Ogier: “This rally was an incredible experience”

Condemned to open the road on Friday for the first real day of driving this Rally from Kenya, Sébastien Ogier (Toyota) n’était qu’un témoin lointain de la bataille pour la victoire.

Relegated to 2'29 during the day on Saturday, the reigning world champion was finally helped by the weather conditions (rain for the last special of the day) but also by the technical problems of Thierry Neuville (Hyundai) this Sunday.

The latter on the mat after the breakage of a rear shock absorber on his i20, Sébastien Ogier found himself for the first time in a position to compete for victory. Coming back second behind his teammate Takamoto Katsuta, the man with 53 victories finally used his experience to win in Kenya.

« This rally was an incredible experience, he savored. We received extraordinary support from people. Thank you so much, you have a beautiful country! The rally may be shorter than in the past, but it’s still a very big challenge and we enjoyed it!

It’s a great victory for us. After our problem on Friday, we really had a great weekend, with a good pace and a car that was great ».

It's a #YarisWRC 1-2 on the return of the legendary #SafariRallyKenya! 

victory for @SebOgier and Julien Ingrassia after a brilliant fightback, and a fantastic first #WRC podium for @TakamotoKatsuta With @danielbarritt! #ToyotaGAZOORacing #PushingTheLimitsForBetter pic.twitter.com/KZk5Mfmp0M

- Toyota GAZOO Racing WRT (@TGR_WRC) June 27, 2021

As a great champion, Sébastien Ogier did not forget to salute Takamoto Katsuta who reached the podium for the first time in his career. “ I want to congratulate Taka, he did a great job, well done to him! This is a great result for the team! ».

Find the analysis of the Kenya Rally by our expert in AUTOhebdo No. 2318 available this Monday in digital version and Wednesday on newsstands.