Australia: Latvala takes the lead, Ogier maintains control

Jari-Matti Latvala (Toyota) took over the leadership of Rally from Australia for 5 seconds ahead of his teammate Ott Tänak in the first pass of the final stage of the Rally Australia contested in muddy conditions after overnight showers. The Finn took advantage of a crash by the Estonian who lost around twenty seconds in the incident.

Hayden Paddon (Hyundai) maintains the pressure on the Toyotas by moving 14 seconds behind the Estonian and which prevents the Japanese manufacturer from passing team instructions. The Japanese team, on its way to a double, is well on its way to securing the Manufacturers' title.

On the other hand, the coronation among the Pilots is for the moment in the hands of Sébastien Ogier (M-Sport). In 6th position, the five-time world champion does not have to worry about the performances of Ott Tänak and must be content to keep Thierry Neuville (Hyundai) behind him. The Belgian remains 8th behind Elfyn Evans (M-Sport) and is around 40 seconds behind his French rival.

Teemu Suninen (M-Sport) and Craig Breen (Citroën) complete the Top 10. The Irishman made several errors while being trapped by the soggy conditions.

The second pass of the final day at Rally Australia should be contested from 1:01 a.m. Paris time.