Ogier: “I can now relax”

Sébastien Ogier savor his fourth victory of the season at the Tour de Corse, his national event, which he dominated from the first stage where he created a solid lead over his pursuers. This success delighted the Volkswagen driver all the more as it is the first time he has won the Rally of 10 Bends.

“It was the result we were aiming for, recognized Sébastien Ogier at a press conference. We knew it wouldn't be easy because there are many drivers who want to win on asphalt. Our lead on Friday was all the more surprising. It was a good stage, but the race changed after that because we had to control. We still enjoyed it. »

Sébastien Ogier won with a lead of 46 seconds over Thierry Neuville after quickly placing his opponents out of range. On an asphalt event, the three-time world champion showed that he was the fastest in the field when he was not handicapped by his opening position as is the case on gravel.

“I was a little cautious in the first stage, the notes were not aggressive enough. I could have gone even faster but I also wanted not to take too many risks at the start, said the Volkswagen driver. But we can't say it was a bad day with the lead we took. »

Sébastien Ogier can now approach the end of the season with confidence, his victory at the Tour de Corse bringing him even closer to a fourth consecutive title in WRC.

“We knew the chances of winning it here were low and I didn’t have that in mind at all, explained the Frenchman. On the other hand, I was aware that a victory would bring me very close to the coronation. I can now relax until the end of the season. I only need 16 points to secure the title and I will not go to the next event (the Rally of Catalonia on the weekend of October 14) to get 16 points but to win. »

Results of the Tour de Corsica

Discover the analysis of the Tour de Corse carried out by our special correspondents in issue 2083 of AUTOhebdo, available from Monday evening in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.