He was coming off two consecutive victories at Rally of Japan. Leader of WRC Having regained his place after the Central Europe Rally, Elfyn Evans failed to achieve a hat trick in Japan. Despite four stage wins, the Welshman didn’t come close to the ten stage victories achieved by Sébastien Ogierallowing the Frenchman to have an 11,6 second lead at the end of the weekend.
Despite a determined performance in the rain, Elfyn Evans failed to win a stage on Sunday. This costly mistake further widened the gap between him and his French rival. “I would have liked to say it was fun, but today it wasn’t so much,” he concluded with a smile upon arriving at the Power StageIt was really enjoyable battling with Seb all weekend. The conditions were very difficult, but Seb rode exceptionally well. It was less easy for us, but we gave it our best shot.
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Evans heaps praise on Ogier
Although he started his season with an impressive run of four podium finishes, including two wins in four rallies, Elfyn Evans’ last victory dates back to the Kenyan event last March. More precisely, the Welshman actually won both rallies at the start of the season in which Sébastien Ogier did not participate. “He was incredibly fast throughout the season, it was always close between the two of us,” commented the runner-up in this Rally Japan regarding the Frenchman. It’s the details that make the difference. Overall, we can still be happy with our performance.
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For ToyotaThe picture remains perfect after this latest race, the penultimate one of the season. The podium is filled with drivers loyal to the Japanese manufacturer, while mutual respect is clearly maintained between the two contenders for the world title. “It was an intense battle. We showed good speed, but we couldn’t compete with Seb for the win.” Elfyn Evans summed it up after the end of Super SundayCongratulations to the team for this home hat trick, to Seb for his victory, and to Sami for his first podium finish. As for the league, everything is still to play for in Saudi Arabia.
The final round of the 2025 WRC season will take place from November 27th to 30th, featuring 17 gravel stages. The action will unfold in Jeddah, the drivers’ base camp.
AloJapan.com