The world’s best part-time driver, Sébastien Ogier, has once again delivered a masterful performance and now leads the rally by 11.1 seconds over Hyundai’s Ott Tänak.
Saturday was a dramatic day. Among the notable incidents, Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux first dropped out of podium contention with car damage and later rolled his car, ending his rally.
As it often goes in rallying, one driver’s misfortune opened the door for another. Fourmaux’s troubles allowed Kalle Rovanperä to climb into third place, and Sami Pajari’s late tyre issue elevated Elfyn Evans, the current championship leader, to fourth.
“It’s been a really good day. A lot has happened out there again, and there have been tyre issues, but fortunately our team got through with relatively minor problems,” Latvala told RallyJournal.com with satisfaction.
Pajari lost significant time with his tyre issue at the end of the day. Evans suffered the same fate, but the Welshman managed to limit the damage and even gain a position.
“It was of course unfortunate for Sami. He lost one place, but in the bigger picture, it didn’t change things too much. Elfyn had the same issue, but luckily he managed to gain one place,” Latvala commented on the late drama.
Rovanperä found better car settings on Friday evening, which continued to suit his driving style well on Saturday.
“Kalle’s pace has been really strong throughout. He’s now performing at the level many have expected him to be,” Latvala praised.
The star of the day, however, was Ogier. The seasoned champion once again demonstrated his class.
“Ogier has done an incredible job maintaining the lead. Based on the comments he made at the end of the day, his confidence is clearly sky-high,” Latvala lauded his part-time ace.
“His performance level is outstanding. His motivation to win and to be the best is truly admirable,” Latvala added.
