The International Automobile Federation (FIA) is organizing its award gala on Friday evening in the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku. Elfyn Evans announced on Friday that he will not be attending.
“I’m sorry I can’t attend the FIA prize giving in Baku tonight and celebrate the end of the 2023 season. Unfortunately I came off bike some days ago and injured my ribs” Evans shared on social media.
The Welshman, known as an avid mountain biker, did not specify how serious the injury is.
“I have been advised not to fly. I hope everyone has a good night especially my TGR teammates, who are collecting quite a few awards tonight.”
Evans finished second in this year’s World Rally Championship, behind his teammate Kalle Rovanperä. Evans lost his chance at the championship in the penultimate round of the season Central European Rally where he crashed his Toyota into a barn.
Next year, Evans will be aiming for his first championship as Toyota’s lead driver. The reigning champion Rovanperä and another of Toyota’s champion driver, Sebastien Ogier, will only compete in part of next season’s events.
In addition to Evans, the biggest favorites for next year’s championship are Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak.
Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen will receive their championship trophies on Friday evening in Baku.
