Sebastien Ogier is an eight-time rally world champion. PDO
Sebastien Ogier’s the dream of yet another World Rally Championship suffered a huge blow when the Frenchman crashed out violently in Saturday’s second special stage.
Ogier’s Toyota spilled wide off the line in a fast right-hand corner. The asphalt surface, slippery from fallen leaves in the park, surprised the rally champion with its slipperiness.
Unfortunately for Ogier, the Toyota rammed into trees, breaking the car into suspension. Ogier and the map reader Vincent Landais were not hurt physically, but mentally the blow was huge.
– No! This is impossible! Ogier screamed at the top of his lungs in French after his exit.
Ogier’s outburst is completely understandable. Not only did the Frenchman fight for the victory in the rally, but this season’s world championship is also at stake.
Watch the video of Ogier’s run out below or click here.
Ogier leads the World Series, but with the stoppage a huge points pot slipped out of hand. Cool at the top of the rally Kalle Rovanperä is Ogieria 21 and driving second Elfyn Evans just two points behind.
If Toyota can fix Ogier’s car, the Frenchman can still score points from Sunday’s driving day. If Rovanperä and Evans keep their current rankings, they will still significantly reduce the Frenchman’s lead.
There are two races left in the season after this rally, so every point collected is very valuable at the moment