Ogier aware of the risks to take so as not to be let go in New Zealand

Returning to the World Rally Championship for the first time since Kenya at the end of June, Sébastien Ogier was not too disoriented. On the roads of New Zealand, which he rediscovered after an absence of 10 years, the Gapençais showed himself to be competitive, finishing 3^e less than 7 seconds behind the leader, his teammate Elfyn Evans (in the lead after the penalty byOtt Tänak) after 1^st day of competition.

« Overall it was a good day., confided the pilot Toyota après les 7 premières spéciales du vendredi. It was fun to drive and I think we had a good pace getting back on a rally as fast as you need commitment and trust."

Ogier in the game

Not bothered by this long absence from the roads of WRC, Sébastien Ogier made a successful start. To be in the game from the first kilometers, the eight-time world champion raised his voice from the start of the day so as not to quickly lose ground on the leading group. Result ? Little time wasted for the Habs who were even able to take control of the New Zealand Rally during two specials.

« I already had a good pace in the first stage this (Friday) morning, and the afternoon started very well at Whaanga Coast (best time during SS5 and leader of the event), he continues. In the next stage we had quite heavy rain, I knew we had to take risks not to lose too much (of time) compared to the others and we came out a little wide. Unfortunately, we damaged the rear wing on a few branches, and the last stage was quite difficult. But I'm happy to still be in the fight for victory. » On the night from Friday to Saturday, he will have to apply the same strategy if he wants to prove that he is a serious contender for victory in New Zealand this weekend.

Rally New Zealand standings (without Ott Tänak's 5-second penalty)

ALSO READ > Shane Van Gisbergen: “I still have a lot to learn”