For the past few years, Ogier has competed in partial seasons as a driver for Toyota’s WRC team. This year, the French ace has been in incredible form, securing two wins and three second places in the five WRC rallies he has participated in.
Due to his outstanding performances, Ogier is in a strong position in the WRC standings, despite missing three rallies this season. Ogier is 28 points behind championship leader Thierry Neuville ahead of the Rally Finland, which starts on Thursday evening.
Check the World Rally Championship standings here.
This has led to speculation that Ogier might compete in all the remaining rallies of the season, potentially fighting for his ninth world title.
Ogier does not dismiss the idea.
“28 points is still a lot with the current points system. So of course it’s nice to see that we are not that far, but at the moment there is still no plan to compete in all of the events.”
“But of course we keep an eye open if the opportunity comes. Like I always say, I’m not ready to compete in all of the rallies, but if the opportunity is there to fight for the championship anyway, we will still fight for it,” Ogier told RallyJournal.com.
Ogier will reassess his situation after the Rally Finland. If the gap has narrowed further, he may well be seen in the remaining four WRC rallies, competing for the title.
Ogier has not yet finalised his plans for next season. So far, he has been satisfied with competing in selected WRC rallies.
“I don’t see myself coming back full time, that’s for sure. I can confirm that.”
“So as long as this situation makes both sides happy – my team and myself – and that we are getting good results together, I think there is a good chance to see that continuing. But I haven’t met Jari-Matti (Latvala) yet, so I need to discuss with him,” Ogier smiled.
Ogier is likely to see team principal Latvala several times over the weekend, as both veterans are competing in the Rally Finland. Latvala is driving a Toyota Rally2 car and competing in the WRC2 class.
