Ogier delivered a strong performance throughout the day, fighting his way back into the podium battle. His efforts were crucial for Toyota’s bid in the manufacturers’ championship.
“I think it’s been a positive day as we were the fastest of the day with three stage wins, so there wasn’t much more we could do,” Ogier stated.
“The damage was done yesterday, so today was about limiting the damage as much as we could. Coming back on the podium and scoring as many points as we can for the team,” he added.
The manufacturers’ championship remains wide open. Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala has already suggested that the title fight might come down to the wire in the Power Stage.
“It’s not ideal, as we didn’t make enough ground back today, but we’re still alive going into the last day of the championship, and that’s what matters,” Ogier noted.
“It’s still rallying, so you never know what can happen over the course of a day. We’ve seen many, many surprises on Sundays this year. We’ll have to push hard in the last few stages and see what happens.”
Ogier had predicted at the start of the season that it would be a tight battle throughout. He believes the close competition has been great for the sport.
“It’s good like this. The fans want to see battles and suspense for as long as possible. So, I think for the show, it’s not so bad,” Ogier commented.
The rally has been long and grueling, and Ogier admitted he’s looking forward to its conclusion on Sunday.
“Huge day, as always. On these days, we prepare with videos, and the nights are pretty short. The whole rally has been very intense. Road sections are super busy here, with alot too many fans. But it’s also great to see that, even if there’s a lot of traffic,” Ogier explained.
“Very intense. And I think tomorrow night, when everything is over, it will finally be time for some rest.”
Toyota still has a chance to clinch the manufacturers’ title, but a perfect performance on Sunday is essential.
“I would have loved to have more cards in hand to really go all in. On our side, we need to give it everything and hope that some little things go our way. But like I said, we’re still alive. So, we keep dreaming,” Ogier said.
Toyota’s Elfyn Evans, who ended Saturday in second place, will also play a key role. The Welshman couldn’t match Hyundai’s Ott Tänak on Saturday, falling nearly 40 seconds behind. However, Evans remains confident that Toyota can fight on equal terms on Sunday.
We need to unlock the speed. In certain conditions, we know we have it when the conditions are difficult, but when it’s more dry, we seem to struggle a lot. We have to do what we can. I’m obviously disappointed to lose ground today after a strong start to the morning. We need to be better tomorrow,” Evans concluded.
