New WRC champion Elfyn Evans relieved after “surreal” Sardinia title showdown
A relieved Elfyn Evans feels years of hard work have finally paid off after becoming Britain’s first World Rally Champion for 25 years following a “surreal” final stage showdown at Rally Sardinia. The longtime championship leader could see the title slipping away after feeling powerless at times, having started from first on the road on Friday. A penultimate stage puncture on Sunday then ... Keep…
Elfyn Evans, a veteran in the World Rally Championship, finally clinched the title after two decades following an extraordinary final stage clash at Rally Sardinia. The champion felt the weight of expectation after starting from pole on Friday, but a significant setback occurred during the penultimate stage when a puncture threatened to cost him the lead.
Meanwhile, Oliver Solberg, initially 21 points behind, capitalized on the setback and surged ahead. As the title decider unfolded on Sunday, Solberg took a misstep off the road, just a few corners from the finish line, enabling Evans to secure the championship. Evans, who had previously finished second five times (2020-21, 2023-25), described the moment as a blend of relief, happiness, and joy.
He acknowledged the gruelling nature of the season, including a misfortune in Chile, where an early puncture cost him dearly. His co-driver, Scott Martin, who is now England's inaugural WRC co-drivers' champion, expressed his relief, stating that they never anticipated the championship to slip away again. Both Evans and his co-driver expressed their admiration for Solberg's performance throughout the season, emphasizing that anyone would have deserved the title after years of hard work.
Meanwhile, former champions Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville echoed the sentiment, believing that Evans was the most deserving champion following his relentless effort and perseverance in the sport.
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