Sébastien Ogier: “Not too many questions to ask”

Since Monte-Carlo, you have had little opportunity to use the tarmac with the Toyota. How is your feeling with the car on this surface?

In fact, we haven’t driven on asphalt at all since January. Last week I was in Finland for days with the press. Usually, I'm not a big fan, but this allowed the team to take some images and videos, while for my part, I regained some sensations with the Yaris on the tarmac.

Is your feeling with the car already good or do you still have work to do?

These few kilometers were just driving and in no way tests. If Monza takes place, we will have tests at the end of the month to prepare for it and it is certain that this short day will be very important, because our experience is limited. Honestly, there are still quite a few things we need to try to validate. During Monte-Carlo, we performed well during the first two stages. For the last day, we had obviously made small mistakes with the settings, because Elfyn and I were not in the race, which proves that we still have things to learn in order to make the most of it.

What does the division proposed by Monza inspire you?

Apart from a few images from previous editions, we have no idea what it will look like on the circuit. It is certain that this will be atypical, but in the times we are going through, it is better than nothing. I don't really know what to expect for the 2nd stage. Casually, I think it is important that there is this day with real special stages, because if we only play on the circuit, it will be light and it will not be worthy of a world championship.

You are 14 points behind Elfyn Evans. It’s a lot and a little at the same time with still 30 units to distribute. What will your approach be?

We will do our best. There aren't too many questions to ask. It is imperative to win and see if that is enough. So far we have done a good job. There were no real driving errors and our pace was always fast. We pay dearly for our mechanical problems in Türkiye. By giving everything in Italy in December, I won't be able to have any regrets about our season.

Reassure us, you are not the type to give up? Do you still believe it?

Completely ! With these 14 points, Elfyn certainly has the advantage, but finishing is not the easiest thing. This is especially true since he has never been in this position. I don't intend to engage in psychological warfare, but it's human to feel this pressure, especially when it's the first title.

What would be the least painful way to not win this 7th title? Steering wheel in hand at Monza and without regrets after having given everything, or a few days before if the rally is finally canceled?

Like everyone else, I think if it stopped now... Even for Elfyn, I'm not sure he'd be able to celebrate. If it falls like that, he will have to deal with remarks to know if it is a real title or not. I hope the rally goes ahead so the champion can be celebrated.

Discover the full interview with Sébastien Ogier, in issue 2287 of AUTOhebdo, always available in digital version and on newsstands.