Ogier’s original plan was to contest around half of this season’s rallies. He skipped the rounds in Sweden and Kenya early in the year, but by the summer it was becoming clear that the French star might have a realistic shot at fighting for the championship.
He also sat out July’s Rally Estonia, but after Rally Finland he strongly hinted that he might indeed go for his ninth crown.
Now only three rounds remain in the season, and leading the standings are Ogier and Landais, who have already claimed a remarkable five wins this year.
“It was obvious that we still wanted to win a few rallies this year – that’s always the objective. We clearly saw the speed was there, and as the big results kept coming, a little game started between us,” Landais recalled in an interview with French outlet Rallye-Sport.
“Step by step the idea took shape, and at one point it just clicked – why not?”
Check the full WRC standings here!
Landais began co-driving for Ogier at the end of 2022, and since then he has celebrated 11 rally wins alongside the veteran. But a championship is still missing from his CV, as Ogier has competed part-time with Toyota since 2022.
This year, however, Landais has a unique opportunity to achieve his greatest dream.
“For me it would be the first, it would be fantastic. Seb has always said that whether it’s eight or nine titles doesn’t really matter to him. What he wants above all is to win rallies, and if the title comes with it, even better,” Landais said.
“Perhaps unconsciously he found extra motivation by giving me the chance to become champion for the first time. The story would obviously be beautiful if we went all the way.”
The next round, the Central European Rally, takes place in mid-October. Ogier and Landais will start with the best possible road position, running first on the asphalt stages. After Central Europe, the championship fight continues in Japan and Saudi Arabia.
If Ogier’s superb form continues, Landais will have a great chance of finally becoming world champion.
“This is a new situation for me. I’ve been experiencing incredible moments with Seb over the last three years, and I really enjoy every rally we do together. I’ve always worked hard in my career hoping for this chance. If the title comes, it would only be a bonus for me. And if it doesn’t work out, I’ll have no regrets.”
