WRC – Sébastien Ogier, the sweet victory in Italy

Sébastien Ogier just won the rally from Sardinia after dominating the event from start to finish. The Frenchman, official Volkswagen driver, thus offers himself his fourth success of the season after Sweden, Mexico and Portugal. It is also the first time in his career that “Seb” has won in Italy, an event where he had a fourth place as his best result. The success is total for the Gapençais since in addition to the 25 additional points that this victory gives him, he also awarded himself 3 points by winning the Power-Stage, during SS15. He is, in fact, increasing his lead at the top of the Drivers' championship.

Behind the winner of the day, Thierry Neuville (Ford Fiesta RS WRC) particularly stood out. Third in Greece, the Belgian was able to use his current renewed confidence to do even better on the Italian island: he finished 2nd in the general classification, the best result of his young career. Just as important to emphasize, he saves honor in Qatar M-Sport WRT. Malcom Wilson's team having lost Evgeny Novikov in the 2nd special on Friday, and Mads Ostberg losing any chance of doing well after a roll during SS8.

Third overall, Jari-Matti Latvala (Volkswagen Polo R WRC) signs his second consecutive podium after his victory at the Acropolis. After losing almost 2 minutes following a puncture during the very first timed sector of the event, the Finn has reason to regret: he was, on a regular basis, capable of jostling Sébastien Ogier, his leader.

Citroën struggling

At Citroën, things are not going well. Second on the evening of the 1st stage, Mikko Hirvonen made a mistake during the second special stage this Saturday, leaving the difficult task of making the brand shine to the rafters to Dani Sordo. Third for a while, the Spaniard will do his best to contain Latvala's return. In vain. He finished fourth.

Next meeting, from August 1 to 3 with the Rally of Finland. On his land, it's a safe bet that Jari-Matti Latvala will be formidable. As for Mikko Hirvonen, he will really need to get things back on track.