Rally Japan – SS5 – Sébastien Ogier extends his lead over Takamoto and Evans

Unhappy after his performance, Elfyn Evans knew he was in danger. The Welshman could really use a third consecutive victory in this Rally from Japan, the leader of WRC did not improve his time sufficiently compared to his time in SS4. Only fourth at the finish of this special stage, the driver Toyota was overtaken by a Sébastien Ogier In top form. Finishing his stage in 14:47.8, the eight-time world champion was the only one to break the 14:50.0 barrier, relegating his closest pursuer – Takamoto Katsuta – to 3,2 seconds behind. Solid for much of the stage, the Japanese rider couldn't maintain the pace on the most winding sections, preferring to play it safe to stay in touch with the leader.

Third, and even more surprising, Adrien fourmaux has clearly widened the gap with the other drivers Hyundai. Where Ott Tänak was 12 seconds behind Sébastien Ogier while Thierry Neuville Initially 18 seconds behind the leader, the Frenchman managed to lose only four seconds to his compatriot. Sami Pajari, who had been in contention for a time, faded somewhat in the final stages.

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In WRC2, Oliver Solberg was the fastest. Recovering from his costly spin earlier in the rally, the Swede was quicker than Grégoire Munster, for example, inflicting significant delays on his pursuers. Only Alejandro Cachon managed to keep pace, albeit nearly 10 seconds behind.

As for what follows, the sixth special will begin at 6:53 am (French time).

WRC – Rally Japan
Rankings after SS5