In a nail-biting finale to the Croatia Rally, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team emerged triumphant, securing a remarkable one-two finish with Sébastien Ogier clinching victory over teammate Elfyn Evans.
Maintaining an impeccable record on the demanding asphalt event since joining the FIA World Rally Championship calendar in 2021, TGR-WRT showcased its dominance once again on the challenging stages around the Croatian capital of Zagreb. The competition remained intense throughout the weekend, with less than 10 seconds separating the top two contenders in the overall standings.
Evans commenced the rally tied for the lead with his main championship rival Thierry Neuville after Friday’s stages, with Ogier trailing just 6.6 seconds behind. However, a stunning final stage performance from Ogier allowed him to close the gap and seize the lead, while Evans held firm in second place despite a spin.
As the dust settled, Ogier and co-driver Vincent Landais clinched victory, finishing 9.7 seconds ahead of Evans and Scott Martin. The result marks Ogier’s 100th podium in his WRC career, a testament to his exceptional skill and determination.
Notably, Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston showcased improved pace and confidence throughout the event, securing the top spot in the separate Super Sunday classification and contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Reflecting on the team’s achievement, Akio Toyoda, TGR-WRT Chairman, expressed his gratitude to the crews for their outstanding performance. He highlighted the meticulous preparation undertaken by the team, including strategic planning for the unpredictable weather conditions in Croatia.
Looking ahead, Jari-Matti Latvala, Team Principal, emphasized the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence, acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead in the upcoming Rally de Portugal. Despite the fierce competition, the team remains determined to build on its success and continue pushing the boundaries of performance.
The thrilling conclusion to the Croatia Rally sets the stage for an exhilarating season ahead in the FIA World Rally Championship, with Toyota Gazoo Racing poised to maintain its momentum as it pursues further victories on the global stage.
