are aiming to be in the fight for another victory this year.

    “Both Sébastien and Elfyn know what it takes to stand on the top step of the podium in Wales. Sébastien has won this event four times, and Elfyn not only grew up on these roads but also made history when he won the event last year – the first Welsh driver to ever do so at this level.

    “This will be Teemu’s first time here in a world rally car and there will be a lot to learn, but time after time he proves what a quick learner he is and I wouldn’t be surprised if he sprung another surprise or two this weekend.”

  • MRF, Gaurav Gill pleased with performance of tyres on WRC debut in Rally Italia Sardegna

    MRF, Gaurav Gill pleased with performance of tyres on WRC debut in Rally Italia Sardegna

    Gaurav Gill in action during the Rall Italia Sardegna where he and MRF Tyres made their WRC debut.

    Alghero, 10 June 2018: It was a successful debut in the World Rally Championship (WRC) for MRF Tyres in the Rally Italia Sardegna held over the weekend. MRF Tyres joined the current World Rally Champions M-Sport outfit to run a Fiesta R5 car on the Italian roads with Indian Gaurav Gill behind the wheel. His co-driver, Australian Glenn Macneall has a long history in the WRC and brought valuable experience to the team.

    Gill and Macneall put in a string of fast stage times, finishing inside the top 10 of their class across all the Saturday and Sunday stages.

    “It was a tough event – this is the toughest of the WRC events across the season and the MRF Tyres performed well on the rough roads,” Gill said. “I am very happy with where we sit after our first event. We took fourth in our category on stage 13 and today we continued to set very good times. The conditions today were very hot, much warmer than over the rest of the weekend but the roads were a little smoother. It is great to make it to this point and I am looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of the MRF Tyres Ford Fiesta R5 at our next WRC event.”

    The MRF Tyres team was happy with the progress with the rally showing development opportunities while showing the tyres are strong and consistent.

    “Our tyres were able to withstand the tough demand of the WRC – the toughest motorsport competition in the world. The MRF Tyres were able to withstand rocks, ruts and boulders without a single issue,” he added.

    With the data and confidence that MRF Tyres and Gaurav Gill with Glenn Macneall gained from Rally Italia Sardegna, the team are looking forward to future events.

    This is the first of four events for MRF Tyres in the WRC this year as the team aims to gain more data, experience and speed for the 2019 season.

    MRF Tyres Press Release

  • Neuville snatches dramatic win over Ogier to extend WRC title lead

    Neuville snatches dramatic win over Ogier to extend WRC title lead

    Thierry Neuville reacts after scoring a sensational win over Sebastien Ogier in the Rally Italia Sardegna. Photo: WRC

    Alghero, 10 June 2018: Thierry Neuville snatched a thrilling Rally Italia Sardegna victory on Sunday afternoon after edging WRC title rival Sebastien Ogier in an electrifying shootout in the final speed test. He trailed Ogier by 0.8sec ahead of the 6.96 kms test, but delivered a daredevil drive in his Hyundai i20 to overhaul the Frenchman and claim his third win of the season by 0.7sec. Neuville extended his championship lead over Ogier to 27 points.

    Esapekka Lappi finished third in a Toyota Yaris, a further 1min 51.3sec behind. The results remain provisional after a bizarre incident at the finish of the penultimate stage when Ogier hurriedly departed in his Ford Fiesta without collecting his time card. It was later delivered to him by Ott Tänak. It was a breach of regulations which prohibit the crew receiving items from a third party.

    After investigating the issue, stewards removed the 22 points Ogier and Ingrassia gained from the rally and the 18 earned by their M-Sport Ford team. The penalty was suspended, meaning it will only be applied if the pair repeat the offence before the end of the season. They were also fined 10,000 Euros. The decision means Ogier remains 27 points adrift of Neuville with six rounds remaining.

    Ingrassia admitted his mistake at the hearing. He said they left the stage finish without checking the time card had been returned by marshals and when he realised the error, it was too late to return to the finish line by car or on foot. Stewards accepted it was a genuine mistake which had no effect on the performance of their Ford Fiesta.

    Neuville won the final live TV Power Stage to claim five bonus points. Ogier took four points for second with Ott Tänak scoring three in third in a Yaris. Andreas Mikkelsen and Elfyn Evans took two and one point respectively.

    It was the third smallest winning margin in the WRC’s 45-year history, matching Neuville’s dramatic success in Argentina last year when he performed a similar snatch and grab on Elfyn Evans.

    The Belgian started the sun-kissed short final leg along Sardinia’s north-west coast 3.9sec adrift of Ogier. He won the opening three tests before both drivers threw caution to the wind in the finale. Both made mistakes on the dusty, rocky tracks but Neuville emerged on top.

    “I gave it everything, it was a really great fight and such a small difference at the end,” he said. “We needed to make a decision at the start of the last stage and our decision was to go for the win. We believed strongly and pushed hard.”

    Ogier was far from downhearted. “We lost one battle but definitely not the war. It’s not the time to panic. I tried everything I could today but I was always losing a few tenths here and there,” he said.

    Kopecky takes third WRC 2 win of the season

    Jan Kopecky on a high after enjoying a comfortable win in WRC 2, his third of the season. Photo: WRC

    A clean run through the final day of the rally enabled Jan Kopecky to seal his third WRC 2 win of the year by more than three minutes. After Stéphane Lefebvre’s retirement on Saturday, the Skoda Motorsport driver knew all he had to do was clear Sunday’s four stages cleanly to claim victory, and that is exactly what he did. He kept his Fabia R5 out of trouble on the rocky and rutted roads to win by 3m 02.6sec.

    Twenty-five points for victory keeps Kopecky second in the drivers’ standings, behind team-mate Pontus Tidemand. But with the Swede not participating in Italy, the gap between them slims to 18 points.

    “The feeling is really nice because the Czech fans are everywhere here,” Kopecký explained. “The rally didn’t start completely perfect, but we’ve been fast the rest of the weekend and there were no mistakes.”

    Ole Christian Veiby…..brilliant run. Photo: WRC

    Ole Christian Veiby secured runner-up spot in the second Skoda Motorsport Fabia R5. The Norwegian claimed a hat-trick of stage wins to add to his six from Saturday as he overhauled Hyundai i20 driver Nicolas Ciamin on the rally’s penultimate stage.

    Ciamin claimed the final podium spot, deciding to focus on bringing the car home in one piece as the gravel tracks got rougher on the second run and rocks were pulled onto the racing line.

    Pierre-Louis Loubet was one of the drivers caught out by the rough conditions in his i20 R5, he lost more than two minutes on the second run of the 14.06km Cala Flumini stage. That dropped him from fourth to sixth as Fabio Andolfi and Lukasz Pieniazek both squeezed their Skodas into the top five, despite a stall for the latter on the same stage.

    Loubet’s woes were compounded when he was forced to retire at final control. That promoted Benito Guerra to sixth after his retirement yesterday. Kajetan Kajetanowicz and Lefebvre rounded out the finishers – the Frenchman showing strong pace in his Citroën C3 R5 by claiming fastest WRC 2 time in the Sassari-Argentiera Live TV Power Stage.

    Toyota development driver Takamoto Katsuta retired on SS17 with a broken driveshaft in his Ford Fiesta R5, while Simone Tempestini was unable to restart after mechanical issues with his Citroën on Saturday.