After Saturday evening, the French veteran is third in the competition, but the gap to the sensational rally leader Oliver Solberg has already grown to more than one minute and 25 seconds.
Despite this, Ogier appeared in reasonably good spirits in front of the media at the end of the day.
“I’m as satisfied with today as I can be in this situation,” Ogier said.
“Unfortunately, it was already somewhat expected in advance that in this kind of weather it’s difficult to achieve much. But if we can secure a podium position, it won’t be a bad result,” he continued.
The multiple Monte Carlo winner has not been able to match the pace of the young Solberg in the weekend’s changeable and extremely demanding conditions. At the end of the day, Ogier praised Solberg effusively.
“You can only say positive things about him based on what he’s doing. Even though there was that scary moment this afternoon, it’s often said that to win you also need some luck,” Ogier said.
“That’s the winner’s luck. I’ve experienced it myself before, and many, many winners have experienced the same. Other than that, it’s been a very strong weekend – what else can you say but great job,” Ogier lauded.
Could Solberg become world champion already in his first full season in Toyota’s Rally1 car?
“We’ll find out over time, but at least starting the season with a win in Monte Carlo couldn’t be a better platform,” Ogier assessed.
“I believe that now everyone will definitely be watching him with closer attention. Honestly, I think this is also great for the WRC – a bit of fresh air and a driver with a lot of passion at the front. From my point of view, it’s only a good thing,” Ogier praised.
