Sebastien Ogier enters Rally Sardinia with no pressure. The drivers' title is out of reach, and Toyota has already secured the manufacturers' championship. All that remains is the chance to enjoy the drive and perhaps claim one more victory.
Ogier, an eight-time world champion, has not confirmed his plans for next season. He has repeatedly expressed disinterest in the new WRC27 cars. Speculation is mounting: will Sardinia be his final event as a factory driver?
The competition for seats at Toyota could be fierce. Ott Tanak is rumored to return, having conducted extensive testing of Toyota's future machinery. Kalle Rovanpera's potential comeback adds another layer. If both return, Ogier might be pushed out.
“Now that the team has secured another manufacturers’ title, and that we officially no longer have a chance in the drivers’ championship, our target will be to enjoy driving this great car one last time and, of course, try to achieve one more victory to end the season,” Ogier said.
Sardinia holds a special place for Ogier. He admits it took him a few years to master the demanding island rally. “Sardinia is a rally that I have always enjoyed going to during my career. While the island itself is beautiful, the rally is really demanding and it took me a few years to master it, but it was very satisfying to win there again last year after a close fight right until the end,” he added.
This year, the rally moves to autumn, but dry and warm conditions are expected. However, Ogier warns that island weather can change rapidly. “I also remember driving there in October a couple of times before, and it can still be really challenging at this time of year, especially with weather that can change very quickly when you’re on an island,” he stressed.
Rally Sardinia kicks off with shakedown on Thursday morning, followed by the first spectator stage later that day. The event features 17 special stages covering just over 307 kilometres, finishing on Sunday.
Whatever Ogier decides, Sardinia will be an emotional moment. He has been an icon for Toyota and the WRC. If this is truly the end, he wants to go out with a win.
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