Toyota claimed a one-two finish at last weekend’s Central European Rally, with Kalle Rovanperä taking his second asphalt victory of the season and Elfyn Evans securing second place to complete the team’s double success.
Ott Tänak was the best-placed Hyundai driver, but Toyota’s points haul was already enough to secure the manufacturers’ title. The championship is Toyota’s fifth in a row.
Tänak has collected 197 championship points so far this season, but the gap to the top of the drivers’ standings — led by Elfyn Evans after his return to form in Central Europe — has grown to a hefty 50 points.
In theory, Tänak could still become champion, but at the moment, there is little to suggest such a miracle comeback.
“We’re not giving up here,” Tänak said.
“There are still two rallies left, and of course we’ll try to fight in these last two rallies,” Tänak continued.
However, Tänak admitted frankly that his chances of winning the title are, in reality, already gone.
“As far as the championship is concerned, we’re no longer really in that fight. It’s no longer our game. The chances are theoretical. But there are still two rallies to go, and of course we’ll try our best,” Tänak said bluntly.
